Beauty EverLasting, LLC |
| Permanent Cosmetics Clinic |
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September 20, 2004
Catherine Anne Reed
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| Permanent Cosmetics Clinic |
What is permanent makeup?
Permanent makeup is a non-surgical procedure known by several names such as
“micropigmentation,” “micropigment implantation,” “cosmetic tattoo” or “dermagraphics.”
The cosmetic implantation technique deposits colored pigment into the upper reticular layer
of the dermis. Tiny droplets of custom blended colors are skillfully deposited, which is a
form of traditional tattooing used to enhance features of the face. The procedures are
performed using various methods including the traditional tattoo or coil machines, the pen
(rotary) machine and the hand tool method. The process starts with an initial consultation,
followed by the actual procedure (application of pigment), and a follow up visit for
adjusting the shape, color or density of the pigment. Properly applied by an experienced
technician, permanent makeup can be more natural and realistic in appearance than
conventional cosmetics.
How much does permanent makeup cost?
First understand that permanent makeup is not a typical beauty treatment such as a
manicure or haircut. In fact, in many states, regulations prohibit these procedures from
being performed in hair or nail salons for this very reason. You should expect to pay several
hundred dollars for a competent technician. This cost is a reflection of the technician’s
investments made in education, supplies, equipment and facilities which ensures your
satisfaction and good health.
What about color choices?
Colors and shades are custom-blended to match your favorite pencils and lipsticks. However,
should you later decide on a different color, it can be lightened, darkened, or even changed.
Color choices may be recommended based on artistic color analysis. Although the final
decision is yours, natural shades are typically encouraged.
Is permanent makeup safe?
Your technician should perform all procedures with one-time disposable supplies and follow
strict sanitation and sterilization guidelines as required by the Center for Disease Control
(CDC) and OSHA regulations. Make sure that your technician has formal training with
blood borne pathogens. According to the American Academy of Micropigmentation (AAM),
facilities where you are at risk of environmental contaminates such as nail dust, hair
clippings, etc. should be avoided. In fact, in many states, regulations prohibit these
procedures from being performed hair or nail salons for this very reason. If proper
sterilization and sanitary guidelines are met, permanent cosmetics should be completely
safe. A few of the most important things to watch for are:
- All needles should be new and sterile for each client. Other machine parts should also be
pre-sterilized and disposed of after each use. Your visual inspection should reveal that
the equipment, your technician, and the environment are being maintained in clean and
sanitary manner. - New gloves should be worn for each client and changed as many times during the
procedure as needed. - The technician should be knowledgeable of environmental safety requirements.
- Clean coverings or sheets should be used for each patient.
- The room or treatment area should free from contaminants, and your technician should be
complying with OSHA Blood borne Pathogens Compliance directives.
The possibility that you would have any problems or reactions from these procedures is
almost non-existent with today’s health standards. American Academy of
Micropigmentation, member professionals have ongoing opportunities for continuing
education in the areas of sterilization, sanitation, and the most up-to-date industry
standard techniques and practices. Following your after-care instructions carefully should
further eliminate possibilities of infection and other risks.
Can I still have an MRI?
This urban myth has been tried on the popular television show “MythBusters.” Numerous
studies have also shown that even having very large areas of the body covered with tattoos
poses little or no potential for irritation. Most of the pigments used by Beauty EverLasting,
are plant and vegetable based. However, even in the pigments that do contain trace
amounts of metal (common tattoo pigment), the amount implanted into the skin is less than
a fraction of a percentage of the amount of metal in a common tooth filling. Test studies
have confirmed that the "iron" particles in pigment are too microscopic to react as true metal
pieces but rather are more accurately compared with "metals" which already exist
microscopically in the body.
What if I don’t like it?
Although the procedure is considered permanent, there is some flexibility in changing the
color intensity or shape. Beauty EverLasting maintains a conservative approach and a
policy of “err on the side of caution.” Simply put: you can always add more pigment but it’s
much harder to go in the other direction. Remember that most color will appear darker
immediately following the procedure but will soften and lighten during the healing process.
If the artist is truly experienced and focuses on a "natural" look, you will be very happy
with the results.
Is infection possible?
Conjunctivitis (pink eye), although rare, would be the most likely infection possible.
However, if you follow your after care instructions carefully, there should be no infections.
There is always the possibility of an infection even with a small scratch; however, most do
not experience noteworthy problems following these procedures. Remember that you must
keep the area clean and follow your after care instructions carefully.
How long will the procedure take?
The typical permanent makeup procedure will take from 1 1/2 to 3 hours, of which only
about 1-1 1/2 hours is actual tattooing. Consultation, design work, time for the topical
anesthetic to take effect, and icing down after the procedure account for the remainder of
time. Most people require at least one touch-up procedure, which is typically performed
approximately 30-45 days after the first procedure.
How many applications are needed?
Generally, two applications are needed in order to achieve your desired look. However, many
clients are fully satisfied with just one application. If a second application is needed, it is
typically scheduled approximately 4-6 weeks after the initial procedure.
Does it hurt?
In most cases discomfort is not reported. Typically, if it is reported, it’s extremely minimal.
Procedures are performed with the most effective topical anesthetics providing substantial
numbing of the area to minimize or eliminate any discomfort you may feel. Most report
feeling nervous or apprehensive at first, but once the procedure is started they realize that
it’s not nearly what they were afraid of. Lips can be the most sensitive area, and most
people report a bit more discomfort.
What can I expect immediately after the procedure?
Expect slight swelling and redness. Usually the swelling subsides within 48 hours. Initially,
your permanent makeup will appear darker and brighter than what it will ultimately heal
to. In most cases, people leave looking as if they had “a good cry.” Sometimes, after the first
night, you may have crusty eyes upon waking. Remember that everyone is different, thus
everyone’s reaction is different – some people report absolutely no swelling, while others
report some swelling.
What is the healing period like?
Most clients are able to return to work or their other daily activities immediately following
their procedure without any embarrassment or discomfort. Superior-strength topical
anesthetics help prevent unsightly swelling and bleeding. For approximately 5-7 days
following the procedure, you will need to apply a thin film of ointment to the procedure
site. During this healing period, you will notice the color soften into your skin. See
before/after care page for more detailed information.
How long will my permanent makeup last?
If properly applied by a competent technician, your permanent makeup should last for
several years depending on your skin type and how well you care for it. Over time, the color
will lighten and you may want to have the color refreshed. Permanent cosmetics procedures
are considered permanent because the color is implanted into the upper dermal layer of the
skin. However, as with any tattoo, fading can, and often does occur, requiring some color
refreshing.
What can I do to protect my permanent makeup?
During exposure to sun, use a good sunscreen. I recommend an SPF of 30+ applied on the
tattooed area. It also can’t hurt to apply a small amount of vaseline to the treated area to
create a barrier when going for a facial, swimming etc.
Who shouldn't get permanent makeup?
People who tend to easily hyper-pigment, keloid formations, or marked reaction to skin
trauma. People who have been off Accutane for less than one year. For people with
tendencies to cold sores/herpes, an anti-viral prescription is needed prior to getting
permanent lip color applied. A person who spends a lot of time in the sun or in tanning beds
or booths without protection is NOT a good candidate for permanent makeup since the
UVA rays will change the pigment tones, sometimes even turning browns to blues. A person
who is undergoing a major life trauma should NOT get permanent makeup. It is generally
thought of as unwise to alter one’s physical appearance while undergoing major stress in
life. It’s probably best to wait until the issues causing the trauma are resolved.
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