People might see tattoo making as fashion, but for many people, it’s an art and their passion. Even though more and more tattoos are becoming colorful, the main and most important color remains to be black. This color is used to outline and highlight the designs of tattoos the majority of the time.
It may seem like an easy thing to pick the best black tattoo ink, but a seasoned tattoo artist will tell you that there are different factors that you need to consider before selecting the best black tattoo ink for filling or best black tattoo ink for shading.
The market today is filled with numerous inks and colors, and each product claims to be better than the other. Here is a guide that tells you all the important things which you need to know about tattoos. Additionally, we also have a list of best black inks for tattoos, which will save your time as you search the internet for tattoo inks.
Types of Tattoo Ink?
There are different kinds of tattoo inks available in the market. We can broadly categorize them as:
- Ephemeral Inks
This ink is a very new discovery. Ephemeral inks look exactly like real tattoo ink except that they can automatically disappear completely with time. You can choose ephemeral ink with a life span of 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year.
For people who are seeking temporary tattoos but still want to experience the likeness of a permanent ink should get ephemeral ink.
- Permanent Ink
Permanent tattoos can be made of many different ingredients. Some of the permanent inks can have industrial-grade chemicals, some can have animal products, while some can be fully vegan. It’s important to ask for permanent ink that is safe and does not have carcinogenic agents.
- Mehandi/ Henna
Mehandi or Henna is a pigmented substance that is derived out of the henna plant. Many people in South-East Asia and, specifically, in the Indian sub-continent use it as a means of temporary tattooing. Mehandi is an all-natural dye and does not have any harmful effects. In many cases, people add dye with henna powder to get colored temporary tattoo.
See also: Beginners guide- How to become a tattoo artist
Benefits of Using Black Tattoo Ink?
There are many benefits to using black tattoo ink. It can be used to give shades and highlights in any tattoo design. Other than that, black ink is often used for outlining. This color does not fade easily and stays on the skin for a long time.
Since black is the darkest color and its pigment overpowers all other colors, it is used to cover up old tattoos that you don’t want to have anymore. Black ink is very impactful and suits all skin shades.
Comparison Chart of Top 10 Best Black Tattoo Ink
| Name of the Product | Weight | Vegan | Sterilized |
| KuroSumi Tattoo Ink | 4 ounces | Yes | No |
| Intenze Professional Tattoo Ink | 12 ounces | Yes | Yes |
| Scream Tattoo Ink | 0.8 ounces | No | No |
| MOM’S Tattoo Ink – Black Onyx | 1 ounce | No | No |
| Bloodline Tattoo Ink All Purpose Black | 1.6 ounce | No | No |
| Millennium Moms Black Pearl Outlining Tattoo Ink | 12 ounces | No | No |
| Dynamic Color Triple Black Tattoo Ink | 8 ounces | No | No |
| Intenze Professional Tattoo Ink | 17 ounces | Yes | Yes |
| StarBrite Colors Sterilized Tattoo Ink | 4 ounces | Yes | Yes |
| Viking Ink KIT Black Line | 1 ounce | Yes | Yes |
10 Best Black Tattoo Ink Reviews
1. KuroSumi Tattoo Ink
Whenever we talk about the best tattoo ink brands, the first name that comes to one’s mind is KuroSumi tattoo ink. Named after the prestigious and powerful Yayoi KuroSumiTangnuni warriors, this ink lives up to its name and delivers elite color saturation. From high-class tattoo artists to amateurs, everyone prefers KuroSumi inks.
Great Color Saturation
A common problem with tattoo inks is that they either give faded tints or comically dark shades. With this product, you will get a perfect color saturation that is neither too dark or light. Balance is a very important quality in tattoo inks, and it’s rare to find inks that give balanced saturation and depth.
Vegan and Organic
The KuroSumi Tattoo Ink is completely vegan and is made of all organic ingredients. With this ink, you don’t have to worry about tackling chemicals or artificial substances that can harm your skin. If you have sensitive skin, then using this vegan ink is a better option instead of using regular non-vegan ink.
