Permanent makeup, also known as cosmetic tattooing, uses semi permanent tattoos to create makeup-like designs on the face, lips, and eyelids.
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The technique, known as microblading, can also be used to restore eyebrows in individuals who have lost them due to various reasons.
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Additionally, it can help disguise scars and skin conditions like vitiligo. Permanent makeup is also used to enhance or reconstruct the areola after breast surgery. Overall, this procedure offers a long-lasting solution for various cosmetic concerns.
Advantages
Permanent makeup saves time by eliminating the need to apply, reapply, and remove makeup, giving you more time for other activities.
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It also requires no maintenance, allowing you to stay active without worrying about your makeup running or washing away. Additionally, it is allergy-free and can minimize skin concerns such as hair loss, scars, or pigmentation irregularities.
Pros
Convenience of not having to apply makeup daily
Time-saving benefits, especially during morning routines
Assurance of makeup that does not smudge or wipe off
Customization options for colors, thicknesses, and styles
Boost in confidence, particularly for individuals with specific concerns such as breast scars or areola repigmentation
Cons
Permanent makeup is just that – permanent, so it’s important to carefully consider your decision before getting it done
There may be safety concerns such as allergic reactions or skin infections, but these risks are minimized with proper sterilization and equipment
The procedure can be painful, but anesthetics can help with the discomfort
Permanent makeup can be expensive, but may be comparable to the cost of buying certain cosmetics over time
Over time, the makeup may fade and require touch-ups or repeat procedures
What to Expect
Consultation focuses on medical or health issues and ensuring semi permanent makeup is right for you
Assess skin undertones to determine best pigment for you
Discuss treatment options such as lip blushing, Microblading (semi permanent eyebrows), permanent eyeliner or medical tattooing (scars, areola)
Draw on makeup with pencil and take pictures for evaluation
Apply topical anesthetic before treatment
Redraw makeup design before starting micropigmentation
Treatments take 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on what is being done
Numbing creams are used to minimize discomfort during treatment
Recovery
Follow your tattoo artists aftercare instructions. Here are some common guidelines.
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Avoid activities that induce heavy sweating for 5-7 days
Stay away from swimming in pools, hot tubs, or bodies of water for 5-7 days
Avoid UV exposure, including tanning booths, for 5-7 days
Do not undergo laser light therapy that can impact the tattoo color
Results
The longevity of permanent makeup varies for each individual, as results can differ.
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Typically, the effects of permanent makeup can last between one to three years. Here are the factors that affects longevity:
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Pre and Post-Care:
Prepare skin before procedure
Avoid certain procedures and products
Care for skin after procedure
Skin Type:
Oily skin may cause faster fading
Dry or normal skin may retain color longer
Individual Goals & Lifestyle:
Makeup style and lifestyle habits can affect longevity
Permanent makeup softens and evolves with time
Medical vs. Cosmetic Permanent Makeup:
Medical procedures last longer
Cosmetic procedures require lighter pigmentation
Permanent Makeup Aging:
Pigments age naturally over time
Longevity depends on artist’s skill and understanding of individual needs
Safety Profile
Risk of infection from improperly sterilized needles
Possibility of contracting hepatitis, HIV, or staph infections
Allergic reactions to tattoo ink pigments
Development of nodules and keloids around tattoo ink
Scratch test to assess likelihood of allergic response
Permanent Makeup
Areola Tattooing
Areola tattooing can restore the natural appearance of areolas and nipples….
