Frequently Asked Questions
*It is very important to read and learn to understand about permanent cosmetic procedures. Please read the information carefully these carefully so you will have an idea what to expect.
This does not take place of the initial consultation, merely to give you general guidelines in this exciting experience.
WHAT IS PERMANENT COSMETIC MAKEUP?
Permanent Cosmetics, Permanent Makeup, Cosmetic Tattooing or Micropigmentation is a state of the art form of cosmetic "tattooing". The special techniques used for permanent cosmetics are often referred to as "micropigmentation", "micropigment implantation" or "dermagraphics". The cosmetic implantation technique deposits tiny individual implants of pigment into the dermal layer of the skin enhancing current features or even adding the effect of facial hair such as eyebrows. Liner can be applied to give the look of fuller eyelashes and lips can be tinted to add color and even a more definite shape.
What you should know about Cosmetic Tattooing
Most of the cosmetic tattooing pigments used today are Iron Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, which are safe, non-reactive substances. Pigments are specifically manufactured for implantation in the human skin with hundreds of colors to choose from.
Immediately after your procedure, the color of your cosmetic tattoo will appear stronger and deeper than your desired color as in most cases a loss of color intensity of up to 40% may occur and in lip color up to 60%. Some people can hold more color than others and many factors contribute to this. That is why it is so important to listen carefully during the consultation and follow the pre/post care instructions exactly as directed. Color retention is individual and the end result is visible only after the skin has healed completely taking approximately 6-8 weeks.
For each client I use new machine parts (if using a machine) and needle used in their cosmetic tattoo application. After each procedure, the parts and needles are disposed of.
While I try to match your color as closely as possible to your request, please understand that this is difficult as many things alter the final outcome occur because the pigments are in your skin, not sitting on top of it. Factors such as acids and oil in your skin, neglecting to follow home care instructions, sun exposure or sun burn, etc are factors that contribute to color changes.. Using black lotions as in eyeliner can occasionally appear as a blue/black or have a slight hazed or smudged effect.
If you have a history of cold sores or fever or sun blisters, a cosmetic tattooing on the lip will activate the virus that is lying dormant in the skin - as will any trauma or stress. I will go over the precautions with you during the consultation. You may also look on my FAQ and my pre/post care page to be more informed prior to your visit.
Clients have used L-Lysine two weeks prior to any lip treatment which may help, but always consult with your doctor before using any type of medication as I can only recommend what others have done as I am not a doctor. Also avoid nuts, cocoa powder, chocolate, peanut butter, brown rice, oats or grains as these encourage herpes. I ask all my lip clients to consult with their doctor and ask for a prescription of Zovirax tablets commencing the 2 days before your treatment, the day of and 2 days after. Zovirax cream can also be purchased to help prevent breakouts. Use immediately after any lip treatment and continue for at least 3-5 days.
If you are using Retin A, please discontinue using it at least 8 weeks prior to your treatment. It is important to inform me at the time of booking or during the consultation if you are on any medication or have any medical problems that may interfere with the treatment e.g. pregnancy or suffer from keloid scarring on the face.
Sun exposure, Retin A, glycolic peels, acid peels and laser treatments will fade out color from Cosmetic tattooing. Sun blocks are highly recommended at all times when exposed to the sun.The healing time is minimal for the cosmetic tattoo application. It normally takes 4-14 days for the cosmetic tattoo to heal visibly, but internally (in the skin) it can last several months later for the true color to stabilize. A small percentage of people experience may experience swelling, itchiness or tenderness but will not interfere with work or other activities. People have usually gone to work or out for the night the same day as the procedure.
Scars
Some scars can be camouflaged, however not all scars are suitable. This procedure will also take several visits.
Scars-Burns
Scars or burns can be re-pigmented. The white scar can achieve a natural skin tone but will always be visible. Multiple treatments are necessary to even out the skin tone.
