What is Permanent Makeup?
Permanent Makeup is pigment (iron oxides) placed under the skin (dermis) in a series of dots. These dots or lines are placed close together to create the desired image.
Permanent Makeup has several names....what are they?
The implanting of iron oxides under the skin is 'tattooing' by definition. It is also referred to as 'micropigmentation', 'dermapigmentation', and of course 'permanent cosmetics'.
Is this a licenced profession in the State of Ohio?
Ohio law requires registration with the County Health Department. Currently, there are no programs for licensing. However, it is probably in the works. Permanent makeup is an art, not a science. If the technician has had excellent training, she will probably display her certificates from recognized educators and organizations and have a portfolio of her clients in 'before and after' photographs.
I'm anxious about letting anyone else design my makeup, especially if it is permanent. What if I do not like the design or color after the procedure?
Your technician will assist you when determining design-work if you wish. She will take your facial shape into consideration, design a brow, eyeliner, and / or lip liner that suits your facial features the best. You should approve all design-work before she proceeds with the procedure. This is your face, your procedure, and it must meet your expectations. ()
What if eyebrow styles change?
Your eyebrow shape will be based on your own preferences in combination with the technician's suggestions for a classic shape that will remain in style and will not be affected by fads or by cosmetic surgery.
What if eye liner goes out of style?
It is exceptionally difficult to find a stage in history where the appearance of darker, thicker eyelashes was not fashionable. With the eyeliner or eyelash enhancement procedure, your natural lash-line is enhanced for a fuller, beautiful, natural result. This procedure is also very popular for men with light-colored or sparse eyelashes. It provides wonderful eye definition. Thin, medium, and wide top and botton eyeliners are also very popular. However, when I do procedures, I prefer a more conservative, natural look.
What about people who have allergies?
Many people love Permanent Makeup because it replaces the topical cosmetics that they may be sensitive to. Contact lens wearers especially enjoy not having to worry about makeup becoming lodged under their lenses.
I have heard that these procedures require multiple sessions. Why is that necessary?
It is necessary for several reasons. One is due to the condition of the skin. Each skin type is different. Some skin types are thicker and healthier and more pigment will be retained in a single session. Also, fine details, additional color depth, or design adjustments are easily made after the intial healing is complete. A followup visit is usually scheduled, if only to meet to discuss the healed outcome of the procedure and agree that no further work is necessary. However, discuss all these concerns with your technician. Typically it takes a total of 2, possibly 3 applications, 4 weeks apart to acheive the desired outcome.
If this is permanent, why are future touch-ups necessary?
The major issues affecting the pristine appearant of your procedures is exposure to the sun, changing health conditions, medications, anti-aging products, and hormonal changes. At some point in time, usually several years after your initial procedure, you will want to refresh the color. If you return to your original technician, she should offer a good discount, otherwise, starting over with a new, different technician, you can expect to pay full price.
I'm worried about the word "permanent".
Don't be. Permanent makeup is a multi-session process. During the first application 50% - 80% fades. If at that point you are dissatisfied with your permanent makeup (which is extremely rare), then no harm is done because much of the pigment (usually) will have faded off - this is the way the body heals itself. If anything, most clients return requesting more color, a thicker line, etc. After each subsequent application 4 weeks apart, the area retains more color, giving you your final outcome.
Is this considered a safe process?
Yes, it is a safe process if conducted by a trained technician that follows proper sanitation and sterilization requirements. The technician should open up a sterilized tool and a manufacturer-sealed, sterilized needle at the beginning of the procedure. She should place the used needles in a Sharps container after the procedure has been completed. In addition, she should sanitize all areas the client will come in contact with while at her studio. She should recognize that any invasive procedure is of a concern to the general public. By conducting procedures in this manner, clients are assured that their health has been safeguarded to the highest standards. After leaving her studio, it is then the client's responsibility to care for the procedure in a manner that encourages normal healing.
Will I be uncomfortable during the procedure?
Some people experience discomfort during the procedure. This is described as a stinging or plucking sensation, which subsides as soon as the procedure is over. We have excellent topical anesthetics which normally reduces discomfort to a minimum.
How soon can I resume normal activities?
For most people, usually the same day. Procedures normally produce little swelling or long-lasting trauma to the surrounding skin. As a result, you may resume normal activities as long as they do not have an adverse affect on the healing process. For example, you would not want to introduce bacteria into the treated area, for example, sweating while jogging. It is recommended that you do not plan a special function the day of and up to 3 days after having your permanent makeup, only because it is a new look and it will be darker than the final outcome.