Permanent makeup involves a cosmetic tattoo procedure where pigment is implanted in the upper layers of the skin, creating a long-lasting makeup look on the face.
What is permanent makeup?
Permanent cosmetics are created by depositing pigment into the skin using a handheld device with an ultra-fine needle. This results in natural-looking enhancements that resemble makeup, such as eyeliner, lip colour, eyebrows, and even scalp hair.
Permanent cosmetics use lighter pigment and delicate techniques to achieve a subtle effect that gradually fades over 1-3 years, requiring touch-up visits to maintain results.
Types of Permanent Cosmetics
There are various cosmetic tattooing options available.
Services offered include eyebrow microblading, eyeliner tattooing, and lip blush tattooing.
Eyebrow Microblading
Microblading is a technique where a technician uses a hand tool with tiny razor-like needles to create natural-looking hair strokes on the eyebrows.
The results of this method create a more natural look than traditional eyebrow tattoos, providing shape, density, and definition to the brows for those interested.
A topical anesthetic is applied during the session to ensure comfort, followed by the technician using a microblading tool to deposit pigment into the upper layers of skin, drawing on individual hairs carefully and one by one.
The process usually lasts around 2-3 hours. Initially, the brows may appear darker and more defined but gradually lighten to a softer effect within 1-2 weeks as your skin naturally exfoliates the outer pigment layer.
The results typically last 12-18 months before requiring a touch-up.
Microblading Pros:
This treatment provides natural-looking, hair-like results that last semi-permanently with gradual fading. It helps create fuller and more defined brows.
Microblading Cons:
- It may require multiple sessions- The cost is higher than standard tattooing- Correcting colours can present a challenge
Eyeliner Tattooing
Eyeliner tattoos are a cosmetic procedure that enhances the lashline and defines the eyes without needing daily liquid liner applications. The procedure involves using a digital tattoo machine to create thin, crisp, permanent eyeliner effects.
In this procedure, a technician tattoos pigment along the lashline, offering the option to extend the line to your preference. This cosmetic enhancement can benefit individuals who struggle to apply regular eyeliner due to vision impairments or unsteady hands.
During eyeliner tattooing, it is typical to experience mild discomfort. Topical anesthetics are applied to enhance comfort. There may be some lingering soreness, swelling, and bruising that can last for a few days following the procedure.
Results of the procedure usually take 1-2 weeks to heal, with the colour staying vibrant for around 1-3 years before requiring a touch-up.
Eyeliner Tattoo Pros
This product saves time on daily makeup, provides defined eyes without traditional makeup, and offers a convenient, waterproof option.
Eyeliner Tattoo Cons
- Potential for moderate pain/discomfort- Touch-ups needed for colour vibrancy maintenance- Difficult removal process for permanent liner
Lip Blush Tattooing
Lip blush tattooing is a technique that adds soft colour to the lips and can help correct asymmetry in shape or size. Also known as lip tinting, this method can create the appearance of fuller, more defined lips without appearing overly dramatic.
The technician applies a subtle lip blush tattoo in a muted lipstick hue along your natural lip line. This technique offers a light tint of colour that is less vivid than traditional lipstick. Nifty pink, nude, rose, and berry shades are recommended for a natural look.
This service enhances the appearance of lips that are uneven or faded, defining their shape without the need for obvious lining. It can also correct permanent lip colour that has migrated or faded.
Sessions for lip tattooing typically last 30-60 minutes. It is expected to experience some swelling for 1-2 days after the procedure. Numbing creams are used, but the lip area is sensitive, so clients may feel discomfort during the tattooing. The colour will lighten 30-50% as it heals over a week. Annual touch-ups are recommended to maintain the results.
Lip Blush Tattoo Pros
This product features a long-lasting lip colour, fixes uneven lips, and provides a defined shape without needing liner.
Lip Blush Tattoo Cons
- Can cause discomfort during the application process- Offers less vibrant colour compared to lipstick- Has shorter longevity than body tattoos
Procedure Details
This occurs during a permanent makeup session after discussing the different types.
During the consultation, the technician evaluates your facial features and personal preferences. They may provide recommendations to ensure your enhancement enhances your unique appearance. You are welcome to bring reference photos to discuss during the session.
A topical anesthetic cream is applied to the treatment area 30 minutes before to numb the skin for maximum comfort.
A suitable pigment colour will be chosen for you, with possible adjustments to match your skin undertones and hair/eye colour.
During a tattooing session, the technician will use a digital machine or microblading tool to precisely and precisely tattoo pigment into the dermal layer of the skin. The session usually lasts 2-3 hours, depending on the area being treated.
During your follow-up session 4-6 weeks later, technicians can make touch-ups or adjustments to ensure perfect results.
After a microblading treatment, temporary side effects such as swelling, redness, and tenderness may occur for a few days. It is advised to avoid sun exposure, tanning, and Jacuzzis until fully healed. Additionally, using exfoliants and specific facial treatments can cause premature pigment fading. A maintenance session every 12-24 months is recommended for the best result, based on individual skin type and lifestyle.
Benefits and Risks
Permanent cosmetics offer convenience, time-saving benefits, and increased confidence for suitable candidates. However, it is essential to consider some caution before undergoing the procedure.
Benefits
The benefits of permanent makeup include time savings in the daily makeup routine, a consistently polished appearance, enhanced facial features, restored confidence, and added convenience.
Risks
Tattoos involve needle injections into the skin, can cause moderate pain/discomfort, may fade and blur over time, could result in uneven pigmentation or poor colour selection, carry a risk of infection with poor hygiene, make future tweaking and removal difficult, and may not be suitable for some medical conditions.
Results in cosmetic tattooing can vary, so it is essential to choose an experienced technician to minimize risks and achieve the desired outcome. A consultation before the procedure can help determine if you are a suitable candidate.
Locating trustworthy professionals
When seeking a cosmetic service like permanent makeup, it is essential to research and choose a practitioner with proper training and significant experience to ensure the best results.
Here are some guidelines for making thoughtful choices:
When looking for permanent cosmetics training, ensure they offer specialized courses and preferably advanced microblading training.
When requesting a portfolio, ask to see before and after pictures of their work to ensure it matches the desired aesthetic.
Please ensure they have a valid license from the health department to provide services.
When searching for a professional, consider their level of experience and expertise in current techniques. Less than two years of experience may be a cause for concern.
Consider reading online reviews and asking for recommendations from people in your community. Personal referrals can be beneficial in making decisions.
Arrange a meeting with the artist for an initial consultation to review your objectives and ensure you are satisfied with their proposed plan.
Permanent cosmetics can provide long-lasting enhancement when done by a skilled practitioner and with realistic expectations, leading to a sense of empowerment.