Frequently Asked Questions

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What are Permanent Cosmetics?
Permanent cosmetics describe non-surgical procedures that use specialized tattooing methods. Colored pigments are implanted into the Dermis (middle layer) of the skin through microscopic injections with an extremely fine needle or cluster of needles. This process is also called Micropigmentation, Microdermal Pigmentation, Dermagraphics, Intradermal Cosmetics, Dermal Implantation, or Micropigment Implantation. Permanent Makeup is the term used to describe the cosmetic tattooing of facial features (eyebrows, eyelids, or lips) to improve color and shape.

How are the procedures performed?
Cosmetic tattooing is performed in different ways using different types of equipment. The name of the device that holds the needle describes the application method. The categories of equipment and methods are as follows: Manual Hand Tool method (also called Manual or Non-Machine method); Coil Machine method (a smaller version of the traditional tattoo machine); Analog Pen or Rotary Machine method (most commonly used); and Computerized Digital Machine method (most sophisticated technology).

Is a Cosmetic Tattooing procedure painful?
Due to the invasiveness of the process, some people may feel minor discomfort that varies according to their pain threshold and response to anesthetics. People describe what they feel in different ways such as “irritation”, “scratching”, “vibration”, or “a slight burning sensation.” K. Bagrova uses medical grade topical anesthetic creams and gels before and during all procedures to numb the area and minimize discomfort. Most of her patients remark that their procedure was “far more comfortable than I thought it would be.” Overall, people feel the benefits from the results far outweigh any brief discomfort they might have experienced during the process.

Are the pigments that are used safe?
Permanent cosmetics utilize sterile pigments with cosmetic grade colorants that are approved by the FDA as safe for human use. Technically, the colored pigments used are suspensions containing insoluble inert compounds, usually iron or titanium oxides. The microscopic particles that appear to be dissolved are actually suspended in a clear liquid base of alcohol, distilled water, and glycerin. The traditional body tattooing process is different because it uses colored “inks” or “dyes” that are completely dissolved liquids with transparent color.

Are people allergic to the colored pigments?
Most of the pigments used for cosmetic tattooing are made to be hypo-allergenic. Studies have shown that acute (“immediate”) allergic reactions to these products are extremely rare. Delayed-hypersensitivity reactions (“delayed onset”) allergic reactions are also uncommon. Medical professionals believe that most “allergic reactions” are not reactions to the pigments. They believe a reaction is caused by a bacterial infection or an allergic reaction to a topical after care product.

May I choose my own colors?
Definitely. Colors and shades are custom-blended. However, should you later decide upon a different color, it can either be lightened, darkened, or even changed at that time. As an expert in the field, a different color choice may be recommended, based on a personal color analysis. Although the final color choice is yours, natural shades are recommended. With each procedure, only fresh and safe ingredients are used. Their rich and creamy pigments are of the highest quality and have an excellent reputation.

What will the final color look like?
Permanent makeup colors should be selected to compliment a person’s skin tone, hair, and eye color. A conservative approach is best because it is easier to make an existing color darker versus lighter. Colors will always look darker and more intense immediately following a procedure, and then gradually lighten and soften upon healing. For medical tattooing (e.g. scar camouflage or areola re-pigmentation), color spot testing is advised to determine the best custom combination of colors for the tattooed area. All reputable permanent cosmetic professionals will record the pigment(s) used for a client in her or his file for future reference.

Why is the color so dark right after the procedure?
When wet clothing is removed from a clothes washer, it looks darker than when it was dry. The same principle applies to permanent cosmetics. The pigments contain dry microscopic powder particles that are suspended in a clear liquid. As the body absorbs the liquid, the colored particles remain where they were implanted and gradually return to (“dry to”) their original powder color. In addition, the skin underneath the tattoo turns red and “flushed” from blood flow to the area during the process. The background redness contributes to the darker appearance and once the redness subsides, the color appears lighter.

How long do Permanent Cosmetics last?
The results are considered permanent because the tattooed color cannot be washed off. However, the color should be considered “semi-permanent” because some fading will occur over time. Color retention is affected by different factors including the shade of the original color, the person’s age and metabolism, skin type and condition, exposure to UV radiation (sun, tanning booths), smoking, certain drugs and medications, and skin peeling treatments such as Retin-A or microdermabrasion. In general, the color lasts from one to five years and can be enhanced and refreshed by a maintenance visit when needed (usually at a lower fee than the initial procedure when performed by the original artist).

What is a retouch?
During the initial procedure (first application), the tattooed area(s) will be saturated with as much color as possible. Due to swelling, there may be some areas where the tissue will no longer allow pigment to be implanted. Those areas will show less color after healing and may need another visit to be filled-in (a retouch). Because everyone’s tissue reaction is different, some clients will need a second visit while others will not. First, the tattooed area must heal before a refinement procedure can be performed. It is best to wait 2-5 weeks for complete tissue healing and color stabilization. Once the desired results are achieved, the client can keep the color looking fresh with a maintenance visit every few years.

Can I remove or change my Permanent Makeup?
The removal of permanent makeup is not an easy process, if at all possible. That is why it is important to select a qualified and experienced professional who has a conservative approach. During the initial application, a “less is more” philosophy works best. A lighter, more natural color can always be changed or supplemented later with conventional makeup. It can also be adjusted or darkened if necessary with another application at a second (touch-up) appointment. Shape can also be refined at a follow-up visit, but not drastically, so a good original design is a must.

What is the recovery period like?
Immediately following a procedure, there will be mild swelling, redness, or tenderness that lasts a few hours to a few days (eyebrows swell less than eyes and lips). There may also be slight bruising with lip procedures. The color looks much darker immediately afterward for any procedure. It will lighten a lot within 3 to 7 days and will continue to lighten over several weeks. During the first week ointments must be applied to the tattooed area for protection and to minimize scabbing. Most people are amazed at how “normal” they look immediately after and do not feel it is necessary to take time off of work.

How long does each procedure take?
Many important steps are followed when a procedure is done correctly. A well-trained and experienced permanent cosmetics specialist will take up to 2 hours or more for an initial appointment. It should include a consultation (if not done before) and a review of the person’s medical history. Time is then used for determining the best design, color selection, numbing, the actual procedure, photos, after care instructions, and answering all questions. Follow-up visits usually require less time.

Is a Cosmetic Tattooing procedure expensive?
Permanent cosmetics are affordable for most people, and the long term benefits make procedures fairly inexpensive. Other non-surgical procedures like Botox or fillers cost the same or more. But they may last for only three to twelve months while cosmetic tattooing lasts for years. The savings from not having to buy regular makeup products that are applied every day adds up quickly. Also, the convenience and time saved from not applying makeup every day are worth a lot, and the self-esteem that is restored by medical tattooing is priceless.