Permanent cosmetics unquestionably have benefits including the luxury of enhanced natural beauty which allows you to walk out the door in the morning without spending time "putting on your face". Additionally, permanent makeup cannot run so an afternoon jog, a swim in the pool, or crying at the movies will not ruin your appearance. Individuals with arthritis, eye problems, paralysis, or other physical challenges may find permanent makeup as a solution to looking great without exertion. The benefits are endless, but pros are always partnered with cons.
Permanent makeup has a potential downside like anything else, so be aware of what you are getting into. Permanent cosmetics are, in fact, a type of tattoo. Although they are not exactly permanent, lasting anywhere from 2-5 years, they are difficult to remove and require professional laser surgery which has its own list of side effects. It is definitely worth your time to research intradermal pigmentation technicians in your area as quality is essential with such delicate procedures. Always request to see before and after photographs of actual clients.
A great intradermal pigmentation technician will have a portfolio, client testimonials, and will likely be Board Certified by the American Academy of Micropigmentation (AAM), depending on state laws. For example, New Jersey requires AAM Board Certification for all permanent cosmetics technicians. Certification indicates that the practitioner studied with an AAM Certified Instructor for the time required by state law. However, this in and of itself does not mean you found a great technician. Finding a tattoo artist who is also a permanent cosmetics technician may be in your best interest. Take your time and look around. After all, this is your face!
Naturally, there are other risks involved such as infections, keloids (a type of raised scar), and allergic reactions. Although these risks are rare, they should definitely be discussed at your consultation. The technician should ask medical questions in order to assess whether or not you are a good candidate for a permanent cosmetics procedure. This would also be a great time to discuss cleanliness and disinfection of the equipment and procedure area. Always make certain your technician is only using sterile, single-use needles! This alone can greatly reduce the possibility of most infections.
Although the risk of an allergic reaction is less than a quarter of a percent chance, it does exist. No intradermal pigments have been approved by the FDA for such use. Most reactions to pigment occur with the colors red and yellow. It has been reported that some pigments are photosensitive and may raise in the skin when exposed to sunlight. Although patch testing is recommended in most permanent cosmetics clinics, it is rather unpredictable. People have been known to have tattoos for years and then suddenly experience a reaction. Truthfully, there is no way to tell who or when.
While all this may seem a bit risky, think of how many people are tattooed and how few have undergone some type of reaction. All in all, permanent cosmetics can change lives. Individuals with cleft lip can have a cosmetic lip augmentation procedure which can help make the lips appear more symmetrical thereby raising self esteem. Those with Alopecia Areata, a type of hair loss condition, can have eyebrows that will not smear, eliminating the potential for such embarrassment. People with rare skin conditions, undergoing chemotherapy treatments, and simply those who are really busy can all benefit from these procedures.
Overall, for most people, the pros outweigh the cons of permanent makeup. The most popular permanent cosmetics procedures are eyebrow enhancement, eyeliner, and lip augmentation, although many other procedures are available. In conclusion, look for a competent technician practicing in a clean office, know your own medical history, and above all use your common sense!
