Five things you need to know before getting permanent makeup
If your Facebook feed is anything like mine, then you’ve probably seen countless ads from salons promoting permanent makeup. Eyelash extensions or permanent mascara have been famous for a good while, but permanent lipstick, blush, eyeliner, and brows are just now steadily catching up, thanks to a string of celebrity endorsements. Imagine having a face worthy of the #IWokeUpLikeThis hashtag! And even if you don’t have the best skin, all you’ll need is a bit of foundation and concealer and you’ll be headed out the door in less than three minutes.
Sounds pretty amazing, but let’s not get too excited just yet. It’s a commitment that won’t wash off at the end of the day so before you decide to take the jump, here’s what you need to know about permanent makeup.
How does it work?
Permanent makeup is also called cosmetic tattoo because of its similarities to a regular tattoo. The way permanent makeup works is through micro-pigmentation, which involves using a needle to place pigments beneath the layers of skin. Unlike the traditional tattoo, it doesn’t go as deep, which is why fading occurs over time.
Imagine a lip color that will last through YEARS of eating and drinking! (Image via thetalko.com)
Will I be stuck with it forever?
Nope, it’s really more like semi-permanent makeup. Depending on the treatment, permanent makeup can last from six weeks (for lashes) up to five years (brows). Which is good, because then you’re allowed to change your mind! Who can tell what style of makeup would be hot for 2020?
If you like it, you can always go back to your salon for a touch up. If you don’t, then you can always count down the days or ask to have it removed. Just note that similar to tattoos, it’s easier to put them on than to remove them. So make sure that you’re committed to whatever you plan to have done and are not just riding on a trend.
Unless you can pull of a cat eye 24/7, best to keep your liner au naturel! (Image via lashroom.com.au)
What can I expect during the procedure?
It can cause some discomfort and pain; it’s a tattoo after all! However, a numbing cream would be applied beforehand to lessen the sting of the procedure. It’s very important that you maintain good communication with the aesthetician so you don’t end up with a look you’ll regret. If at any point you feel like the pain is too much to bear, feel free to ask for a break before resuming the process.
Depending on the treatment, some redness, soreness, and even scabbing is a possibility. Make sure that you follow your technician’s aftercare instructions such as applying topical antibacterial ointments, treating the area with Vaseline, and avoiding wetting your face immediately after the procedure. Makeup wipes should come in handy a few days post-appointment.
Not washing my face would be a serious struggle but sometimes we have to tiis-ganda.
It can cost a fortune.
No kidding. I was shocked to learn that permanent eyebrows could set me back up to P28,000! It’s a premium service that’s fairly new so the steep price tag is (kind of) justifiable. Besides, you want to make sure that the technician working on you has the proper qualifications, uses the best tools, and works in a hygienic environment. But like everything else, know that there are options for different budgets. Just make sure not to jump at the cheapest one you can find because there are risks involved.
Now your eyebrows can be really twins, not just sisters. (Image via popsugar.com)
Allergic reactions and infections are a possibility.
It’s really really REALLY important to do your research first. Permanent makeup can cause allergic reactions or serious infections, especially when you get it done in a less than reputable salon. A good place will take the time and effort to interview you not just about your preference, but also your medical history. If they don’t consult you at all before diving into the procedure, then that’s a red flag. Make sure to perform a patch test first so you know how your skin would react to pigments! And it goes without saying: never go to a salon that reuses their disposables like needles and gloves!
Take note: if the pigment used in your permanent makeup has iron oxide, then you need to notify your radiologist before an MRI scan due to the interactions between the magnetic field and the pigment. But iron oxides are still the best way to go because allergic reactions are fairly rare compared to vegetable dyes.
So there you go! I’m actually considering getting semi-permanent eyebrows (wait for it!) so I thought I’d share the fruits of my research in case we’re on the same boat. Have you ever considered going for permanent makeup? Why or why not?
