I did a lot of research on ink before making a purchase. I read on some forums that Skincandy was great and others said it was not so good. I decided to go with my gut feeling and give it a shot. All I can say is I wish I tried it sooner. Amazing selection of colors in this kit and the colors are very bright. I had no trouble applying the colors I've used so far and they have healed up perfectly. I had been using mostly Intenze and some Star brite (still love the canary yellow) but these skincandy inks are by far my faves.