• Frequently Asked Questions

Information provideded by the American Academy of Micropigmentation  with permission

  Permanent makeup is
just that...permanent 

There are many factors to consider
while choosing whether or not  you are a good candidate to have
permanent makeup. 

 I offer complimentary consultations to answer any and all questions you may have.  

 10 Good Reasons For Permanent Makeup 

1. Convienence, you just need more time.

2. Allergies to ordinary makeup. Sensitive skin.

3. Wear glasses or contact lenses or had Lasik surgery

4. Arthritis or painful hands

5. Difficulty applying makeup or you don’t like the way it smears and disappears

6. Aging changes in brows, lips, eyes

7. Active, outdoor lifestyles

8. If you like a natural “no makeup” look

 9. You’ve lost hair from alopecia, chemotherapy, accidents, burns or cosmetic surgery.

10. If you want to replace color. Breasts (areola), cleft lips and vitiligo patches are examples where cosmetic tattooing can help.

What exactly is Permanent Makeup?

 Permanent cosmetic makeup is the art and science of implanting color into your skin. It is putting the right color in the right place so you can look better naturally. Specialized instruments allow the placement of color into the layer of skin known as the dermis. Because the outermost layer of skin, the epidermis, is always shedding and renewing itself, you are looking at the color through a thin veil of skin. When your procedure is completed, the color will appear darker than the final result. This is because the color is in  BOTH the epidermis and the dermis. The color in the top layer will flake off during the healing process.  

Will I really look like myself...Only Better?

Permanent cosmetic makeup helps replenish what time has taken away and gives back precious time you normally spend “putting on your face”. You can save time no longer  struggling to draw eyebrows evenly or eyeliner half-way straight. Your makeup will not rub off, smear, smudge and disappear during the day. Permanent makeup is not intended to replace cosmetics completely. Because the color is placed “in” your skin and not “on” your skin a more natural, softer look results. You may apply as much additional makeup as you wish over your permanent makeup for a more dramatic look.

Does permanent makeup have to hurt a lot?

Because we are located in a plastic surgery office, I have access to pharmaceutical grade anesthetics. The creams and gels that are used are applied to the desired area before and during the procedure to assure you of the most comfortable experience possible.  For lip color procedures,  a dental block may be arranged if appropiate. Most people experience some discomfort and explain it like a "tickling or tingling", but express that it was easier than they thought it would be.  My sincere desire is for this to be a good experience for you.

Can I remove my makeup if I change my mind?

Because it’s easy to add color and difficult to take away, I am conservative in the initial application of your new color. Take advantage of our consultation to discuss your wants and needs. It’s also a time where we can choose the right colors and discuss any special requests you may have. 

How long will it take to recover?

You’ll look like you’ve been crying for several hours following eyeliner. Also, it is important to wear sunglasses as your eyes may be temporarily sensitive to light. Eyebrow procedures have the least swelling but will appear quite dark for 3-5 days. Lipcolor may involve temporary swelling and also will look quite vivid. You may chose to avoid social plans the first 2 days or so as there will be swelling, brightness and also "wet" appearing ointments on the treated area.  I will discuss aftercare procedures with you in detail and send you home with appropiate  balms and ointments to care for your makeup and assist in healing and comfort.  

How long will my permanent makeup last? 

Permanent make-up is long-lasting. However, as you become accustomed to your new makeup it’s not uncommon to want more. You will want to freshen up your new makeup every couple of years. The darker the color, such as black, the longer it will stay unchanged in your skin. Natural, delicate colors are oftentimes more vulnerable to the effects of sun, swimming and breakdown by the body. Both organic and inorganic pigments may be used to achieve the desired color. 

Can I get my permanent makeup for less cost?

Perhaps.   I am in a plastic surgery office which sets the highest standards in the industry. I have extensive training and use the best technology and pigments available.  I am happy to assist you in speaking with past clients about their makeup.  I want you to be comfortable with your decision to work with me.

What if i have plastic or laser surgery?

 There are times when we can combine your permanent makeup application with cosmetic surgery. I have done this many times and have found it works quite well.  Discuss this with our physician at the time of your plastic surgery consult.  Injections such as Botox and Juvederm may also affect the placement of the brow, and the fullness of the lips. We will discuss the affects of injections as well as any future cosmetic surgery during our consult.  Laser surgery or resurfacing may result in color loss or darkening of your makeup depending on the laser and the colors in your skin. Advise our laser specialist that you have permanent cosmetics so that they can perform a “spot test” before they proceed. If either cosmetic surgery or laser causes color loss, then it is a simple matter to have the color replaced.

What if I need an MRI?

By all means get the needed MRI. Temporary tingling, redness and swelling and a transient burning sensation have been reported for some with eyeliner tattoos although rare. Advise your physician that you have a cosmetic tattoo. He or she may wish to place a wet cotton round over your eyes during the MRI to avoid any discomfort.

Special needs/Corrections

You may have special needs for permanent makeup such as scars, vitiligo, alopecia or health problems. You may need your physician’s release in order to undergo testing and/or procedures which you desire. This is an extra measure of protection for your benefit