Question 1

AFTER CARE: Eyebrows & Eyeliner & Traditional Tattoos

Accepted Answer

Day one: Your new tattoo will be somewhat tender and will feel like a new sunburn. The care of your tattoo is your responsibility. How your care for your tattoo, while it’s healing, will determine how it will look forever.

DO: 
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
Wash tattoo with warm water and mild soap, gently lather with hand 
GENTLY pat tattoo dry with a clean, disposable paper towel
Apply a VERY SMALL amount of provided aquaphor twice daily for 4-5 days 
Blot excess ointment away with a clean paper towel
The tattoo should not be greasy - LESS IS MORE!

DO NOT: 
Do NOT: apply mascara or lash extensions for 4-5 days or until tattoo has completely flaked off.
Do NOT: apply makeup or foundation over the new tattoo until completely healed.
Do NOT use a washcloth, loofa, or sponge to wash the tattoo
Do NOT dry with a towel - cloth can harbor bacteria
Do NOT touch with dirty hands (yours or anyone else’s!)
Do NOT use excessive ointment, tattoo should NOT look greasy 
Do NOT use products with aloe, scent, alcohol, or cortisone
Do NOT expose tattoo to natural or artificial sunlight for at least 10-12 days
Do NOT soak in tub, pool, lake, ocean, etc, for 10-12 days
DO NOT exercise or anything that would cause excessive sweating for at least 10-12 days
Do NOT pick or scratch your new tattoo. If it’s itchy use the aquaphor that has been provided.

Days 2-10: Healing tattoos will scab, peel, and flake, with bits of tattooed skin coming off in the process (this is normal). Your new eyeliner or eyebrow tattoo will look very dark immediately after your procedure. It can even continue to get darker before it starts to scab. DO NOT PANIC! This is normal. Color has been placed in the dermal layer (or 2nd layer of the skin). Much like a cut, it bleeds, scabs and the scab eventually falls off as new skin forms. During this process, some color that is superficial will flake off with the scab therefore lightening and softening your new tattoo. So please be patient during this process. Color will fade anywhere from 30-60%. Once healed, we have you schedule a “check-up” appointment to determine if any additional color or adjusting is needed at that time.

Question 2

AFTER CARE - LIPS

Accepted Answer

AFTER CARE - LIPS
Day one: Your new tattoo will be somewhat tender and will feel like a new sunburn. The care of your tattoo is your responsibility. How your care for your tattoo, while it’s healing, will determine how it will look forever.

DO: 
·         Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
·         Remove bandage carefully - in the shower if it seems to stick
·         Wash tattoo with warm water and mild soap, gently lather with hand
·         Rinse tattoo well with warm water until surface feels squeaky clean
·         Pat tattoo dry with a clean, disposable paper towel
·         Wait 24 hours before applying any aftercare cream 
·         Blot excess cream away with a clean paper towel
·         The tattoo should not be greasy - LESS IS MORE!

DO NOT: 
·         Do NOT use a washcloth, loofa, or sponge to wash the tattoo
·         Do NOT dry with a towel - cloth can harbor bacteria
·         Do NOT touch with dirty hands (yours or anyone else’s!)
·         Do NOT use excessive lotion or ointment, tattoo should not look soggy
·         Do NOT use products with aloe, scent, alcohol, or cortisone
·         Do NOT expose tattoo to natural or artificial sunlight for at least 4 weeks
·         Do NOT soak in tub, pool, lake, ocean, etc.
·         Do NOT pick or scratch your new tattoo. If it’s itchy use a bit of lotion

If you have been advised to take a cold sore preventive such as Valtrex or it’s equivalent, be sure to follow the instructions explicitly in order to prevent breakouts. (If your skin has become “hot” or irritated in which the herpes virus lies dormant and can cause breakouts.) This is why taking Valtrex is very important.

As do eyebrows and eyeliner, the lips will also fade. However they can fade up to 80 percent and will peel as they heal.  DO NOT PICK! As you are waiting for your lips to heal, keep in mind that this is a BUILDING process. Once the lips have completely peeled, they may appear to look extremely light.  Don’t panic. The color of the lips will slowly return within a few weeks. We then will perform your follow-up procedure at your four week follow-up visit if needed.

Most importantly; Be PATIENT and follow all instructions. The color of of your lips may appear darker or lighter depending on the clothes you're wearing, or if you’re ill, of it you have been tanning.

