Permanent Cosmetic Procedure Q&A

Permanent makeup is considered micropigmentation, which is similar to a tattoo in that ink is injected just below the surface of the skin, but different in the way the procedure is performed.  It is also described as semi-permanent, lasting from between three to six years, as opposed to traditional tattoos which are considered permanent.

Permanent cosmetics are generally used on the face to improve the appearance of eyes (eyeliner), eyebrows (microblading), lips (color and lip liner) and even freckles.  It can also be used to give the illusion of fuller or thicker hair for those with alopecia, thinning hair, male or female baldness and for those who have experienced hair loss following cancer treatment.

Permanent cosmetics use a style referred to pointillism which uses a needle, smaller and thinner than that used by tattoo artists, to insert ink deeper below the skin than it would in a traditional tattoo, making the pigment less likely to spread.  The ink that is used is also closely matched to skin tone and hair color so, whereas a traditional tattoo is meant to stand out, the result of micropigmentation is more natural-looking. 

Anyone can benefit from permanent makeup, but people with physical limitations or medical conditions would make particularly good candidates. For example, people who have suffered a stroke or have arthritis, cataracts, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease may find that permanent cosmetics help them look their best without having the physical challenges involved in applying traditional makeup.

It could also offer an alternative to those allergic to traditional makeup, who are experiencing hair loss or who are seeking to restore their skin pigmentation such as areola re-pigmentation following breast surgery.

Some general after-care guidelines following a permanent cosmetic treatment include:

• Do not pick at or scratch the treatment area.  Use an ice pack wrapped in a towel if you experience any swelling or discomfort.
• Gently wash the area each morning and night using water and a gentle soap. 
• Avoid contact with direct sunlight for the first 10 days.
• Only touch the area with clean hands or sterile cotton wool.
• Keep the area clean and away from lotions and makeup for at least 5 days following the procedure.
• Avoid hot tubs, tanning beds, saunas, chlorinated pools, and salt water for a minimum of three weeks following treatment.
• Once healed, use a face cream that contains sunscreen and continue to stay out of direct sunlight whenever possible.
• Avoid the use of exfoliators on the treated area.
• Do not have facial treatments such botox, chemical treatments or microdermabrasion for 4 weeks
• Do not partake in hot, sweaty exercise for one week.
• Do not take long, hot showers for the first 10 days.
• Do not use makeup or sunscreen on the area.

These are general guidelines only; your provider will go through the specific after-care instructions they would like to you follow at the time of your procedure.

If you are interested in learning more about permanent cosmetic options, and whether they are right for you, contact us today!  At Jaudon Sunde, we have professional staff to give you the look you desire. Call us or visit us online to book an appointment. You’ll find us at Suite #1 – 18820 E. Bagley Road Middleburg Heights, OH 44130. We serve clients from Cleveland OH (Middleburg Heights), Strongsville OH, Parma OH, Lakewood OH, Brooklyn OH, and Maple Heights OH.