9+ Choosing: What is the Best Tattoo Ink? Tips


9+ Choosing: What is the Best Tattoo Ink? Tips

The collection of superior pigmentation for indelible pores and skin artwork constitutes a pivotal choice in attaining each aesthetic brilliance and enduring high quality. The medium employed immediately impacts the vibrancy, longevity, and security of the ensuing design. Elements reminiscent of colorfastness, consistency, and biocompatibility are paramount when assessing suitability for dermal software.

Using a high-caliber medium supplies quite a few benefits, starting from enhanced visible influence to minimized danger of opposed reactions. Traditionally, the composition of such supplies has developed considerably, progressing from rudimentary, typically hazardous, substances to stylish, meticulously formulated options engineered for optimum integration with pores and skin tissue. This development displays an growing understanding of dermatological science and a dedication to prioritizing consumer well-being.

The next sections will delve into the essential features of pigment composition, security requirements, and efficiency traits. Concerns for various pores and skin varieties and tattoo kinds will even be explored, offering a complete overview of the weather important for attaining distinctive and secure tattoo outcomes.

1. Sterility

Sterility is a non-negotiable attribute of pigmentation deemed appropriate for intradermal introduction. Non-sterile formulations current a major and direct risk of an infection. Bacterial contamination throughout the medium can lead to localized pores and skin infections, systemic sickness, or, in excessive situations, extreme issues requiring intensive medical intervention. The compromise of sterility immediately contravenes any declare of a superior product and jeopardizes the well being of the person present process the tattooing course of. As such, this side stands as a foundational determinant of acceptable requirements.

The implications of using a contaminated medium prolong past fast well being dangers. Power pores and skin situations, scarring, and the distortion of the supposed inventive design may result from unresolved infections stemming from non-sterile pigmentation. Regulatory businesses mandate strict manufacturing protocols to make sure product integrity; nevertheless, vigilance on the a part of the tattoo artist stays paramount. Previous to software, verifying the supply and certification of sterilization processes represents a important safeguard towards potential hurt.

In summation, the choice course of for pigmentation should prioritize demonstrable sterility. The potential penalties of neglecting this basic requirement are demonstrably extreme. Adherence to rigorous requirements and diligent verification procedures are indispensable parts of accountable apply, making certain each the protection and inventive integrity of the tattooed final result. With out verified sterility, no pigmentation could be fairly thought-about an optimum possibility for dermal introduction.

2. Colorfastness

Colorfastness, the inherent means of a pigment to withstand fading or alteration over time as a result of publicity to environmental elements, stands as a important determinant of the lasting high quality of any tattoo. Pigmentation that lacks colorfastness will degrade below ultraviolet (UV) radiation, humidity, and even the physique’s personal metabolic processes, resulting in a major discount in vibrancy and readability. The connection is direct: superior colorfastness is inextricably linked to the collection of acceptable supplies, and the final word satisfaction skilled by the person. As an illustration, tattoos executed with inferior, non-colorfast pigmentation might exhibit noticeable fading inside months, requiring pricey and probably damaging touch-up procedures or full removing. This degradation negates the preliminary funding within the art work and may result in appreciable dissatisfaction.

The collection of formulations demonstrating distinctive colorfastness necessitates a complete understanding of pigment chemistry and the interplay of particular pigments with the human dermis. Excessive-quality formulations typically make use of pigments which can be inherently extra secure and immune to breakdown. Moreover, producers might incorporate UV absorbers or different protecting brokers into the medium to boost coloration retention. The sensible software of this information entails scrutinizing pigment specs, in search of verifiable information on lightfastness testing, and contemplating the fame of the producer concerning the long-term efficiency of their merchandise. Areas of the physique extra uncovered to daylight require inks with distinctive colorfastness rankings.

In conclusion, colorfastness represents a significant benchmark for the suitability of pigmentation employed in tattooing. The selection of pigments characterised by sturdy colorfastness interprets immediately into enduring aesthetic attraction and minimizes the necessity for future corrective measures. Prioritizing this attribute ensures the lasting visible integrity of the tattoo, offering long-term satisfaction and validating the preliminary inventive endeavor. The inherent means to withstand coloration degradation essentially defines a premium-quality product appropriate for everlasting pores and skin artwork.

