Permanent Cosmetics FAQs
What exactly is permanent cosmetic makeup?
How are permanent cosmetic procedures done?
Who benefits from permanent cosmetics?
Are permanent cosmetics really permanent?
How much does a procedure cost?
How long does each procedure take?
Is it painful?
Is it safe?
What if I don't like it?
Are their any after or side effects?
Do the pigments pose allergy problems?
What exactly is permanent cosmetic makeup?
Permanent cosmetic makeup is cosmetic tattooing. The specialized techniques
used for permanent cosmetics are often referred to as "micropigmentation,"
or "dermagraphics." The cosmetic implantation technique inserts color pigment
into the upper reticular layer of the dermis.
How are permanent cosmetic procedures done?
Permanent cosmetic procedures are performed using various methods, including
the traditional or coil machines, the pen or rotary machine and the non-machine
hand method. The process includes the initial consultation, then application
or pigment and at least one or more follow up visits for adjusting the shape
and color or density of the pigment.
Who benefits from permanent cosmetics?
ANYONE, from the young to the elderly, who desires enhancement of their
appearance can benefit. Looks can be soft and natural or dramatic, depending
on individual preferences. Those who can't wear make up due to skin allergies
and other sensitivities find advantages with this procedure. Busy people
who want to look their best - always!
Active people who want who don't want to worry about "sweating off" or
"reapplying" cosmetics after exercising. Also, the vision impaired who have
difficulty applying 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.
Are permanent cosmetics really permanent?
Permanent cosmetics are considered permanent because the color is implanted
into the upper reticular part of the dermal layer and cannot be washed off.
However, as with any tattoo, fading can and often does occur. These procedures
sometimes require periodic maintenance and color re-enhancement.
How much does a procedure cost?
The average cost per procedure varies but usually averages between $400
and $800. Advanced work may be charged at $150 to $250 per hour. Many of
these procedures are commonly referred to as para-medical procedures. The
cost of the permanent cosmetics should not be considered the most important
issue when consulting a potential technician. Most important is the training
and skill of the technician and the confidence the client has in that skill.
How long does each procedure take?
The initial procedure will take approximately 1 to 2 ½ hours. Touch up procedures
usually require less time.
Is it painful?
Most people experience some discomfort. This may vary according to each
individual's pain threshold and the skills of the technician performing
the service. There are methods available for pain management including topical
anesthetic ointments, and under certain conditions, local aesthetics and
nerve blocks. Consult your technician to see what methods are available
and will suit your needs.
Is it safe?
If proper sterilization and sanitary guidelines are met, permanent cosmetics
should be completely safe. These guidelines include the following:
- all needles should be new and sterile for each client
- machine parts should be sterilized and disposed of in a sanitary manner
- new gloves should be worn for each client and changed during the procedure
as needed
- the technician should be clean, neat and knowledgeable of environmental
and safety requirements
- the room or treatment area should be free of contaminants
What if I don't like it?
Although the procedure is considered permanent, these procedures do have
flexibility in changing color and shape to some extent, depending on the
expertise of your technician.
Colors will appear darker immediately following the procedure but will
soften and lighten during the healing process. It should be noted that healing
times vary per individual.
Are their any after or side effects?
Generally, there is some swelling of the treated area. While eyebrows may
show little after effect, eyeliner and lips may show more and the swelling
may last from two to seventy two hours. During the procedure there may be
some bleeding or bruising. Additionally, some tenderness may be present
for a few days. The color is much darker than you expect for the first six
to ten days. There may be other side effects unforeseen due to individual
sensitivities.
Do the pigments pose allergy problems?
There have been very few reactions to pigments and only rarely in cases
of blue-based red pigments. The application is just deep enough to penetrate
the minute capillaries in the dermal layer of the skin. There have been
so few reactions to the pigments that some doctors are suggesting that the
patch test be eliminated. Some doctors recommend that people with allergies
have permanent cosmetic procedures because they can replace cosmetic products
to which they are sensitive.
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