Question 3

AFTER CARE -- Li-FT Procedures

Accepted Answer

・  It is critical to follow all aftercare instructions to prevent complications, scarring and to achieve optimum results. Please read carefully.
・  KEEP AREA CLEAN and open to the air. Do not cover with a Band-Aid or anything else, leave open to air. Air/oxygen provides good and faster healing. CLEANSE THE AREA 4x a day with Saline. Dampen a paper towel or cotton round with Saline and blot the area 4x daily. Make sure you wash your hands directly before cleansing the area.
・  DO NOT SOAK the treated area in water. You can shower as normal but keep the area out of the shower spray the best you can and do not let the area stay wet for more than a few minutes. It is best to keep it dry but if you do get it wet gently pat dry.
・  NO BATHING, SWIMMING, SAUNAS, HOT TUBS, TANNING, OR EXERCISE. NO EXCEPTIONS.
・  DO NOT disrupt the scabbing process (i.e. no picking, scratching, etc.) All scabbing needs to fall off naturally. If you force or pick a scab off you will disrupt the process and possibly cause scarring. It is critical to keep the scabs on as long as possible to achieve optimum results.
・  TREAT AREA WITH TLC. DO NOT DO ANYTHING AT ALL THAT COULD CAUSE ISSUES OR PROBLEMS TO THE TREATED AREA.
・  ONCE ALL SCABBING HAS NATURALLY FALLEN OFF, apply one drop of Vitamin E Oil 3 to 4 times throughout the day for a minimum of 4 weeks, or until the next lightening session. DO NOT start applying the Vitamin E oil UNTIL all scabbing has naturally and completely fallen off. It is our goal to keep the area as dry as possible until all scabs have naturally fallen off.
・  LIPS please drink all liquids with a straw until all scabbing has naturally fallen off. Brush with Toms of Maine or Classic Crest (no whitening, no peroxide toothpastes. Cut food into small bites….no biting into a sandwich. Try to keep mouth expressions to a minimum.
・ It is important to the process and integrity of the skin that 8 full weeks of healing take place before another lightening session can be done. No exceptions.
・ Lightening unwanted pigment can be a long process and patience is required. This is true whether you are choosing a saline lightening product or laser. Please be patient and give the process a fair chance to work. Expect visible and wanted results in 2 to 5 sessions. How many sessions needed will depend on how saturated the pigment is, how deep it was implanted, the location, the skin type and how much needs to be lightened for the desired result. In many cases only a percentage of the pigment needs to be lightened and then we can continue the correction process by color correcting or color shifting. In those cases where we have pigment misplaced or in an unwanted area, color correcting will not be an option and lightning as much of the pigment as possible will be our ultimate goal.
・  Results cannot be foreseen, predicted or guaranteed.
・  If you have any questions or concerns please call us. If at any time you have any green or yellow puss in the area of the lightening procedure, or any concerns at all during the healing process please call us immediately.

Question 4

WHAT IS PERMANENT COSMETICS?

Accepted Answer

Permanent cosmetic makeup is cosmetic tattooing. The specialized techniques used for permanent cosmetics are often referred to as “micropigmentation”, “micropigment implantation” or “dermagraphics”. The cosmetic implantation technique deposits colored pigment into the upper reticular layer of the dermis.

Permanent makeup is a constantly evolving industry, SNPC takes pride in keeping current and offering you the newest and finest techniques in permanent makeup application and training. Our services features full face makeup including natural hair stroke eyebrow technique, eyeliner, full lip tint and lip liner tailored to your personal preferences. We also offer breast pigmentation and scar camouflage.

Question 5

Eyeliner - Permanent Makeup

Accepted Answer

Is eyeliner important to your appearance and feeling of self confidence? Does your eyeliner smudge? Does it wear off during the day? Do you have trouble getting it straight or even? Are you allergic to cosmetic products or your allergies causing you to re-apply several times a day? Maybe your job requires that you go make-up free. If so…

Permanent eyeliner procedures, also known as permanent cosmetics, permanent makeup, cosmetic tattooing, and micropigmentation are perfect for you

