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What exactly is Permanent Makeup?
Permanent cosmetic makeup is the art and science of
implanting color into your skin. It is putting the
right color in the right place so you can look
better naturally. The specialized techniques used
for permanent cosmetics are often referred to as "micropigmentation".
The cosmetic implantation technique done with a
specialized instrument allows your practitioner to
deposit colored pigment into the layer of skin known
as the dermis.
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How are Permanent Cosmetic Procedures Done?
Permanent cosmetics procedures are performed using
various methods including the traditional tattoo or
coil machines, the pen or rotary machine and the
hand method. The process includes a consultation,
then application of pigment, and at least one or
more follow up visits for adjusting the shape and
color of the pigment.
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Who Benefits from Permanent Cosmetic Makeup?
EVERYONE, from the young to the elderly, who desires
a soft, natural enhancement to their appearance
benefits from permanent makeup. It is especially
beneficial to people who can’t wear other cosmetics
due to allergies and skin sensitivities; Active
people who want to look their best for activities
such as swimming, hiking, biking, tennis, aerobics,
and those who don’t want to worry about “sweating
off” or reapplying cosmetics. Also the vision
impaired who have difficulty applying their
cosmetics, and others with motor impairments such as
arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis,
stroke survivors, and those with unsteady hands who
cannot apply their own makeup, and busy people who
don’t have time to spend on their makeup. Permanent
makeup is not intended to replace cosmetics
completely. Because the color is placed “in” your
skin and not “on” your skin a more natural, softer
look results. When you go out for a
night-on-the-town, you can apply as much traditional
makeup as you wish.
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What type of Permanent Cosmetic Procedures can be
done?
Permanent Cosmetic procedures can be very subtle or
dramatic depending on what you are looking for.
Options include eyebrows, eyeliner: top and bottom,
full lip color, scar camouflage, areola
repigmentation, lash enhancements, hair imitations,
beauty marks, and lip liner.
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Is it Painful?
There are new topical anesthetics that have been
developed especially for permanent makeup for
eyeliner, eyebrows, and lip color procedures. These
creams and gels are applied to the desired area
before and during the procedure to assure you of the
most comfortable experience possible. Some people
describe the sensation as a “tingling” feeling. Most
people experience some discomfort and it varies with
each individual’s pain threshold and the skills of
the technician performing the service. It is not
uncommon for clients to say that it was not as
painful as they expected.
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How long does each procedure take?
Allow 2-3 hours for the initial procedure. Touch up
procedures can be done in less time.
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Can I remove my permanent makeup if I change my
mind?
Because it’s easy to add color and difficult to take
away, your technician will be conservative in the
initial application of your new color. Take
advantage of the consultation to discuss your
wants and needs. It’s also a time where you and your
technician choose the right colors and discuss any
special requests you may have. Your cooperation will
largely determine the result of your procedures.
Remember it is a team effort.
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How Much does Permanent Makeup Cost?
The average cost per procedure varies but usually
ranges $150-$600. Advanced work may be charged at
$200-$300 per hour. Many of these procedures are
commonly referred to as paramedical procedures. The
cost of the procedure should not be the most
important issue when consulting a potential
technician. Most important is the training and skill
of the technician and the confidence of the client
in that skill.
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Can I get my Permanent Makeup cheaper?
Remember the saying "You get what you pay for." It
saves you money and embarrassment to do it right the
first time.
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Is it Safe?
If proper sterilization and sanitary guidelines are
met, permanent cosmetics should be completely safe.
MOST IMPORTANT THINGS TO LOOK FOR:
- All needles should be new and sterile for each
client.
- Equipment and supplies should be kept in a
sanitary manner.
- Sterile gloves should be new for each client and
changed during the procedure when needed.
- The technician should be clean, neat, and
knowledgeable of environmental safety requirements.
- Clean drapes should be used for each patient.
- The room should be in an area free from other
contaminants.
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What if I have plastic or laser surgery?
It’s best to complete your surgery before having
your makeup applied. Laser surgery or resurfacing
may result in color loss or darkening of your makeup
depending on the laser and the colors in your skin.
Advise your laser surgeon that you have permanent
cosmetics so that he or she can perform a "spot
test" before they proceed. The color can be replaced
if cosmetic surgery or laser causes color loss.
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Which technician should I choose?
Choose a technician carefully by considering
training, experience, and portfolio. Ask if the
technician has a medical background. This may help
you feel more comfortable. The desired look is
obtained during the course of consultation, initial
procedure and follow up procedures. It is very
important that the technician and the client
communicate effectively during this process.
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Is There Any Possibility for Medical Problems?
The possibility that you would have any problems or
reactions from these procedures is almost
non-existent with today’s health standards. The
Society for Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP)
members are given continued opportunities for
education in practicing precise methods of
sanitation and sterilization. Post procedural
instructions must be followed carefully to eliminate
any risk.
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What is a Touch Up and Do I Need One?
A touch-up is a color re-enhancement. Usually the
implanted color is not perfect after the first
procedure. This is a process and at least one
follow-up to the initial visit should be scheduled 6
to 8 weeks after the procedure.
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Can I Still Have an MRI Scan?
The SPCP states that studies have shown that even
for people who have large body tattoos there is
little to no potential for irritation resulting from
an MRI. In the rare instance where discomfort
resulted, it was localized and temporary. Most
people have more metal in their fillings than they
would ever have in tattoo work.
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