Frequently Asked Questions

What is Permanent Cosmetic Makeup?

Permanent Cosmetic Makeup is a non-surgical procedure that is also referred to as Permanent Cosmetics or Permanent Makeup. The process is Cosmetic Tattooing and it is sometimes called Micropigmentation, Microdermal Pigmentation, Intradermal Cosmetics, Dermagraphics, Dermal Implantation, or Micropigment Implantation. Permanent Cosmetics is a specialized technique where color pigments are implanted (microscopically injected) into the dermal (middle) layer of the skin using an extremely fine needle or cluster of needles.

Who benefits from Permanent Cosmetics?

Almost anyone of any age who wears makeup or wants to improve an existing skin imperfection can be helped by this technique. The following are some of the reasons why women and men can benefit:

Are Permanent Cosmetics safe?

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), permanent cosmetics and permanent makeup is safe when the technician is educated regarding Bloodborne Pathogen control and follows all OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) guidelines. The California Code of Regulations lists standards to establish and maintain sterile conditions and safe disposal of instruments. These standards are to protect consumers from transmission of contagious diseases through cross-contamination of instruments and supplies.

How are the procedures performed?

The different application methods reflect the names of the tools or machines that are used. The following are the categories of devices and methods: Manual (also called hand or tap method); Coil Machine method (a smaller version of the traditional tattoo machine); Rotary Pen method (a rotary analogue machine commonly used); and Computerized Digital Pen method (most sophisticated technology available).

Does a procedure hurt or is it painful?

Topical anesthetic creams and gels are used before, during, and after all procedures to numb the area and minimize discomfort. Due to the invasiveness of the process, some people may feel minor discomfort that varies according to their pain threshold and response to anesthetics. Clients will describe what they feel in different ways, such as: “irritation”, “a slight burning” or “prickly sensation”, “deep pressure”, or a “scratching”, “vibrating” or “plucking” sensation. Those who have body tattoos comment that permanent cosmetics are virtually painless compared to conventional tattooing. Most clients say that the procedure was much more comfortable than anticipated, and the benefits far outweigh any brief discomfort experienced.

What will the color look like?

Pigment colors are selected to compliment a client’s skin tone, hair, and eye color. A more conservative approach is advised because it is easier to make an existing color darker versus lighter. Colors will always look darker and more intense immediately following a procedure, then appear lighter and softer upon healing. For corrective medical tattooing (scar camouflage or areola repigmentation), patch testing is advised to obtain the best custom combination of colors for the treated area. All reputable permanent cosmetic professionals will record any color(s) used for a client in her/his file for future reference.

Are the colors that are used safe?

Permanent cosmetics utilize sterile pigments with cosmetic grade colorants that are approved by the FDA as safe for human use. Technically, the colored pigments used are suspensions containing insoluble inert compounds, usually iron or titanium oxides. The microscopic particles that appear to be dissolved are actually suspended in a clear liquid base of alcohol, distilled water, and glycerin. The conventional body tattooing process is different because it utilizes colored “inks” or “dyes” that are completely soluble liquids with transparent color.

Why is the color so dark right after the procedure?

Wet clothing looks darker when removed from the washer than when it is dry, and the same principle applies to permanent makeup. The pigments used contain microscopic particles that are like a powder in their original state and are dispersed in a clear liquid. As the body absorbs the liquid, the colored particles remain where they were implanted and gradually regain (“dry to”) their original color.

Can people be allergic to the colored pigments?

Permanent cosmetic pigments are formulated to be hypo-allergenic. Studies have shown that both acute allergic and delayed-hypersensitivity reactions to these materials are extremely rare. Medical professionals and permanent cosmetic practitioners agree that nearly all “allergic reactions” are actually infections. An infection can result from improper sanitary technique during a procedure, contamination during the healing period, or the use of incorrect after care products.

How long does Permanent Makeup last?

