Living in the social media age and with trends like #iwokeuplikethis, looking beautiful at all times and getting your desired looks 24×7 has become the need of the times. The revolution in the beauty world and the advancements in cosmetic procedures have presented an ideal solution to make this dream come true: permanent makeup. Thousands of ladies are getting the coveted eyebrows, luscious eyelashes, permanently lined eyes, and fuller-looking lips through cosmetic tattooing. Permanent makeup isn’t just limited to Hollywood divas; women of all ages are opting for these procedures as they are quick and the results are remarkable.

Permanent makeup saves a lot of your valuable time. In fact, it allows you to skip your makeup routine all together! However, like every good thing, it requires some after-care. With proper post-procedure care, you can enhance the results and make them last longer. If you are planning to get permanent makeup done or have already booked an appointment, we present to you a brief post-care guide for permanent makeup:

After-Care for Permanent Eyeliner Treatment

Who doesn’t love a sensual natural eyeliner look or a dramatic winged eyeliner look? But, you might need a lot of practice before you can achieve the perfect look without having to wipe out your eye makeup numerous times. Applying eyeliner is not a child’s play. The technique and precision are hard to master. Fixing your eyeliner can make you run late for important events. To save you from this everyday struggle, a quick solution can be to get your eyes lined permanently by an expert! Permanent eyeliner is one of the most popular permanent makeup options. However, people often ignore the suggested after-care and end up with complications.

When dealing with the eyes and the region surrounding them, special care is required. Eyelids and its surrounding area are quite sensitive. In case of permanent makeup, pre and post-treatment instructions go hand-in-hand. Avoid wearing any eye products during the procedure.

Following the procedure, you can expect redness, inflammation, and bruising on the eyes. There’s nothing to worry about it. For the first 24 hours, you can use ice packs to reduce swelling or redness. Apply the ice pack no more than 15 minutes and give a 45-minute break before reapplying.

It will also be a good idea to gently clean your eyes with cotton balls dipped in cool water. You should not apply any makeup over the treated region until it has completed healed which takes around one to two weeks. Applying old makeup can cause infection. You should keep your eyelid moisturized at all times. A thin coat of Vaseline can be useful for this purpose.

You should avoid taking a bath for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Avoid eyelash curlers, direct sun exposure, and swimming in chlorinated pools for at least 14 days. Wear SPF 45 Sunblock and sunglasses when going out. Don’t wear contact lenses for 24-72 hours post-treatment. Never rub, scrape off, or pick scabs and dry patches (if any).

After-Care for Permanent Eyebrows Treatment

If you swoon over Rihanna’s eyebrows and wonder how they look absolutely perfect all the time, you would be glad to know that the beauty queen is also rocking permanent eyebrows. With micro-blading, you can forget about plucking, filling-in, and shaping your arches every day. To accentuate your brows and get durable results, after-care is a must.

As discussed previously, the region near the eye is quite sensitive and requires extra care. If you have planned on getting permanent eyebrows, you should not be plucking, tweezing, threading, or waxing them for a week, both before and after the treatment. The treatment should be performed with one’s natural eyebrow growth and shape. Makeup artists encourage keeping a natural brow line. Your makeup artist will call you for touch-ups every 4 to 6 weeks.

Avoid scheduling any Botox treatment for at least two weeks after the treatment. Any inflammation or redness in the brow region can be soothed with an ice pack. Icing should not be done for more than 15 minutes. Apply Vaseline to help your skin heal.

No showers for at least 24 hours after the treatment. Avoid swimming and sunlight for two weeks. If you experience any discomfort or pain, you take over-the-counter painkillers like Tylenol.

After-Care for Permanent Lip Treatment

For more uniformly colored, fuller, and beautiful lips, you can opt for permanent lip makeup. Remember that the color you see right after the treatment is darker and bolder than the color you’ll get once your lips are fully healed. The pigments will fade over time and the final shade will be 50 to 75 percent softer than the initial color. Choose a natural lipstick shade that matches your complexion.

