Permanent makeup, also known as micropigmentation or cosmetic tattooing, is a cosmetic technique that employs tattoos (permanent pigmentation of the dermis) to produce designs that resemble makeup. It’s often applied to the face to enhance colors to the skin of the face, lips, and eyelids. Moreover, it’s used to mimic natural eyebrows, particularly in people who have lost them due to aging, disease, such as alopecia, chemotherapy, or a genetic disturbance, and to disguise scars and white spots in the skin such as in vitiligo. It can also be used to restore or enhance the breast’s areola after breast surgery. Here are some key aspects of permanent makeup:
Benefits
- Time-saving: One of the primary benefits of permanent makeup is the time it saves people every day regarding their makeup routines.
- Long-lasting Results: It offers a long-lasting alternative to daily makeup application. While not entirely “permanent” (it typically lasts a few years, depending on various factors like skin type, exposure to sun, and elements), it significantly reduces the need for daily application.
- Consistency: Helps maintain a consistent look, which can be particularly beneficial for people with unsteady hands or vision issues.
- Corrective Potential: Can help disguise imperfections and asymmetries, enhancing features such as eyebrows, lash lines, and lip borders.
Considerations
- Permanent Nature: While called “permanent,” the colors may fade over time, requiring touch-ups. The permanence also means that any dissatisfaction with the appearance requires corrective procedures or laser removal, which can be costly and not always completely effective.
- Risks and Complications: As with any tattoo, there’s a risk of infection, allergic reactions to pigment, granulomas, keloid formation, and complications with MRI scans. Choosing a skilled and certified practitioner is crucial to minimize these risks.
- Cost: The initial cost can be high, but it should be balanced against the long-term savings on traditional makeup.
Procedure
- Consultation: A consultation usually precedes the actual procedure, during which the client and technician discuss goals, color selection, and the area’s shape.
- Pigment Insertion: The process involves using a needle to insert pigmented granules beneath the upper layers of the skin.
- Healing and Care: Healing typically requires a few days to a couple of weeks, during which specific care instructions, such as keeping the area clean and avoiding certain activities or makeup, must be followed.
Permanent makeup offers a practical and aesthetic solution for many, but it’s a significant decision that requires thorough research and consideration. Consulting with a qualified and reputable professional to discuss your expectations and any potential risks is an essential step in the process.