Affordable
For 4 ounces of KuroSumi ink, one has to pay just 25 US dollars. This is a very affordable price for this quantity. Mostly, the price for 4 ounces of organic ink goes as up as 40 US dollars, but with this product, you will be getting high-quality tattoo ink at a very cost-effective rate.
2. Intenze Professional Tattoo Ink Zuper Black
Are you looking for a tattoo ink that is used and promoted by the best tattoo makers of the world? The Intenze Professional Tattoo Ink Zuper Black has been a select favorite of the world’s most prominent tattoo craftsmen. Backed by the approval of the public and professionals alike, this ink is set to give you the best results.
Created With Inputs By Renowned Artist
Unlike many tattoo inks that are made directly in labs, this ink is formulated by renowned tattoo artists like Mario Barth. Over the years, many expert tattoo masters like Randy Engelhard, Mike Demasi, Moni Marino, and London Reese have chosen to use Intenze Professional Tattoo Ink in their practice. One can say that this product is for the artist and is made by the artists.
Sterilized
The safety factor must be prioritized when you are buying tattoo ink. One of the most important factors that determine if a total ink is safe to use or not is sterilization. The Intenze Professional Tattoo Ink Zuper Black is properly sterilized in a lab setting. Additionally, all harmful chemicals are ruled out of the ink after the sterilization process.
Non-drying Formula
This product is very long-lasting because it doesn’t dry quickly. You don’t have to be vigilant about maintaining the cap of this ink bottle obsessively due to the non-drying formula.
3. Scream Tattoo Ink
Many of us are always on a lookout for economical yet good quality tattoo ink. It is difficult to seek tattoo ink in different colors without having to buy big bottles. But with Scream Black Tattoo Ink, we can get a variety of colors at affordable prices and in compact sizes.
Affordable
You have to shell not less than 10 US dollars on a small half an ounce bottle of ink, but Scream Tattoo Ink gives you the same quantity at a much lower price. You can buy a bunch of colors for experimentation by this brand without agonizing about going over budget.
Best for Beginners
Many inks are complicated to use and manage. They dry quickly, change consistency according to the weather, and need to be used with certain needles to get the desired effect, but Scream Tattoo Ink doesn’t need all this extra treatment. It is very easy to use and delivers what it advertises. This quality makes it perfect for beginners.
Strong Colors
The colors of this brand don’t fade away or lose their strength over time. One doesn’t need to get frequent refills done with this tattoo ink. The strength of its colors and high durability is the reason why these inks are so popular.
4. MOM’S Tattoo Ink
Moms Black Tattooing Ink is a common name in the world of tattoo making. If you are looking for cost-effective and efficient ink, then this should be your go-to product.
Great For Stick and Poke Style
A large population of tattoo makers does not require or use sophisticated equipment like tattoo pens or rotary machines. They make tattoos with a simple stick and poke style. The recent popularity of simplistic and minimalistic tattoos has given rise to stick and poke style of tattoo making. The MOM’s Tattoo Ink is perfect for this DIY technique.
Consistent Pigment
You will not get a botched up or erratic pigment with this product. The user gets smooth and equal color with ink. You don’t have to bother about fading outlines or concentration of the ink somewhere else on the skin. The stable and steady flow of pigmentation gives you perfect consistency.
Safe to Use
The MOM’s Tattoo Ink is known not to cause any allergies or skin irritations. It is completely safe for use on any skin type. People with sensitive skin can easily use this ink without any added precautions. This is another reason why a tattoo artist prefers this brand over others.
5. Bloodline Tattoo Ink All Purpose Black
If you do not like to use substandard black inks that turn green over time, then here is a solution for you. Without any allergy and skin-reaction causing agents and with brilliant pigment, here is Bloodline Tattoo’s All-Purpose Black Ink.
Versatile
Tattoo making requires different kinds of techniques. The skills of shading, outlining, and color blocking are equally involved in tattoo making. Therefore, it’s better to buy a tattoo ink that enables one to perform various functions. The Bloodline Tattoo Ink in black is a highly versatile and all-purpose ink.