The risk of cold sores and lip and mouth ulcers are quite common and this makes aftercare more vital. It would be best to consult your physician and discuss your decision. The doctor may prescribe medication to take after the treatment.

Avoid any lip surgeries or Botox treatments for lips for at least three weeks after getting your permanent lip treatment done. Additional treatments can interfere with the results and can have certain drawbacks.

Ice your lips within 48 to 72 hours to reduce the swelling. Inflammation, redness, or discomfort will subside over time. Do not miss your follow up visits. Your lips will need touch-upS for 4 to 6 weeks. Any scarring is normal during this period.

Follow an after-care routine by cleaning your lips with cotton swabs dipped in cool water. Apply Vaseline over your lips generously to keep them moist at all times. Please avoid touching your lips with fingers as this can cause infection. You will not be allowed to apply any makeup products over the treated region and you must not scratch or pick any flakes or scabs.

You should stay away from spicy foods and take extra care while brushing your teeth. To make the results last longer, use a chapstick or lip balm at all times after a week.

Some General Tips

• Use healing ointments to accelerate the healing process. Ask your physician to prescribe one for you.
• In case of any allergic reactions, tell your makeup artist and visit your doctor right away.
• Avoid touching the treated region with bare hands or any other cloth that might contain bacteria, as this can cause infections.
• Do not sleep with your face touching the pillow.
• Do not wipe the treated region aggressively. Be very gentle at all times.

Unbelievable!

It can’t be ‘that’ effective, is it?

It’s too good to be true!

These are some of the common responses we hear when people get to know about the cosmetic sensation and technological genius of permanent or semi-permanent makeup and cosmetic tattooing.  Just hearing the name “permanent makeup” can make a lot of questions pop in your head. Perfect eyebrows without patches, luscious lips without discoloration, thick and curled lashes, or beautifully lined dramatic eyes- these are not dreams anymore. Every day we are bombarded with questions oozing with curiosity and desire. Honestly, who wouldn’t be interested in knowing more about the treatments that have taken cosmetic treatments one-notch up?

Here’s a list of frequently asked questions about permanent makeup. Read on to know all the answers!

1.     Is Permanent Makeup Really Permanent?

This question deserved to top the list. The reason permanent makeup is named so is because of the similarities it shares with body tattooing, but the results might not be 100% permanent. Micropigmentation treatment is a technique through which pigments are tattooed into the upper reticular part of the epidermis. These pigments, once applied, cannot be removed by conventional methods and are water and smudge-proof in the true essence of the words. However, the pigments fade out over time and require regular maintenance or touch-ups. Because of this fading out, it is also sometimes referred to as semi-permanent makeup.

2.     How is the process like?

The entire procedure can be divided into three phases: before, during, and after. The “before” phase is when you choose a makeup artist and go for a consultation visit. The artist will discuss your treatment plan and will perform a patch test to check if you are eligible. You’ll then book an appointment. On the day of the appointment, the professionally trained makeup artist will apply the pigment with a handheld device (like a tattoo machine). The artist will guide you regarding the aftercare. After the application, you’ll be called for follow-up and refreshing visits.

3.     How Long Does The Makeup Last?

The life of the permanent makeup depends upon the care, sun exposure, lifestyle, and the products used. The makeup will start to fade with time but if proper care is taken, the results can last for three to five years. You need to visit the salon for touch-ups and fill-ins. You can either maintain the same desired look or make changes by trying new hues.

4.      Does Permanent Makeup Hurt?

The process is carried out after using anesthetic; hence the process is entirely painless. However, you can expect slight tenderness, swelling, and discomfort once the effect of the anesthetic wears out. Since the areas where permanent makeup is applied are rather sensitive, the use of anesthetics during the procedure and use of antibiotics and antiseptic ointments over the treated area after the process is recommended.

5.     Is It Safe?

Permanent makeup is completely safe if the makeup artist follows health and safety guidelines. The artists ensure that the needles and blades are disposed after each client. Sterile and unused needles and micro blades are used. The gloves and apron are also properly disposed of. Hygiene is the number one priority when it comes to a permanent makeup facility.