3. Biocompatibility

Biocompatibility, referring to the extent to which a substance is non-toxic or non-injurious to organic programs, assumes paramount significance within the collection of pigmentation supposed for intradermal introduction. The absence of biocompatibility can result in a variety of opposed reactions, compromising each the fast well being and long-term well-being of the recipient.

  • Allergenic Potential

    Sure chemical compounds inside pigments can act as allergens, triggering immune responses starting from gentle contact dermatitis to extreme systemic reactions. Nickel, chromium, and sure azo dyes are identified allergens continuously present in lower-quality formulations. A perfect pigmentation reveals minimal allergenic potential, achieved by cautious collection of hypoallergenic components and rigorous testing to make sure a low incidence of allergic reactions.

  • Toxicological Profile

    The toxicological profile encompasses the potential for a pigment to induce mobile harm or systemic toxicity. Heavy metals reminiscent of lead, mercury, and cadmium, traditionally current in some pigments, are acknowledged carcinogens and neurotoxins. Superior choices reveal a comprehensively assessed and favorable toxicological profile, making certain the absence of dangerous substances and minimizing the chance of long-term well being issues. Impartial laboratory testing and clear disclosure of chemical composition are essential for confirming security.

  • Inflammatory Response

    Even within the absence of outright allergic reactions or toxicity, sure pigments can provoke power inflammatory responses throughout the dermis. Persistent irritation can result in scarring, distortion of the tattoo design, and elevated susceptibility to an infection. Formulations exhibiting excessive biocompatibility are designed to attenuate inflammatory reactions, selling fast therapeutic and long-term stability of the implanted pigment.

  • Biodegradability and Migration

    Whereas the aim of tattooing is everlasting implantation, a point of pigment migration is inevitable. Extremely biocompatible supplies are much less susceptible to systemic migration and accumulation in lymph nodes. Moreover, ideally, they need to exhibit a gradual and non-toxic biodegradation pathway, minimizing the long-term burden on the physique’s cleansing mechanisms. Pigments demonstrating extreme migration or resistance to biodegradation elevate considerations about long-term well being results.

The interconnected nature of those aspects underscores the important function of biocompatibility in defining the superior qualities of pigmentation for indelible pores and skin artwork. Prioritizing formulations with demonstrably low allergenic potential, favorable toxicological profiles, minimal inflammatory results, and managed biodegradability is important for making certain each the aesthetic success and the long-term security of the tattoo process.

4. Consistency

Consistency, concerning pigmentation for intradermal software, immediately influences the convenience of software, the uniformity of coloration distribution, and the general high quality of the completed tattoo. A homogeneous combination of pigment particles and provider fluid is important for predictable and repeatable outcomes. Variations in consistency can result in uneven saturation, issue in line work, and compromised aesthetic outcomes.

  • Pigment Dispersion

    Optimum dispersion ensures that pigment particles are evenly distributed all through the provider fluid. Poor dispersion ends in clumping, which may clog tattoo needles, create inconsistent coloration saturation, and hinder the artist’s means to create easy gradients or effective strains. Superior formulations make use of stabilizers and milling processes to keep up uniform dispersion, stopping settling or separation over time. As an illustration, a poorly dispersed medium would possibly seem vibrant upon preliminary software however exhibit mottled or pale areas after therapeutic as a result of uneven pigment distribution.

  • Viscosity Management

    Viscosity refers back to the thickness or move price of the pigmentation. Exact viscosity management is essential for predictable software throughout varied tattoo kinds and strategies. A medium that’s too viscous could also be troublesome to push into the pores and skin, requiring extreme power and probably inflicting trauma. Conversely, a formulation that’s too skinny might unfold uncontrollably, leading to blurred strains and imprecise particulars. The perfect viscosity is usually particular to the artist’s preferences and the supposed software however should stay constant from batch to batch to make sure repeatable outcomes.

  • Particle Measurement Uniformity

    Uniform particle measurement contributes considerably to the general smoothness and consistency of the pigmentation. Variations in particle measurement can have an effect on coloration saturation, therapeutic time, and the chance of granuloma formation. Pigment particles which can be too giant could cause irritation and irritation, whereas these which can be too small could also be extra susceptible to migration. The perfect formulation contains particles of a uniform and optimized measurement, making certain even distribution throughout the dermis and selling fast therapeutic. Superior manufacturing processes, reminiscent of microfluidization, allow exact management over particle measurement and distribution.

