we're not making this up

by Lindi Fancett

Are you familiar with permanent cosmetic makeup? Known as cosmetic tattooing, it’s becoming increasingly popular. Technically, it is an implantation technique that deposits colored pigment into the upper reticular layer of the dermis.

Who can benefit from permanent cosmetics? People who desire a soft, natural enhancement to their appearance. People who can’t wear ordinary cosmetics due to allergies and skin sensitivities. People who want to look their best for activities such as swimming, hiking, or biking, and those who don’t want to worry about “sweating off” or reapplying cosmetics. The handicapped population can also benefit. People who have difficulty applying cosmetics such as those with vision impairments, arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis. Cancer patients find that permanent cosmetics help them during chemotherapy, knowing that they don’t look funny without eyebrows. Finally, busy people like the thousands of women juggling careers and families and love the fact that they can “wake up with makeup!”

Permanent cosmetics are applied using various methods, including the traditional tattoo or coil machine, the pen or rotary machine, or the hand method. The pigment used is different than traditional tattoo ink, which is made of iron oxide. The process includes an initial consultation, application of pigment, and at least one follow up visit to adjust shape, color, and density of the pigment if needed.

Permanent cosmetics are called so because the color is implanted into the upper layer of the skin and cannot be washed off. However, as with any tattoo, fading does occur, so permanent makeup requires periodic maintenance to freshen or enhance colors.

According to the Center for Disease Control, permanent makeup is safe. In the last 10 years there has been no incidence of HIV attributable to tattooing, nor has there been any increase of Hepatitis B. Allergic reactions are very rare also. Make sure your technician is using an autoclave to clean and sterilize their instruments and does not re-use needles.

The most important decision to make when deciding to have a procedure done is choosing the right artist. Make sure the technician is a licensed Esthetician with a mini- mum of two years’ experience and extensive knowledge of the skin. Ask what type of training they have had, and whether they are current with their continuing education requirements. Finally, before your procedure, ask to see samples of your Esthetician’s work, either photos or actual people who have had procedures done.

If you’d like more information on permanent makeup there are several good resources that cover the topic, from the benefits to the concerns. A good place to start is the FAQ document offered by the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals. It can be found on their website: www.spcp.org.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Lindi Fancett is a licensed Esthetician and a member of the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals. She practices at salons in Rochester and Geneva. Visit her website at www.lindifancett.com.