Eyeliner can be applied in many styles and colors, from soft, natural-looking lash enhancement to a defined line–the choice is yours! Some people feel both upper and lower eyeliner suits their needs best, while others feel only an upper or a lower eyeliner is appropriate for them. Whatever look you choose, you will wake up, shower, exercise, work, swim, and go to bed always looking your best. No more tattle tale eyeliner smear or smudge during the day, no more concern when participating in sports activities and best, your appearance remains consistently fresh appearing throughout the day and night.
As with any artistic appearance enhancement service, techniques will vary from technician to technician. Your permanent cosmetic professional may ask you to wear your eyeliner to the consultation the way you would like it to appear after the cosmetic tattoo has healed. Or, you may be asked to bring a pictorial representation of the preferred eyeliner design. Your technician will advise you if the example(s) are age and style appropriate for permanent cosmetic eyeliner.
The actual cosmetic eyeliner process varies inasmuch as there are numerous devices that prevent cross contamination that the permanent cosmetic professional may use. The choices are the coil machine, the linear device (the Neo Tat) the digital rotaries, the permanent cosmetic pen rotaries and the manual device. All, when used in accordance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Bloodborne Pathogens guidelines, are safe. You may ask to see the attendance certificate indicating your technician has attended an OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens class. If there is permit, registration, or licensing required in your state, you should also look for the appropriate documents, which are required to be posted in plain sight, to ensure the cosmetic tattoo artist is compliant with state and local laws.
The process – Some technicians will use a pre-procedure anesthetic, some do not. If a pre-procedure anesthetic is used and the technician is not a physician or working under the direction of a physician, it will be an over-the-counter (OTC) level anesthetic which has proved to be quite effective. If you are working with an SPCP member technician, the anesthetic is likely to be provided by an SPCP supplier member who ensures anesthetic OTC contents levels are well within the limits of the law. The same applies to anesthetics used during the permanent eyeliner procedure.
The work table will be assembled with one-time-use accessories. If a pre-procedure anesthetic was applied, it is removed in a timely manner in accordance with manufacturer instructions, a sterilized needle will be opened, the needle assembled into the device and the procedure begins.
Typically, OTC eye products (eyewash, eye drops, etc.) are used throughout the permanent eyeliner procedure.
Aftercare instructions are normally provided and some technicians provide products if any are called out in the instructions.
A follow up appointment is normally scheduled in four to eight weeks, depending on the age of the client to determine how the eyeliner procedure healed and if any further work is needed.

Question 6

Eyebrows - Permanent Make Up

Accepted Answer

Are you eyebrow challenged? Are your eyebrows sparse due to over tweezing or a medical condition? Do you have little or no eyebrow hair? Do you find it difficult to put them on without your glasses, but your glasses are in the way? Does the drawn on design come out crooked or uneven? Do your penciled brows wear off during the day?  For these reasons and many, many more,

Women all over are finding permanent cosmetic eyebrows are perfect for them.

From providing a basic guideline for you to follow, should you like to pencil them yourself, to total brow recreation, your technician can create anything from a few hair strokes to dramatic fully colored brows that even your closest friends won’t believe aren’t your own.
As with any artistic appearance enhancement service, techniques will vary from technician to technician. The process cited below are popular techniques used but not necessarily followed exactly by all permanent cosmetic professionals.
If you wear eyebrow pencil, your technician may ask you to wear your penciled eyebrows to the consultation the way you would like them to appear after the cosmetic tattoo has healed. Or, you may be asked to bring a pictorial representation of the preferred eyebrow design. If you have been asked to wear your eyebrows drawn in, or to bring in pictorial examples, your permanent cosmetic professional will advise you if the example(s) are age and style appropriate for permanent cosmetic eyebrows.
The skin is cleaned with an appropriate cleanser. Some technicians apply an anesthetic before the cosmetic tattoo process, some do not. After the anesthetic has taken effect and removed, the eyebrows are drawn on with an eyebrow pencil that has been disinfected prior to use.
It is very important that you and the permanent cosmetic professional you choose have a good verbal communication relationship. As the client, you must convey details of your design and color preferences and the technician must understand these preferences and translate them over to tattooing artistic techniques.
Before any cosmetic tattooing commences, the client is given the opportunity to approve the design that will become permanent. The template is maintained in a variety of different manners depending on the technician you are working with. The worktable will be assembled with one-time-use accessories, a sterilized needle will be opened, the needle assembled into the device and the procedure begins.
They eyebrow design which has been approved by the client is tattooed on. Some technicians provide breaks during the cosmetic tattooing process to allow the client to sit up and take stock of how the design tattooing process is proceeding. Anesthetic may or may not be used throughout the procedure. This is technician specific.
When the permanent eyebrow procedure has been completed, aftercare instructions are normally provided. Some technicians provide products if any are referred to in the instructions. A follow up appointment is normally scheduled in four to eight weeks depending on the age of the client, to determine how the eyebrow procedure healed and if any further work is needed.
Your life now becomes more carefree and convenient. You will likely find yourself participating in more activities and feeling more confident about your appearance under all circumstances.