  • Stability Over Time

    The soundness of consistency is a important indicator of product high quality. A superior pigmentation maintains its traits over prolonged durations of storage. Formulations susceptible to settling, thickening, or separation are much less dependable and may produce inconsistent outcomes. Secure mediums retain their unique viscosity, dispersion, and coloration traits, making certain predictable efficiency even after extended storage. This stability is usually achieved by the usage of acceptable stabilizers and preservatives and is verified by rigorous testing.

In conclusion, the consistency of pigmentation is inextricably linked to its general high quality and efficiency. Elements reminiscent of pigment dispersion, viscosity management, particle measurement uniformity, and stability over time contribute to a medium’s suitability for creating lasting and aesthetically pleasing tattoos. Formulations exhibiting constant and predictable traits are important for attaining optimum outcomes and minimizing the chance of issues.

5. Pigment Load

Pigment load, the focus of pigment particles inside a provider fluid, immediately correlates with the visible influence and longevity of a tattoo. A better pigment load usually interprets to larger opacity, vibrancy, and resistance to fading over time. Poor pigment load necessitates a number of passes throughout software to realize desired saturation, probably growing pores and skin trauma and prolonging therapeutic. The collection of pigmentation exhibiting an optimized pigment load is, subsequently, an important consideration when evaluating its general suitability.

The dedication of optimum pigment load entails a balancing act. Excessively excessive concentrations can result in software difficulties, hindering easy and even distribution. Moreover, exceedingly dense formulations would possibly exacerbate inflammatory responses or impede the physique’s pure therapeutic processes. Respected producers meticulously calibrate the pigment load to realize a harmonious steadiness between coloration depth, ease of software, and biocompatibility. The sensible implication is that superior formulations ship most visible influence with minimal required passes, lowering consumer discomfort and selling environment friendly therapeutic. For instance, a tattoo artist using a high-pigment-load black will obtain a richer, deeper black with fewer passes in comparison with a lower-concentration black, resulting in a extra outlined define and diminished danger of scarring.

In abstract, pigment load is a important issue within the evaluation of pigmentation high quality. The cautious adjustment of the focus of coloration particles throughout the provider fluid balances vibrant visible outcomes with secure and environment friendly software. Understanding the significance of the collection of pigmentation with superior pigment load supplies tattoo artists with improved management over saturation, therapeutic dynamics, and the lasting vibrancy of their art work, contributing to raised general outcomes and consumer satisfaction. It’s an integral side of the broader quest to find out optimum merchandise for indelible pores and skin artwork.

6. Lightfastness

Lightfastness represents an important attribute in evaluating pigmentation suitability for intradermal implantation. It defines a pigment’s resistance to fading or discoloration upon publicity to gentle, notably ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a main explanation for tattoo degradation. Inferior lightfastness inevitably results in untimely fading, compromising the visible integrity and longevity of the art work. Due to this fact, formulations exhibiting superior lightfastness are essentially important parts in attaining sturdy and aesthetically pleasing tattoo outcomes. For instance, a tattoo using a pigment with poor lightfastness might seem vibrant initially however degrade noticeably inside months of solar publicity, necessitating pricey and probably damaging touch-ups. This underscores the direct influence of lightfastness on the long-term worth and look of the funding.

The collection of pigmentation with excessive lightfastness rankings requires understanding pigment chemistry and lightweight interplay. Sure pigment lessons, reminiscent of inorganic pigments (e.g., iron oxides, titanium dioxide), usually reveal larger lightfastness in comparison with natural pigments (e.g., azo dyes, phthalocyanines). Nonetheless, developments in pigment expertise have led to the event of natural pigments with enhanced lightfastness traits. Tattoo artists should seek the advice of pigment specs, lightfastness testing information (typically rated on a scale), and producer data to determine the long-term stability of a selected formulation. Moreover, consumer schooling concerning solar safety and aftercare is paramount in preserving the integrity of the tattoo. Limiting solar publicity and using broad-spectrum sunscreens considerably mitigates the results of UV radiation and prolongs the vibrancy of the tattoo. This mixed method, incorporating high-quality pigmentation and accountable aftercare, maximizes the sturdiness of the design.

