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Q. ARE PERMANENT COSMETICS REALLY PERMANENT?
A. Technically, permanent cosmetics procedures are considered permanent because the color is implanted into the upper reticular part of the dermal layer of the skin and cannot be washed off. However, as with any tattoo, fading can and often does occur, requiring periodic maintenance, color re-enhancement or color re-freshing. Just like hair color, furniture that may be located near a window, or even house paint, pigment implanted in the skin may fade with time. It is important to consider this and all aspects of the procedure when selecting a potential permanent cosmetic makeup technician.
Q. HOW MUCH DOES PERMANENT COSMETIC MAKEUP COST?
A. The average cost per procedure varies but usually averages between $400-$800. Advanced work may be charged at $150 to $250 per hour. Many of these procedures are commonly referred to as para-medical procedures. Work performed from physician's offices or specialized clinics may be charged at higher rates.
Q. HOW LONG DOES EACH PROCEDURE TAKE?
A. The initial procedure will generally take approximately 1 to 2 ½ hours. Touch up procedures usually do not require as much time.
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Q. IS IT PAINFUL?
A. Most people experience some discomfort. This may vary according to each individual's pain threshold and the skills of the technician performing the service. HOWEVER, there are different methods available to help with pain management, including various topical anesthetic ointments, anesthetic locals and nerve blocks (administered by a doctor or dentist). Your technician should discuss these methods with you to determine which one suits you best.
Q. IS IT SAFE?
A. If proper sterilization and sanitary guidelines are met, permanent cosmetics should be completely safe. These guidelines include the following:
MOST IMPORTANT Things To Look For:
* All Needles should be new and sterile for each client. * Other machine parts should also be pre-sterilized and disposed of in a sanitary manner. * Other equipment and supplies should be kept in a sanitary manner. * Gloves should be new for each client and changed during the procedure when needed. * The technician should be clean and neat and knowledgeable of environmental safety requirements. * Clean sheets should be used for each patient. * The room or treatment area should be in an area free from other contaminants.
Q. WHAT IF I DON'T LIKE IT?
A. 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. The healing time is different for each individual and procedure.
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Q. WHICH TECHNICIAN SHOULD I CHOOSE?
A. Choose a technician carefully by considering training, experience, and portfolio. 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. Interaction between the client and the technician should be of utmost importance.
Q. IS PERMANENT COSMETIC MAKEUP A CAREER FOR ME?
A. The opportunities for skilled permanent cosmetics technicians are many and varied. Career and business opportunities vary greatly depending on the individual technician's training and desires. Many nurses and doctors, as well as hair, skin, and nail care professionals are choosing to train in permanent cosmetic procedures. The demand for advanced/para-medical procedures increases with public knowledge of the benefits of permanent cosmetic makeup.
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Q. ARE THERE ANY AFTER OR SIDE EFFECTS?
A. Generally, there is some swelling of the treated area. While eyebrows my show little after effect, eyeliner and lips may show more and the edema may last may last from two to seventy two hours During the procedure there may be some bleeding and or bruising. There is usually some tenderness for a few days. The color is much darker than you may expect for the first six to ten days. Sometimes, people have reactions to antibiotics. You may use any type of antibiotic that you prefer for your individual system. There may be other side effects unforeseen due to individuality.
Q. DO THE PIGMENTS POSE ALLERGY PROBLEMS?
A. The application is just deep enough to penetrate the minute capillaries in the dermal layer of skin. There have been so few reactions to the pigments that some doctors are suggesting that the patch test be eliminated. You can develop an allergy to anything, anytime. Some doctors recommend that people with allergies have permanent cosmetic procedures because they can replace cosmetic products that they are sensitive to. There have been very few reactions to pigments and only rarely in the case of blue-based red pigments.
Q. IS THERE ANY POSSIBILITY FOR MEDICAL PROBLEMS?
A. The possibility that you would have any problems or reactions from these procedures is almost non-existent with today’s health standards. SPCP member professionals are given continued opportunities for education in practicing precise methods of sanitation and sterilization. Post procedural instructions, if followed carefully, will completely eliminate any risk.
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Q. WHAT'S A TOUCH-UP AND WHEN DO I NEED ONE?
A. A touch-up is a color re-enhancement. Almost always the implanted color is not perfect after the first procedure. These procedures are processes and at least one follow-up to the initial procedure should be scheduled...It is recommended that you do not traumatize the skin again for a minimum of four weeks. Six weeks is better but of course, your individual needs take precedence. Eight weeks is recommended after a lip procedure.
Q. CAN I STILL HAVE AN MRI SCAN?
A. Numerous studies have shown that even for people who have large body tattoos there is little to no potential for irritation resulting from an MRI. In the rare instance where discomfort resulted, it was localized and very temporary. Most people have more metal in their fillings than they would ever have in tattoo work.