Question 7

Lips - Permanent Makeup

Accepted Answer

Are you tired of refreshing your lip liner and/or lipstick several times during the day? Do the current all day lipstick brands make your lips dry or chapped? Would you like a professional opinion regarding the appearance of your lips and what can be accomplished with permanent cosmetics toward a more symmetric and fuller appearance? Is your inventory of $20 lipsticks getting financially out of hand and a burden to keep fresh and environmentally clean? Are you aware that in 2004 the FDA banned cow brains in lipsticks due to mad cow disease? One has to wonder what else is in this pretty container that we would not find ingredient attractive if we were just made aware. Do you wish you had some of the natural coloring you had when you were younger?
If so, Permanent Cosmetic Lip Liner is for you!
A natural appearing permanent cosmetic lip liner can be applied to give more definition, correct uneven lips, which will result in a fuller appearance. The procedure also helps prevent lipstick from bleeding and can minimize the appearance of wrinkles.
Full lip color can be applied in either a natural hue or a more vivid one. Wear your permanent lip color alone in a natural tone or apply different shades of lipstick over your permanent lip color for those occasions when you prefer a more dramatic look–you will find that the color lasts much longer when applied over permanent cosmetic lip color than it did to a bare lip.
Because the coloring and shape of the natural lip is unpredictable, it is common for a technician to request you attend a consultation before an appointment for the actual procedure is scheduled. At the consultation, your color and shape objectives and probability of success with permanent cosmetic pigments and techniques will be discussed.
Permanent cosmetic professionals typically ask if you have ever had a cold sore or fever blister on the lips and if so what seems to be the trigger to this condition. If your answer to this question is “yes,” you will in all likelihood be requested to speak to your medical provider regarding a medication formulated specifically for a breakout, an antiviral medication.
If you and the consulting technician have agreed to go forward and schedule an appointment, the technician may suggest the timing does not coincide with any important events. Lips appear very vibrant for a few days after the initial procedure and dryness associated with the healing process requires the application of a moisturizing product. As with any artistic appearance enhancement service, techniques will vary from technician to technician.
The actual permanent cosmetic lip procedure varies inasmuch as there are numerous devices that prevent cross contamination that technicians may use. The choices are the coil machine, the linear device (the Neo Tat) the digital rotary machines, the permanent cosmetic pen rotaries, and the manual device. All, when used in accordance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Bloodborne Pathogens guidelines, are safe. You may ask to see the attendance certificate indicating your permanent cosmetic professional has attended an OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens class. If there is permit, registration, or licensing required in your state, you should also look for the appropriate documents, which are required to be posted in plain sight, to ensure the cosmetic tattoo artist is compliant with state and local laws.
The process – Some technicians will use a pre-procedure anesthetic, some do not. If a pre-procedure anesthetic is used and the technician is not a physician or working under the direction of a physician, it will be an over-the-counter (OTC) level anesthetic which has proved to be quite effective. If you are working with an SPCP member technician, the anesthetic is likely to be supplied by an SPCP supplier member who ensures anesthetic OTC contents levels are well within the limits of the law. The same would apply to anesthetics used during the permanent cosmetic lip procedure.
The work table will be assembled with one-time-use accessories. If a pre-procedure anesthetic was applied, it is removed in a timely manner in accordance with manufacturer instructions, a sterilized needle will be opened, the needle assembled into the device and the procedure begins.
Aftercare instructions are normally provided and some technicians provide products if any are called out in the instructions.
A follow up appointment is normally scheduled in four to eight weeks, depending on the age of the client, to determine how the lip tattoo procedure healed and if any further work is needed.
Don’t miss our article on Lip Tips.

Question 8

What’s a Touch-Up and Do I Need One?

Accepted Answer

Often the tattooed color is not perfect after the initial procedure heals. Permanent cosmetic procedures are a process some clients do not need any follow-up needed, with that some clients do need touch-ups. It is recommended that any required detail work to the original procedure be performed no sooner than four weeks after the original procedure.The minimum standard for follow-up detail work for lip procedures is six weeks.  Lips have a different healing agenda than procedures performed on other parts of the face due to their delicate nature. The cited time frames will vary depending on the health profile and age of the client, but these are good minimum standards for consideration.

Question 9

What is Permanent Eyebrows? TRADITIONAL vs MICROBLADING

Accepted Answer

TRADITIONAL EYEBROWS

Before we begin we will discuss the shape and color of your preference. The unique bone structure and contours of your face will play a significant part in the look and shape of your brows. After you have approved the shape of your choice, a color is carefully selected to match your natural skin tone and hair color. Eyebrow hair does not have to be removed during a permanent cosmetic procedure and in fact is an enhancement to the look.
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Hair stroke eyebrows otherwise known as the hair simulation technique, micro blading, etching, embroidery and soft tap method is our techniques we most often use for creating the most natural brows possible. The hair stroke technique mimics your own eyebrow hairs thus creating a feathering effect. Most consider this technique far more natural looking than a solid fill, however we also offer clients the powdered brow.

MICROBLADING EYEBROWS
This is  another method of permanent cosmetics or tattooing.  Microblading involves a manual tool with a grouping of single use, disposable microscopic needles aligned in a single row. Color is etched into the dermal layer of the skin just as traditional tattooing, however, because of the row of small needles it has been the closest resemblance to very real like eyebrow hair.  Just as traditional tattoos fade, mircoblading should still be considered as permanent.
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*Microblading should never be considered semi-permanent. Once the procedure is completed, this process can never be undone.

