Transform and enhance

~What is “Permanent Cosmetics”?

Permanent Cosmetics, also referred to as micro-pigmentation, cosmetic tattooing or dermal-pigmentation, is a process whereby completely natural pigments are implanted beneath the epidermis (top layer of skin), into the dermal layer (second layer of skin), by micro insertion. This technique has been medically developed and specifically designed for a safe permanent application. 

~Does the procedure hurt?

This may vary according to each individual’s pain threshold, some can not tolerate a single hair being tweezed while others don't even notice at all. In either case 
topical anesthetics are used to numb the area and minimize discomfort. 
Most people describe an extreme tickling to a mild pricking sensation at the beginning of the procedure but because of the continued use of topical numbing agents describe that they feel nearly nothing as the procedure goes on.

~ Who would benefit from Permanent Cosmetics?

Those who:

Want to save time each day.
Have sparse, or very light eyebrows.
Are allergic to cosmetics.
Have ultra-sensitive eyes.
Have sparse lashes.
Have visual limitations.
Have unsteady or arthritic hands.
Often engage in strenuous activity.
Want the convenience of make-up that won’t smudge, smear or wear off.

~How long does each procedure take?

Times vary according to the individual’s sensitivity, hydration, density, elasticity, and overall condition of the skin. 

Allowing time for anesthetics to take effect, implanting of the pigment, 
and some final fine tuning of the procedure, average time for the initial 
visit is as follows:

1.5-2 hours for most permanent makeup first time visits and about half for follow up appointment.

~How many appointments will be necessary to achieve the look I want?

1-3 total visits and on average just two.

Four to six weeks after the initial application, a follow-up visit may be 
required to perfect the lines or color.

There is no additional charge for this followup appointment.  On occasion if  the original goal is a BOLD look, if there are changes in the desired outcome or for reasons only nature can dictate there is a need for a third visit, there is a SMALL additional fee. (this is the case for the first 12 months after your first visit

~How long will my permanent makeup last?

Micropigmentation lasts a long time, but not forever. As you become accustomed to your new makeup, it’s not uncommon to want more. You will want to freshen up your new make up as time goes on. The darker the color, the longer it will stay unchanged in your skin. Natural, delicate colors are oftentimes more vulnerable to the effects of sun, swimming, facial skincare chemicals and breakdown by body’s natural response.

~What is involved with recovery?

There may be slight swelling or redness in the skin, but not usually. You may resume your normal activities immediately after the procedures. However you will want to limit exposure to sun, water and excessive sweating for a few days. Complete healing takes 14-20 days while pigmentation matures and reaches its final color. Health indications play a part in pigment retention, as well as how careful the aftercare instructions are followed during the healing process. You will be given post care instructions and Vitamin A & D ointment skin protectant.

~Are there precautions I should take before I get a permanent makeup procedure?

With the lips if you suffer from Herpes simples and cold sore blisters, we demand that you obtain an antiviral  prescription from your physician and begin taking them two days prior to the procedure (5 days total)

~Is it safe?

I have earned extensive experience as a Permanent Cosmetic Tech and Instructor. So I can assure you that I'm very well apprised of proper sanitary conditions for performing these procedures. I use only disposable, single use supplies and clean the facility with hospital grade sanitizers. Each time a client returns for a procedure, brand new products are used and when they leave everything is broken down and thoroughly sanitized.

~Can I still have an MRI?

Numerous studies have shown that there is little to no potential for irritation resulting from an MRI. After a lot of research, I discovered a company that makes pigments that were designed just for permanent cosmetic procedures. These pigments were designed to be true in color, not change under the skin, and especially contain no iron oxides that most other pigments on the market have in them. It is the iron in the iron oxide that concerns the radiologist about performing a procedure using magnets.

~I have seen a range of prices for permanent makeup. Why is that, and who should I choose? Permanent Makeup is an art. As permanent makeup artists’, we have had years of training and experience refining our artistic skills, and continue to attend advanced training to stay current with the latest advancements in permanent makeup.  We believe our work speaks for itself and while price can be an important part of your decision process, it certainly shouldn’t be the deciding factor. The length of time someone has been performing permanent makeup is not alone an indicator of the quality of his or her work. You may consider saving for a while to go to the artist that has demonstrated their skills with good before and after photos. Having the work done well the first time is much less expensive than having the work done poorly and then having correction work performed. Correction work can take months and involve multiple appointments resulting in fees adding up to $1,000 or more, depending on the number of appointments needed. We are confident in our prices and our work.

What if I want to change my makeup? Change it! You can put any color makeup over it. Cosmetics may be applied over your permanent makeup for color variety. Some clients choose to apply a layer of conventional makeup to achieve a more dramatic effect for nighttime events. The choice is yours!

~What can I do to improve my results? 

Plan ahead!  Certain prescription medications, retinol use, alcohol consumption, some dietary supplements, many over the counter medications and rare health related issues can cause thinner skin/blood and interfere with the results of your permanent makeup.  This does not mean you can not get your procedure.  Simply obtain from these for a few days prior and if prescription, ask your Doctor if you can pause your medication safely.  

The following medical conditions  do not mean you cannot receive permanent makeup it just means you require special consideration before permanent makeup procedures. Clients with any of these conditions should contact their physician to determine if it will be safe to have a permanent cosmetic procedure. In some cases the cosmetic tattoo artist will ask for a physicians release.

* Diabetes. Healing could be compromised, higher risk of infection. 

* Uncontrolled Glaucoma. Increased intraocular pressure combined with pressure placed on the eye to apply eyeliner could be damaging. 

* Bleeding Disorders. Blood disorders that affect clotting such as hemophilia, sickle cell anemia, platelet disorders. 

* Mitral Valve Prolapse, Artificial Heart Valves, Artificial Joints. Any condition that requires prophylactic antibiotics before dental or other procedures will need to take them before micropigmentation also. 

* Herpes Simplex. People who get fever blisters / cold sores may experience an outbreak after lip procedures. Antiviral prescription should be taken. 

* Pregnancy. Procedure should be postponed. Some medications are not to be used while pregnant. If you were to have a problem, this is not a good time to have it. Skin tones are also a little different while pregnant.

* Keloid or Hypertrophic Scarring. Persons with tendencies for this type of scarring have that risk with tattooing also. 

* Use of certain Medications. Accutane / Retin-A, topical steroids can make skin fragile. Physician strength meds / treatments that affect the dermal layer of the skin can affect the permanent make-up. OTC meds / treatments that only affect the epidermis and are not much concern. Anticoagulants (blood thinners), long-term use of aspirin, ibuprofen, and some herbs reduce clotting time resulting in increased bleeding and bruising.

* Heart conditions, Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure, Poor general health. 

* Any treatment, medication, or illness that compromises the immune system / healing would make you NOT a good candidate for micropigmentation procedures.

* Lips that have been injected with fillers may not hold color well and due to many other potential health and artistic complications from the fillers, I will not apply permanent lip color on clients that have lip fillers.