WHAT IS PERMANENT MAKEUP?

 

Permanent makeup, also known as cosmetic tattooing and micropigmentation, is a form of cosmetic tattooing. It is a tattoo, but with a difference in technique compared to traditional body tattoos. The skin on the face is generally thinner than the rest of the body, and the desired effect of permanent makeup is more subtle. As a result, the tools used for permanent makeup are often in smaller configurations, with finer and thinner needles. The amount of pigment implanted into the skin is also much less on the face compared to the body.

 

 

HOW DOES PERMANENT MAKEUP WORK? 

Cosmetic tattoos are created using one or more needles to implant pigment beneath the upper layers of the skin. Even in microblading, the blade is actually made up of needles lined up to form a blade. Similar to traditional body tattoos, the pigment is implanted at the junction of the top and middle layers of the skin. Usually, there is minimal bleeding as this area is just above the level of blood vessels and hair follicles. There are two main methods of cosmetic tattooing: using a machine or a manual tool.

 

HOW LONG DOES PERMANENT MAKEUP LAST? 

The longevity of permanent makeup depends on several factors, such as the technique used, skin condition, lifestyle choices, and pigment saturation.

In general, the amount of pigment implanted into the skin affects how long the permanent makeup will last. For example, with brow makeup, penciled or pomade brows may appear more opaque and saturated and last the entire day, while eyebrow powder gives a soft, airy effect that may fade by mid-afternoon. However, please note that this is not related to the color of the pigment but rather the saturation or amount of pigment. 

Skin type also plays a role, with oily skin tending to fade quicker than dry skin, as dry skin holds on to pigment for longer periods of time.

Lifestyle choices, such as sun exposure, can impact the fading of permanent makeup. It's important to apply a good, non-tinted sunscreen on tattooed brows and lips when exposed to the sun daily, using a sunscreen that doesn't leave a white tint to prevent a dull or greyish appearance.

Following the aftercare instructions provided by your artist is crucial. Sun and salt water are a no-no, please do not tattoo your brows and go swimming in the ocean a week later. Also avoid engaging in high-intensity workouts that cause profuse sweating after getting permanent makeup. While it's possible to get permanent makeup in the summer, it's important to wear a hat, avoid dusty or dirty activities like hiking or mud races, and cleanse gently with a cleanser that doesn't contain any active ingredients when you return home.

The use of anti-aging products and treatments can also impact the longevity of permanent makeup. It's best to avoid applying anti-aging products too close to your cosmetic tattoo and inform your laser technician about your eyebrow tattoo before undergoing any anti-aging treatments on your face, so they can avoid coming too close with the laser. Remember to always communicate openly with your artist and follow their guidance for the best results!

 

DOES PERMANENT MAKEUP FADE COMPLETELY?

This is a complicated subject but in general, the answer is no. There are many factors that contribute to the permanency of permanent makeup, this includes the technique, the pigment used, whether you touched up and how often, and lifestyle factors.

 

TECHNIQUE

As mentioned in the above, the more saturated the implanted colour is, the longer it will take to fade.  I’ve seen microblading fade completely after 5 years, but the work was very subtle, and it was only ever done once - no touch up.  The skin was also very oily and was exposed to a lot of sunlight.  I’ve also seen eyebrows done 20 years ago, and still have about 40% saturation of pigment in the skin.  These brows will not fade completely over time as the pigments have already encased in the tissues of the skin.

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WHAT IS SEMI-PERMANENT MAKEUP ?

On the flip side, I’ve seen a lot of nano blading artists claim that their procedures are 100% semi-permanent and will completely fade.  This is technically true.  But only because the pigment is implanted so superficially that you will not get more than 3-4 months (6 at best) of lasting power before it completely exfoliates with your natural skin cycles.  The healed colour is often so light that it may not be what the client was expecting. Getting frequent touch ups (every 6 months to a year) is something I advise my clients against, as cosmetic tattooing is still an invasive procedure and can cause unnecessary, visible scarring with too frequent touch ups. 

 

PIGMENTS USED IN PERMANENT MAKEUP

Certain types of pigments will fade quicker than others.  The lightest colour in tattoo pigments is yellow (not white!) and if the pigment colour that was used contains a high percentage of yellow, it will fade quickly from sun exposure.  This is not necessarily a good or bad thing, just remember to use sunscreen to protect your cosmetic tattoo work daily. On the topic of white pigment - this colour has the biggest molecule and lasts in the skin the longest out of all pigment colours.  

 

LIFESTYLE FACTORS

Lots of sun, frequent exposure to anti-aging ingredients and treatments, and oily skin will contribute to premature fading. 

 

IS PERMANENT MAKEUP SAFE?

When performed by a well-trained artist, absolutely! A well-trained permanent makeup artist will have undergone education that covers infection control, skin anatomy, contraindications (who should not get permanent makeup), and know what their local laws and regulations are for this industry.