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Question 10

BEAUTY MARK & CAMOUFLAGE

Accepted Answer

Camouflaging can take two different courses. Either a traditional tattoo can be applied over the discoloration or scar or the skin can be re-toned to more closely match the surrounding area.

Re-coloration is most successful on those areas not exposed to the daylight on a regular basis. The surrounding skin will change color from UV exposure, even if protected by sun block, but the tattooed area will not change with it. Applying a traditional artistic design over a scarred or discolored area is the other option. As tattooing has become mainstream, many more people are turning to this method to convert something that bothers them, into a work of beauty and art. Clients must remember that these are advanced procedures and they need to feel very comfortable with the skill level of their Practitioner.

Question 11

Microblading Fact Sheet

Accepted Answer

Is it tattooing?

With the sudden popularity and media attention to the term microblading, many are led to believe microblading is not a tattoo process. Permanent cosmetics, micropigmentation, dermal implantation, microblading/microstroking, eyebrow embroidery, and long-time/long-lasting makeup, are all different names for the same procedure – cosmetic tattooing. Any time color is placed into the skin with any device, it is a tattoo process as defined by many well informed regulators, the medical community, and dictionary sources. Denying this process is a tattoo can be problematic for those who would, for religious or other personal reasons, normally refuse to have a tattoo.

Is a blade being used to perform the microblading tattoo procedure?
Microblading is performed with a grouping or configuration of needles affixed to a handle to manually create lines that resemble eyebrow hairs. Manual methods of tattooing have been used through the ages, and the tools have gone through changes over time from pre-historic sharpened stones to the hand tool devices currently being used. An actual scalpel or cutting-type blade should not be used under any circumstances as these are considered medical devices and cannot legitimately be used for this process. Any hand tool device (i.e., both handle and attached needles) used for microblading should be pre-sterilized and fully disposable.

Is it semi-permanent?
Some are promoting microblading or eyebrow embroidery as a semi-permanent process; and that the color only reaches the epidermal (outer) layer of the skin. A careful review of basic skin anatomy and physiology would reveal this is not true. By definition and tattoo industry standards, color is tattooed/implanted into the dermis of the skin. If pigment particles do not reach the dermis, they will disappear during the healing phase of the skin, during normal regeneration of cells at the epidermal level. Pigments do fade in the skin over time, but that does not make the process semi-permanent. It is impossible to predict how much pigment will fade away and how long it will take to do so with any measure of consistency or reliability.

Why does microblading not last as long as other eyebrow tattooing techniques?
This is simply because a much smaller amount of pigment is inserted (tattooed) into the skin as compared to fully or solidly filled eyebrow tattoos.

Is there less training needed to learn microblading as compared to learning permanent cosmetics?
No; if someone is new to the industry and does not already have a minimum of 100 hours of training in permanent cosmetics, they need to have a similar amount of training in microblading, even if it is for just that one type of procedure. There are many areas of study when learning these techniques, which include facial morphology and bone structure, brow shaping and design, color analysis, color theory, proper handling of equipment, prevention of cross-contamination, as well as practice work and the opportunity to observe procedures before actually performing them under supervision. Anyone interested in pursuing training in cosmetic tattooing, including microblading, should first check with state and county regulating agencies. This would also include verifying the qualifications of any trainer, in addition to checking with regulatory agencies for trainer compliance with local health, safety, or permit requirements if the trainer is travelling from another state or country to offer training.

How can I get more information?
You can also contact the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP) at admin@spcp.org. Visit us on our website at www.spcp.org

Question 12

Permanent Makeup – What is it?

Accepted Answer

Permanent cosmetic makeup is cosmetic tattooing. The specialized techniques used for permanent cosmetics are often referred to as “micropigmentation”, “micropigment implantation” or “dermagraphics”. The cosmetic implantation technique deposits colored pigment into the upper reticular layer of the dermis.See also “Is Permanent Makeup for Me?”

Question 13

How are Permanent Cosmetic Procedures Performed?

Accepted Answer

Permanent cosmetics procedures are performed using various devices, including the traditional tattoo coil machines, the pen or rotary machine (includes the digital rotary machines) and the non-machine or hand device. The process includes a consultation, the application of pigment, and at least one or more follow up visits for evaluating the healed design work and color of the pigment.

Question 14

Who Benefits from Permanent Makeup?

Accepted Answer

People who meet minimum age requirements and have the ability to heal properly from minor wounds can benefit from the liberating benefits of permanent cosmetics.Interest in this service spans the young to the more mature; those who desire a soft, natural enhancement to their appearance. It is especially  valuable to people who can’t wear traditional cosmetics due to allergies and skin sensitivities; active people who want to look their best for sports activities such as swimming, hiking, biking, tennis, aerobics; and those who don’t want to worry about “sweating off” or reapplying cosmetics.Permanent Cosmetics also benefits the vision challenged who have difficulty applying their cosmetics; and others with dexterity related conditions  such as arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke survivors, and busy people who don’t have time to spend applying and refreshing makeup throughout the day and evening.

