TheSoko.com - The Art Of Permanent Makeup

The Art Of Permanent Makeup

By Jessica Bianchi

[Beauty]

What are the risks involved in having a permanent cosmetic procedure? Jessica Bianchi looks into the fad of putting your best face forward, permanently.

Are you tired of the endless process of applying and removing your makeup? Is your skin sensitive to many of the cosmetic products sold on the market? Today, the trend of cosmetic tattooing, or permanent makeup, is gaining popularity. Cosmetic tattooing is a procedure that deposits colour pigment to the upper layer of skin. Some women are willing to pay a qualified permanent cosmetic technician in order to get that “just applied” look. The idea was introduced in beauty salons in the 1930s, by a man named George Burchett (also known as the King of Tattooists), and still thrives today.

Who Does This Procedure Benefit?

This procedure is for those who want to enhance or correct their current appearance. It can help those who have allergies or are overly sensitive to most cosmetics. Women who are active and don’t want to “sweat off” their makeup may also consider this as an option. Those who suffer from arthritis, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, the side effects of a stroke or an unsteady hand may seek out a more permanent solution. This can be for the visually impaired or someone who feels her life is too busy to worry about constant reapplication. It can also cover up scars from accidents or burns, and the results last for many years.

Cosmetic tattooing can be applied almost anywhere from eyebrows to eyeliner, lips to breasts. It is considered permanent because the colour is injected into the upper reticular portion of the dermal layer of skin and cannot wash off. However, as with any tattoo, fading can occur over several years. Maintenance and re-enhancement is encouraged for best results.

Where Can I Sign Up?

First things first, do not consult your local tattoo artist about your permanent look. Consult a specialist, do research and ask questions. When you find someone you feel you can trust, you will have several meetings with him or her. There will be an initial consultation, application of the pigment and several other visits to adjust the colour, shape and density.

The consultation is when the specialist asks about the patient’s history and evaluates their eligibility. They can also assess skin complexion, texture and tone in order to determine the best pigment to be used in an attempt to match the patient’s natural skin. The patient must inform the specialist of their expectations and desired outcome. It is in this period that the patient is made aware of any risks and possible complications. It is important to be well informed before embarking on such a procedure.

Permanent cosmetic procedures are usually done in an office or salon setting using one of various methods: pen or rotary machine and the non-machine or hand method. It is similar to receiving any other tattoo. The patient is given topical aesthetic to numb the area. The procedure takes anywhere from one to two hours in length and costs anywhere from $350 to $600 a pop. Also, as with any other tattoo, patients will experience discomfort during the tattooing.

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