New York Tattoo License Practice Test

Tattoo ink primarily consists of pigments suspended in a carrier solution, which is the correct answer. This combination is crucial for several reasons: the pigments provide the actual color that will be implanted into the skin, while the carrier solution helps these pigments spread smoothly and evenly during the tattooing process.

The carrier solution often contains ingredients that prevent contamination, ensure the ink flows well through the tattoo machine, and assist in the absorption of the pigment by the skin. This formulation is essential for the longevity, vibrancy, and safety of a tattoo.

In contrast, while water-based pigments are indeed used in some tattoo inks, they are not the primary material across the board. Alcohol-based dyes and enamel sticks do not constitute mainstream tattoo ink and might even introduce undesirable properties, such as skin irritation or insufficient adhesion to the skin's layers. Thus, the correct formulation of tattoo ink involves a combination of pigments and a carrier solution to ensure effectiveness and safety in tattoo application.