Question 15

What Type of Permanent Cosmetic Procedures can be Done?

Accepted Answer

Permanent Cosmetic procedures can be very subtle or dramatic depending on what you are looking for. Options include:

Eyebrows
Eyeliner, Top and Bottom 
Lipliner, Lip Color, and Blend
Scar Camouflage, Beauty Marks, Hair imitation, Lash Enhancement, and Areola Repigmentation
NOTE: Some of these procedures use more advanced techniques (para-medical techniques) and thus require an experienced technician with advanced training.

Question 16

Are Permanent Cosmetics Really Permanent?

Accepted Answer

Permanent cosmetics procedures are considered permanent because pigment is tattooed into the upper reticular part of the dermal layer of the skin and cannot be washed off. However, as with any tattoo or colorant (pigment) in general, fading can and often does occur, requiring periodic maintenance referred to as color re-enhancement or color refreshing. The scientific structure of pigments and the requirement for periodic refreshing is identical to that of tinted hair color; faded material on furniture that may be located near a window and subject to sun exposure; house paint that is exposed to the sun and other environmental elements; pigment implanted in the skin may fade with time.This colorant periodic maintenance requirement is a good opportunity to reevaluate one’s color and design preferences.  While the concept of permanent, without any change, may seem like a perfectly good idea, think about how your tastes have changed over the years.  From time to time likely you have made subtle or dramatic changes in your clothing preferences, your hair color and style, and if you wear topical makeup, those colors have changed as well.The fact that most people will require periodic color refreshing of their permanent cosmetics is the opportune time to work with your technician to reevaluate your overall appearance profile and determine if any changes are appropriate.Longevity varies from person to person depending on their life style (sun exposure), the color(s) used for the permanent cosmetic procedure, and are also thought to be affected by topical products applied to the skin.

See also “Is Permanent Makeup Really Permanent?”

Question 17

How Much does Permanent Makeup Cost?

Accepted Answer

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.The cost of the procedure should not be the most important issue when consulting a potential permanent cosmetic professional. Most important is the training and skill of the person performing the procedure and the confidence of the client in that skill.See also “What Does Permanent Makeup Cost?“

Question 18

How Long Does Each Procedure Take?

Accepted Answer

The initial procedure will generally take approximately two to three hours; there are records to establish; photographs to take; desired design and color to discuss; the procedure to perform; and the aftercare requirements to discuss.Follow up or color refresher procedures usually do not require the same amount of time.

Question 19

Is It Painful?

Accepted Answer

Most people experience some discomfort. This will vary according to each individual’s pain threshold.There are different methods available, however, to help with discomfort management, including various topical anesthetics that are specifically developed for our industry. Your permanent cosmetic professional should discuss these methods with you to determine which one is appropriate.To put this in perspective, thousands of body art tattoos are performed annually, possibly millions.  As a rule, traditional tattoo professionals do not use any anesthetics for their tattoo procedures. Anesthetics for permanent cosmetics are more of a tattoo service luxury because of the nature of the tattoo location and the fact that permanent cosmetics falls into the beauty treatment category.See also “Does Permanent Makeup Hurt?“

Question 20

Is It Safe?

Accepted Answer

If proper sterilization and disinfection guidelines are met, permanent cosmetics should be completely safe. Professionals in the permanent cosmetic industry routinely attend Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) classes to become well versed on safety principals. These guidelines include, but are not limited to the following: .IMPORTANT Things To Look For:

All Needles should be new and sterile for each client. Unopened new and sterile needles should be opened in your presence.
Disposable sterilized one-time use machine parts should be purchased by the artist, and disposed of in a sharps container immediately after the procedure has been completed.
Personal protection equipment such as disposable one-time use aprons and gloves should be new for each client and changed during the procedure when needed.
The technician should be clean and neat.
Disposable one-time use chair/bed covering should be new for each client.
The room or treatment area should be in an area free from other contaminants. The SPCP has taken a position against permanent cosmetic procedures conducted at trade shows and in salons where nail dust, aerosols or other chemicals are present.
See also “Permanent Makeup Tattooing and The Truth” and “What Should I Expect?“

Question 21

What If I Don’t Like It?

