Question 1

WHAT IS PERMANENT MAKEUP?

Accepted Answer

Permanent makeup or cosmetic tattooing is a specialized technique to deposit pigment into the upper layer of the dermis. This is a form of tattooing.

Question 2

WHAT PROCESS IS INVOLVED?

Accepted Answer

If you are a new client, the process includes an initial consultation. This can usually be done the same day or if you are unsure if the permanent makeup is for you, we can consult at a separate appointment before committing to a procedure. At a consultation we will discuss your desires for permanent makeup, your medical history, and explain in further detail what is involved during and after the procedure. The next step would be the application of the permanent makeup. After 6-10 weeks you would come back for a "touch up" to the area.
If you have been a previous client, and your previous makeup has faded, you may choose to have a "Color Refresher”. With a “Color Refresher” a consultation would take place with the procedure appointment, and a "touch up" or second appointment is not included in the price and is usually not necessary.  The shape of the original makeup must still be visible to qualify for ”Color Refresher” pricing.

Question 3

ARE PERMANENT COSMETICS REALLY PERMANENT?

Accepted Answer

The permanent cosmetic procedures are considered permanent because what is implanted into the skin will be there forever.  Although, the pigment WILL fade over time. This will allow the procedure to "age with you" or you can opt for a "Color Refresher" to refresh and maintain the look. Color Refreshers are a 1 process procedure and are not priced with a "touch up" appointment.
 
An average time for eyebrows is 2-5 years.  If you start with a very light or soft brow, have oily skin, or are in the sun regularly your permanent makeup  can lighten faster.

Lip procedures typically last around 5 years, some colors longer. Lighter, softer colors possibly less time.

Eyeliner in carbon black have great longevity (5-15 years) and are used when possible.  Other colors may be 2-5 years.

Question 4

WHAT IS THE HEALING PROCESS LIKE?

Accepted Answer

It will take approximately 1-2 weeks for the area to heal. Makeup needs to be avoided in the procedure area for 5-7 days. Direct sun exposure, pools, salt water, tanning beds, saunas and other creams and lotions should be avoided for 10-14 days. I will provide you instructions and aftercare ointment to take with you. There can be some swelling and tenderness for a couple days. The color tends to be darker and lines bolder for the first week. In some cases brow aftercare can differ depending on hair strokes or shading.

Question 5

IS IT PAINFUL?

Accepted Answer

There can be discomfort for some, although most are pleasantly surprised and had expected the pain to be worse. Controlling pain is very important to me. I do whatever possible to make sure the procedure area is as numb as possible. Topical anesthetics are used to help with pain management. They are used before and throughout the procedure.

Question 6

WHO CANNOT HAVE THE PERMANENT MAKEUP PROCEDURE?

Accepted Answer

There are a few medical conditions which may require your doctors' clearance before getting a permanent cosmetic procedure. Other possible contraindications include;

Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers will not be tattooed, no exceptions.

Those who have been prescribed  Accutane will need to wait 1 year after discontinuing the medication.

Latisse or eyelash enhancing products on the area, please inform of use.  They will need to be temporarily discontinued.

Blood thinners or aspirin, please inform of use.

If you are required to take an antibiotic before the dentist, you will need to have one before this procedure as well.

Antiviral medication is recommended before a lip procedure.  If you are very prone to cold sores, lip procedures are not recommended.

Retin-A or glycolic use should be discontinued once an appointment is scheduled..  Please inform of use.

Glaucoma patients may require a written doctors approval.

No eyelash extensions can be worn during an eyeliner procedure.

No contacts can be worn during an eyeliner procedure and for a minimum of  3 days following.

Question 7

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF PERMANENT MAKEUP?

Accepted Answer

Infection.  Infection can be greatly reduced by keeping dirty hands off the area and out of your eyes.  It may be necessary to seek medical treatment for an infection.

Allergic reaction.  The line of pigment I use  has been in business for over 30 years.  The company maintains stringent high-quality control standards and high standards for purity.  Allergic reactions have not been reported with this line of pigments.  You may wish to do a patch test to test for an allergic reaction.  A patch test is available by appointment.  It must be completed a minimum of 7 days before the procedure.  I do require a $50 deposit that is used toward procedure cost.  It is advised that a doctor check your patch test.

Fading.  Your permanent makeup will fade over time. Read “Are Permanent Cosmetics Really Permanent?”

Scarring.  It is not likely that noticeable scarring will happen.  I do caution my youngest clients to take into consideration that this is tattooing and that continual “Color Refreshers” done the span of a lifetime could result in scar tissue in the area.  Some skins may not retain color as well when they develop scar tissue after many years of repeated tattooing in the same spot.  I take all precautions to keep your skin in the best shape possible.

Migration.  Migration is the running of pigment underneath the skin.  This is greatly minimized by my experience and staying away from areas of an eyeliner or lip that can be risky.

Question 8

WHAT STEPS ARE NEEDED FOR AFTER-CARE?

Accepted Answer

The areas will take about 1 week to heal.  Eyebrows usually don’t have much swelling.  Eyeliners can have swelling for about 48 hours after.  Ice can be used on all areas. I provide ointment for your healing.  You will leave with instructions on how to care for your newly tattooed area and be able to reach me on my cell number  if you have any questions.

The instructions for eyeliner and brows include washing the area daily and using the ointment lightly, once or twice a day for the healing process.  A peeling process will happen around days 5-8.  No picking, scratching, or pulling of this peeling skin.  The area must be protected from sun, salt water, chlorinated pools or hot tubs, saunas, direct shower spray, other ointments, lotions, or creams for 2 weeks after the procedure. No makeup can be used on the area for 5-7 days.  Other areas of makeup can be worn.

The lips ares similar to healing brows or eyeliner but usually peel days 3-5.  Ointment can be used on the lips as often as it feels needed.

Scalp pigmentations will require no wetting and no sweating for 5 days.  No healing ointment is typically used.