In conclusion, lightfastness is an indispensable criterion in figuring out superior pigmentation for tattooing. Pigments that exhibit distinctive resistance to fading upon gentle publicity make sure the enduring vibrancy and aesthetic attraction of the tattoo. Cautious pigment choice, coupled with acceptable aftercare practices, constitutes a proactive technique for preserving the integrity of the art work over time. Prioritizing lightfastness inherently aligns with the target of delivering long-lasting and visually satisfying tattoo experiences, cementing its function as an important attribute of optimum pigmentation for intradermal software.

7. Model Status

Model fame serves as a major indicator of high quality and reliability within the collection of pigmentation for intradermal implantation. A producer’s established standing throughout the tattoo trade typically displays constant product efficiency, adherence to security requirements, and a dedication to innovation. Optimistic notion cultivated over time usually signifies a historical past of glad prospects and a demonstrable observe report of manufacturing formulations that meet stringent high quality standards. Conversely, manufacturers with unfavorable reputations, characterised by complaints associated to fading, allergic reactions, or inconsistent efficiency, warrant cautious consideration and should point out underlying points with product formulation or manufacturing processes. Examples abound; established manufacturers, reminiscent of Intenze or Everlasting Ink, preserve constant visibility, typically attributed to their sustained fame for dependable colorfastness and strict high quality management. The longevity and breadth of constructive testimonials operate as a main validation metric, not directly testifying to the pigments’ means to resist degradation over time.

Nonetheless, model fame shouldn’t be the only real determinant within the choice course of. Whereas a powerful fame implies a level of reliability, it’s important to complement this evaluation with unbiased analysis and analysis of particular product attributes. Elements reminiscent of pigment composition, sterility testing outcomes, and person evaluations present useful insights that complement the general model picture. Newer manufacturers, regardless of missing an intensive historic observe report, might supply modern formulations or superior efficiency traits. For instance, a smaller producer would possibly make the most of superior nanotechnology to enhance pigment dispersion or incorporate novel biocompatible components. Thorough due diligence, together with a assessment of unbiased laboratory testing and medical information, stays essential whatever the model’s established fame.

In conclusion, model fame is a useful, albeit not definitive, issue when figuring out the suitability of pigmentation for tattooing. A powerful model fame typically correlates with constant product high quality, security, and reliability; nevertheless, it’s important to enhance this evaluation with unbiased analysis and an intensive analysis of particular person product attributes. A complete method, integrating model fame with goal information, enhances the probability of choosing pigmentation that meets each aesthetic and security necessities, aligning with the pursuit of superior merchandise for indelible pores and skin artwork. The challenges lie within the subjectivity of “fame” and the need of unbiased validation.

8. Particle Measurement

The scale of particular person pigment particles exert a profound affect on the efficiency traits of pigmentation, immediately impacting coloration saturation, dispersion stability, and general aesthetic final result. Consequently, particle measurement represents a important consideration within the formulation and analysis of merchandise deemed appropriate for intradermal software.

  • Shade Depth and Saturation

    Smaller particle sizes usually exhibit larger floor space, resulting in enhanced gentle absorption and scattering. This phenomenon interprets to elevated coloration depth and saturation throughout the tattooed space. Formulations with optimized particle sizes can obtain vibrant and visually compelling outcomes with fewer passes, lowering pores and skin trauma and minimizing therapeutic time. Pigment particles which can be excessively giant might exhibit diminished gentle absorption, leading to muted or pale colours.

  • Dispersion Stability and Agglomeration

    The dimensions and uniformity of pigment particles considerably influence their means to stay stably dispersed throughout the provider fluid. Smaller, uniformly sized particles are much less susceptible to agglomeration or settling, making certain constant coloration distribution and stopping clogging of tattoo needles. Conversely, bigger or irregularly formed particles exhibit a larger tendency to clump collectively, leading to uneven saturation and software difficulties. Efficient dispersion is essential for attaining easy gradients and effective strains.

  • Dermal Integration and Migration

    Particle measurement influences the interplay of pigmentation with the encompassing dermal tissue. Extraordinarily small particles could also be extra inclined to migration, probably resulting in blurring or fading of the tattoo design over time. Bigger particles, whereas much less susceptible to migration, might elicit a extra pronounced inflammatory response. The perfect particle measurement vary balances dermal retention with biocompatibility, minimizing migration whereas selling optimum tissue integration. Formulations using nanoparticles require cautious analysis to make sure their long-term security and stability throughout the dermis.

