Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS PERMANENT COSMETIC MAKE-UP?
Permanent Cosmetic Make-up is often referred to as "micro pigmentation" or "micro pigment implantation" or "dermagraphics". The cosmetic implantation technique deposits colored pigment into the upper reticular layer of the dermis.
HOW IS THE PERMANENT COSMETIC PROCEDURE DONE?
Permanent cosmetic procedures are performed using various methods, including 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’sdisease, 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. Lash Enhancement ~ Eyeliner ~ Eyebrows ~ Lip Liner ~ Full Lips ~ Scar Cover up ~ Areola & Skin discolorations.
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 window, or even house paint, pigment implanted in the skin will fade with time.
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.
DOES IT HURT?
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?
Yes! We are health dept. regulated. And follow all OSHA standards. All needles and parts are disposed of after each client.
proper sterilization and sanitary guidelines are met.
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. 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.
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.
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 two weeks. Three weeks is better but of course, your individual needs take precedence. Eight weeks is recommended after a lip procedure.