Accepted Answer

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.It’s very important to realize that often the new procedure represents something somewhat different; at times color where there was no color at all or very little.  It takes time to become acclimated to a new look (very often this applies to eyebrows which were sparse and unnoticeable before the permanent cosmetic brow procedure.) Eyeliner color is more evident due to the contrast to the skin color.  Lip color can take up to six weeks to reflect the final color. Be patient.After the procedure has healed, and you are able to make an informed decision about the healed version of the procedure, the only reason you should not like your permanent cosmetics is if you chose a technician who did not work with you on design and color. How could this happen?

If you cannot communicate with your technician, it is possible your desires will not be realized.
If your technician recognizes your requests, but does not take your desires for color or design into account, you should not proceed with the procedure.
Don’t request eyebrow color based on your tinted scalp hair color.  That is subject to change and it may affect how you then feel about the color of your permanent cosmetic eyebrows.  Eyebrow color should be selected based on your skin undertone and the color of your eyebrow hair (if any.)
Conversely, most well-trained technicians will not perform a procedure if the design and/or color requested by the client is not reasonable.  If your requests are turned down by one or more technicians, re-think what you are asking for.
Permanent cosmetics are not easily removed.  Make good decisions up front. You can enjoy the liberation permanent cosmetics provides when you do your research and choose a qualified professional that you work well with.

Question 22

Which Technician Should I Choose?

Accepted Answer

Choose a technician carefully by considering training, experience, compliance with state and local laws, and the technician’s before and after photograph portfolio.It is important to remember that the shape and proper placement of the procedure is as important as the right color. Professionals have studied color theory and skin undertones which results in the color requested.  Unskilled people who have not pursued the required education do not have the knowledge required to translate pigment color to skin to achieve the desired outcome.The preferred look is obtained during the course of consultation, initial procedure and follow-up appointment(s). Interaction between the client and the technician is of utmost importance.

Question 23

Is Permanent Cosmetic Makeup a Career For Me?

Accepted Answer

The opportunities for skilled permanent cosmetics technicians are impressive.Career and business opportunities will however, vary greatly depending on location and the individual technician’s training and skill. Many nurses and a few doctors, as well as hair, skin, and nail care professionals are choosing to train in permanent cosmetics.See also the article “Is a Career in Permanent Makeup for Me?” and “Permanent Makeup is Here To Stay“

Question 24

Are There Any Side Effects During or After the Procedure?

Accepted Answer

While eyebrows may show little after effect, eyeliner and lips may show slight to moderate swelling.  This is very dependent upon the amount of work performed.As examples; an eyelash enhancement will show very little response to the tattooing procedure compared to a more moderate response when wide eyeliner is performed.  The same philosophy applies to lip color procedures.  A lip liner or blended lip liner will show less effects of the procedure than that of a full lip color.  Also, some people swell more from minor skin infractions than others.During the procedure there may be some minor bleeding.  This again, is client specific.  Many people take blood thinners on a daily basis so some slight bleeding would be expected.  Others show little or no signs of bleeding.  Bruising is rare but again, if a person is on blood thinners, bruising could occur.  What is seen more often is that eyebrows rarely if ever produce any bruising; minor bruising during eyeliner procedures is possible if the skin being tattooed is very thin and close to the vascular system.  This also applies to lip procedures in the event the client is more mature.   If bruising does occur, typically it is minor and subsides in a few days.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.

Other less often reported side effects are difficult to determine due to the individuality of each person’s biological system.  This is why professional permanent cosmetic technicians require a client history profile be filled out to assess different factors that may contribute to your experience after the tattooing procedure has been completed.

Question 25

Do The Pigments Pose Allergy Problems?

Accepted Answer

People can develop an allergy to anything, anytime; however, pigment allergies are considered rare. Some doctors recommend that people with environmental allergies or allergies to conventional makeup have permanent cosmetic procedures because they can replace cosmetic products that people are sensitive to.  While allergic reactions to any type of tattooing pigments on the body or on the face through permanent cosmetics may occur at any point in time, they are extremely rare.  Ask your technician if their pigments meet their local jurisdictional requirements.  Also, SPCP pigment suppliers are required to list the ingredients on their pigment labels

Question 26

Is There Any Possibility for Medical Problems?

Accepted Answer

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 disinfection and sterilization.Post procedural instructions, if followed carefully, will greatly reduce any risk. Medical problems associated with permanent cosmetics are often linked to poor attention to the required aftercare process on behalf of the client.Choose a time for procedures when you feel confident you can follow the simple, but very important after care instructions.

Question 27

Can I Still Have an MRI Scan?

Accepted Answer

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. However, with that said, it is prudent to advise your MRI technician that you have permanent cosmetics.

