Does It Hurt?

All procedures are performed with the use of topical anesthetics in order to ensure a more comfortable client. Topical anesthetics are used to anesthetize the skin prior to the procedure. Allow at least 30 minutes for the anesthetic to take effect. The anesthetics we use are very effective. Lips tend to be more sensitive because it is a muscle and therefore much more difficult to anesthetize. After the procedure is completed, clients usually remark that their eyelids are sensitive to touch and are red for 24 to 48 hours. Eyebrows are slightly reddened, but don't seem to be sensitive to touch post-procedure. Lips, however, remain sensitive and swollen for several days.

Is It Safe?

The pigments used are FDA approved and have been specially formulated for cosmetic applications like this. They are iron oxides and should not be compared with skin dyes like those used in traditional tattooing. The needles are sterile, pre-packaged, and one-time use only. Gloves are worn throughout the procedure and every effort is taken to ensure good aseptic practices.

How long does it take?

In terms of the length of time for the procedure, this will vary depending upon many different skin features such as hydration, density, and elasticity. Certain procedures of this nature will obviously take more time than others, but all are relatively between 1 and 3 hours.

1 + hours for eyeliner

1-2 hours for eyebrows or lipliner

2 + hours for full lip color

These times are in addition to the amount of time required for the anesthetic to take effect.

How many appointments will be necessary?

Four to six weeks after the initial application, a follow-up visit may be required to perfect the lines or color. This visit does not require as much time as the initial procedure.

There is no additional charge for this visit.

Are Permanent Cosmetics truly permanent?

Permanent makeup never washes off or smears. Although it can soften through the years, the pigment will remain in the skin forever. A variety of factors influence the longevity of Permanent Cosmetics. Colors will last from two to ten years, and will vary based on colors chosen, skin type, and compliance with after care instructions. Touch-ups will be necessary every few years in order to maintain a "fresh" look. In order to prolong the life of the procedure, it is essential that a sun block be applied over the permanent make-up area any time that you are exposed to the sun or a tanning bed. Also, chlorine is a bleach and continuous exposure can "fade" pigment. Many skin rejuvenation products and processes such as Retin-A, Alpha-Hydroxy, laser resurfacing, chemical peels and micro-dermabrasion can also cause premature fading of pigment. These kinds of substances slough away the top layers of skin and eventually the layer in which the pigment has been implanted. Cigarette smoking will also affect the longevity of the pigment.

Are there any precautions I should take before a procedure?

Only with the lips. If you have ever had fever blisters, the County Health Department rquires that you obtain a prescription for Zovirax or Valtrex capsules from your physician and begin taking them two days prior to the procedure (5 days total). Also, to lessen inflammation, Benadryl is recommended the morning before and the evening following the procedure.

Clients with certain medical conditions may require special consideration.

Am I Too Old For Permanent Cosmetics?

As long as you are over the age of 18, age is not a criterion for determining the appropriateness of a person for permanent cosmetic procedures. Many mature clients seek permanent cosmetic procedures. As a woman ages, she may lose part or all of her eyebrows, her vision may have deteriorated to the point where she may be unable to artfully apply her make-up, or she may be physically unable to apply her make-up.

What are the Contraindications for Permanent Make-up?

• pregnancy
• clients with high blood pressure conditions (until cleared by their physician)
• clients with implants (until cleared by their physician)
• clients with auto-immune disorders (until cleared by their physician)
• Clients scheduled to undergo a surgical procedure
• Clients with Diabetes, freckles on the lip line, and variegated lips are not good candidates for Lip procedures