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Q. What is Permanent Makeup? Permanent Makeup, by definition, is basically a form of tattooing, by placing the pigment into the dermal layer of the skin. The difference is that cosmetic tattooing is done more superficially and the colors are blended in order to look soft and natural. The application is created by a series of tiny dots and/or lines that are applied to create the illusion of makeup or to correct pigmentations issues. Tiny dots can be applied in the color of your natural hair to mimic hair growth. This process helps to conceal scars on the head and/or in the brow area.
Q. What if I don't like the design or color after the procedure? During the procedure, you are ultimately the one in control of both of these important decisions. You will be provided with several pigment colors to choose from, all of which are complimentary to your skin tone You will also have ample opportunity to direct the path as the procedure is happening. If you need help, I'm a Makeup Artist who has been trained in designing eyebrows that are right for your face... So I will be happy to assist you in determining a design, if you wish. The things to take into consideration are your bone structure, skin tone and facial shape. You must approve of all design work (color & shape) before we proceed. This is your face, your procedure and it must meet your expectations. I do work conservatively and won't do anything I feel won't give you a subtle, natural look. The most common issue is with slight patchiness. This sometimes does occur and is easlily corrected when you come in for your follow-up visit in about 6 weeks.
Q. Why are multiple sessions necessary? Every face is different... Each skin type is different. Some skin types accept the pigment better than other types and more pigment may be retained in one session with one person over another. Also, fine details, additional color, depth or design adjustments are more easily made after the initial healing is complete. A follow-up visit is always considered vital - if only to meet to discuss healed outcome of the procedure, take your after picture, and agree that no further work is necessary. Typically it takes a total of at least 2, possibly 3 applications, 4-8 weeks apart to achieve the desired outcome.
Q. If this is permanent, why are future touch-ups necessary? Because there are always issues that affect the appearance of your procedure. The number 1 culprit is sun exposure! Also, changing health conditions, smoking, medications, anti-aging products, and hormonal changes all can have an effect on your pigment retention. You should keep your follow up visit since it helps prolong your investment. Then, at some point in the future, usually several years after your initial procedure, you will want to refresh your color, which I offer at a 20% discount.
Q. The word "Permanent" scares me. Don't be afraid. Permanent Makeup is a multi-session process. During the healing process, the first application will fade by at least 20-30%. Some people even can fade by up to 50-60%. There is no way to tell how much any one person will fade. You just have to wait to find out. After a month or so, most clients return requesting more color, a thicker line, etc. After each subsequent application 4-8 weeks apart, the area retains more color, giving you your final outcome. It is required by law to call it "permanent" since we are placing pigment into the skin. However, due to the softer, more natural colors that are used it will fade over time. The length of time that pigment will remain is very individual. Body chemistry, skin pigmentation, and sun exposure are just a few of the factors that affect fade time.
Q. What if eyebrow styles change? "Baby brows" may not always be in style - True! But patchy, over-tweezed or NO brows is definitely worse. As long as you aim for a natural classic shape, which can be determined by a combination of your personal preferences, my suggestions, along with a mathematical equation based on your own facial features - you will be safe from the fads that come and go.
Q. What if eyeliner goes out of style? Can you think of ANY stage in history where the appearance of darker, thicker eyelashes was NOT popular? The thickness of the eyeliner certainly. With the eyeliner or lash enhancement procedure, your natural lash-line is enhanced for a fuller, beautiful, natural result. Thin, medium, and wide top and bottom eyeliners are very popular. However, my preference leans toward a more conservative, clean and natural look.
Q. Is this considered a safe process? Yes. It is a safe process. But only if conducted by a trained professional that is educated and follows the proper sanitation and sterilization procedures. To ensure peace of mind to each of our clients, we open a sterilized tool and a manufactured sealed sterilized needle at the beginning of the procedure. The used needle is placed in a Sharps container when the procedure is completed. In addition, I sanitize all areas the client will come in contact with while in my treatment rooms. By conducting our procedures in this manner we feel that our clients' health and safety have been safeguarded to the highest standards. After leaving, it is then the client's responsibility to care for the procedure strictly adhering to the post treatment instructions, assuring normal healing and the prevention of an infection.
Q. Does it hurt? I am as concerned about your comfort as you are! So I will apply a topical cream prior to the procedure and a liquid anesthetic throughout, which normally provides almost total numbing. The "feeling" typically associated with the procedures can be described as a mild stinging or plucking sensation, which subsides as soon as the procedure is over. Any discomfort after the procedure is usually very minimal.
Since I work with an anesthesiologist, topical blocks can be administered should the need arise for an additional fee. We can discuss this fee with Dr. Victoria Zavala.
