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Sacramento Permanent Makeup Artist

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FAQ

PERMANENT COSMETICS
F.A.Q.

If you are considering micropigmentation, more commonly known as
permanent cosmetics, this page will help give you a basic understanding of the procedures, how they are performed and what you may expect.

 

What is “Permanent Cosmetics”?Permanent Cosmetics, also referred to as micro-pigmentation, cosmetic tattooing or dermal-pigmentation, is a process whereby completely natural pigments are implanted beneath the epidermis (top layer of skin), into the dermal layer (second layer of skin), by micro insertion. This technique has been medically developed and specifically designed for a safe permanent application.The pigments used have been specially formulated for cosmetic application.
Not to be compared with traditional tattooing, in which permanent skin dyes and inks are placed into the skin.Who would benefit from Permanent Cosmetics?

Everyone from the young to the elderly, who desire a natural
enhancement to their appearance:

Those who:

  • Are fashion conscious.
  • Want to save time each day.
  • Have to look their best in the professional world.
  • Have sparse, or very light eyebrows.
  • Are allergic to cosmetics.
  • Have ultra-sensitive eyes.
  • Wear contact lenses.
  • Have sparse lashes.
  • Have visual limitations.
  • Have unsteady or arthritic hands.
  • Often engage in strenuous activity.
  • Entertainers, actresses and models.
  • Want to look naturally beautiful, always.
  • Want the convenience of make-up that won’t smudge, smear or wear off.

Does the procedure hurt?

This may vary according to each individual’s pain threshold, however,
topical anesthetics are used to numb the area and minimize discomfort.
Most people describe a mild pricking sensation.

 

Is it safe?

Allergic reactions to permanent cosmetic procedures are extremely rare.
The cosmetic pigments are made from completely natural ingredients,
and disposable sterile needles and surgical gloves are used for each
procedure. However, micro-pigmentation is a skin invasive procedure.
It is extremely important to consult an experienced professional technician who is licensed, qualified and conscientious.

 

How long does each procedure take?

Times vary according to the individual’s sensitivity, hydration, density, elasticity, and overall condition of the skin.

Allowing time for anesthetics to take effect, implanting of the pigment,
and some final fine tuning of the procedure, average time for the initial
visit is as follows:

1 + hours for eyeliner
1-2 hours for eyebrows or lipliner
2 + hours for full lip color

 

How many appointments will be necessary?

Four to six weeks after the initial application, a follow-up visit may be
required to perfect the lines or color. This visit does not require as much
time as the initial procedure.

There is no additional charge for this visit.

 

What procedures are offered?

  • Eyebrows
  • Eyeliner (top and / or bottom)
  • Lash enhancement
  • Lipliner
  • Full lip color
  • Beauty marks
  • Hair simulation
  • Feature reconstruction
  • Areola restoration or repigmentation
  • Scar camouflage
  • Cleft lip corrections
  • Vitiligo

NOTE: The above procedures are more advanced techniques and require an experienced technician.
. . . . . . . Not all technicians are qualified to offer these services.

How much does permanent cosmetic make-up cost?

The average cost per procedure varies somewhat depending on the area
of the particular salon or clinic, and on the qualifications of the
technician, but usually averages between $350-$600.
Paramedical work is normally charged at $150 to $250 per hour.

The cost of the procedure should not be the most important issue when consulting a potential technician. Since what you are contemplating will
be a permanent application, the most important factors to consider are
the training, skill, expertise and artistic ability of the technician!

Always insist on seeing pictures of work done for previous clients.
Check to see that eyebrows and eyeliner have been applied evenly.

In my practice, I have people come to me regularly who have had their
permanent cosmetics applied by someone who did not apply it evenly.
In many cases, there is nothing that can be done to correct the problem,
other than referring them to a physician to have it lasered out. Laser
treatments are very expensive! It is much wiser to pay a little more
for the initial procedure, and the confidence in knowing your permanent cosmetic work is being done by an accomplished technician.

 

Are Permanent Cosmetics truly permanent?

A variety of factors influence the longevity of Permanent Cosmetics.

Ultra-violet exposure from sun or tanning booths, various drugs,
excessively dry skin, and smoking are all factors that may affect this.

Alpha- hydroxy, Retin-A, and glycolic acid must be kept away from treated areas. These kinds of substances slough away top layers of the skin and eventually the layer that the pigment has been implanted into.

Use of these kinds of substances will require additional maintenance in years to come. Sunblock on eyebrows, sunglasses for eyeliner, and SPF on lips will greatly prolong the effective life of these procedures.

 

Other items of interest:

Colors will appear darker and somewhat unnatural for the first few days,
but then lighten to a completely natural look during the following few weeks.

Pigment colors can be soft and natural looking, or a bit more dramatic.
If desired, your end result may be deepened with additional applications, or lightened slightly.

Permanent Cosmetics is causing a wave of excitement, and has revolutionized cosmetic application.
It is definitely becoming the make-up of our time.

SPCP logo
AAM logo
Society for Permanent Cosmetic Professionals
member / CPCP
American Academy of Micropigmentation