  • Granuloma Formation

    The presence of excessively giant or poorly dispersed pigment particles can set off the formation of granulomas, nodular aggregations of immune cells that encapsulate the international materials. Granulomas can distort the tattoo design, trigger discomfort, and require medical intervention. Pigment formulations with tightly managed particle measurement distributions and excessive dispersion stability reduce the chance of granuloma formation, selling a smoother and extra predictable therapeutic course of.

The interaction between these aspects highlights the importance of particle measurement as a key determinant of general product high quality. The pursuit of pigmentation characterised by optimally sized and uniformly dispersed particles displays the broader goal of attaining secure, visually compelling, and enduring outcomes. Formulations demonstrating meticulous management over particle measurement distributions signify an important step in advancing the requirements of pigmentation supposed for intradermal introduction.

9. Chemical Composition

The chemical composition of pigmentation immediately influences its security profile, longevity, and aesthetic traits. Due to this fact, an intensive understanding of those constituents is essential when evaluating the qualities defining optimum merchandise for intradermal software.

  • Pigment Supply and Purity

    The supply of coloring brokers, whether or not natural or inorganic, dictates inherent properties. Inorganic pigments, reminiscent of iron oxides, typically exhibit superior lightfastness and stability, whereas sure natural pigments supply a broader vary of vibrant colours. Purity, outlined by the absence of contaminants like heavy metals or unregulated dyes, is paramount. Respected producers present detailed compositional analyses to confirm the absence of dangerous substances. As an illustration, a crimson pigment derived from unregulated azo dyes might pose allergenic dangers, whereas a purified iron oxide crimson demonstrates larger biocompatibility.

  • Provider Fluid Composition

    The provider fluid, accountable for dispersing pigment particles and facilitating software, generally contains water, glycerin, isopropyl alcohol, or witch hazel. Every part serves a selected goal, reminiscent of adjusting viscosity or offering antiseptic properties. Nonetheless, sure provider fluids can elicit opposed reactions. The presence of denatured alcohol, as an example, might trigger extreme pores and skin dryness or irritation. Optimum formulations make the most of biocompatible provider fluids in acceptable concentrations to attenuate opposed results and promote easy software.

  • Components and Stabilizers

    Components, reminiscent of preservatives, pH adjusters, and stabilizers, improve product longevity and forestall degradation. Preservatives inhibit microbial development, making certain sterility. pH adjusters preserve optimum acidity ranges to forestall pigment aggregation. Stabilizers forestall pigment settling or separation over time. Nonetheless, sure components will also be allergenic. For instance, some preservatives, like parabens, are identified contact allergens. Due to this fact, formulations using hypoallergenic components are most well-liked to attenuate the chance of opposed reactions.

  • Heavy Metallic Content material

    The presence of heavy metals, even in hint quantities, can pose important well being dangers. Traditionally, pigments contained lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic, all acknowledged carcinogens and neurotoxins. Trendy rules and high quality management measures have considerably diminished heavy metallic contamination; nevertheless, vigilance stays important. Superior merchandise bear rigorous testing to confirm compliance with established security requirements, making certain that heavy metallic concentrations stay beneath permissible limits. For instance, a black pigment containing extreme nickel may induce allergic dermatitis in delicate people.

The interconnectedness of those elements underscores the significance of contemplating the entire chemical composition when evaluating pigmentation. Producers dedicated to security and high quality present clear data concerning ingredient sourcing, purification processes, and testing methodologies. Deciding on pigmentation with well-defined and biocompatible chemical profiles contributes on to attaining secure and aesthetically pleasing outcomes, reinforcing the factors that outline optimum merchandise for indelible pores and skin artwork. The consideration of “Chemical Composition” and all its parts wants deep understanding.

Regularly Requested Questions

The next addresses widespread inquiries concerning the attributes of superior pigmentation for everlasting pores and skin artwork. The knowledge introduced is meant to offer readability and improve understanding of this very important side of tattooing.

Query 1: What constitutes the first danger related to substandard pigmentation?

The first danger entails the introduction of dangerous substances into the dermis, probably resulting in allergic reactions, infections, granuloma formation, or systemic toxicity. Non-sterile media pose a direct an infection danger.