6.     How Many Types Of Treatments Can I Get?

Micropigmentation treatments help you enhance a number of facial and body features. You can ask for slight changes with a natural look or can go all out and try out a more dramatic change. The most common types of permanent makeup that you can get are eyebrows, eyeliner, eyelash extension, lip liner, lip color or blush, fake freckles, hair imitation, and scar camouflage.

7.     What Is The Cost Of The Permanent Makeup?

The treatment can cost you $400-800 on average depending on how extensive the makeup is. Some artists charge $200 per hour for complex procedures. Don’t get lured by cheap deals as the artists charging less might compromise on hygiene, skill, or quality of the makeup products. Try comparing the treatment cost with the money you used t spend on buying makeup. This would encourage you to invest in a quality makeup artist.

8.     Can I Swim or Workout After The Treatment?

It is advised to avoid swimming for two weeks and workouts should be avoided for one week after the treatment. Swimming or working out can pose a threat of infection. However, once the treated area is completely healed, you are free to swim or engage in any physical activity.

9.     Can I Wear Makeup Over The Permanent Makeup?

It’s best to avoid wearing any makeup until the permanent makeup is completely healed as the makeup that we use daily usually contains bacteria and other harmful microbes. Let the area heal completely and then you can apply the makeup over your permanent makeup if you will.

10. Can I Get Any Other Treatments Done Along With Permanent Makeup?

After one permanent makeup treatment like eyebrows or lip color, it is recommended to wait for at least one week before getting other treatment done. If you are planning to get Botox, laser treatments, or chemical peels, you’ll have to wait longer than that.

11.  Are There Any Side-Effects of Permanent Makeup?

Slight redness and swelling are common after lip and eye treatments. While the aftereffects don’t last more than 24-48 hours, but in some rare cases swelling may be severe and rashes or bruises may appear. Based on the sensitivity of the client’s skin or other client-specific factors, minor bleeding and tenderness may occur. Side-effects like infections can be avoided by following proper aftercare routine and a patch test is conducted in the initial phase as a precautionary measure against possible allergic reactions.

Visit Simply Beauty or give us a call if you have more questions! We are waiting for you with all the answers!

It is said that ignorance is bliss, but this doesn’t always stand true, especially when it comes to trying out cosmetic procedures for the first time. We all have experienced skin allergies and irritations at some point in our lives. However, an allergic reaction caused by a permanent makeup procedure can be a lot more troublesome and painful because it kills the whole purpose of the treatment: to look beautiful.

Getting permanent makeup or cosmetic tattoos entails application of inks and pigments, much like getting a tattoo anywhere else on your body. Even though the pigments used and the procedure of micropigmentation is safe, each person responds differently to these pigments. The mishaps may be rare but they do occur. Going in blind for cosmetic tattooing can be quite similar to going on a blind date: either it will be great or will be a total disaster. So, can you end this uncertainty? Luckily, yes! Dermatologists and professional permanent makeup artists collectively suggest the Skin Patch Test for checking for any possible allergic reactions.

What Is A Patch Test?

A Patch Test is a precautionary procedure which is performed to determine the reaction of your skin when a certain substance comes in contact with it. Your skin can show an allergic reaction such as inflammation, redness, itchiness, blisters, or a rash. This is called contact dermatitis. A patch test is a safety procedure to ensure that a person is not allergic to any of the pigments or makeup products used. Additionally, it also helps the artist and the client to choose a color or a combination of colors that would produce the best results.

Why Is A Patch Test Important?

While some permanent makeup artists skip this important step, the importance of a patch test cannot be overemphasized. Imagine getting your eyebrows micro-bladed or your lips colored permanently only to develop scabs, irritation, and swelling later on. Not only will this ruin the appearance of your face but it’ll be a sad waste of the artist’s efforts and your hard-earned money.

It is a makeup artist’s ultimate responsibility to ensure that the client gets the desired results healthily and without complications. The makeup artist performs the patch test to check anesthetic and pigments to be injected. Also, it must be remembered that the makeup is “permanent”. Even though the pigments fade out, they do not leave the skin completely for a long time. This necessitates the patch test, as it can save you from getting stuck with irritated, swelled-up, uncomfortable, and nasty-looking permanent makeup.