Question 28

Choosing a Permanent Cosmetic Artist Based on Price

Accepted Answer

Many people are price conscious when purchasing anything from groceries to homes. It’s normally prudent to be so. After all, why spend money you don’t have to? Competition is good; it keeps services from being available to only those in a particular income bracket. On the other hand, there are certain aspects of doing business that are more costly than others and that also supports many product prices. The lowest price is not always the same quality, or provided under the same controlled conditions as a price that has legal requirements, and/or health and safety elements factored in.
When looking for a permanent cosmetic artist, the consumer has a greater bit of homework to do than, for instance, looking at several dealers who offer the same automobile. This is your appearance, and some artist’s work will appeal to what you may be interested in more than others. You will also want to feel comfortable and assured that your health is not at risk. Needles and cross contamination of products and body fluids spread diseases if not handled in accordance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or similar Bloodborne Pathogens mandates.
From a legislative perspective, the general public has come to assume or depend on the government to require licensing or permitting (this language will vary per locale) for almost all consumer services. That is not necessarily a good position to take. There are many places that do indeed legislate permanent cosmetics, but some do so only from a health and safety perspective; technical training is not called out as a requirement in the law. While a few regions have legislation that include a technical training program curriculum, others do not. In other words, “Assume nothing”.
As an example of inconsistencies, the latest Microblading technique that has enjoyed widespread media exposure (Television, magazines, social media), many regions have not included Microblading in the language of their tattooing and permanent cosmetic laws. As a result, a person with literally no or little training (two-day classes are advertised frequently) can legally, in the absence of legislative language that includes Microblading, offer services under conditions not consistent with the requirements of traditional tattoo and non-Microblading permanent cosmetic artists in the same locale. One would wonder why? Good question, and this same question would apply to any region where permanent cosmetics are offered without legal oversight, regardless of the technique.
All tattooing compromises the skin by pricking it with a needle grouping to deposit pigment. So why not legally recognize Microblading as tattooing? Words such as semi-permanent, temporary, not as deep, not a tattoo, etc., all of which are confusing to the general public, have thrown some lawmakers off their game, so to speak. Currently, there are efforts to enlighten legislators who make these legal decisions, but the process is slow.
How does all this affect the average person looking for permanent cosmetic services? The price of the service, although important, should be secondary to other more important issues. The following is a list of considerations:

If your municipality has laws pertaining to permanent cosmetics, does the artist have evidence of compliance?
After scheduling a consultation with the artist:
Does she or he share your vision of what you expect from the service?
Were you able to effectively communicate with the artist?
Does the artist’s makeup appear nice to you?
Was the studio where the procedure will be conducted clean and esthetically pleasing?
Were you offered a form to review your medical profile to ensure you are a good candidate for the service?
Were you offered an informed consent form detailing out the service, the prices, the number of appointments that charge includes, and any possible side effects, and what to do in case of a medical problem?
During the consultation were you offered a review of the artist’s portfolio to determine how their work appears immediately after the procedure and then after healing?

Pricing of any product or service on the market is often overhead-driven, and for a service offering, it is definitely price supported by a time-based consideration. Consider beginning with the SPCP Industry Study Vision 2015 for a general idea of what professionals have responded to what they are charging for different services. This is a good place to start. https://www.spcp.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/SPCP_Vision_2015_Final.pdf
Prices will indeed, as they should and do for all products and services, vary from artist to artist and from location to location. Some work in a medical office and commissions may be required. Some artists have lower, and some have higher, overhead expenses. Some artists have extensive fundamental and continuing educational costs.
What the consumer should consider is 1. Can I afford a well-trained artist who meets legislative oversight mandates, and one I feel comfortable will meet my expectations? 2. If I look to doing business with a person who either has no location mandates for their service, and who has little or no training evidence (typically in the form of certificates of training documents), am I at risk for not having my expectations met, or worse, risking a resulting health condition? 3. What are the ramifications of and options for poor permanent cosmetic work?
Much like everything in life, good decisions are required to expect good results. Most importantly when it comes to permanent cosmetics, the consumer should factor in a “no regrets” accommodation and be insightful and reasonable when choosing an artist for their work.
Under the right conditions, permanent cosmetics are the best thing a person could decide to do for themselves. Under the wrong conditions, the opposite is true.

Question 29

How to Use the Lip Prep Products

Accepted Answer

Lip Scrub:  
- Use daily a week before their lips tattoo procedure. 
Apply to lips, rub lip together. Wait 2-3 mins and remove with a dry cloth or a warm washcloth. (I prefer the dry cloth so it leaves all the moisture in the lips)

Post Procedure: Wait 3 weeks to start us using daily and it helps replenish the suppleness to the lips.

Lip Prep & Heal:
 ** For melanin rich lips start using 3 weeks prior to procedure to suppress the tyrosinase that creates hyperpigmentation. 
STOP using 24 hits before procedure and resume use 3 weeks post procedure.

This can also be used on the face for PROCELL & MORPHEUS clients that are having issues with hyperpigmentation. Just apply daily before any other creams.

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