Multitrepannic Collagen Actuation
Flattening of scars and natural re-pigmentation, a plumping out of wrinkles using the Tattoo procedure. This is a temporary procedure that can last for several months. A series of treatments is recommended prior to any camouflage treatments. I do not do these procedures, just letting you know it is available.Medical Tattooing
Medical Tattooing procedures may need many treatments for satisfactory results because we are trying to MATCH the skins natural colors. A consultation is necessary as not all scars can be treated. A color patch test is also recommended; patch tests and treatments are done 6-8 weeks apart. The fee is by the hour for these procedures.
Nipple- Areola Re-pigmentation
Following post-mastectomy breast reconstruction a Nipple and Areola can be created. Excellent results can be achieved giving a more balanced look. Multiple treatments are necessary for successful results.This procedure is also great for women with small or pale areolas that want more color. Multiple treatments are also necessary.
HOW ARE PERMANENT COSMETIC PROCEDURES DONE?
Permanent cosmetic procedures are performed using various machines, methods and techniques, including the traditional (or specialized) tattoo (coil machine), the pen or rotary style machine or the non-machine or hand method.
The initial visit includes the consultation, where I will fully explain the procedure process, what type of results you are looking for, the technique and method that will be used and deciding on the colors and shapes that are appropriate for you. The visit may also include signing consent forms, taking before and after photos for the clients file and the first session (if appropriate) which entails the design and the actual application of pigment.
**** Please remember that it usually takes one or two follow up visits for adjusting the shape and color or density of the pigment as te first application may seem to be dramatic in color and shape, but softens and lightens as it heals. The second visit is recommended after 3 weeks to allow for proper healing.
Your preference may be different from another person. I will explain each technique and will recommend which type would be best for you.
WHO CAN BENEFITS FROM PERMANENT COSMETIC MAKEUP?
Just about anyone who wants to have a more dramatic look about themselves. For the look of fuller lashes to having eyebrows that might have not grown back after plucking, shaving or even illness. Lips can be enhanced to enhance the natural look by applying a natural "tint" or going for the more dramatic look of a darker tint or lipstick. *
Here are just a few examples:
FROM THE YOUNG TO THE ELDERLY, WHO DESIRES A SOFT AND NATURAL ENHANCEMENT TO THEIR APPEARANCE.
*There may be some restrictions on various skin types and color tones and various areas of placement that may not work well with some people that is why the consultation is so important.. The colors do not stay true when and may cause excessive and undesired blue and gray coloration. Some people may not be suitable for lip procedures or certain colors. The pigment is implanted into the skin and works with your body chemistry so the color that you see on top of your skin will not look like the same color once implanted into the skin. Many times this can be corrected by a return visit and implanting a different color pigment to "cancel out" an undesired color, however it is not a guarantee that the color stays true or results to the expected color..
, those seeking reconstruction of aureolas after surgery; camouflage of scars from burns, surgery, accidents or injuries; redefinition of facial features.
POST SURGICAL/INJURY
ALOPECIA areata or universalis sufferers who have lost some or all of their facial hair, including eyebrows and/or eyelashes.
CHEMOTHERAPY recipients with full or partial hair loss (usually after treatments have taken place do to color/pigment changes)
VITILIGO sufferers who may have areas of skin which have lost their pigment.
PHYSICALLY ACTIVE people who want to look their best throughout activities such as swimming, hiking, biking, tennis, aerobics, and don't want to worry about "sweating off" or reapplying cosmetics.
ALLERGIES and SENSITIVE SKIN-these people often can't wear other cosmetics.
VISION IMPAIRED people who have difficulty applying their cosmetics.
MOTOR IMPAIRED, including arthritics, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke survivors, and those with unsteady hands who cannot apply their own makeup.
ENTERTAINERS, ACTRESSES, and MODELS.
MEN who want feature enhancement that looks natural and not "made up" and also to repair scars on eyebrows.
WOMEN who want to look their best all the time, even when they wake up.
MOTHERS and other busy professionals who DON'T HAVE TIME for makeup.
MOTORCYCLISTS (like myself) who hates when their makeup gets washed off during the rainy motorcycle runs.
