Frequently asked questions about permanent cosmetics
Is permanent makeup right for me?
People choose permanent makeup for a variety of reasons. Professionals enjoy the fact that permanent makeup saves them time every day. With permanent makeup you look beautiful the moment you get out of bed and you stay that way all day long. Busy women with active lifestyles enjoy makeup that doesn't run when they workout, play golf or swim. Individuals who work in laboratories or sterile environments in which makeup is prohibited enjoy the look that permanent makeup provides. Imagine dancing all night long and never having to worry about your makeup!
As we age our facial features begin to fade. Our lips are not as defined, our eyebrows become thinner, and our eyelashes are not as full. Permanent makeup is an excellent way to enhance these beautiful facial features. Many clients tell us that they feel years younger after their permanent makeup procedures.
How long does it last?
No, it does not last forever. 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 exposure to the elements are just a few factors that affect fade time.
Does it hurt?
It depends on what sort of anesthetic is used by your makeup professional. Many makeup artists who work in spas, beauty salons, or nail salons are not allowed by law to use the strongest anesthetics. At MPi Clinic all procedures are performed by Laura Rappoport, RN who is able to use the strongest, most effective anesthetics. This enables us to offer a comprehensive selection of anesthetics, including local, topical, transdermal and sedation solutions.
How long do the procedures take?
Procedure length varies from person to person. Generally they take 60-90 minutes.
What does a procedure involve?
Your first step will be to come into the office for a free consultation. You will meet with our knowledgeable staff members and discuss the procedures you are interested in and address any specific needs you may have. A patch test may be done at this time to determine sensitivity to pigment. On your procedure day you and the artist will select colors and discuss makeup application. Much time is spent drawing patterns for eyebrow and lip procedures. This pattern is very important and acts as a guide for the artist to follow while applying the permanent makeup. Each procedure includes a post-procedure visit that will occur 4-6 weeks after the original procedure. At this time, any areas that need to have some pigment added will be treated. Photographs will be taken before and after the procedure, then again after the final visit.
Will I be sore?
You will experience some discomfort after your procedure. Eyebrows swell minimally and remain red for approximately one day. Eyelids after eyeliner procedures can be swollen and red for 2-3 days. This is often alleviated with cold compresses. Lip procedures can result in swelling that lasts 4-5 days. This can also be relieved with cold compresses.
What will my permanent makeup look like?
Initially any pigment will look darker and harsher than it will be once healing is complete. Eyeliner will look almost black and lip color will be exaggerated. As your body goes through the healing process, tiny scabs will form along the areas where pigment was applied. This is what makes the pigment appear dark. As the layers of skin that were damaged during the application process start to die and slough off, they cover the pigment so that it appears that the color is faded or gone. After those layers completely slough off, the underlying pigment can be seen.
Are there any safety issues that I should worry about?
At MPi Clinic your safety and comfort is our highest priority. Procedures are performed in medical suites and we adhere to strict OSHA standards for safety and sterilization. Needles are NEVER reused.
How much does it cost?
As with any beauty enhancing procedure, the cost and quality of permanent makeup varies widely. Smart women understand that is is best not to skimp when it comes to having permanent cosmetics applied to the face and eyes. The few dollars you may save won't matter if you don't like the way you look. Choose your artist wisely. You will have to live with her work visible to the world for quite some time. Be discerning, ask a lot of questions, look at a lot of before/after pictures. Don't accept an artist with minimal credentials or no medical background, and certainly don't have permanent makeup applied at a day spa, hair or nail salon - that's just foolish.
Can I have permanent makeup if I have alopecia?
Yes! Many clients with alopecia tell us that having permanent makeup has changed their lives
Will permanent makeup affect my ability to have an MRI if I need one?
Here is what the FDA says. "There have been reports of people with tattoos or permanent makeup who experienced swelling or burning in the affected areas when they underwent magnetic resonanace imaging (MRI). This seems to occur only rarely and apparently without lasting effects."