The results are considered permanent because the color cannot be washed off. However, a more accurate description would be “semi-permanent” because some fading will occur over time. Color retention is affected by different factors including the darkness of the original color, an individual’s age and metabolism, skin type and condition, exposure to UV radiation (sun, tanning booths), smoking, certain drugs and medications, and skin peeling treatments such as Retin-A or microdermabrasion. In general, the color lasts from one to five years and can be enhanced and refreshed by a maintenance visit when needed (typically at a lower fee than the initial procedure).

Can I remove or change my Permanent Makeup?

The removal of permanent makeup is not an easy process. That is why choosing a qualified professional who has a conservative approach is important. During the initial application, a “less is more” philosophy works best. A more natural look or lighter color can always be changed later with conventional makeup, or adjusted if necessary at a refinement  appointment. Shape can also be adjusted at a touch-up visit, but not drastically, so a good original design is a must.

What is a Touch-up appointment?

During the first permanent cosmetic procedure (also called “new”, “original” or “initial”), the treated area will be saturated as much as possible with color. Due to swelling, there may be some areas where the tissue will no longer allow pigment to be implanted. Those areas will show less color upon healing and may require another visit to be filled-in. Because everyone’s tissue reaction is different, some clients will need a touch-up while others will not. The treatment area must heal before a refinement procedure can be performed. Clients should wait 4 to 8 weeks to allow for complete tissue healing and color stabilization. Once the desired results are achieved, the client can keep the color looking fresh with a maintenance visit every few years.

What is the healing period like?

Immediately following a procedure, there may be a small amount of swelling, redness, or tenderness that lasts a few hours to a few days. Although rare, there may be slight bruising as well (mainly with lip procedures). Generally, the eyebrow area swells less than the eyes and lips. The color looks much darker immediately after the procedure and lightens within 3-7 days. During this time a light crust will form and the epidermal (outer) layer of skin will gradually peel or flake off revealing the softened color underneath. A 10%-50% fade usually occurs and over time the color will soften. The healing process occurs in phases and is complete within 6-8 weeks.

Will I need to take time off of work?

This is not necessary as there are minimal after effects. During the initial healing period (one week), the treated area will be darker and appear a little “shiny” as it is kept moist with ointments. Clients may wish to keep this in mind when making social plans.

How long does each procedure take?

Many important steps are followed when a procedure is conducted correctly by a properly trained permanent cosmetic specialist. Therefore, initial appointments take approximately 2-3 hours. This includes consultation time where questions are answered and a medical history is collected. Time is then allotted for design, color selection, numbing, the actual procedure, and after care instructions. Touch-up procedures usually require less time. For camouflage work, patch testing for color accuracy must be done first with the actual procedure occurring in 6-8 weeks after the color heals and softens.

Will Permanent Makeup continue to look good with age?

It is a myth that permanent makeup looks bad as the skin and its elasticity changes. When someone looks good with conventional makeup that is correctly applied, the look will be just as good with correctly applied permanent makeup. Adding color to the eyebrows, lips, and eyelids brings out a more youthful look by restoring the natural beauty that time has diminished.

Can I have an MRI procedure after Permanent Makeup is applied?

Yes. According to experts in MRI scanning safety, test studies have confirmed that the iron particles in the color pigment are too microscopic in size to react as true metal pieces. However, it is recommended that any person with permanent cosmetics inform the radiologist and MRI technician because the treated area(s) may show up as an artifact.

Can someone donate blood after a procedure?

According to the American Red Cross, an individual must wait one year following a permanent cosmetic procedure to donate blood.

Is it expensive?

Permanent cosmetics are affordable and not expensive when compared to the long term benefits. The savings from not having to buy conventional makeup products to be applied every day adds up quickly. Most, if not all, clients believe the convenience and time saved are priceless. Since "you get what you pay for", the well-trained professionals practicing safely will not have the lowest fees. (Refer to Consumer Information page for what can happen at the hands of low-priced technicians.)