WHAT TYPES OF PERMANENT COSMETIC PROCEDURES CAN BE DONE?
(I do not do all of these but the options are there. Please research your options carefully when working with medical conditions).
Eyebrows
Eyeliner, top and bottom
Eyelash enhancement
Lip liner
Full lip color
Scar camouflage
Feature reconstruction
Areola restoration or re-pigmentation
Hair imitation
Skin grafts
Cleft/hare lip
Beauty marks
ARE PERMANENT COSMETICS REALLY PERMANENT?
Technically, permanent cosmetics procedures are considered permanent because the color is implanted into the dermal layer of the skin and cannot be washed off. It is, quite frankly, a tattoo. However, as with any tattoo, fading can and often does occur especially when proper care is not taken. For instance; you like to sunbath or tan, you are required to wear a sun block to protect the cosmetic tattoo. Time may also require periodic maintenance, especially when a lighter (like blonde) color is applied.
It is important to consider this and all aspects of the procedure when selecting a potential permanent cosmetic makeup technician to ensure they are educated in their specialty. By all means, ask lots of questions ! ! This will give you a better idea of the experience the technician has.
HOW MUCH DOES PERMANENT COSMETIC MAKEUP COST?
The average cost per procedure varies somewhat but usually averages between $200-$800 depending on the location (usually) and of course the professional. Advanced work may be charged at to per hour.
Many of these procedures (scar relaxation, scar camo and repigmentation) are commonly referred to as para-medical procedures. Work performed from physician's offices or specialized clinics may be charged at higher rates.
The cost of the procedure is not be the most important issue when consulting a potential technician. The most important part when selecting the place of service, it is important to know that the training and skill of the technician and the confidence of the client within that skill.
You will find that my rates are VERY competitive and most often, you will not find a better price per procedure in the area. I do this for a main reason and that is to give the people who want to look good a fair price.
Additional Info:
What should I expect from my new PMU?
I tell my clients during the consultation that their is a "grace period" for the healed color results and the color may not be like it was on the day of the procedure. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:Color: Some people want a certain color before they have it done and expect it to look just like it if they day the procedure but in time your body chemistry, not to mention the every day environments changes the color. Sometimes this is good and sometimes it may not be what was expected. Some people have had the color change in their eyebrows from brown to grayish if their tone and pigment choice was too cool or even pinkish if their skin tone and/pigment is too warm. Usually the colors can be corrected, but it may require several trips due to the nature of the healing process. So again, a one time trip may not be the case... I would say that 90% of my clients that come in have the assumption that it is a one time deal, but in some cases, that is not that case and one or more visits me be required to achieve the expected result. This can quickly add up to more out of pocket expenses from the client as many technicians charge for additional touch ups. I had to change my price list to reflect this because I have had several clients come back to me wanting more of this or change of that after they were happy and came back 6 months later for a new look and expect to have it all done over free of charge. At first I obliged but then it got to the point where I was paying for people for their PMU because they were telling people (my new clients) that I would do all that for free and I just can't do that especially if people don't take care of their cosmetic tattoos as instructed and then blame the technician for undesired results a year later..Secondly, the care of the skin. It will depend on how well you take care of your skin. If you go outside, 99% change that you will have sun rays beating on your face and in time will change your color. I am very guilty of this as my eyebrows have turned grey (from medium brown) because I did not regularly apply sun block, HOWEVER, most of my clients never even notice or they say they love them (go figure)..Age of the cosmetic tattoo will also factor in and a touch up may be needed in about 5 years to freshen the color. About 2 years if you have blonde brows. It's important to be totally up front about the possibilities of maybe the unexpected leaving the client and the technician frustrated.HOW LONG DOES EACH PROCEDURE TAKE?
The initial procedure will generally take approximately 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours. Follow up procedures usually do not require as much time as the initial procedure.
IS IT PAINFUL?