You can use it for outlining by diluting it to a 3:1 ratio with water or witch hazel. Additionally, for color blocking, you can directly use the ink straight from the bottle.
Goes Well With Machine As Well As Stick and Poke Design
You don’t need expensive tattoo machines to optimize the use of this ink. You can simply use it for stick and poke designs as well. This ink stays on the skin for a long time and does not fade. It does not cause allergies or infections on the skin, and therefore even beginners use the Bloodline tattoo ink for their designs.
Black is often seen as a color that has the most concentration of chemicals, but it’s not the case with Bloodline black ink. You can be relaxed about putting this black ink in your skin without fretting about any damage.
Thick Pigment
This black ink comes with thick pigmentation. The thick pigmentation allows the user to change its concentration by diluting it with water and glycerine when one wants to do shading or outlining. One can use the ink more flexibly when the original concentration is thick. Artists who work in different mediums should pick the Bloodline black ink.
6. Millennium Moms Black Pearl Tattoo Ink
The Millennium Moms Black Pearl Tattoo Ink is amongst those rare products that are made after careful thought and consideration of industry experts, scientists, tattoo artists, and superior manufacturers. This particular ink has been made after 10 years of thoughtful design and planning, which is why you get excellent results from every drop of the ink.
Works for Both Outlining and Shading
You don’t have to buy two different inks to do outlines or shading once you get your hands on Millennium Moms Black Pearl Tattoo Ink. The versatility of this product is a great plus point that puts it above other inks. Its concentration is changeable, so for color packing, the user can directly pour ink from the bottle while for shading, you can mix it with a toner or water.
Gives Clean Finish
The most common problem with inks and, most specifically, black inks is how it does not give clean finishes and gets messy.
A sign of good ink is its ability to give sleek and clean lines. The Millennium Moms Black Pearl Tattoo Ink is one such ink that gives clean lines and does not merge with time.
Great Quantity
Getting 12 ounces of ink for less than 30 dollars is a great quantity for the price. The 12 ounces lasts for a long time so that you can use it frequently.
Black is the most common color used for tattooing, so it makes sense to stock up on this color in large quantities. If you don’t like the ink or feel that it does not deliver what it advertises, then you can also avail of the 30 days return policy.
7. Dynamic Color Triple Black Tattoo Ink
The brand Dynamic has been in business for 30 years now, and over three decades, it has launched several tattoo related products. One of their latest launches is Dynamic Color Triple Black Tattoo Ink. The quick healing properties, even ink flow, and durability are some reasons that helped Dynamic earn its reputation.
Quick Healing
Many tattoo inks are known for causing rashes and skin allergies, but not this one. The Dynamic tattoo ink in black enables quick healing. For those who are seeking quick healing tattoos should use this ink and see the difference for themselves.
Smooth Ink
You will get even, stable, and smooth ink from this product. Whether you are looking for tattoo outline, shading, or coloring, the even ink flow will give an impressive look to your design. Often ink flows erratically, and it ends up ruining even the most beautiful design.
No amount of skill can prevent a tattoo from getting ruined if the ink is not smooth. Therefore one should buy inks like Dynamic Color Triple Black Tattoo Ink for an even flow.
Reliable Brand
The brand Dynamic has been in the market since 1990. The reputation of Dynamic is based on years of excellent service. This company has withstood many tests of time. It is always better to buy a tattoo from a reputable brand rather than a less well-known manufacturer.
8. Intenze Professional Tattoo Ink Suluape Black
For those who love tattoos but are not able to get one because of their sensitive skin, then the solution to your complex problem lies in the Intenze Professional Tattoo Ink Suluape Black. This rich ink is vegan and sterilized, which makes it safe for all skin types.
Vegan and Cruelty-Free
In today’s world, where people are getting more sensitive to environmental issues and ethical production, traits like vegan and cruelty-free are much appreciated. The Intenze Professional Tattoo Ink is one such ink that is fully vegan and, by extension, cruelty-free. By buying this ink, you will be promoting ethically made tattoo inks.
Studies have shown that people who have sensitive skin respond well to vegan tattoos.
