Frequently Asked Questions

Q.   What is permanent makeup?

A.   Permanent makeup is a non-surgical micro-procedure known as Micropigmentation. Tiny droplets of custom blended colors are skillfully deposited into the dermal layer of the skin to simulate natural looking or well-defined makeup.   This process is a selective art form of traditional tattooing whereby the natural features of the face are enhanced and defined in the form of permanent eyebrows, eyeliner, eyelash enhancement, lip liner, and full lip color. The results are beautiful, immediate, and permanent!   A refreshingly, radiant yet natural look is achieved that cannot be duplicated by traditional cosmetics. Each treatment is as unique as the individual receiving it.

Permanent makeup is also used to camouflage scars (from surgeries, burns, etc.), to fill-in bald spots (due to receding hairlines, scars on the scalp, or hair implant procedures) and also for breast nipple/areola repigmentation (for breast cancer patients, breast enhancement or reduction patients, etc.)

Q.   Is permanent makeup safe?

A.  Yes. I perform all procedures with one-time disposable, sterilized supplies and follow strict sanitation and sterilization guidelines as required by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and OSHA regulations.  Superb instrumentation and topical anesthetics are now available making permanent makeup application a safe procedure.

Q.   Is infection possible?

A.   Even with a minor scratch infection is possible. However, there should be no major complications. You must keep the area clean and follow your after-care instructions carefully.

Q.   What color or shape should I choose?

A.   You have choices! There is an array of beautiful colors to choose from. Colors are custom blended then the shape and shading are designed to enhance your unique features.  I will draw the brow or lip shape on you and get your approval before beginning the procedure.

Q.   How long will the procedure take?

A.   The typical permanent makeup procedure will take one to two hours of which only a part of that time is actual tattooing.  Design work, time for the topical anesthetic to take effect and icing down after the procedure account for the remainder of time.  Four weeks after the procedure, a touchup or perfecting session can be scheduled. This touchup session is included in your initial fee.  

Q.   Is the procedure uncomfortable?

A.   In almost all cases, discomfort is minimal. Procedures are performed with the most effective topical anesthetics providing substantial numbing of the area to minimize any discomfort you may feel.

Q.   What can I expect after the procedure?

A.   Expect slight swelling and redness. Usually the swelling subsides within 48 hours. Initially, your permanent makeup will appear darker, brighter, and bolder than what it will ultimately heal to.  

Q.   How long will my permanent makeup last?

A.   Your permanent makeup should last for several years depending on your skin type and how well you care for it.  Over time, the color will soften, and you may desire to have the color refreshed.

Q.   Can I wear traditional makeup over my permanent makeup?

A.   Absolutely!   However, you will need to wait four weeks after your procedure to allow your permanent makeup time to heal.

Q.   Is it true that it is not safe to have an MRI if you have permanent makeup?

A.   Only a handful of people have reported minor problems around their permanent makeup sites during an MRI. According to www.mrisafety.com, “Based on these findings and information in the peer-reviewed literature, it appears that MR imaging may be performed in patients with permanent cosmetics without any serious soft tissue reactions or adverse events. Therefore, the presence of permanent cosmetics should not prevent a patient from undergoing MR imaging.”