Permanent cosmetics procedures are of a skin invasive nature (as they are a form of cosmetic tattoo) and therefore you may experience some discomfort. This may vary according to each individual's pain threshold and the skills of the technician performing the service. HOWEVER, keep in mind that there are different methods available to help with pain management, including various topical anesthetic ointments and anesthetic blocks (administered by a doctor or dentist but not recommended as they are not included in the cost of the procedure and they usually do not last long enough), as well as topical desensitizing products. I use a topical that has been great for all my clients and is adequate for this type of procedure.
IS IT SAFE?
This is vague question as to what determines "safe".
Micropigmentation is a skin invasive procedure. It is important to observe the physical location where the procedure will be performed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has set standards for a clean and sanitary working environment and sterile equipment. Everything I use is pre-sterilized and disposable, so you can be self assured that I use new needles, tubes, etc. for every procedure. I do not reuse the same needles even if it is only used on the same person. For each visit, you get a fresh needle, tube, etc..
The Pigment that is implanted in the skin is not regulated by the FDA so those that claim to be "approved" by the FDA for implanting in the skin are lying to you. Tattooing has been around for centuries and have a proven track record of not many incidents in regards to problems. There are, however reactions that could occur. The reactions may not occur immediately after the procedure, but cold happen years after the procedure. Everyone's body chemistry changes as we get older and allergies can occur. Please keep in mind that reactions are not common but the possibility exists. Certain colors also trigger more reactions than others as well as oxide, non-oxides and titanium based pigments. This is why it is so important that you make your final decision about getting a procedure done because removal of the pigments from your skin (especially in the face area) is not a easy one and may have to undergo several sessions of removal by which ever method is chosen for the removal. The removal process may also cause scarring or even permanent discoloration .
Many people also question about MRI's or other medical scanning devices. I have asked doctors and people that have undergone MRI's and they assure me that there is virtually no discomfort. Some say that there may be a little tingle or warmth sensation, but nothing to even flinch at. I have also been told that some hospitals or medical facilities may not do an MRI on a patient because of the cosmetic tattoo. If this is something that may affect your decision, I have always recommended my clients who are unsure, to talk to their physician before undergoing any cosmetic tattooing to assure that there will not be an problems (like the MRI) in the future. You may even want to call your local hospital and ask them to. I personally have not had a MRI or any other scan done, so I cannot personally tell you if you feel anything or any other strange experiences, only from what others tell me and on my research as well.
I have my eyebrows, top and bottom eyeliner, my lips and even a a couple other tattooed areas and I have no concerns at all regarding the tattooing or any medical issues. That is why I do it because I love it, and recommend it for anyone that wants to feel better about themselves and look better too 24x7! Not to mention I love making people feel better about themselves too!
CHOOSING A TECHNICIAN
One must choose a technician carefully by considering training, experience, and photographic examples of previous work. It is important to remember that the shape and proper placement of the procedure is as important as the right color. The desired look is obtained during the course of consultation, initial procedure and follow up procedures, allowing at all times for interaction between the client and the technician
Things to look for:
MOST IMPORTANT: Needles used should be new and/or sterile for each patient and disposed of properly after each patient. (Other machine parts should also be sterilized, ie. barrel tube, if required, or disposed of in a sanitary manner). Other equipment and supplies should be kept in a sanitary manner. When you visit the technician, take a look at the equipment and facility and see that the technician opens a sterile package (needle, tube, etc) before they begin working on you. Look at their wall and see how many certifications for training or other related material is there.
Gloves should be used for each client and changed during the procedure when needed.
Your technician should be clean and neat and knowledgeable of environmental safety requirements. Clean sheets should be used for each patient.
The room or treatment arena should be in an area free from other contaminants as well.
Documented allergic reactions to permanent cosmetic procedures are extremely rare. Skin testing may be done by technicians, either routinely or upon request. Regardless, it should be understood that an allergic reaction could occur at any point in time.
WHAT IF I DON'T LIKE IT?