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INFECTION CONTROL

In Ontario, permanent makeup artists are required to obtain a business license in order to work. As a requirement for this business license, proof of insurance is required, as well as an annual safety inspection by the public health department. Many insurance companies require proof of training/education and want to know what products and tools you are using before insuring the artist. Look for the green 'PASS' sign in your artist's studio as this must be visibly displayed to the public.

In addition, most, if not all, permanent makeup artists use disposable needles that are pre-sterilized. With the availability of disposables nowadays, even many body tattoo artists opt for this option to eliminate the risk of cross-contamination. Once used, needles must be disposed of in a yellow sharps container.

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All devices and surfaces in use during the procedure must also be wrapped and disinfected in between every client with a Health Canada approved disinfectant.

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CONTRAINDICATIONS

It is important to disclose all medical conditions to your artist so that she may advise whether you are a good candidate for micropigmentation (permanent makeup).

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The area of skin where you wish to have a cosmetic tattoo should be in good condition, free of any cuts, dry patches, and blemishes.

Your body must not be at risk of poor healing, as in the case of some medical conditions. If you have a condition where you are a poor/slow healer, you must speak with your doctor first and obtain approval.

Also disclose any type of allergies and sensitivities to ingredients you currently have or had in the past. Remember you are implanting pigment in the skin that will stay in the skin (and your body) for a very long time. Your artist should also know to avoid using ingredients (that you are allergic or sensitive to) in the prep and cleaning protocols when possible.

DOES PERMANENT MAKEUP HURT?

This really depends on your pain tolerance. An anesthetic is almost always applied, and most people don't feel much pain until the anesthetic wears off, typically around 45 minutes. Some women are very sensitive the week before and during their menstruation cycle, so it's something to keep in mind when scheduling your appointment.

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CAN YOU GET PERMANENT MAKEUP WHILE PREGNANT?

No. The use of anesthetics is a no-no, and a reputable artist will not risk the health of their clients and their baby's health.

 

CAN YOU GET PERMANENT MAKEUP WHILE NURSING?

No. We recommend waiting 4 weeks after you've completely stopped nursing to have permanent makeup done.

 

WHO SHOULD AVOID PERMANENT MAKEUP?

First and foremost, make sure that the area to be tattooed is free and clear of any cuts, blemishes, and rashes.

If you develop a cold, allergy, or a general feeling of unwellness at the time of your procedure, please reschedule your appointment. Your body will be working hard to clear the virus, and skin healing will be your body's last priority.

 

If you have skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea and it is under control, you may proceed with your permanent makeup service; however, results may be subpar. Your artist will know when working on your skin what you can expect.

 

If you are on or have been on Accutane, please wait a full 2 years before proceeding with a permanent makeup procedure. If you do not wait, it is guaranteed that the results will not be satisfactory.

 

If you have an autoimmune disease, please consult with your physician first and obtain a note of medical clearance for your artist.

 

If you have cancer, it is possible to have a permanent makeup procedure done, but this depends on the timing of your treatments. Please seek advice from your oncologist and obtain a note for your permanent cosmetic tattoo artist.

 

If you are prone to keloids, first confirm that your scar is an actual keloid. A C-section will always result in a raised scar as the incision cuts through all the layers of the skin, muscle, then organ. A raised scar (hypertrophic scar) is not the same as a keloid. A keloid scar is raised and extends far beyond the initial wound area. For a cosmetic tattoo, the needle never extends beyond the second layer of the skin (dermis), and there is hardly any bleeding (in normal skin conditions when done properly), so the risk for a raised scar is nil. If you heal normally from a paper cut or a scrape, you will be fine.

 

If you are allergic to certain pigments in hair dyes and cosmetics or specific ingredients, it is crucial to advise your micropigmentation artist of ALL the ingredients you are allergic or sensitive to. Your artist should have thorough knowledge of what's in their products and will be able to advise whether to proceed with the service or not.

 

Most topical anesthetics contain lidocaine, tetracaine, and epinephrine. If you are allergic to any of these ingredients, you must let your artist know.

 

If you have glaucoma, do not proceed with Eyeliner Tattoo service.

 

CAN PERMANENT MAKEUP BE REMOVED?

It can be, but similar to laser tattoo removal, oftentimes not 100%. Your skin will not appear the same as before you had permanent makeup. There are two main types of permanent makeup removal (tattoo removal): saline lightening and laser tattoo removal. 

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IS 60 TOO OLD FOR PERMANENT MAKEUP?

Absolutely not! Our most sophisticated client is 85 years young. It benefits tremendously as mature adults may have difficulty applying makeup, so this is a great solution. However, due to aging skin conditions, the results won't look the same as someone 20-30 years younger.

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