A patch test does not just protect against the temporary mishaps caused by permanent makeup. Sometimes, the allergies can be very severe and may last a lifetime. We are sure nobody would want to regret all his life by missing a simple test. After all, it’s a huge price to pay for wishing to be beautiful.

It’s important to note that even if you’ve been patch tested for your earlier procedures, you must get the patch test performed again when planning to get new permanent makeup. Your skin can react differently to different products at different times. Precaution is better than cure!

How And When To Do The Patch Test?

A patch test is performed at least 12 hours before the microblading or micropigmentation procedure. It is best to carry out the test during the initial consultation meeting with your makeup artist. Some makeup artists also send out patch test kits to their clients before calling them for a meeting. The kits come with clear instructions and the client can perform the test themselves. However, if you are not confident to do it on your own, the artist will most definitely perform it while you discuss your options and requirements. This can save valuable time that might otherwise go in vain if the results are negative.

A professional artist will use a sterile needle, pigments, anesthetics, and an antibiotic ointment.  The test will be performed in an inconspicuous area, such as the back of the ear, scalp, or toes. Two patch tests are conducted simultaneously: a color patch and an anesthetic patch.

The color or pigment patch test will be performed by using pigments that you have mutually chosen for the procedure or a combination thereof. The artist will prick the skin with the needle and apply the pigment to it. The area will be checked for any possible reactions after one to two days. It would be best to schedule the appointment a week later just to be absolutely sure.

For the anesthetic patch test, the skin will be pricked once again on an area other than where the color patch test was done and several drops of anesthetic will be applied on it. Both the patch test sites will be coated with the antibiotic ointment to accelerate healing.

How to Deduce the Results of a Patch Test?

In case of a patch test, no news is good news! If your skin shows no reactions, you are good to go and can reap the benefits of the cosmetic marvels of permanent makeup treatments. However, if your skin shows any allergic reaction, the test is negative and it is not safe to get any cosmetic tattoos. The signs of a negative patch test may include:

• Redness or itching
• Inflammation or more than normal swelling
• Irritation or rashes
• Sore or painful blisters
• Lumps or bumps

What Can Go Wrong If A Patch Test Isn’t Done?

Plenty can go wrong if a patch test is missed. Not only will it cause short-term and long-term discomfort and distress, but it can also become a life-long regret; after all, permanent makeup removal isn’t a piece of cake. You can always opt for a laser treatment but it would take multiple sessions and won’t still guarantee a 100% pigment-free facial feature.

At Simply Beauty, patch tests are an integral part of the initial appointments and pre-procedure routine. This makes the entire process of microblading and micropigmentation safer and helps us give superior-quality results. Remember, if the makeup artist doesn’t mention a patch test, you should ask for one!

Getting your favorite makeup looks, fuller eyebrows, longer lashes, and softly tinted lips has never been as easy, as it has become with the latest micro-pigmentation and microblading techniques. Semi-permanent makeup gained massive popularity, as soon as it hit the market. Everyone from Hollywood divas to fashion designers, from working ladies to students has received semi-permanent makeup with open arms. A look at the Instagram posts under the hashtags #semipermanentmakeup and #micropigmentation would be enough to reveal the impact it has had on the beauty industry.

This article intends to inform our new customers as well as the existing ones about what micro-pigmentation entails. It is also important to clear out the myths and rumors that have been associated with these makeup techniques. Have a look at the list of 10 must-know things about semi-permanent makeup:

1.     What Is Semi-Permanent Makeup?

Known by many names like permanent makeup, cosmetic tattoo treatment, and micropigmentation, semi-permanent makeup is a technique used to provide you a long-lasting makeup look. Trained professionals choose pigments that suit your natural facial features and apply them onto the dermal layer of your skin. The overall process is very similar to getting a tattoo. However, the purpose of this makeup technique is to accentuate your natural features and make you 24×7 selfie-ready!

