Product Overview

Oil Red O is a specialized lipophilic dye used in forensic investigations to develop latent fingerprints on porous surfaces, such as paper, cardboard, and uncoated wood. It targets and stains the lipid (fatty) components present in fingerprint residue, producing reddish-pink ridge detail that stands out sharply against light-colored backgrounds.

Unlike traditional amino acid or protein-based reagents (e.g., ninhydrin or DFO), Oil Red O is ideal for cases where fatty acids and sebaceous secretions are more likely to remain intact—such as in prints from children or when evidence has been exposed to dry or oxidizing conditions. It offers a non-destructive alternative to chemical treatments, allowing further enhancement with ninhydrin or other reagents after application.

Key Features:

• Targets lipid residues in fingerprints for red-pink ridge staining
• Highly effective on porous surfaces like paper, cardboard, and wood
• Provides strong contrast for visual and photographic documentation
• Non-destructive—can be used before or after other enhancement methods
• Ideal for aged prints or those lacking water-soluble residues
• Best results achieved using in tandem with Oil Red O buffer reagent

Oil Red O is most effective when used in combination with its designated buffer reagent, which ensures optimal solubility, pH control, and surface compatibility.