PMU Education Unfiltered: Pigment Science, Needles & Dark Lip Neutralization with Carla Ricciardone

Dec 12, 2025

Education Over Hype: Why Real Knowledge Still Wins

In a time when flashy videos and fast certifications dominate the PMU space, true education is more important than ever.

In Tatter-a-fact Episode #117, Teryn Darling and Carla Ricciardone of @sculptedstudios deliver a refreshingly honest look into what's driving results and what's holding artists back.

They cover pigment science, needle theory, and machine control through the lens of understanding over imitation, teaching artists to think critically about every decision they make behind the machine.

The Chemistry of Pigments: It's More Than Color

Understanding Base Chemistry

Not all pigments are created equal. Iron oxides and organics have different particle sizes, densities, and binders, which affect how they implant and heal.

Iron Oxides: Soft, natural, fade gracefully over time, ideal for brows and neutral tones.
Organics: Bright, long-lasting, require lighter pressure and control, great for lips and eyeliner.
Hybrids: Balanced formulas that combine the best of both for predictable healing.

The Role of Carriers

Pigments also contain carriers like glycerin, propylene glycol, or alcohol, which determine viscosity and flow. Understanding these components helps artists match pigment behavior to technique, a key topic in Girlz Ink's Color Theory and Pigment Science Course

Needle Theory & Machine Movements: The Language of Skin

Carla and Teryn break down how needle grouping, taper, and stroke speed affect pigment implantation and trauma levels.

Key Takeaways:

Match your needle configuration to the skin type, not just the area.
Adjust voltage and hand speed for each pigment's viscosity.
Work with purpose, overworking skin leads to poor retention and scarring.

Artists who master needle theory see faster saturation, better healing, and longer lasting results. You can dive deeper into this in our Machine & Movements Online Course.

The Science & Sensitivity of Dark Lip Neutralization

Dark Lip Neutralization is one of the most advanced and misunderstood PMU services. It's not about changing skin tone but balancing undertones to create harmony.

Carla shares how crucial it is to analyze each client's unique melanin concentration, undertones, and healing behavior. Artists must approach each case with sensitivity, patience, and education, never guesswork.

For those looking to build confidence in this service, our Lip Blush and Color Theory Courses give you the foundation to safely and effectively neutralize darker lips with predictable outcomes.

Ethics, Integrity & Artist Growth

Both Teryn and Carla emphasize that success in PMU isn't just about skill, it's about integrity.

Avoid shortcuts, focus on healed results, and invest in continued education. The artists who rise to the top are those who combine science, ethics, and artistry every day.

Education isn't about being popular; it's about being precise.

Take Your PMU Knowledge Further

At Girlz Ink Academy, we teach why things work, not just how. Our courses are built for artists who want lasting results, lifelong confidence, and a strong foundation in the fundamentals.

Explore Courses Mentoned in This Episode:

Final Thoughts

True artistry isn't achieved by following trends, it's built through education, science, and practice. The best artists are lifelong learners who understand that skin, pigment, and machine work together like chemistry.

Join the community of artists who believe in education over hype, and elevate your career with courses that teach the science behind your craft.

→ Start your PMU education at GirlzInkTraining.com