2.     What Are Some of the Most Wanted Semi-Permanent Makeup Services?

While some people have a well-planned makeup routine and can use everything in their makeup palates, some people just can’t afford to invest so much time with eyebrow pencils, eyeliners, lash curlers, and picking out the most “natural-looking” lipstick shade. Such people are naturally inclined towards the following services:

• Eyelash extension
• Semi-permanent eyeliner
• Microblading for fuller brows
• Full lip blushes
• Artificial freckles

3.     Is It Really Permanent?

One thing you must know is that even though the pigments fade away after an amount of time, some ink molecules can remain embedded in your skin. While you can easily remove eyelash extensions, some services like lip color and filled in brows can be a bit more permanent. This is why it is highly recommended to consult a professional and discuss all the pros and cons before getting a treatment done.

4.     Who Can Benefit From It?

All those who love makeup but don’t want to apply it daily or are too busy to follow a makeup routine can benefit from semi-permanent makeup. Moreover, athletes and celebrities can also make the most of it. Semi-permanent makeup is for you if you wish to redefine some of your facial features or wish to cover scars resulted from surgeries or accidents.

5.     Is it Painful?

One myth associated with semi-permanent makeup is that it might be too painful. This is absolutely incorrect. Just because it’s called a tattoo doesn’t mean it has to be painful. The techniques are gentle and your makeup artist will surely use numbing products before beginning the process. Your lips might feel a bit tender after getting a permanent lip color or your eyes can feel a bit sore after getting lash extensions; however, this is mere discomfort which may last just a couple of days.

6.     What Can Be The Expected Cost?

Some treatments are more expensive than the rest. The cost will mainly depend upon the quality of products and the skills and experience of the artist. It would be best to search for salons that offer good services at affordable rates. You should expect prices from £200 to £1000.

7.     What Can Be The Expected Results?

Eyeliner and lip colors are usually applied keeping in mind that it should appear as natural as possible. After all, people don’t want to look like they are ready for a party 24×7. This means that the results are subtle. The results of microblading on eyebrows would be fine, as the artist will draw individual hair strokes to fill out the gaps and give a fuller look. In the case of eyelashes, you can try classic natural-looking lashes or opt for a more dramatic look with a C curl.

8.     How Long Will The Makeup Last?

The answer to this question may differ from person to person. Several factors like genes, skin type, climate, maintenance, and sun exposure can affect how long your makeup will last. However, eyelash extensions would generally last up to 4 weeks, whereas an eyeliner tattoo would last for a year. Semi-permanent BB cream would last somewhere around 6 months to 1 year. Eyebrow and lip tattoos can last for a year. You might require a touch up once makeup starts to fade away.

9.     Are There Any Risks Or Side Effects?

Professional practitioners would conduct a test before going all in. They’ll check for any possible allergic reactions. Although the makeup is rather risk-free, some people have sensitive skin and can experience some side effects. Allergies might not be too critical and will only last for 48 hours after the treatment.

10.   Can I Get It Removed If I Want?

Yes, removal of semi-permanent makeup is possible. Specialized gentle lasers are available for this purpose. There are also treatments available to accelerate the healing process and manage any scars left. Another removal method is topical lightening. During the removal process, the professional must ensure the safety of the hair follicles.

Cosmetic procedures are gaining popularity with each passing day. While some ladies love experimenting with their looks, others can be a little skeptical about making permanent changes in their features. Getting pigments injected into your skin is a big decision. The results can last from a few months to a few years. It is indeed a big step. It’s natural to have doubts and reservations about going under the cosmetic needles but permanent makeup might be just the thing you need.

Here are 10 reasons to prove that permanent makeup is right for you:

1. You Have Sensitive Skin

Mainstream makeup products and cosmetics can be a nightmare for those who have sensitive and acne-prone skin. Experiencing breakouts, allergies, and skin problems whenever you apply makeup can be a real turn off. Permanent makeup, on the other hand, boosts your confidence and gives you the freedom to revamp your looks and get your desired features without having to worry about your sensitive skin.