PLEASE REMEMBER: Although the procedure is considered permanent, these procedures do have flexibility in changing color and shape to some extent, depending on the expertise of your technician. Colors will appear darker immediately following the procedure but will soften and lighten* during the healing process, which takes approximately a week or longer; the healing time is different for each individual and for different procedures. You must consider this procedure as being permanent and that removal of the permanent makeup can or cannot be successful depending on the removal method and may take several sessions to perform the removal with the possibility of scarring. . It will not guarantee that the color will be removed. Don't have this procedure done unless you are 100% sure that you want it done. Once it is implanted in the skin, it is there, and your money will not be refunded.
*Color on the skin may change some what during the healing process as well, as it combines with the individual's skin tone.
How Long Will I Retain My Color?
All pigments will eventually fade, some can last at 8 - 10 years, others earlier or later depending on color and your environments. Each persons body chemistry is unique and these results cannot be accurately predicted or guaranteed.
Medical Procedures
Camouflage - this procedure can help hide or disguise pigmentation problems with white scars and vitiligo.
Eyeliner and eyebrows - may be applied to alopecia patients to create the illusion of brows and lashes.
Lip color - will create definition and give a natural shape to a cleft lip.
Anyone with physical limitations such as arthritis or neurological conditions, who cannot see without corrected vision, with oily skin or tearing eyes and allergies to conventional makeup may benefit from one or more of these cosmetic or medical procedures.
WARNING!
Even with the understanding that all pigments fade eventually...
Remember, for all intensive purposes you are having a permanent procedure. An actual TATTOO! You must carefully consider your decision as your own and should not be influenced or talked into any procedure against your will.
Possible Risks And Complications
Are there possible risks and complications?
Testing for allergic reactions is recommended prior to the procedure. There may be an immediate allergic reaction to pigments, or it can be onset for years. Although the risk of a reaction is very rare, the possibility still exists. An allergy test does not guarantee a client will not have an allergic reaction to the pigment after the full procedure. It can even happen years after.
With some reactions:
Allergic reactions to antibiotic ointment and anesthetic can occur.
There will be slight swelling and redness following the procedure.
There are possibilities of infections that can occur.
Clients receiving lip liner or lip color procedure who have had previous problems with cold sores/fever blisters may have an outbreak following the procedure. A prescription treatment is recommended by your physician which has been shown to prevent or minimize such outbreaks.
There is a possibility of hyperpigmentation resulting from a procedure.
There is a possibility of pigment migration.
Pigments will fade. Sun exposure, chemical peeling agents and individual body chemistry may expedite this process. Refresh procedure (additional charge) may be needed after several years to replace pigment loss.
There are few effective methods for pigment removal but cost money and may take a few sessions with the possibility of scarring.
Medications that effect blood coagulation during the permanent makeup procedure.
(excessive bleeding may occur and result in poor color retention)
The following are medications that may cause possible complications if you are considering Permanent Cosmetics. Please refer to your physician if you are considering permanent cosmetics and are taking medications.
1) Blood Thinners: Coumadin, Heparin, Aspirin, NSAID's
2) Anti-histamines: Benadryl, OTC Hay fever remedies, etc Please comment on effect on the eyes (dry eyes), driving restrictions
3) Blood Pressure Medications and diuretics: Beta Blockers (dry eyes, anesthetic effect on eyes)
4) Diabetes Medications: Insulin, Oral Hypoglycemics -- Stress diabetic problems with delayed healing, increased risk or infection and potential for hypoglycemic attack during procedure
5) Pain-Killers: Narcotics, (can't drive; decrease awareness of symptoms of complications from permanent makeup such as corneal abrasions, etc.)
6) Tranquilizers: Valium, Librium, etc. (can't drive)Thorazine- melanin pigmentation
7) Sleeping Pills: Halcion, etc. (Exposure keratitis if eyes don't close completely)
8) Dermatological: Accutane, any type of chemical peel
9) Hormone replacements: some side effects on skin pigmentation can occur with hormones
10) Antibiotics: Tetracycline and sunlight
11) Arthritis: Gold- chrysiasis, Plaquenil(source: www.micropigmentation.org)
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