|
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", "micropigment implantation" or
"dermagraphics". The cosmetic implantation technique deposits colored
pigment into the upper reticular layer of the dermis.
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 non-machine or hand method. The process includes an
initial consultation, then application of 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 cosmetic
makeup?
EVERYONE,
from the young to the elderly, who desires a soft, natural enhancement to their
appearance. 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.
What types 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
Enhancement
Hair
Imitation
Beauty
Marks
Blush
and Eye Shadow
NOTE: Some of these procedures use more
advanced techniques (para-medical techniques) and thus require an experienced
technician with advanced training.
Are permanent cosmetics really
permanent?
Technically, permanent cosmetics procedures are
considered permanent because the color is implanted into the upper reticular
part of the dermal layer of the skin and cannot be washed off. However, as with
any tattoo, fading can and often does occur, requiring periodic maintenance,
color re-enhancement or color re-freshing. Just like hair color, furniture that
may be located near a window, or even house paint, pigment implanted in the
skin may fade with time. It is important to consider this and all aspects of
the procedure when selecting a potential permanent cosmetic makeup technician.
How much does permanent cosmetic makeup
cost?
The average cost per procedure varies but usually
averages between $400-$800. Advanced work may be charged at $150 to $250 per
hour. Many of these procedures are commonly referred to as para-medical
procedures. Work performed from physician's offices or specialized clinics may
be charged at higher rates. 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.
How long does each procedure take?
The initial procedure will generally take approximately 1 to 2 ½ hours. Touch
up procedures usually do not require as much 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. HOWEVER, there are different methods available to help
with pain management, including various topical anesthetic ointments,
anesthetic locals and nerve blocks (administered by a doctor or dentist). Your
technician should discuss these methods with you to determine which one suits
you best.
Is it safe?
If proper sterilization and sanitary guidelines are
met, permanent cosmetics should be completely safe. These guidelines include
the following:
Most important
things to look for:
v
All needles should be new and sterile for each
client.
v
Other machine parts should also be
pre-sterilized and disposed of in a sanitary manner.
v
Other equipment and supplies should be kept
in a sanitary manner.
v
Gloves should be new for each client and
changed during the procedure when needed.
v
The technician should be clean, neat and
knowledgeable of environmental safety requirements.
v
A Clean Sheet should be used for each
client.
v
The room or treatment area should be in an
area free from other contaminants.
What if I don't like it?
REMEMBER:
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. The
healing time is different for each individual and procedure.
Which technician should i choose?
Choose a technician carefully by considering training,
experience, and portfolio. It is important to remember that the shape and
proper placement of the procedure is as important as the right color. The
desired look is obtained during the course of consultation, initial procedure
and follow up procedures. Interaction between the client and the technician
should be of utmost importance.
Is permanent cosmetic makeup a career
for me?
The opportunities for skilled permanent cosmetics
technicians are many and varied. Career and business opportunities vary greatly
depending on the individual technician's training and desires. Many nurses and
doctors, as well as hair, skin, and nail care professionals are choosing to
train in permanent cosmetic procedures. The demand for advanced/para-medical
procedures increases with public knowledge of the benefits of permanent
cosmetic makeup.
Are there
any after or side effects?
Generally, there is some swelling of the treated area.
While eyebrows my show little after effect, eyeliner and lips may show more and
the edema may last may last from two to seventy two hours During the procedure
there may be some bleeding and or bruising. There is usually some tenderness
for a few days. The color is much darker than you may expect for the first six
to ten days. Sometimes, people have reactions to antibiotics. You may use any
type of antibiotic that you prefer for your individual system. There may be
other side effects unforeseen due to individuality.
Do the pigments pose allergy problems?
The application is just deep enough to penetrate the minute capillaries in the
dermal layer of skin. There have been so few reactions to the pigments that
some doctors are suggesting that the patch test be eliminated. You can develop
an allergy to anything, anytime. Some doctors recommend that people with
allergies have permanent cosmetic procedures because they can replace cosmetic
products that they are sensitive to. There have been very few reactions to
pigments and only rarely in the case of blue-based red pigments.
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. SPCP member professionals are given continued opportunities for
education in practicing precise methods of sanitation and sterilization. Post
procedural instructions, if followed carefully, will completely eliminate any
risk.
What's a touch-up and when do I need
one?
A touch-up is a color re-enhancement. Almost always the
implanted color is not perfect after the first procedure. These procedures are
processes and at least one follow-up to the initial procedure should be
scheduled...It is recommended that you do not traumatize the skin again for a
minimum of four weeks. Six weeks is better but of course, your individual needs
take precedence. Eight weeks is recommended after a lip procedure.
Can I still have an MRI scan?
Numerous 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 very
temporary. Most people have more metal in their fillings than they would ever
have in tattoo work.
| 
