The decision to have a permanent makeup procedure done often includes research on the procedure itself, as well as cost, results, artists, and more. Below, we answer some of the most common permanent makeup questions that we received so you can make an informed decision.
IS COSMETIC TATTOOING PAINFUL?
Many people who consider receiving a permanent makeup tattoo procedure are concerned that it will be painful, especially since many procedures are done on sensitive parts of the body such as the lips and eyelids. Luckily, a topical anesthetic applied by a knowledgeable professional can prevent most if not all of the pain involved as well as decrease swelling, allowing for a pleasant and quick process. The topical ointment is generally applied about 20 minute before the procedure, and your artist will ensure the medication has set in before they begin.
HOW SOON CAN I GO BACK TO WORK AFTER GETTING A PERMANENT MAKEUP TATTOO?
How soon one can return to work depends on the procedure done. Generally, we have noticed professionals like to have their permanent eyebrow tattoo procedures done on a Friday or Saturday and return to work on Monday with no issues. Permanent lip liner can take a bit longer to feel comfortable, and people usually like to take 3-4 days to heal before going back to work.
HOW LONG DO THE PROCEDURES TAKE?
While the actual tattooing does not take much time at all, the entire process can take about 2 to 3 hours, including paperwork, before and after photographs, the drawing of the permanent makeup with a makeup pencil, any necessary adjustments, and so on. Touch-up procedures take much less time, and are only needed every 1-3 years, depending on colour, sun exposure, after care, etc.
WHAT IS THE COST ASSOCIATED WITH THESE PROCEDURES?
Generally, procedures range from $400-$800, but the cost can be higher depending on the artist you choose. At Novaline Permanent Cosmetics, we are happy to answer any questions you may have about pricing over the phone or through our website.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS INVOLVED WITH PERMANENT MAKEUP TATTOOS?
Permanent makeup tattoos, like all tattoos, do carry some minor risks since small incisions are being made to the skin. This is why it is crucial to work with a true professional artist who follows all the hygiene procedures meticulously and has the skill and knowledge to provide what you’re looking for. Be sure to read online reviews, ask for referrals from people you may know whose work you like, and look for artists who are SPCP certified.
WHAT IF I DON’T LIKE MY PERMANENT MAKEUP TATTOO?
Unfortunately, this can certainly be an issue, especially if you choose an artist who does not have the necessary skills and experience. Once the tattoo has healed, minor colour adjustments can possibly be made, as well as shape adjustments. If you would like your permanent makeup tattoo significantly changed or removed, search for someone in your area who has an abundance of experience in fixing permanent makeup tattoos. At Novaline Permanent Cosmetics, we have fixed countless tattoos and would be happy to consult with those who need tattoo correction.
If you have any additional questions about permanent makeup tattoos, feel free to give us a call anytime at 647-883-6251.
If you’d like to make permanent makeup your career, you can learn more about our permanent makeup training here.
WHAT IS PERMANENT MAKEUP?
Permanent makeup (also known as Micro Pigmentation) consists of implanting natural pigments under the superficial layers of the skin by means of a small, sterile micro-needle, to create lasting cosmetic definition of the lips, eyes, and eyebrows. Micro Pigmentation can also be used correctively, in areas where hair or colour is missing.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM PERMANENT MAKEUP?
If you are allergic to traditional makeup, are physically active, have sparse, thin or faintly coloured eyebrows and lashes or have a problem with applying or smearing of traditional makeup. Permanent makeup may also be used to camouflage scars and correct skin discolorations such as vitiligo. Individuals with alopecia (abnormal hair loss) and recovering cancer patients can benefit from cosmetic or reconstructive tattooing.
DOES IT HURT?
This may vary according to each individual’s pain threshold. Topical anaesthetics, especially designed for permanent make up are applied before and during the procedure and reduce the discomfort greatly.
WHAT IS THE RECOVERY TIME?
For between four to six hours, the area treated will be slightly reddened and a bit swollen. The eyelids can remain puffy for 24 to 48 hours in about fifty percent of cases. Immediate use of ice gel packs will greatly reduce and sometimes eliminate swelling. The lips stay swollen for about three days. The eyebrows have minimal swelling. For approximately 5-7days, the permanent makeup appears somewhat obvious, dark, and intense. By day seven, the top layer of the skin will flake and peel, leaving the color softer. Do not alarm by fading after the first application. The second appointment is to penetrate and lock the color into the dermal layer of the skin.
HOW LONG DOES PERMANENT MAKEUP ACTUALLY LAST?