2. You Are a Busy Bee

Gone are the times when makeup was considered ‘a party thing’. Whether you are a celebrity, a businesswoman, or a college diva, looking your best regularly has become more of a necessity. However, waking up early to follow your makeup routine every morning can be both tiresome and time-consuming. As a busy bee, you are always looking for fast-paced options. Permanent makeup is the ultimate solution for busy ladies. Getting permanent eyeliner, eyelashes, or brows, save you from spending hours doing your eye makeup.

3. You Are a Fitness Freak

If you are one of those sporty girls who love breaking a sweat in the gym or on the sports field, permanent makeup is meant for you. Exercise should be an integral part of your daily routine, but ladies often look like a character from a horror movie when they walk out that gym after burning some calories. Similarly, swimming with your makeup on is a complete no-no. Permanent makeup saves you from bleeding mascaras and smudged lipstick, giving you a look that won’t bleed, fade, or vanish.

4. You Are Bad At Makeup Techniques

Let’s face it; not everyone is James Charles! Forget being a makeup artist, some people can’t even hold the blush-on brush correctly. If you are one of those who can never apply makeup perfectly, no matter what, then it’s time to get permanent makeup done. With permanent makeup, you don’t have to worry about not having steady hands, lacking creativity, being a failure at applying the same eyeliner on both eyes, or ending up with “too much” or “too little” makeup. Cosmetic tattooing is performed by a trained professional, which means you are in trustworthy hands.

5. You Have Physical Impairments

People suffering from physical impairments, disabilities, and diseases that interfere with their motor skills can often find it challenging or sometimes impossible to apply makeup. When a person is already facing a health issue, it might be too much to expect perfect makeup from him/her. People lose the will to look beautiful or to socialize because of this. Permanent makeup can help people with physical impairments and disabilities to look as beautiful as celebrities do.

6. You Hate Running For Touch-up

You are going to a party and you’ve already invested a good hour on getting your makeup done. Instead of enjoying the party, you had to run to the restroom to touch up your makeup now and then. This can be very frustrating! A cosmetic regime takes a lot of time and still needs constant monitoring. With permanent makeup, you can say good-bye to constant touch-ups. Once done, it’ll last for months before needing a follow-up or touch-up visit.

7. You Are Spending A Fortune On Makeup

Going on cosmetic shopping? Well, you better carry all your credit cards. According to money magazine, a woman spends a whopping $15000 during her lifetime on just makeup products! And, $3000 is spent on just mascara! If you too feel like you have no savings left after you walk out of Sephora, it’s time to consider permanent makeup. Permanent makeup is a smart investment and helps you save the money you used to spend on beauty products. So, you’re getting beautiful and rich at the same time- Wow!

8. You Want a “Natural” Look

When you apply makeup, it looks like you’ve applied makeup. Duh! But that’s what some people don’t like. Women wish to get compliments on their natural beauty, not their makeup skills. If you are tired of blending and contouring and want to look naturally beautiful all the time, permanent makeup can help you with that goal. You can give a fuller look to your natural eyebrows or get a more defined arch without making them appear all painted and filled in. You can also get more uniform-looking lips that might have lost their pigments with age or due to unhealthy habits.

9. You Need Expert Help

You don’t have to be a beauty guru to appear gorgeous. Some people just can’t decide on which look is right for them or what style would suit their natural features. Permanent makeup has more to do with accentuating your natural beauty, rather than transforming you all together. You can book an appointment with a permanent makeup artist to get expert advice about which lip color would suit your skin color or which eyebrow look is trending these days.

10. You like Makeup, But Not All the Time

Permanent makeup can provide you a better palate to work on. You don’t have to wear makeup all the time, and when you do wish to glam up, you’ll have a superior quality base and a great foundation to work on. You get the freedom to apply makeup over your permanent makeup if you wish to create a more dramatic look, and you can wash your face and consider yourself good to go. It all depends on your choice and occasion.

If you are still confused about whether permanent makeup is right for you or not, visit us at Simply Beauty. We are here to answer all your queries!