Permanent makeup, also called cosmetic tattooing or micropigmentation, is done using a pen containing iron oxide that tattoos the skin.

TYPES OF PERMANENT MAKEUP

Permanent makeup can be done to mimic eyeliner and lipstick, fill in eyebrows, camouflage scars, and straighten an uneven hairline.

BENEFITS OF PERMANENT MAKEUP

Permanent makeup is a great option for people with physical limitations, such as cataracts, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease, and who struggle to do their makeup. Patients with busy lifestyles, allergies to traditional makeup, or those recovering from a stroke may also benefit from permanent makeup. Cosmetic tattooing can also restore skin pigmentation after breast surgery or hair loss due to an illness.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR PERMANENT MAKEUP

Clients should schedule a consultation with NuAge Spa before undergoing treatment. During the consultation, the aesthetician will examine the client’s skin, ask questions about treatment goals, and check for any contraindications. A patch test will be done to ensure the client isn’t allergic to the pigment.

HOW PERMANENT MAKEUP IS DONE

Permanent makeup is applied using a needle that penetrates the skin and releases pigment, just like tattooing. The client will select the color and the aesthetician will begin by using a sterile surgical pen to sketch the area that will be tattooed. An anesthetic gel will be applied to the skin and the aesthetician will apply the pigment to the top layer of skin.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING FOLLOW-UP CARE?

Multiple treatments may be necessary to touch up the tattoo as the pigment fades over time. Clients will need to commit to maintaining their cosmetic tattooing to ensure long-lasting results.

RISKS OF PERMANENT MAKEUP

Every procedure that involves needles carries the risk of infection if the needles haven’t been properly sterilized. A reaction to the foreign ink particles can lead to inflammation and keloid scars. An allergic reaction is another possibility. However, it can be avoided by doing a test behind the ear.

Other potential side effects include bleeding, crusting, swelling, loss of eyelashes, severe eyelid injury, and ectropion.

Before getting permanent makeup, it’s important to think about aesthetic goals. Beauty trends change over time and what looks good today may look strange a few years from now. When creating a look, adopt a minimalistic and natural approach that will stand the test of time.

There is also the possibility of dissatisfactory results. Removing permanent makeup can be difficult, expensive, and not entirely possible. However, permanent makeup will fade over time as the skin cells die off and are replaced.

HOW TO FIND PROFESSIONAL PERMANENT MAKEUP

Professional permanent makeup can be done by an aesthetician, tattoo artist, or physician. When searching for a provider, ask the following questions:

• How many years of experience do you have?
• Do you have any relevant licenses or certifications?
• Can you show pictures of past work?
• Do you use medical-grade sterilization?
• What kind of ink do you use?
• What is your follow-up care policy?