Query 2: How can one assess the colorfastness of pigmentation earlier than software?

Colorfastness could be assessed by consulting producer specs, analyzing lightfastness testing information, and reviewing unbiased product evaluations. Pigments with larger lightfastness rankings usually exhibit larger resistance to fading.

Query 3: What function does particle measurement play within the last look of a tattoo?

Particle measurement immediately impacts coloration saturation, dispersion stability, and dermal integration. Smaller, uniformly sized particles usually exhibit larger coloration depth and stability, whereas excessively giant particles might result in uneven saturation or granuloma formation.

Query 4: Is model fame a dependable indicator of high quality?

Model fame can present a basic indication of product reliability; nevertheless, it’s important to complement this evaluation with unbiased analysis and an intensive analysis of particular product attributes. Newer manufacturers can generally supply superior formulations.

Query 5: How does pigment load have an effect on the tattoo software course of?

Pigment load influences the opacity and vibrancy. Optimum concentrations result in larger coloration depth with fewer passes, lowering trauma. Poor hundreds necessitate a number of passes, growing trauma dangers.

Query 6: What chemical parts ought to be prevented in pigmentation?

Pigmentation ought to ideally be devoid of heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium), unregulated azo dyes, and identified allergens (parabens, denatured alcohol). Respected producers present full compositional analyses.

In summation, the collection of pigmentation entails cautious consideration of assorted elements, together with sterility, colorfastness, particle measurement, model fame, pigment load, and chemical composition. A complete understanding of those attributes is important for attaining secure and aesthetically pleasing outcomes.

The next part will discover particular concerns for various tattoo kinds and pores and skin varieties.

Optimum Pigmentation Choice

The following steering is meant to facilitate knowledgeable choices concerning pigmentation choice, prioritizing security, longevity, and aesthetic excellence.

Tip 1: Prioritize Sterility Verification. Insist on verifiable proof of sterilization processes from producers. Certificates of study ought to be available and independently verifiable.

Tip 2: Assess Colorfastness Information. Scrutinize lightfastness rankings and accelerated growing old check outcomes. Formulations demonstrating superior resistance to UV degradation guarantee enduring vibrancy.

Tip 3: Analyze Chemical Composition. Request full disclosure of all components. Merchandise containing heavy metals, unregulated dyes, or identified allergens ought to be prevented.

Tip 4: Consider Pigment Load. Excessive pigment load formulations obtain saturation with fewer passes, lowering trauma. Decrease pigment hundreds necessitate repeated purposes and prolonged therapeutic instances.

Tip 5: Management Consistency and Particle Measurement. Uniform pigment dispersion and optimum particle measurement contribute to easy software and predictable coloration distribution. Keep away from formulations susceptible to clumping or settling.

Tip 6: Think about Inks for particular tattoo kinds. Some inks works higher for black and gray tattoo than different, the identical with coloration tattoos. Be certain it matches your art work.

Tip 7: Inks’ Worth could be additionally a measure. Don’t low cost out, inks which can be cheaper than others can have a purpose and could be not secure. Spend an excellent sum of money to guard you and also you prospects.

These recommendations underscore the significance of rigorous analysis in choosing appropriate mediums. Diligence in analysis and a spotlight to element are essential for safeguarding each inventive integrity and consumer well-being.

The article will conclude with a abstract of salient factors and a last perspective on the importance of knowledgeable decision-making within the discipline of tattooing.

Conclusion

This text has comprehensively explored the essential elements in figuring out pigmentation suitability for tattooing. Sterility, colorfastness, biocompatibility, consistency, pigment load, lightfastness, model fame, particle measurement, and chemical composition have been individually examined. The pursuit of what’s the finest tattoo ink mandates an intensive understanding of those interconnected components. Compromising on any side dangers opposed well being results or diminished aesthetic outcomes.

The accountable collection of pigmentation is just not merely a technical choice; it’s a skilled and moral crucial. Continued analysis, adherence to evolving security requirements, and a dedication to clear product data are important for advancing the apply of tattooing and defending the well-being of purchasers. Vigilance and knowledgeable decisions are the cornerstones of accountable and profitable tattooing practices. Artists should diligently consider the pigmentation they may make the most of as there are fixed developments to the compounds of the options.