Have Questions? You’re in the Right Place
1 What is Permanent Makeup?
It is commonly used to enhance eyebrows, eyelids, and lips by improving color, shape, and definition.
2 Are Permanent Makeup procedures safe?
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), permanent makeup procedures are considered safe when the technician is properly trained in bloodborne pathogen control and follows all OSHA safety guidelines.
3What is Medical Permanent makeup?
Medical permanent makeup is a specialized area of cosmetic tattooing designed for clients with medically related conditions.
Examples include:
- Surgical scars
- Breast reconstruction
- Trauma scars
- Certain skin conditions
These techniques help restore color, symmetry, and confidence.
4How are the procedures performed?
Permanent makeup procedures are performed using specialized cosmetic tattoo equipment. Techniques may include:
- Digital machines
- Rotary machines
- Coil machines
- Microblading tools
The method used depends on the procedure area and the client’s skin type.
5Is Permanent Makeup painful?
Most clients experience minor discomfort, which varies based on individual pain tolerance and response to numbing agents.
Sensations are often described as:
- Scratching
- Vibration
- Mild irritation
- Light burning sensation
6Are Permanent Makeup pigments safe?
Permanent Makeup Creations uses sterile, cosmetic-grade pigments approved by the FDA for use in cosmetics.
These pigments are typically suspensions of iron or titanium oxides in a liquid base. This differs from traditional body tattoo inks, which use dissolved dyes.
7 Can someone be allergic to Permanent Makeup pigments?
Most permanent makeup pigments are formulated to be hypoallergenic.
Allergic reactions are extremely rare, and delayed reactions are uncommon.
8What will the final color look like?
Permanent makeup colors should be selected to complement a person’s skin tone, hair, and eye color. A conservative approach is best because it is easier to make an existing color darker versus lighter. Colors will always look darker and more intense immediately following a procedure, and then gradually lighten and soften upon healing.
9Why does the color look so dark right after the procedure?
Immediately after treatment, pigment appears darker due to:
- Moisture in the skin
- Redness from increased blood flow
As healing progresses and the skin absorbs moisture, the color softens and lightens. Visit our Permanent Makeup Aftercare page and learn more.
10How long does Permanent Makeup last?
Permanent makeup is considered long-lasting but semi-permanent.
Fading occurs gradually over time and is influenced by:
- Skin type
- Sun exposure
- Lifestyle
- Medications
- Skincare products
Touch-ups help maintain color and shape.
11The national average time span between touchups is said to be 3-6 years for eyebrows and eyeliner, 6-10 years for lips.
Occasionally a person can be found who has had their permanent makeup over 10 years, but it is a rare occasion. There are other people who need a touchup after a couple of years. Lighter colors fade faster than darker colors.
Permanent makeup lasts longer on older women because they aren’t out playing in the sun as much, and their cellular turnover rate is slower. The bright side to “Permanent” Makeup fading off is that it makes it easier to change color, shape, and placement over the years. There are many factors that can reduce the average time, such as humidity, sun, facial peels, etc.
12How many applications are needed?
Most clients require two applications for optimal results.
The second session is typically scheduled 6–8 weeks after the initial procedure.
Some clients may require an additional session depending on healing.
13What is a touch-up appointment?
A touch-up allows the technician to:
- Reinforce color
- Correct areas affected by swelling
- Refine the final result
Touch-ups are performed after complete healing and color stabilization.
14What should I expect during recovery?
Mild swelling, redness, or tenderness is normal and usually resolves within a few days.
Color will appear darker initially and soften significantly during the first week.
Most clients do not need time off work.
15
How long does each permanent makeup procedure take?
Many important steps are followed when a procedure is done correctly. A well-trained and experienced permanent cosmetics specialist will take a minimum of 2 to 4 hours or more for an initial appointment. It should include a consultation (if not done before) and a review of the person’s medical history. Time is then used for determining the best design, color selection, numbing, the actual procedure, photos, after care instructions, and answering all questions. Follow-up visits usually require less time.
16Will Permanent Makeup continue to look good as I age?
It is true that as we age, our skin and its elasticity changes. However, there are many older women who look good wearing conventional makeup as long as it is correctly applied. Those women would look just as good with correctly applied permanent makeup.
17Can I have an MRI procedure after cosmetic tattooing?
Yes. Most people experience no issues during MRI procedures.
In rare cases, mild temporary sensations may occur due to microscopic iron particles in pigments, but studies show this is uncommon.
18Why does permanent makeup fade faster than body tattoos?
Permanent makeup fades more quickly due to:
Thinner facial skin
Sun exposure
Skin cell turnover
Cosmetic and anti-aging products
This gradual fading allows styles to be updated over time.
19What should I expect afterwards?
The color will oxidize immediately after the procedure and look “too dark”. It is not recommended to schedule Permanent Makeup immediately before major events. Wait 7 days for eyeliner and brows and 10 days for any lip procedures. The area will be tender and swollen for a few days.
20Can Permanent Makeup be adjusted or refreshed over time?
Yes. Permanent makeup can be refreshed, adjusted, or enhanced as it naturally fades over time. Touch-up appointments allow for color reinforcement, minor shape refinements, or updates to better suit changes in facial features, preferences, or style.
21What kind of education must technicians receive to do this kind of procedure?
While bloodborne pathogen training is required, well-trained technicians complete advanced education in color theory, hands-on clinical experience, and accredited post-secondary programs.
22Why do some people not want bottom eyeliner?
Clients think the “uplift” they get from the top eyeliner is enough. A lot of times it isn’t. A soft bottom liner will further enhance the eyes.
23Do I need to take time off from work?
Sometimes the procedure causes temporary swelling, redness and in rare cases, bruising. Most people do not need to take time from their employment and some people have their touchups done on their lunch hour while others prefer to take a day to recover.
24What if styles change?
We never do anything “trendy.” For example, instead of tattooing an extended tail, it is better to draw it on with makeup.
25How should I prepare for my Permanent Makeup procedure?
Clients with a history of cold sores or fever blisters must obtain an antiviral prescription prior to lip procedures.
Please also refer to the Pre-Care page for detailed preparation instructions.
Text or call Karen at
(904) 945-6144
I answer 7 days a week.
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