Colorimetry is one of the most essential aspects of micropigmentation. As an artist, being able to accurately identify and work with colors is key to delivering beautiful, natural-looking results for your clients. Understanding the principles of color theory—such as primary, secondary, tertiary, analogous, and complementary colors—can make the difference between work that meets expectations and work that falls short.
In this article, we’ll break down how to apply these color concepts in micropigmentation, how to choose the right tones, and how the Brows Couple Method helps you master this art using top-quality pigments and products. Keep reading and take your micropigmentation technique to the next level!
In color theory, primary colors are those that cannot be created by mixing other colors. These are:
• Red
• Blue
• Yellow
However, in micropigmentation, blue is replaced by black. Black is fundamental in this industry because it’s used to create deeper and darker tones, ideal for intense eyeliner or shading techniques like microshading. Blue doesn’t offer the same versatility, making black a much more practical and effective option for achieving balanced, natural results on the skin.
Secondary colors are formed by mixing two primary colors in equal parts:
• Orange (red + yellow)
• Green (yellow + black)
• Violet (red + black)
In micropigmentation, secondary colors help you customize and refine tones based on each client’s needs. Green can neutralize red undertones, while violet is useful for correcting yellow or golden hues.
Tertiary colors are made by mixing a primary color with a secondary color. These include:
• Yellow-orange
• Red-orange
• Red-violet
• Blue-violet (black + violet)
• Blue-green (black + green)
• Yellow-green
These are essential when you want to tailor the pigment to your client’s skin tone. Tertiary colors are also incredibly useful for correction work, helping to balance out undesired tones and achieve more natural, personalized results.
Analogous colors are next to each other on the color wheel and naturally harmonize. Some examples include:
• Red, red-orange, and orange
• Yellow, yellow-green, and green
• Black, black-green, and green (using black in place of blue)
In micropigmentation, analogous colors are ideal for soft shading and smooth transitions in brows, eyeliner, and other areas where a seamless, natural finish is desired.
Complementary colors are opposite each other on the color wheel. Examples include:
• Red and green
• Black and orange
• Yellow and violet
In micropigmentation, complementary colors are primarily used for neutralization. For instance, if a client has reddish or warm undertones, a green pigment (created from yellow and black) can help balance the tone. This is especially helpful for correction work or when targeting very precise outcomes.
To apply color theory effectively, artists need not only technical knowledge, but also hands-on experience and an eye for detail. Here are key tips to guide your work:
• Identify the client’s undertone: Every person has a cool, warm, or neutral undertone. Knowing which one they have helps you select the best pigments.
• Mix pigments with precision: Work with high-quality pigments and understand how to combine them to achieve long-lasting, natural results.
• Neutralize unwanted tones: Use complementary colors to correct discoloration or previous pigment work that didn’t age well.
At Brows Couple, we’re committed to not only teaching the most effective techniques—but also equipping you with the best tools. Through The Beauty Ink Store, we offer an exclusive selection of top-tier pigments and tools from the industry’s most trusted brands.
With the Brows Couple Method, you’ll discover how to work with top-tier products to achieve flawless results in your micropigmentation procedures.
Curious to learn more? Join our waiting list and be the first to know when the Brows Couple Method course becomes available. You’ll gain in-depth knowledge of colorimetry and essential principles that will take your skills to the next level.
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