All methods offered in this industry, are undeniably a tattoo; whenever the skin is broken and pigment is implanted, it is tattooing.

The term “permanent cosmetics” means cosmetic tattooing. Pigment is deposited into the epidermis of the skin, to enhance one’s feature(s) and it can also give the illusion of a light makeup application. Although eyeliner, eyebrow, lip color are the most common applications, other services are available including the re-pigmentation of areola complex, scar camouflage, and scalp re-pigmentation. Sometimes industry professionals refer to permanent cosmetics as permanent makeup or micro pigmentation.

Various tools are used to implant pigment into the skin. These tools range from a traditional tattoo machine (coil machine), to a pen-type (rotary or digital-rotary machine). The process includes an initial pigment application procedure, and usually at least one touch up procedure where adjustments to the shape and/or color are made six to eight weeks later.

They are both tattooing although, they are two very different techniques.

Micro blading technique uses a similar template for each client and hair line strokes are drawn on then traced over, inserting pigment with a handheld tool that looks like an X-Acto knife. We have noticed a tremendous amount of scarring on many clients that have had the micro blading technique. What we offer is a Hair line stroke eyebrows technique where we use a traditional tattoo machine and/or pen-type rotary machine with some nano needles and draw hair line strokes through out the existing brow. We do not use a stencil since everybody face is unique and working with the client’s natural brow is paramount for a beautiful and natural enhancement.

Permanent cosmetics and/or para medical procedures can benefit most people. From very young clients such as children/teens with alopecia, to cancer survivor wishing to restore the brows they lost during chemotherapy, to more mature clients who can no longer apply their own makeup because of poor eyesight or tremors. We have worked with clients from 12 years old to 99 years young.

Permanent cosmetics procedures are considered permanent because the color is implanted into the skin and cannot be washed off. Even when faded, the pigment components remain in the body regardless of the external visual appearance of the tattoo. As with any tattoo, many factors will cause fading. The predominant reason for color fading in a permanent cosmetic tattoo is the decomposition of pigments due to sun exposure. However skin types, health conditions, medications, and facial products containing certain acids such as glycolic acid and skin bleaching agents all can contribute to the need for maintenance. Precautions need to be taken with new treatments such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), and some laser based treatments so as not to affect your permanent cosmetics. Regardless of what precautions you take, however, you can expect that your permanent cosmetic color will need maintenance throughout the years.

The average cost of permanent cosmetic procedure varies but averages from $400-$900. Para-medical procedures are usually price at an hourly rate of $450 for scalp re-pigmentation or scar revision. Re-pigmentation of areola complex (3-D) is priced at $450 for the first session and $350 for the second session. However, the cost of the procedure should never be the most important factor when selecting a potential technician. Your confidence in the technician’s training, talent and experience, their ethics and their compliance with health and safety requirements is paramount in your selection.

First, choose an SPCP and/or AMM trained member and be assured your technician adheres to a strict code of ethics and standards and performs continuing education on a yearly basis. Also choose a technician by considering training, experience, portfolio, and compliance with local and state laws.

The initial procedure usually takes from 1 to 2 hours depending on the scheduled procedure(s). Follow-up procedures usually require less time.

The answer to this varies, based on each individual’s tolerance to discomfort and the actual tattooing method performed. The permanent cosmetic industry benefits from several methods available that assist with comfort management. There are various anesthetic creams, ointments and gel preparations to hopefully make the process comfortable.

Many state agencies specify infection control practices and sterilization guidelines. If proper guidelines are met and your technician is well trained in the procedure being performed, permanent cosmetic procedures should be completely safe. You, too, have a role to play in your own safety. Your must comply with the post- procedural instructions to help reduce any associated risks from contamination of the newly pigmented area.

Numerous studies showed that even for people who have large body tattoos there is little to no potential for irritation resulting from MRI. In the rare instance where discomfort resulted, it was localized and very temporary. A question on your intake form for MRI may ask if you have a tattoo. Be sure to check ‘yes’ if you have permanent cosmetics but do specify if it was performed in a medical setting.

Being in the industry for almost three decades, we are always very conservative with a first application for that reason, allowing us flexibility in changing color or shape to some extent at your follow up appointment. Your participation in color selection, final design and placement approval helps assure your ultimate satisfaction with the service.

Each client is unique. Generally, there is some swelling and redness of the tattooed area. While eyebrows and eyeliner may show very little of that effect, lip procedures may produce more swelling lasting up to three days. During the procedure, there may be some bleeding and although rare, some bruising. There is usually some tenderness for a few days. The immediate post-procedure color is darker and much brighter than you may expect after five to ten days of healing. A good recommendation is to plan your permanent cosmetic lip procedure when you have no special events to attend for several days afterward.

A follow up “touch up” visit is scheduled from six to eight weeks after the initial procedure. The tattooed color or design may require an adjustment after the initial procedure. At least one follow-up visit should be scheduled to determine if additional work is necessary.

After the initial and follow up visits are complete, the timing for your future touch up depends on your personal preference. No one can really say exactly when you will need/want a touch up. The application of permanent cosmetics is a process and we are working with a living breathing canvas. All permanent cosmetics will fade with time.