Permanent Makeup – Special Effects for the Face

By Thomas Hall

Published on August 13, 2007

Also known as cosmetic tattooing, or micropigmentation, permanent makeup can be great for people who are allergic to cosmetics, as well as those who want to avoid the hassle of applying makeup every day. Among other applications, permanent makeup can be used to enhance the eyes with eyeliner that will never smear or wash away, create more defined lips and even shade them to match the color of popular lipsticks, and accentuate the appearance of the eyebrows.

Although the idea of permanent makeup may be appealing, there are several things you should consider as you decide whether to undergo micropigmentation. First, keep in mind that you are getting your skin tattooed. Permanent makeup will not fade or disappear on its own. If you are dissatisfied with the results, or down the road you decide you want a change, you'll have to rely on traditional methods of tattoo removal, including surgery, laser resurfacing, and dermabrasion. In addition, permanent makeup procedures are regulated in many states, and they require a professional to perform them, such as a plastic surgeon, an esthetician, or a dermatologist.

Perhaps most importantly, you should be aware that, as with any medical procedure, there are risks involved with micropigmentation. These include bleeding during the procedure, allergic reactions to the varying shades of ink used, and the formation of scars around the tattooing sites. If instruments are not properly sterilized, there is a higher risk of infection, including HIV and hepatitis. There have even been reports that permanent makeup sites on the body can exhibit swelling or burning sensations in patients who undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests. The more serious of these risks are very rare, but possible. That's why it is extremely important that you discuss all aspects of micropigmentation with a professional before going through with it.

Permanent makeup does have its benefits, particularly for people who have poor vision or motor skills, which makes it difficult for them to apply makeup. It can also help to disguise some types of scars and fill in eyebrows that have been lost due to old age, disease, or other causes. If you are considering cosmetic tattooing, be sure you research the professionals in your area to determine whether they are qualified to perform the procedure. It's best to make sure the person applying the makeup is a licensed dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or esthetician who is willing to discuss the procedure with you in detail and answer your questions.

As enticing as the idea of never having to apply makeup again may sound, just be sure you understand what you are getting into. Remember, it is a tattoo.