Non-Drying Formula
The makers at Intenze Professionals have created an ink formula that is non-drying and lasts for a long time.
Sterilized in a Lab
Sterilization of tattoo inks is massively important, and this Intenze Professional Tattoo Ink in Suluape Black is fully sterilized. It also comes with a tamper-proof bottle that means microbes or chemicals will not contaminate the ink.
9. StarBrite Colors Tattoo Ink-Jet Black Outliner
StarBrite Colors Tattoo Ink-Jet Black Outliner falls in the category of the most common tattoo outlines in the United States. This product has created a niche audience for itself owing to the fade-proof colors and full sterilization.
Fully Sterilized
The StarBrite Colors Tattoo Ink-Jet Black Outliner is a great product as it comes fully sterilized from the lab. Many popular brands don’t sterilize their inks, and this often causes a person to develop infections. In serious cases, these infections can become extremely severe.
People who are just starting tattooing or are getting their first tattoo should opt for this ink because beginners are prone to infections more than anyone else.
Fade Proof Color
The pigmentation of this ink is very intense. It does not fade away with time, and one does not need regular retouching or refilling after they use StarBrite Color Ink.
A very common problem with black ink is that the color fades to dark green or starts getting mixed up with other colors, but it won’t be the case here. Not just the color stays intact, but it also doesn’t fade or gets smashed. If you are looking for black ink to execute a sharp black design, then this product should be your choice.
Easy To Use
The StarBrite Ink is very easy to use. You don’t have to get in complicated methods of drying, diluting, or thinning the ink. You can directly use it from the bottle without any changes. This ink does not need high maintenance and lasts long, even without special care. This is the reason why amateur artists prefer this brand over others.
10. Viking Ink KIT Black Liner
Laced with molecular technology and enriching pigments, the Viking Ink KIT Black Liner is an impressive and reliable ink. This brand and its KIT black liner have formulated a loyal fan base in the USA. There is more than one reason that has inspired such massive acclaim for the Viking Ink.
Vegan
As the world is becoming more conscious about the environment, people are becoming more and more inclined to buy tattoo inks that are safe for nature. The Viking Ink follows this eco-friendly sentiment, and hence all their inks are fully vegan.
Vegan inks don’t have any animal content, and neither are they tested on animals. They are safer for the skin and don’t cause any allergies.
Molecular Technology
This ink is made with advanced molecular technology that gives the ink high-quality velvety shine. The molecular technology also means that the ink will be more durable and long-lasting than normal inks.
Compatible With All Tattoo Equipments
You can use this ink with all kinds of machines and equipment regardless of their type and brand. With the Viking Ink, the problem of ink compatibility or brand exclusivity doesn’t exist.
What to Look Before Purchasing The Best Black Tattoo Ink
Ingredients: Tattoo inks are made of many different chemicals. If you use tattoo ink that is made of dangerous substances, then one can get infections and, in a worst-case scenario, even develop skin cancer. One should prefer vegan tattoo inks and avoid inks that have substances like cadmium red, cinnabar, and iron oxide.
Allergic Reactions
If you have sensitive skin, then before buying tattoo ink or getting a large tattoo, test the ink a little bit on your skin. You can also take the ingredient and formula of the tattoo ink that you want to use and check with a dermatologist if it is safe for you.
Vegan
Vegan inks have gained much popularity in recent years. Most vegan inks are plant-based, and they derive their pigment out of natural sources. Vegan inks do not have substances like hoove gelatin, bone char, and animal fat. It is great for those who have sensitive skin.
Shade & color
It may seem like an easy task to select the color of tattoo ink, but often what color appears on the bottle does not translate exactly like that on the skin; therefore, one must also know how the color actually appears on the skin.
Additionally, the skin color also effects how the shade or the color of ink will appear on your skin. Therefore what might be the best black tattoo ink for dark skin might not work for Caucasians.
Safety
Always give preference to tattoo inks that are sterilized and are lab tested. Sterilized inks will make sure that you don’t catch any septic or bacterial infection after using them.
