On a daily basis I field a lot of calls and emails about permanent cosmetics.   Many folks have misconceptions of what can and what can't be done.  Let's cover a few.

I have ladies call who have heavy brows and think that once tattooed they will not have to wax or pluck again.  The procedure will have NO affect on the growth of hair and that pesky waxing and plucking will still be a part of their life.  IF a person has a healthy growth at the ball (close to nose bridge) but no tails...that can be remedied.  If there are spots due to scarring or other reasons that too can be corrected.

Eyeliner can be of your choosing.  Some folks want just an accent to their eyes... commonly called lash enhancement.  Not a marked line so much as just deepening of the lash line through color application.   Or one can choose a full eyeliner: upper, lower or both.   It might not be wise to traverse past the eyelash line... 'tails' tend to go south as we age and look very sloppy.  Too close to the nose and the eye closes in making it appear smaller.  NEVER allow someone to tattoo the wet zone:  the eyelid between lower lashes and the eye.  This can compromise the tear duct system and result in permanent dry eye.

Color should match closely to the hair and skin tone.  I personally don't recommend fashion colors (just remember today's popularity of avocado appliances!) but urge my clients to stay natural, and neutral,  as possible. If one wants to put on the Ritz for that special night it can be done with makeup that you can remove for work the next day.

What is Permanent Cosmetics?

Permanent Cosmetics is simply cosmetic tattooing. The specialized techniques are often referred to as 'micropigmentation' or 'dermagraphics'. Bottom line is the implantation of colored pigment into the upper layer of the dermis... tattooing.

What type of Procedures are Done?

Permanent cosmetics... or PC... can enhance many facial features. Most common are eyeliner, either upper, lower or both, eyebrows, lip liner, and full lips.

Before procedure...Note ghostlines of prior procedures.

 
Immediately after Procedure

How Are Procedures done?

There are many methods of PC tattooing.  Machines such as those used in body art can be used or some, like myself, use a hand tool method.   In skilled hands the machine can be effective... in unskilled hands it can be very dangerous.  It is my belief that the hand tool method allows for more control in the delicate tissue of the facial area.

Speaking for myself, the process includes an initial consultation.  Some people who desire a permanent solution to make up problems are perfect candidates for PC.  Unfortunately there will be individuals who are not eligible... those who have had any cornea or eye work in the last year should NOT attempt eyeliner.  This is because some pressure may be applied in stretching the eyelid and that can be detrimental to the cornea.

Those who have severe health issues should seek medical advice prior to consultation.  Any ethical PC tattooer will ask appropriate questions to qualify their clients and assure health issues will not be a factor either with the procedure or with healing.  A declaration form including these and more questions should be completed prior to applications. 

Following the initial consultation an appointment will be arranged. Before and after pictures are taken (it is your right that they may remain private and not for any publication or advertising). The area is thoroughly cleaned and assessed for treatment. Selection of the proper pigment tone and shape/size/position of application may take more time than the actual procedure!

After the procedure you should be given verbal and written aftercare. In my case that aftercare will advise that NO cosmetics be used in the area of the procedure for 7-10 days following your visit. Aftercare products should be included in your costs. 

I always include a follow up appointment to assure proper coverage.   Your tattooer should be available for any post-procedure questions or concerns.

What If I Change My Hair Color?

Color choices for PC are made according to skin tone and natural coloration.  These features will never change.  I do NOT advise using any fashion colors... today's 'in' color will not be so attractive in the future!!  Keep it natural and refined.

How Long Does Each Procedure Take?

The initial procedure can take from one to two and a half hours.  Keep in mind your tattooer should never hurry through any part of the process.  I personally will take as much time as I need to create the desired results. Follow up sessions, if needed, will take a fraction of that time.

What Are The After Effects?

With eyeliner there may be slight swelling to the eye area - much like after a good cry! For both brows and liner the area may be tender and feel dry. It is important that you follow  TO THE LETTER the aftercare regiment given to you.  The pigment may appear darker the first few days but as the body heals the colors will soften to the desired effect. It may take up to four weeks to see the final result of the initial application. Any and all follow-up procedures should be done at that time and NOT before.

Is It Painful?

Some people find the process feels much like plucking or waxing the eyebrows.  Others may experience more discomfort.  This varies according to procedures and individual tolerances. There are different methods of pain management that you can discuss with your tattooer during your initial consultation. Be very specific about questions regarding anesthetics.  We are governed by federal law concerning what we can use.

Is It Really Permanent?

The procedure for applying permanent cosmetics introduces pigment under the first layer of skin and can not be washed off so it is classified as permanent.  However fading can and often does occur thus requiring periodic touch ups.  It is most important that you follow the recommended aftercare regime during the healing period and continue to be diligent regarding skin care and UV exposure. Some skin care products such as Retin-A may affect the appearance of permanent cosmetics.  Your tattooer should be open and honest about the longevity of your chosen procedure.

Is It Safe?

As with all tattooing this is a body invasive procedure involving body fluids.  With all such procedures you should ask about the training your tattooer has had.

• How did they learn?  Did they take a two day course?  Would you be comfortable with a nurse who learned over the weekend?   It is not only your face at risk... it could be your health.  Expect and demand extensive training and experience.
   
• Are they licensed in Hawaii? ALL TATTOOERS must pass the tattooer exam given by the regulating body of our state and we must work in a licensed, inspected studio. It is illegal to tattoo in an area where other procedures such as nails or hair cutting are performed.  www.hawaii.gov  can give you the exact regulations. 
  
  This is not tupperware and should NEVER be done in a home atmosphere or anywhere that is not set up for body invasive procedures.  
   
• What products do they use?  Are they specifically for permanent cosmetics?  NO, body pigment is NOT acceptable for facial work!!!!  NEVER!  The facial area has a completely different cellular composition than the rest of the body and those pigments are not acceptable for facial use!    They can migrate into the facial tissue or change colors...yep, those lovely 'blue' eyebrows you see are a result of this!  I've been asked why I don't use food coloring like the other folks my potential client has contacted.  FOOD COLORING??
   
• What education has the tattooer had regarding blood borne pathogens and the elimination of cross contamination? Ask to see certification of such training.
   
• Ask for and review before and after pictures.   Do not accept magazine cut outs!

How Expensive Is It?    

Considering the time you will save and the value of looking your best at all times the cost of permanent cosmetics is minimal.   Keep in mind that as with all things, you get what you pay for!  Cheap doesn't cut it when it comes to your face!  I have seen horrible problems because of a 'deal' a person got on permanent cosmetics! 

Do your homework, ask questions, and be smart.   It's your health and your beauty at stake.