Cosmetic Tattooing FAQs
What are permanent cosmetics?Permanent cosmetics is a method of implanting pigment or ink through the epidermis layer of the skin into the upper dermal layer of the skin to create a desired illusion of shape and color. Permanent eyebrows, eyeliner, and lip colors are three of the most popular permanent cosmetic procedures.
As I read more about permanent cosmetics I see it referred to differently. Just what is the actual process called?The implanting of pigment or ink in the skin is tattooing by definition. It is also referred to as permanent makeup, micropigmentation, or dermapigmentation. Permanent cosmetics, permanent makeup and cosmetic tattooing are the most common terms used when the artist is being up front about the service that they are offering. Permanent cosmetics are not medical procedures, as some seem to want to project in their presentation of the service. We prefer to call it cosmetic tattooing.
Is this a licensed profession in the state of Illinois?No, but as of July 1, 2007, all tattoo artists must be registered and certified by the Illinois Department of Health. In the meantime, you must rely on the experience and credentials of the artist you choose to provide your procedure services are very important. Ask to look at before and after photographs of work they have performed. Most professionals maintain a before and after photograph portfolio of clients that have consented to allowing their pictures to be shown.
I'm anxious about letting anyone else design my makeup, especially if it is permanent. What if I don't like the design or color after the procedure?At Perfection Dermagraphics you are in involved with important decisions concerning design and color. You will be provided with pigment colors to select from, all of which will be specifically chosen to be complimentary to your skin tone. You will be assisted when determining design work if you wish. Normally clients look for professional input. Your facial morphology (the shape of your face) will be taken into consideration when designing eyebrows, eyeliner and/or lip liner. Design work is of paramount importance to ensure the design that you ultimately approve suits your facial features and skin tone the best. You must approve all design work before proceeding with the tattoo. This is your procedure and it must meet your expectations.
Suppose eyebrow styles change?Your eyebrow shape will be based on your own preferences in combination with my suggestions for a classic shape that will remain in style and will not be affected by cosmetic surgery.
What if eyeliner goes out of styleIt is extremely difficult to find a period of history where the appearance of thicker, darker, eyelashes were unfashionable. With an eyelash enhancement procedure, your natural lash-line is enhanced for a fuller, more beautiful and natural look. This procedure is also very popular for men with light colored or sparse eyelashes. It provides wonderful eye definition. Thin, medium and wide top and bottom eyeliners are also very popular methods of decorating the eye area to project the illusion of larger and more dramatic eyes.
The key is to keep it simple. One can always add to an existing permanent design for more drama for those special occasions. The clients who enjoy their cosmetic tattooing to the fullest are those who choose a conservative approach to design and color.
What about people affected by allergiesMany people love permanent cosmetics because it replaces the topical makeup they may be sensitive to because of allergies to talc or perfumes or other ingredients in topical makeup. Contact lens wearers especially enjoy not having to worry about makeup becoming lodged under their lenses.
I have heard that this is a two or more step process. Why is that necessaryIt is necessary for several reasons. One reason is due to the condition of the skin. Each skin type is different. Some skin types are thicker and healthier and more pigment can be implanted in one session. Others are thinner and require less implantation in one session to maintain the integrity of healthy skin in the area. Also, fine details, additional color depth, or design adjustments are easily made after the initial healing is complete. A follow up visit is always scheduled if only to meet and discuss the healed outcome of the procedure, take a final photograph, and agree that no further work is necessary. (Many times, it is better to “go slowly” and add darkness of color or thickness of lines gradually.)
If this is permanent, why are future color refreshers (touchups) necessary?The major issues affecting the pristine appearance of your procedure is exposure to the sun, changing health conditions, medication, hormonal changes and the affects of skin products. At some point in time after your initial procedure, you will want to refresh the color. All color fades. If you put a red blouse out in the sun for a long period, it will eventually fade to pink. The sun, products used on the face to encourage accelerated skin cell renewal, and affects of medications and health conditions all affect the pristine appearance of permanent cosmetics over time. Usually clients return between one to five years for a color refresher. The time element between color refresher appointments is totally unique to each individual.
Is this considered a safe process?Yes, it is a safe process if conducted by a trained artist that follows the proper sanitation and sterilization principles set forth by OSHA and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). All of our artists attend annual classes on infection control and the “bloodborne pathogens standard.” To ensure the peace of mind of each of our clients, we open a sterile, manufactured sealed needle and tube in the client’s presence just before beginning the tattoo. We also place the used needle in a Sharps container after the procedure has been completed – needles can never be reused. All procedure accessories used are disposable single-use items.It is recognized that any invasive procedure is of a concern to the general public. By conducting tattooing in this manner, we feel our clients are assured their health and well being has been protected to the highest standards. After leaving our studio, it is then the client's responsibility to care for the tattoo in a manner that encourages normal healing.
Will I be uncomfortable during the procedure?Each person's response to this question will vary, as each client’s threshold to discomfort is different. This industry has benefited greatly from today's advanced technologies. We have excellent topical anesthetics, which normally reduces discomfort to a minimum.
How soon before I can resume normal activities?Usually the same day if they wish, although it is always recommended that clients return home and rest. Many times it feels very comforting to apply cool compresses or ice packs to the tattooed area(s.) Our procedures normally produce very little swelling and/or long lasting irritation to the surrounding skin. As a result, you may resume normal activities, as long as they do not have an adverse affect on the healing process such as excessive sun exposure, swimming, or exposure to a dirty environment. You will be provided with detailed aftercare instructions at the completion of your tattoo session.
Do I need a patch (pigment) test before I go forward with my procedure?We will conduct one upon request, but with reservation. This involves tattooing a small area of pigment in the skin often in an area where we will tattoo or hidden if necessary. This will likely not tell the true story about a predisposition to an allergic reaction. One can become allergic to their tattoos at any point in time, and more so, at least several months afterwards.
Also, we are not doctors and cannot “read” patch (pigment) test sites (diagnose.) Anyone who desires a reading of a patch (pigment) test must arrange to see his or her own physician for a true medical evaluation.The good news is that we only use pigments that have a very long track record for safety and performance. Since 1991, we have not had a report of an allergic reaction with our pigments.
Are there any restrictions or requirements of those seeking permanent cosmetic services?Yes, you must be 18 years of age. You will also need to answer health related questions and complete a consent form.. The prime concern is that you will heal well after the procedure. Those who have any condition that requires them to take an antibiotic prior to general dental cleaning or who is an insulin dependent diabetic will be asked to consult with their physician before proceeding. Anyone who has a history of fever blisters or cold sores and requests lip tattooing are required to contact their physician for an anti-viral medication to help prevent the occurrence of a breakout. Any trauma or extreme sun exposure on the lip tissue can result in an outbreak. We do not offer services to women who are pregnant or nursing.
Are there any suggestions for scheduling permanent cosmetic procedures?Because of the "fresh" appearance of a new cosmetic tattoo, it is suggested they are scheduled at a time two to three weeks before a special event such as vacation or an important social gathering. Also, due to the swelling properties of a full lip color tattoo, many people who work outside the home schedule this particular procedure when they have a couple of days off before they return to work. Other procedures do not produce concerning swelling, however it is generally recommended that a client return home immediately after the tattoo process to keep the area clean and to rest.
| ©2006-2008 Perfection Dermagraphics - All Rights Reserved
Perfection Dermagraphics is the oldest tattoo studio in the Chicago area to provide both custom tattooing and permanent cosmetics (permanent makeup). Located in Des Plaines Illinois, Perfection Dermagraphis has provided tattooing services in the greater Chicagoland area, and the surrounding northwest Chicago suburbs since 1991.
|
|