4. Fracturing
Fracturing (Fracking) of Carbon Black Aggregates
Fracturing, in the context of pigment particles, refers to the process of breaking down aggregates into their constituent primary particles. In carbon black, aggregates are clusters of tightly bound primary particles. The forces holding these aggregates together include van der Waals forces, which are relatively weak electrostatic attractions between molecules.
Significant energy is required to overcome these binding forces to fracture these aggregates. In a laboratory setting, this can be achieved through mechanical, ultrasonic, or chemical means. The fracturing process disrupts the aggregate structure, releasing individual primary particles.
Feasibility of Fracturing in Skin
When considering the human skin, especially in the realm of semi-permanent makeup, the scenario changes significantly.
Energy Requirement for Fracturing The energy required to fracture carbon black aggregates into primary particles is considerable. In the skin, such energy levels are not naturally present. Mechanical forces exerted during the application of makeup are insufficient to cause fracturing at the molecular level.
Theoretical Considerations Theoretically, if fracturing occurs in the skin, it would require an external force or intervention, such as ultrasonic treatment. However, such procedures would be highly unconventional and potentially unsafe in a cosmetic or dermatological context.
Biological Reactions
If fracturing did occur in the skin, it could lead to increased skin exposure to smaller primary particles. These smaller particles might have a higher potential for penetration and interaction with skin cells, potentially leading to different biological reactions, including inflammatory responses or cellular stress.
Stability and Safety
Given the improbability and potential risks of fracturing aggregates in the skin, the stability of pigment aggregates is a favorable characteristic in semi-permanent makeup. It ensures a more controlled interaction with the skin and reduces the risk of unintended biological responses.
Preliminary conclusions
Thus, while the concept of fracturing carbon black aggregates into primary particles is scientifically sound, its application within human skin, especially in the context of semi-permanent makeup, is highly unlikely and not advisable due to the potential risks and the lack of natural or safe means to achieve such a process. Understanding these limitations is crucial for professionals in semi-permanent makeup to ensure safe and effective applications.
The obvious next question about that topic is - how can such “fracturing” then occur that breaks the aggregates as the “real particles”? As many artists might have guessed - this is exactly what the laser removal treatment is all about.
