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What is Permanent Make-up?
Permanent make-up is a deposit of pigment into the dermis of the skin, resulting in a tattoo that is intended to resemble a make-up application or to enhance ones natural features. Permanent make-up is referred to in several different ways, such as cosmetic tattooing, dermalpigmentation, eyebrow embroidery, eyebrow feathering, ect. The pigment used here at Transcend Beauty, Co. is cosmetic grade and semi-permanent. The difference between more or less permanent pigments really comes down to how long the color remains within the dermis, as well as the process in which they fade or are removed. If no touch-up appointments are scheduled throughout the following years after receiving a semi-permanent make-up application, depending on the color deposited, skin care routine, life style, and other various factors, we expect results to last at least 1-3 years. We say 1-3 years because the pigments gradually fade, so while technically the tattoo will still be visible after three years, the richness in color and the definition of shape will not look like it did that first year. However, receiving a touch-up appointment once every year to year and a half will keep your tattoo vibrant, defined, and keep that color rich!
The reason we’ve chosen to use semi-permanent pigments instead of more permanent ones is because of the aging process. With a semi-permanent pigment you can expect your tattoo to fade “truer to color”. This means that it will gradually lose its richness, become less defined, but will maintain the same color. Think of adding food color to water, the aging process of a semi-permanent pigment would be like adding more water to the cup. It’s the same color, but more faded. However, when using permanent pigments your tattoo will technically last much longer, but the color will fade very inconsistently. This is because permanent make-up pigments having a wider range of molecular sizes, meaning some colors fade faster than others. For example, the color brown is a combination of primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. When using permanent pigments, the secondary and tertiary colors fade long before the primary colors, meaning the warm or cool undertones of that brown (think blue and red primary colors) are the ones left behind. Tattoos with stubborn primary colors are very hard to cover and can be painful to remove.
Are You A Candidate For Permanent Make-Up?
Permanent make-up is a great alternative to applying the same make-up every day. Eyebrow and eyeliner tattooing is most common. Permanent make-up is ideal for anybody who has experienced hair loss in brows, wants a more defined shape, or those who want a look that won't run, smear, or require daily application.
However, it is important to know what may hinder or prohibit a client from permanent make-up procedures. Some contraindications include pregnancy or breast feeding. Due to the flood of hormones, pregnancy and breast feeding often times change the coloration of one's face, as well as causing water retention, resulting in a slightly different facial shape. Another common contraindication is diabetes, and a note from your doctor prior to the procedure is mandatory. Coumadin and other blood thinning medications could result in excess bleeding during procedure, causing a loss in pigment retention. Additional appointments may be considered to achieve the ideal final result. Cancers and clients on chemotherapy should wait at least 6 months after final treatments, as well as provide a clearance from their doctor giving permission. Any surgeries or cosmetic procedures on or near the tattoo site should absolutely be addressed prior to appointment. Lastly, clients need to be aware that if they wish to receive permanent eyeliner, that eyelash extensions much be removed from tattoo site. These are the most common contraindications for cosmetic tattooing, however it is always important to open and honest about any other medical conditions one may have, as well as medications or supplements one is taking.
What to Expect
A consultation is available as a precautionary to those who feel uneducated, unsure, or are seeking more information about the procedure. At this time, we would discuss goals, expectations, and finally decide if permanent make-up is right for you. However, many of these questions and concerns can be addressed prior to appointment and doesn't actually need an additional appointment.
At the time of service, myself and the client will discuss medical history, goals, expectations, and aftercare. I often ask my clients to wear make-up to their appointment, as this helps me obtain a visual of what my client's desires are. Next, we'll get some topical numbing on the tattoo site, while we discuss the pigment color best suited for the tattoo. I'll actually topically place a few dots of pigment directly onto your skin, so we can get an idea of what color reacts with and compliments your natural skin tone. We'll agree on a color together before any pigment is tattooed. Once we've agreed on the best pigment formula, I will create a design directly onto the tattoo site using the pigment. This allows a client to see the color and shape before anything is tattooed. At this point nothing is permanent and water could wash everything off. We'll create a design together that we both feel comfortable with. Please note, I will not tattoo anything that hasn't been approved by my client first!
Depending on the tattoo site, service, and design, the initial appointment can take anywhere between 90 minutes to three hours. Eyebrow appointments typically take two hours, but again it can vary. After procedure is complete, I will provide written after care instructions, as well as products you'll need to take care of your new tattoo. It is important to know that the pigment will fade about 40% after the initial procedure. For this reason, it is common for clients to feel like their new design is too dark immediately following procedure. You can absolutely expect your design to lighten significantly after your first appointment. The tattoo site will be tender and maybe a little swollen for the next day or two. However most clients can return immediately back to work and their normal routine. Cold compresses are ideal for the first day after procedure. For the first 7-10 days following procedure, it is advised to keep tattoo site moist, avoid any harsh or exfoliating products, and keep tattoo site out of direct sunlight. During this time, light flaking or peeling on and near tattoo is to be expected. Do not pick!
And finally, it is important to return at the recommended time for your first touch-up. Every new permanent make-up service will include one touch-up appointment and must be scheduled within 4-6 weeks following initial tattoo appointment. In addition, I always provide my clients with my cell phone number as well, reassuring my clients that their concerns are my concerns, and their peace of mind is my number one priority.
After Procedure Home Care
Keep a barrier of ointment that is provided to you on your new tattoo. Apply ointment for the first 5-7 days. The ointment keeps the skin moist during healing, which prevents scabbing and helps with the color saturation in the final result. It also protects the area from hair spray, perfume, dust, make-up, ect. Do not pick or peel flaking skin. Flakes are a natural reaction to the exfoliation. No sun or tanning beds for the next 7 days. Do not stand directly facing shower water pressure. Endorphins, which mimic Morphine, are put into action during procedure. You may feel woozy afterwards, though this is an uncommon reaction and very temporary. You may use ice for ten minute increments every hour. Longer exposure to ice can leech out pigment. No alpha-hydroxy creams, Retin-A, Renova, hydrocortisone cream, or benzoyl peroxide for 14 days following procedure. Do not resume any method of hair removal for at least two weeks.
Eyeliner: If you wear contact lenses, bring glasses to wear home. You may resume use of lenses when eyes return to their pre-tattooed condition. You may begin use of a newly purchased mascara after 4-5 days. Sleep with head elevated for a couple of nights to keep swelling at a minimum.
It is highly recommended to avoid alcoholic beverages, Vitamin E, and aspirin products 5 days prior to procedure.
No blood donations to Red Cross or other organization for 1 full year following procures. In the event that you need an MRI, inform your MRI technician that you have permanent make-up. The magnets may attract the oxide in the pigment, which can cause a warming sensation to the tattooed area. A cold compress will usually prevent this sensation.
It is important to wait at least 2 weeks after procedure to receive botox on or near the tattooed area.
