FAQ's About Permanent Makeup
What is permanent makeup?
Permanent Makeup, also known as Micropigmentation, is a specialized method of implantation of hypo-allergenic pigments into the upper layer of the dermis through microscopic injections with an extremely fine needle or cluster of needles.
Is permanent makeup the same as a tattoo?
No, different techniques, equipment, and pigments are used. Permanent makeup implants pigment into upper layer of the dermis, tattoo pigment is implanted much deeper into the skin. The main difference between permanent makeup and an ordinary tattoo is the pigment used. Permanent makeup uses oxide-based minerals, which are hypoallergenic. Tattoo ink is unsuitable for use on the sensitive skin of the face.
Is permanent makeup safe?
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Permanent Makeup is safe when the technician is educated in the control of Blood Borne Pathogens and follows all OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) guidelines. I have successfully completed Blood Borne Pathogens Training, and I follow all of CDC and OSHA Guidelines for Permanent Cosmetics. To minimize the risk of infection, I maintain stringent standards of hygiene. All needles are single-use disposable cartridges. Your health and safety are the priority!
Are the products used during the procedure discarded afterward?
The tattooing equipment used should have parts that are completely disposable or can be autoclaved. If an autoclave is used, it must be functioning properly at the correct temperature with periodic testing. All needles should be individually wrapped, sterile, disposable, and for single use. All pigments and anesthetics should be dispensed from the manufacturers’ original containers. The procedure area should be sanitary with hand washing capabilities (running hot and cold water, soap, paper towels). Any products used during the procedure should be discarded afterward every time. I use a digital permanent makeup machine that utilizes needles that are completely disposable. No autoclave is required because of the ‘one procedure’ standard built into the digital machine and supplies.
Are the pigments safe?
I use only Nouveau Contour pigments. Nouveau Contour guarantees by stringent quality control only the best, highest quality colorants are used. All pigments are hypoallergenic, comply with the legal requirements regarding the commodity act and are approved by the Municipal Health Services. The Patch Test is always provided during the consultation in order to identify any possible allergies to the pigments used during the permanent makeup/tattoo procedure.
Will the procedure hurt?
While some people feel no discomfort at all, others may find the procedure a little uncomfortable. Topical anesthetics are used prior to and throughout the treatment in order to alleviate any discomfort.
How much does permanent makeup cost?
The average cost per procedure varies but usually averages between $350-$800. The cost of the procedure should not be the most important issue when consulting a potential permanent cosmetic professional. Most important is the training and skill of the person performing the procedure and the confidence of the client in that skill.
How long will the procedure take?
Procedure time varies depending on the area of application and how much work needs to be done. The average procedure will take anywhere from 1-3 hours. A touch-up procedure lasts about 1 hour.
What color or shape should I choose?
You have choices! There is a variety of beautiful colors. I will draw the brow on you and get your approval before beginning the procedure. I select permanent makeup colors to compliment a person’s skin tone, hair, and eye color.
What do I have to do before my appointment?
Please be sure to read the Before & After Care section in the menu above.
Are there any side effects during or after the procedure?
While eyebrows may show little after effect, eyeliner may show slight to moderate swelling. Also, some people swell more from minor skin infractions than others. During the procedure there may be some minor bleeding. This again, is client specific. Bruising is rare but if a person is on blood thinners, bruising could occur. If bruising occurs, typically it is minor and subsides in a few days. There is usually some tenderness for a few days.
How long will permanent makeup last?
Permanent makeup may last many years, however, the average longevity varies between 6 months to 2 years. The longevity of color depends on a person’s age, skin type and condition, aftercare treatment, sun, and other external factors. It is recommended that clients return for a color refresher procedure every 18 months.
What is a Touch-Up appointment?
The touch-up appointment is considered to be the second visit with me for the same procedure only. Usually it is performed 6-12 weeks after the original procedure. Touch-up is necessary for perfecting the result in case if any minor color or shape imperfection takes place.
How many appointments are necessary for a procedure?
Normally two appointments are needed per procedure; initial procedure and one touch-up. A 6-12 week touch-up appointment will be made for a final result.
Can I wear traditional makeup over my permanent makeup?
Yes, after the treated area is completely healed!
Will you shave my eyebrow hair?
No! However, you can continue to wax or tweeze like normal after the brow is healed.
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). There may also be slight bruising. The color looks much darker immediately afterward for any procedure. It will lighten 30-50% after the healing is complete. The final result can be seen not sooner than 4-6 weeks.
What are Christina's credentials?
I have my certification for Micropigmentation in brows, eyes, and lips from Nouveau Contour, as well as her Hybrid Brow certification from Nouveau Contour. I am also certified in Bloodborne Pathogens and Communicable Diseases, as well as First Aid.
Am I a candidate if I am pregnant or nursing?
If you are pregnant or nursing you will need to wait until a later date.