Q. How soon can I resume normal activities? For most people, usually the same day. Some people experience almost no swelling, while others experience mild to moderate swelling. In either case, swelling normally subsides after 1-2 days. But, day 3-5 can still look a little too dark - and you should still be applying the ointment (which will appear oily on the skin) so depending on your own results, you may not want to attend "special' functions until the area is totally healed over. You may resume normal activities immediately as long as they do not have an adverse affect on the healing process. For example, you would not want to introduce bacteria into the treated area, by sweating while working out or mowing the lawn... that type of thing.
Q. Could I be allergic to the pigment? Allergic reactions to pigments have been reported, but they are extremely(needle in a haystack) rare. If you are concerned about the odds, I always recommend an allergy patch test to safeguard against allergic reactions to pigments or topical anesthetics. Final determination is the responsibility of the client. Client may waive testing if desired.
Q. How much does it cost? This is a good question. Prices in my price range may seem to be either higher or lower than that of other technicians - depending on where you go. First of all, I would like to explain that if it seems like an expensive procedure to you, please remember that the number of services that I can provide can only be provided once or twice for each person. This profession does not have the luxury of being turnkey - since you can only get A Permanent Makeup Artist who is using proper sterilization and sanitation procedures, good equipment, and has a professional facility, will cost several hundred dollars for any single procedure. They will invest their funds for, professional forms and surroundings, and continuing education. In this industry higher cost often equals higher quality. The price will also include use of topical, over the counter anesthetics to minimize discomfort.
(refer to Pricing Page for all the details).
Q. Which method do you use? I use the machine method most of the time due to its fine precision. But in certain cases, I also use the SofTap® hand method in certain other applications where minimal touchup is desired.
Q. What can I expect overall post-procedure? Each procedure behaves differently after its application. Depending on which procedure you've had done, you will see various changes occur within the next few days/weeks. Immediately after the procedure is done your make-up may look like it has been stamped onto your face - and will be much too dark. This is normal. You can expect also swelling and redness caused by the procedure, which should diminish over the next day or so. Ice packs applied at 15 minute intervals each hour can control this. It is extremely important that post instructions are followed to guarantee the results you've just invested in. Aquaphor ointment must be applied on the treated area, and kept consistently moist. but since wounds need air to breathe, the application should be thin, not thick.
Once the area has healed, there is a much greater chance that the permanent makeup will be too light or too subtle. But just remember, this is because by applying it more conservatively in the beginning, changes can be more easily made later, without being traumatized with TOO MUCH . It is much easier to add pigment than to remove it. This is the reason I require 1-2 follow-up sessions in order to receive "Certificate of Completion" (which qualifies you for a significant discount on your future Color Boost Session . The touch-ups are fast, easily tolerated and recommended to perfectly balance your outcome.
Within 7-14 days this artificial look will give way to a more naturalized and softer look. It is impossible to accurately evaluate what the final result will be until this "naturalization" process occurs, especially true with eyebrows. Several hours after application, they will appear much darker and thicker than they will in a week or two. The shape may even appear to be somewhat distorted; don't worry. Brows may scab over and have a "Groucho Marx" appearance for a few days, but when fully healed, there are soft beautiful brows underneath. Make sure to let it heal naturally, DO NOT PICK at it or your brows will not appear uniform. If you have any concerns about any reactions you are experiencing please contact me.
Due to varying degrees of difficulty of applications associated with lip/skin texture, wrinkles, scarring on the lips from cold sores, anti-aging laser treatments, medications, smoking, sun or tanning bed exposure and use of hydroxy acids, and we cannot guarantee "perfect" results in two visits. Therefore, if irregularities in pigment color develop from the above mentioned conditions, additional procedures may be necessary. These conditions also affect the longevity of the permanent cosmetic, causing some persons to require maintenance sooner than others.
FOLLOW UP VISITS: During the follow-up application, the makeup will be balanced, supplemented, darkened, lightened and shaped based on what was requested and determined during the initial session. Changes beyond this scope may require additional fees.
Example: If a client comes in and asks for light brown (during her initial session, but then requests Fuller Dimensional Brows in a darker color - the client will be charged the difference between the two procedures, plus the . Same with Eyeliner and Lips.
- What is Permanent Makeup?
- What if I don't like the design or color after the procedure?
- What if eyebrow styles change?
- What if eyeliner goes out of style?
- I have heard that these procedures require multiple
sessions. Why is that necessary?
- If this is permanent, why are future touch-ups necessary?
- I'm concerned about the word "Permanent".
- Is this considered a safe process?
- Will I be uncomfortable during the procedure?
- How soon can I resume normal activities?
- Could I be allergic to the pigment?
- How much does it cost?
- There are different methods of micropigmentation, which
one do you use?
- What can I expect overall post-procedure?
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