Why can red eyebrow ink turn grey?

Eyebrow Ink and Lip Liner switching from Red to Grey

Not all eyebrow removal procedures are simple. The composition of eyebrow pigments is very complex, and the more pigments within the composition only contribute to further removal complications. Eyebrow pigments can consist of just three inorganic pigments, or can consist of inorganic and organic pigments, as well as titanium dioxide and carbon black. Many different brands with different compositions could have been layered into the tissue over time. It is not always simple and easy to remove facial ink, and due to the several different types of inks present, side effects can occur. On the odd occasion, a red/brown eyebrow or a red/pink lip liner can switch to grey. This looks worse, and the grey will need to be treated after six weeks with the appropriate lens if it hasn’t softened, as it is often a temporary colour switch. This occurs because of oxidation. The red pigment in the ink contains iron oxide, and when the laser energy breaks down the pigment, the valence of the iron changes, causing a temporary shift in colour. This darkening is typically transient and will fade as the broken-down pigment is eliminated by the body. Essentially, the iron's valence within the inorganic pigment changes, which affects how the pigment absorbs and reflects light, leading to a temporary grey or darker appearance. This cannot be helped and doesn’t always occur, but when it does, it can be disheartening. Clients should be warned prior to their appointment that this can happen.

What is Oxidation technically?

Laser tattoo removal involves breaking down the ink beneath the skin and letting the immune system flush it out bit by bit. However, as we break down the ink, we also release the components that make up the ink. In some pigments and inks popularly used in tattoos, some of these components are actually metals. White ink gets its colour from its high amounts of titanium dioxide, which is a white metal oxide that is known for its high reflectiveness. Other metals used for other pigments include chromium, iron oxide, and mercury. When the laser treatment breaks down the ink and releases these metal components, they oxidise, or undergo a reaction in which they chemically combine with oxygen. This can turn the white pigment into a darker, grey shade, spreading a darker colour over the tattoo. Does this mean that the laser tattoo removal treatments aren’t working? No, it means that the treatments are working, because it proves that the ink is being effectively broken down.