What is Cosmetic Tattooing/Semi Permanent Make Up?
Cosmetic Tattooing / Semi-Permanent Makeup / Micropigmentation, is the process of implanting color pigment beneath the surface of the skin by means of a tiny, sterile, disposable needle to produce the appearance of cosmetic makeup. The purpose of cosmetic tattooing is to enhance your features! Fading is desired as it allows me to make changes to colour and shape over the years as your natural coloration and facial changes organically occur.
Does Cosmetic Tattooing Hurt?
A highly-effective, topical anesthetic cream/gel are used for numbing before and during your procedure. Pain threshold levels vary from person to person and every effort is made to ensure you remain comfortable for the entirety of the procedure. At any time during the procedure we can stop if you are not 100% comfortable.
What are the pigments made of?
The color pigments come in a variety of colors specially formulated with iron oxide, an ingredient safe for the skin. I do not use pigments made from organic ingredients, such as vegetables, as they have a high risk of carrying bacteria and causing allergic reactions. Because color is implanted just underneath the dermal layer of the skin, the resulting shade is soft and muted, unlike regular cosmetic makeup that sits on the surface of the skin.
How long does Semi-Permanent Makeup last?
Results vary and can last 1-2 years before a top up is needed. Some clients refreshen as soon as 1 year. Frequency of touch-ups depends on a number of factors including: the pigment color used (lighter colors fade faster), lifestyle (sun exposure), iron deficiency (your body absorbs iron-oxide as a supplement), and if any chemical peels come into contact with treated areas.
Healed results will have a more blended/soft look and pigment retention will vary per individual. My pigment is iron oxide based (the safest and FDA approved) so if you have an iron deficiency, you may absorb the pigment faster. The tattoos lasting power really depends on your skin type, lifestyle, extreme sun exposure etc.
Touch-ups are normal for Semi-Permanent Makeup procedures. For the best results, the initial procedure will be followed by a free touch-up 6-8 weeks post. This allows for touch up of any small particles of pigment that may have fallen off during the healing process.
What should I do before my procedure?
Wear your regular glasses instead of your contact lenses. Do not wear mascara (especially water-proof mascara, because this is more difficult to remove, and doing so will cause the eyes to be more irritated and sensitive).
If you plan to go on a vacation, it is recommended to plan your trip a minimum of 10 days after the procedure. We also request our clients avoid prescription blood thinners (if possible) for 24 hours prior to their appointment. This also includes Vitamin E, Aspirin and Alcohol.
Note: To help prevent excessive bleeding, please refrain from consuming pain relievers/killers, fish oils, and blood thinners unless directed by your physician. Do not consume alcoholic beverages and caffeine the night before and the day of your tattoo. Please refrain from exercising before the procedure.
Do not apply glycolic acid, chemical peels, retinoids, exfoliators or any products that cause sensitivity to your skin 10 days prior to your appointment.
What should I expect at my appointment?
During your appointment, we will discuss your expectations and create the ideal shape/color you are looking to achieve. A mock up design preview will be done in pencil to give you an idea of how you will look after the procedure. Overall, we’ll be spending a good amount of time discussing your shape/color and what works best for your skin tone and face shape – it’s important we work together to make sure you look your finest!
For the best results, the initial procedure will be followed by a free touch-up 6-8 weeks post. This allows for touch up of any small particles of pigment that may have fallen off during the healing process. The average procedure time is about 2.0 – 2.50 hours, touch up is roughly an hour.
How will I look immediately after? What is the healing process?
Your semi-permanent makeup will appear darker and more dramatic for the first few days. They will gradually soften and lighten over the course of the week.
Your eyebrows will appear thicker and darker for up to 5 days post procedure until any scabs fall off. The area may also be reddish and tender, so be gentle with your skin during the healing process and continue to follow the aftercare instructions given.
What should I do after the procedure?
I will provide you with aftercare instructions following your procedure (please also see “Aftercare” tab). It is extremely important and highly beneficial to follow these instructions to ensure a comfortable healing process and to achieve the best results. The most essential aftercare is to keep the treated area moist, do not rub or pick the healing area as the color will peel off on its own, and avoid extreme heat and contaminated bodies of water (such as saunas, Jacuzzis, steam rooms, pools, lakes, places with hot humidity).
