What to Expect During a Permanent Makeup Procedure
Interested in permanent eyeliner, lipstick, eyebrows, or even foundation? Permanent makeup offers many benefits.
If you’ve been thinking about getting permanent makeup for a long time, you shouldn’t let fear of the unknown stop you.
Here’s everything you need to know about the procedure and what to expect.
Appointment 1: The Initial Consultation
Any reputable spa will require a consultation appointment before you get permanent makeup done. If they don’t, it’s time to look for a different technician or spa, because that initial consultation is the key to getting the results you want.
During this session, you and your technician will discuss:
- Your desired outcome
- Your options given your face shape and skin coloration
- Your medical history, including medications and allergies
- Your questions and concerns
- Any nerves or fear you may have about the process
Your technician may also recommend a patch test to check for potential reactions to the pigment.
Appointment 2: The Procedure
Your technician will start by cleansing your face with a sterile solution designed to remove makeup, oil, or dirt. Once your face is cleansed, they’ll apply a numbing cream to minimize or eliminate discomfort during the procedure.
Once you’re comfortable, the technician will use a mapping pencil to draw the design. This will allow you to get a sense of what the shape and color of the final outcome will look like, to review the design, and to approve it before tattooing begins.
Once you’re happy with the design, the technician begins applying the pigment. Technicians use a specialized microneedle machine which offers precision application and the ability to work in small spaces. As tattooing takes place you shouldn’t feel any pain; only a slight pressure which may feel odd but should not feel unpleasant.
Some people actually find permanent make-up distracting enough to fall asleep during the procedure! Whether you fall asleep or stay awake isn’t important though: what is important is that you shouldn’t expect much pain.
Aftercare
Permanent makeup is an outpatient procedure. Most people can return to work on the same day, as long as their work doesn’t involve lots of water or sweat. You’ll receive aftercare instructions which should be followed to the letter.
Usually aftercare involves avoiding water and sweat on the affected area for at least one week, avoiding sun exposure, avoiding scratching or picking, and using a special ointment to reduce swelling and promote healing. You may also have to avoid makeup for several days. It’s essential to follow these instructions to achieve the best result.
Appointment 3: Follow-up
Your technician should schedule your follow-up appointment before you leave your second appointment. The purpose of this appointment is to ensure your skin is healing well and that the pigment is settling evenly. It also offers an opportunity for touch-ups if necessary.
Most people don’t experience any complications from permanent makeup, and so for many this appointment is little more than a formality.
Touch-up Appointments
Most people will require touch-ups throughout the lifespan of their permanent makeup job. Touch-up appointments revitalize the pigmentation but don’t require quite as much healing time or aftercare as a full permanent make-up appointment.
The number of touch-up appointments you’ll require depends on several factors, including your skin type, the area being treated, and your desired outcome. Most people require at least one touch-up appointment during the lifespan of their permanent makeup.
You’ll tend to need more touch-ups if you’re treating an area with thicker skin, such as your eyebrows or lips. People with oily skin or a history of scarring tend to need more touch-ups as well.
If you start to notice your color is fading you can always reach out to your technician. You can also simply schedule touch-ups for most procedures every one to two years, just in case. Discuss your specific permanent makeup procedure with your own technician to figure out which schedule will make the most sense for you.
You’ve Got Nothing to Fear
Permanent makeup is a routine self-care process, and you’ll love the results.
Imagine how much time you’re about to save every morning! Imagine knowing your eye makeup or your lip makeup looks fantastic, no matter what! Imagine looking more youthful, more confident, and more beautiful every day!
All you have to do is schedule your first consultation.