Permanent makeup fades more rapidly on the face than on the body as it is permanently exposed to daylight. Ideally, the color should be touched-up every two or three years depending on how well the pigment holds. The fading process varies from individual to individual according to body chemistry and lifestyle. With some people, permanent makeup fades after a year while with others there is no change after ten years. Usually light color fades faster than a dark color. Post procedure touch-up is highly recommended, because it helps the ability to retain the color.
IS IT SAFE?
Yes, if it is done in accordance with Safety Standards. Our Studio strictly follows Public Health Guidelines. This includes: brand new single use sterile needles removed from their packaging in view of the client and are discarded after each use into an approved sharp container. All supplies required for micropigmentation are single use as well and assembled and set up immediately prior the procedure. All parts of the equipment that can not be disinfected or discarded are covered with single use plastic film barrier. New disposable mask and apron are worn, gloves are new and clean for each client and changed during the procedure as needed. All of this precautions insure everyone’s safety.
HOW LONG DOES A PROCEDURE TAKE?
It takes one hour and a half or two hours to apply the color. A full face procedure takes 4-5 hours. The pre procedure process or consultation takes extra half an hour when we discuss the result you wish to achieve selecting the appropriate style, shape and color, that match to your skin tone, hair and eye color, measuring the proportions of your face, adjusting asymmetry of the features and perfecting the lines drawing on. The master in colour analysis and makeovers Yelena artistically choose the exact color and design that suit your best and harmonize with your personality.
WHAT PRODUCTS ARE USED?
We use best on the market the exclusive line of the pigments, that is dermatologist tested and hypoallergenic. From deliciously warm to seductively cool colors, the pigments are formulated specifically for lips, brows, eyeliner/eyeshadow, camouflages and areolas. All colors have been implanted into the skin for many years. Medical grade topical anaesthetics are used to ensure clients comfort.
PRE-PROCEDURE INSTRUCTIONS
Be prepared for color intensity of your procedure to be brighter and darker than what is expected for approximately 5-7 days. Since the treated area may swell or slightly redden, it is advised not to make social plans for the same day. If you are having the eyeliner procedure and wearing contact lenses bring the prescription glasses with you. You may return to wearing your contact lenses as soon as your eyes return to normal conditions. Also it is important to wear sunglasses, as your eyes may be temporary sensitive to light.
If you having lip procedure and having history of cold sores or fever blisters, you must take an anti-viral drug such as Valtrex or Zovirax 5 days prior and 5 days after the treatment or as your physician prescribes. Also application of Zovirax cream on lip area 3 days before and 5 days after procedure helps to prevent a break out.
Do not schedule a procedure right before or during menstruation because you may be more sensitive at that time.
If you allergic or have sensitive skin, it is best to have a spot allergy test done one week before procedure.
It is important do not take Aspirin, Plavix or any other blood thinners at least 10 days prior the procedure.
No Alcohol or Caffeine 24 hours prior the treatment.
Any tweezing or waxing, eyelash/eyebrow tinting should be done at least 48 hours before or two weeks after the procedure.
Eat before a procedure so that you will be comfortable.
Get a good night’s sleep the night before.
CAN I HAVE PERMANENT MAKE UP DONE IF I AM DIABETIC?
Yes, in most cases diabetics can have permanent makeup done. Diabetics are known to sometimes have difficulties with healing so proper after care is important. It is always wise to consult with your physician as things may vary with each person and their health condition.
IS THERE ANY AGE LIMIT ON MICRO PIGMENTATION?
No, there is no age limit on any procedure, however it is better to be over 18 years old making a decision to have this done.
POST PROCEDURE INSTRUCTIONS
Proper care following your procedure is necessary to achieve the best results. Ice packs protected with the cloth may be applied to reduce swelling.
Keep the treated area moist by applying Antibiotic, A&D ointment or Vaseline 5 times a day with the sterile Q-tip.
Artificial tears such as Visine may be used.
Wash your hands before touching any treated area.
Put ointment on before and after showers. You can refresh the treated area with cool water, tissue dry and reapply A&D ointment.
No soaps, cleansing creams, makeup, chemicals may be applied to the treated area. No hot steamy showers, sauna, Jacuzzis or swimming in chlorinated pools.
Do not expose your healing skin to direct sun or tanning beds.
Use a good sun block to help protect the color.
Do not apply glycolic acids, bleaching creams, AHA acids, Retin-A directly on the pigmented area after your procedure or after you are totally healed.
Do not pick, peel or scratch the treated area, because the color may heal unevenly with the risk of scarring and infections.
Flaking will continue for about 2 weeks and the color settles in the skin in about 4-6 weeks after the initial procedure. Follow up appointment recommended at this time and helps to penetrate and lock the depth of color into the dermal layer of the skin permanently.