Manufacturer
Always buy from a manufacturer that is licensed and has a declaration of conformity released by Tattoo-Agent-Regulations.
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Other Important Factors to Consider
Is the Black Tattoo Ink Safe?
The color of the ink has nothing to do with its safety. Therefore, black tattoo ink is safe. Usually, it comes down to the ingredients used in a tattoo ink's production. While there is no correlation between tattoo inks and health conditions, there is evidence that some of the agents may cause allergic reactions or even prompt cancer symptoms.
To prevent such mishaps, it is vital to choose only the most trusted brands and premium-grade inks with higher-quality ingredients. This would eliminate the chance of any danger associated with tattoo inks. After all, the practice of tattooing has existed since ancient times in some cultures, and it shows no relation with safety.
Why Does Black Ink in Old Tattoos Turn Green?
The main reason why old tattoos turn green is due to prolonged exposure to the sun. One should use sunscreen to prevent their tattoos from turning green. The main reason why black ink turns green is that with time our body starts absorbing the tattoo pigment, and color comes in contact with natural elements like the sun, which causes fading.
Also, with time the black pigment loses its concentration, and it’s formula breaks. The mixture of ingredients that were used to create a black color in the tattoo ink starts breaking apart. Most often, these broken ingredients are green, and that’s why old tattoos appear green.
What is the best black tattoo ink brands?
Most of the above-mentioned brands fall among the best black tattoo ink manufacturers. It is possible due to several factors that make them exceptional. The list is as follows:
Intenze
Meeting American safety standards and EU-certification, Intenze is known to produce 100% vegan tattoo inks. They sterilize each ink and bottle it, which then undergoes examination by a biochemist. Many top tattoo artists prefer to use Intenze.
KuroSumi
It is an authentic Japanese ink which follows their culture and similar secret manufacturing formulae. Throughout generations, they create 100% organic ink, which is comfortable for sensitive skin. It does not cause any infection or health condition.
Millennium Moms
This brand is particularly famous for its consistency, the flow rate of the ink, and its overall life. It surpasses the standards of quality of good tattoo ink and offers over 84 color shades.
Bloodline
A USA brand that is highly recommended by tattoo artists across the globe. It is primarily known for its longevity and quality of the ink texture. The tattoo uses water for liquidity instead of chemicals, and thus, also helps in faster recovery from the procedures.
This tattoo ink has over 160 shades and is known for being smooth and sterile. It easily matches all of the FDA requirements and is known to be absorbed by the skin easily. Therefore, it is a great product for those who are looking for a standard, high-quality tattoo ink.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What Is The Darkest Black Tattoo Ink In The Market?
The darkest black tattoo ink available in the market is zuper black tattoo ink.
2. Do All Black Ink Tattoos Turn Green?
Yes, eventually, all black ink tattoos fade to green or blue color. The new inks being launched in the market are of high-quality, but eventually, they will also fade and need touch-ups.
3. Are Some Ingredients That Are Added In Black Tattoo Ink?
Some of the common ingredients that are added in black tattoo ink are titanium dioxide, chromium, carbon black, iron oxides, lead, and nickel.
4. How Long Does It Take For A Tattoo To Heal Completely?
The healing of a tattoo depends on many factors like the skin of the client, the ink used, and the design of the tattoo. However, we can say that under normal circumstances, a tattoo can take up to 2 weeks on average to heal fully.
5. Where Do The Tattoos Fade Most Quickly?
The tattoos fade the fastest on one’s hands and, more specifically, fingers. The reason for this is the fact that people wash their hands frequently and also expose them to the sun, which accelerates the process of fading tattoos.
The Bottom Line
To conclude, we can say that the products mentioned in the list have all qualities and features that are needed in trustworthy and reliable tattoo inks. Most of these products come with sterilization that rules out catching infections. The richness of the color on these black inks is very intense.
With the above mentioned black inks, your designs will last longer, and you won’t require frequent refills. The majority of the recommended products are moderately priced, and even those that are expensive, deliver excellent results which makes every penny worth it. You will not regret making any purchase that has been recommended on the list.
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