Permanent cosmetic makeup is cosmetic tattooing. The specialized techniques used for permanent cosmetics are often referred to as “micropigmentation.” Permanent cosmetics is a safe and natural-looking alternative to the expense and daily routine of applying makeup upon waking in the morning and often times throughout the day.

PERMANENT MAKEUP IN DEPTH

by Bruce Freund, D.D.S.

Permanent makeup is a state-of-the-art technique of permanently applying makeup via intradermal micropigmentation. Properly applied by an experienced technician, permanent makeup will be more natural and realistic in appearance as compared to conventional cosmetics.

WHAT IS MICROPIGMENTATION?
Micropigmentation whether utilized for cosmetic or reconstructive purposes is a specialized version of tattooing. The implantation techniques deposit colored pigment into the upper reticular layer of the dermis. In addition to the difference in techniques, the needles and pigments used for micropigmentation are specific for cosmetic use. When properly applied by an experienced technician, micropigmentation results are subtle and natural in appearance. Cosmetic micropigmentation is the application of permanent makeup where as reconstructive micropigmentation entails but is not limited to, camouflaging skin conditions such as vitiligo, scars, burns, and the repigmentation of areolas post mastectomies.

IS MICROPIGMENTATION PERMANENT?
Yes, it is permanent however subject to fading over time. The degree of permanency varies from client to client because of the uniqueness of each individual’s lifestyle. Factors affecting color retention include, but are not limited to degree of sun exposure, UV rays (tanning beds), medical conditions, hormones, skin care products and regimens. Longevity can range from 12 months to several years. However dependent on the procedure or desired look, clients may choose to have additional touch ups 12 to 18 months later for a fresh new look.

ARE THE PROCEDURES SAFE?
Yes, the procedures are safe, but due diligence on the client’s part is necessary when choosing the right technician. Thorough research of a technicians training, experience, portfolio and compliance with state and local laws are necessary to provide safe and beautiful results.

DO THE PROCEDURES HURT?
The degree of discomfort is client specific and cannot be foreseen with accuracy. However, generally eyebrows produce the least amount of discomfort. Eyeliner can produce more anxiety rather than pain due to the location and lips can be the most uncomfortable. Topical anesthetics are used for the procedures to help minimize discomfort.

WHAT IS THE DOWNTIME EXPECTED AFTER PROCEDURES?
This depends upon the amount of work performed and the procedure, in addition some people swell more from minor skin infractions than others. There is usually some tenderness and swelling at application site and if bruising does occur, typically it is minor and subsides in a few days. After completion and days following the procedure the newly pigmented area will look darker and more pronounced, however as healing progresses over the next 7 to 10 days the outcome will produce a much lighter softer effect, typically 50% lighter than when first applied. The procedure area must first heal, peel and fade before achieving the final results. Final color results can take up to 4 to 6 weeks to be seen.

HOW DO I CARE FOR MY NEW PROCEDURE?
After the procedure you will receive a post treatment care instructional sheet indicating a protocol to follow. The overall success of the procedure is contingent upon following these instructions. A required follow-up visit will be scheduled 4 to 6 weeks following initial treatment to asses and/or reinforce areas that might need additional pigment placement.

HOW LONG DOES A PROCEDURE TAKE?
Dependent on the procedure and the technician, appointments are typically scheduled for 1-1/2 to 3 hours.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM MICROPIGMENTATION?
Both men and women can benefit from micropigmentation procedures. From filling in sparse eyebrows, camouflaging scars, darkening the base of the eyelash line to define their eyes, the possibilities are endless. Nowadays everyone is looking for ways to minimize downtime and increase productivity, permanent cosmetics allow you the freedom to wake up looking your best with minimal upkeep.

In addition, medical micropigmentation gives clients with conditions such as Parkinson disease, vision problems, arthritis, and strokes the joy of liberating them from these tasks they can no longer perform routinely. Always looking and feeling their best.

For women who have had mastectomies with reconstructive surgery, micropigmentation can give the areola a more natural look.

IS EVERYONE A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR MICROPIGMENTATION?
No, unfortunately there are certain conditions that hinder the micropigmentation process and in some cases clients may be required to pre medicate or obtain medical clearance prior to undergoing a procedure. Pregnant and nursing women cannot have any micropigmentation procedures at any time until they are done nursing.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Pricing varies by procedure and they range from $500 to $1,000. Additional corrective fees are billed separately at $150 to $250/hr.