What Do CI Codes Mean and How to Read the Composition of Permanent Makeup Pigments?

The permanent makeup and tattoo industry is becoming increasingly transparent, and artists aiming to enhance their professional expertise are showing greater interest in the chemical composition of pigments. One of the key aspects of understanding a product's composition is knowing how to read the label, particularly the Color Index (CI) codes that identify color pigments used in tattoo and permanent makeup inks.

The Origin of Color Index (CI) Codes

The Color Index (CI) system was introduced in 1925 by the Society of Dyers and Colourists in the United Kingdom. The aim was to create a universal system for identifying pigments and dyes, regardless of their chemical names. After being adopted by the American Chemical Society, the CI system became an international standard widely used across various industries, including textiles and cosmetics.

In the tattoo and permanent makeup industry, CI codes started appearing on labels only in recent decades, largely due to increased attention to pigment safety and regulatory requirements, especially in markets such as Europe and the United States. Today, CI codes on labels help both artists and consumers better understand the composition of the pigments they choose.

How to Read CI Codes on the Label

The Color Index (CI) is a numeric code that indicates a specific dye or pigment. It consists of an alphanumeric code identifying the color group (e.g., Yellow, Red, Blue) and a unique number to distinguish each pigment.

Structure of CI Codes: How Numbers Indicate Pigment Type

The numeric code in CI has a structured format:

• The first two digits indicate the chemical category or origin of the pigment.
• For example, if the CI code begins with 77, it usually denotes a mineral or inorganic pigment.
• Organic pigments use different codes, such as 21-29 for azo dyes or 73 for phthalocyanine pigments (like phthalocyanine blue or green).
• The following digits specify the individual pigment within that category.

This structure allows artists to understand the chemical origin of the pigment based on the CI code.

Importance of Ingredient Order on the Label

As with other cosmetic products, the order of ingredients on the label of permanent makeup pigments is typically listed from the highest to the lowest concentration. Ingredients listed at the beginning of the list make up the bulk of the product and have the greatest influence on its properties. For instance, if CI 77266 (black pigment) appears at the beginning of the list, it indicates that the product will have a rich, dark color.

What Else is Important to Know About Permanent Makeup Pigment Composition?

For permanent makeup artists, it's essential not only to understand CI codes but also to recognize the presence of other components, such as solvents, stabilizers, thickeners, and surfactants. These ingredients play a crucial role in the properties of the pigment, affecting its stability, application consistency, and color retention.

 In upcoming materials, we will delve into other essential ingredients in permanent makeup pigments, which significantly impact the product's quality and color characteristics.