Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Permanent Makeup?
Permanent make-up is a non-surgical, cosmetic tattooing process, performed to enhance the natural features of your face. Specially formulated colored pigments are deposited into the dermal layer of the skin using single-use individual sterile needles. This then creates variations of color, giving the appearance of perfectly applied makeup 24/7. The end result can be anything from subtle to dramatic, enhancing your natural beauty or boosting confidence where certain facial features need a little help. This procedure begins with an initial consultation, followed by the actual procedure, and then a follow-up visit if necessary to adjust the shape, color, or density of the pigment. Without smearing or smudging, permanent make-up looks much more natural and realistic than conventional cosmetics.
What Precautions Should Be Taken Before the Procedure?
Precaution should be taken with the lip procedures. If you’ve got a fever blister or have a history of herpes simplex type 2 (Herpes virus), make sure that you consult your physician before you have any lip procedure done. You must be prescribed anti-viral medication, such as Famvir, Valtrex, or Zovirax. This can help prevent breakouts, and there’s no reason to go without it. Make sure to use a lip balm before undergoing the procedure, since it will help avoid dry lips.
Is Infection Possible?
The risk of infection is much lower than it is with other procedures. Even with a small nick, there is still a risk of infection, but it is low. Follow the aftercare instructions and there should be no major complications.
Does the Procedure Hurt?
Comfort levels are different from person to person, but the benefits far outweigh any sensations you may experience. Some clients feel no sensation, while others may find that it tickles or vibrates a little bit. Others may feel mild discomfort. Many people feel anxiety or nervousness at first when starting the procedure, but once the procedure begins, they soon realize that it isn’t nearly what they had been afraid of. The lips can be the most sensitive area, and most people report a bit more discomfort. With the use of extremely effective topical anesthetics, almost total numbing of the area is possible.
What Will I Look like After My Procedure?
Some mild redness and swelling will be evident for the first couple of days after the procedure, but you’ll be able to go back to normal activities immediately. For the first few days, the color intensity will appear much darker and more intense but will subsequently lighten within four to five days.
Will I Need to Take off Work?
No. It’s a very small amount of swelling and redness. A cool, damp washcloth can be used to reduce swelling, and an ointment should be applied for several days.
What Is the Healing Period like?
Two days after a procedure is performed, your skin will tighten up, dry out, and itch. You will be provided with an ointment that should be applied once or twice per day to help prevent infection. You may have some slight itching, but keeping the ointment on during this time will keep it to a minimum. Your pigmented area will appear darker than your desired color for a few days. Within three days to two weeks, the color will soften.
Can I Have Laser Work Done After Permanent Cosmetics?
It depends on the procedure. Sometimes, proper precautions are taken and lasers don’t cause permanent damage to the pigmented area. It’s best to avoid having lasers done around the lips.
Are Permanent Cosmetics Safe?
Absolutely. All the permanent makeup pigments are made of natural minerals that are specifically selected for their safe, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic properties. They are trusted by permanent makeup technicians and cosmetic surgeons throughout the world.
Is the Procedure Safe?
Yes, it’s a safe and secure procedure. All procedures are done using the highest quality, sterile single-use needles and needle covers, and all of the regulations set forth by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as well as OSHA regulations are followed. Sterilization and hygiene are of the utmost importance before, during, and after the treatment. The risk of complications from permanent makeup is very small. Reactions to permanent cosmetics are extremely rare.
Is There a Chance of Allergic Reaction?
As with any treatment, an allergic reaction is always a possibility. However, this is extremely rare and almost unheard of. Some doctors recommend that people with allergies have permanent cosmetic procedures so they can avoid the cosmetic products they are sensitive to. A consultation is done prior to any procedure, and a medical form is filled out and reviewed. A patch test is an excellent option. Upon request, a test can be done with the chosen pigment to reduce the chance of an unexpected allergic reaction. Please keep in mind that you can develop an allergy to anything at any time. If you’re concerned about an allergic reaction to a product, you should definitely get a patch test. You have to wait for at least 24 hours for the result before you can have any type of cosmetic procedure. In addition, to help lessen inflammation, you may want to take an antihistamine like Benadryl before the procedure and the evening following it. Only take an antihistamine if you have taken one before and know you don’t have a reaction to it. This is recommended for eyeliner and lip applications.
How Long Will Permanent Makeup Last?
This is a permanent change, as the pigment will always remain in the upper section of the dermis. However, over time, the color may soften as the skin renews. Exposure to the sun, changing health conditions, medications, anti-aging products, and hormonal changes can all affect the color and premature fading of the permanent makeup.
How Soon Before I Can Resume Normal Activities?
Tattooing will usually leave little swelling or lasting trauma to the surrounding skin. You may resume most normal activities immediately, as long as they don’t have an adverse effect on the healing process. You should avoid introducing bacteria into the treated area by, for example, taking a dip in the pool, jogging, or working out. Plan for your permanent makeup to be done the day before, or at least the morning of, your event. The final look will be darker than when you have it done. You will also need to refrain from wearing any other make-up around the procedure area during this time.