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Writer's pictureBianca Cypser

Balancing Blue and Purple Undertones in Skin of Color: A Deep Dive with the IIMTSA

The skin, our body's largest organ, is a canvas that tells the story of our heritage, health, and sometimes, our secrets. In the world of aesthetics and cosmetic corrections, understanding the subtleties of skin tones and their undertones is crucial. For individuals with skin of color, blue or purple undertones can sometimes pose aesthetic challenges. However, the art of color correction, especially using shades of orange and yellow, offers solutions. The International Institute of Medical Tattoo Science and Artistry (IIMTSA) is leading the way in understanding and teaching these techniques.

The Science Behind Blue and Purple Undertones Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of our skin, eyes, and hair. People with skin of color have a higher melanin concentration. Within melanin, there are two types: eumelanin (brown-black) and pheomelanin (red-yellow). The blue or purple undertones are often the result of a predominance of eumelanin, combined with the skin's natural translucency and vascular structures beneath the surface.

Color Correction Using Orange and Yellow Drawing from the principles of the color wheel, where colors opposite each other neutralize one another, orange and yellow can be used to balance out blue and purple undertones effectively:

  1. Orange: Being opposite to blue on the color wheel, various shades of orange can effectively neutralize blue undertones. A deeper shade of orange can address more profound blue undertones, while a lighter, peachier hue might be used for subtle corrections.

  2. Yellow: Yellow, being opposite to purple, can counteract purple undertones. This is especially beneficial in cases where there might be dark spots or areas with hyperpigmentation. Adding yellow tones brings warmth and balance to the skin.

IIMTSA's Approach to Color Correction The International Institute of Medical Tattoo Science and Artistry acknowledges the significance of understanding skin undertones, especially in people of color. Their curriculum delves deep into the science of skin and the art of tattooing to correct and enhance skin aesthetics. By emphasizing the importance of the color wheel and the role of complementary colors, the IIMTSA equips its students with the knowledge and skills needed to achieve optimal results for diverse skin types. Although, in medical tattooing there are other ways to treat hyperpigmented skin, this is the science behind it. Not all cases in scar camouflage tattooing would use this as a complete soloution.


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In Conclusion Balancing and enhancing the natural beauty of skin, especially skin of color, requires a profound understanding of its unique characteristics. The IIMTSA stands as a beacon of knowledge and expertise, leading professionals in the world of medical tattoo artistry to perfect their craft. The use of orange and yellow shades in counteracting blue and purple undertones is a testament to the fusion of art and science, promising impeccable results for all.


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