Permanent makeup is becoming an increasingly popular trend amongst women in Europe and North America. The reason for its increase in popularity is simple; it is far more convenient than regular makeup as you don’t have to go through the struggle of putting makeup on every day. Moreover, permanent makeup allows you to go through your entire day without needing touch-ups or living with the fear of smudging it. Also, who doesn’t want to wake up with fresh-looking makeup every morning? Isn’t that just every woman’s dream? But despite it becoming a highly desired cosmetic procedure some women still wonder how safe permanent makeup really is and whether it is truly worth the effort and money. To answer that one needs to know about how permanent makeup works and whether it is a suitable choice for their daily lifestyle.
How Does Permanent Makeup Work?
Permanent makeup aka micro pigmentation is pretty similar to getting a tattoo. The process is done using a pen-like tattoo machine that contains a special kind of ink and specialized needles. This tattoo machine works by placing pigmented granules beneath the upper layer of the skin that help smoothen your skin tone and highlight your facial features. This type of tattooing can mimic having eyeliner or lipstick on. Some people also use it to darken their eyebrows or make their eyebrows look thicker. It can also conceal scars and somewhat fix the look of an uneven hairline. But as similar as this process might be to getting a tattoo, it isn’t the same because the pigment is only deposited into the first layers of the skin while the ink used in regular body tattoos is different and goes much deeper. In most procedures anesthetic is applied to the skin. This is common practice as it helps numb the area where permanent makeup is being applied eliminating pain and any discomfort. The process of getting permanent makeup will require the assistance of a licensed permanent makeup artist. Touch-up’s are performed 6-8 weeks after the initial appointment to ensure the longevity of the procedure.
Who Can Get Permanent Makeup?

According to Dr. Khetarpal, a renowned cosmetic dermatologist, permanent makeup is not just for people who have scars or skin issues, anyone can have it done. However, such procedures are a lot more appealing to those who suffer from cataracts, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and Parkinson’s disease as it can help them look their best, as well as, avoid the physical challenges of having to apply makeup. It can also be a great option for those people who are allergic to traditional makeup and for patients who are in search of a more permanent cosmetic solution to restore pigmentation in the skin.
Is Permanent Makeup Really Permanent?
The majority of people aren’t aware of the fact that permanent makeup isn’t really permanent. It’s just a term used in the industry as it is a lot more long-lasting than traditional makeup. However, considering its permanence a more accurate term for it would be ‘semi-permanent makeup’. However, the technical reason for calling it permanent makeup, is that the pigment will remain in the skin forever while the longevity and visibility of its color will fade with time. Inks used in body arts are permanent as compared to cosmetic inks which are semi-permanent and have less of a metal base in them. So even though this makeup will never smudge or wash off entirely, it will eventually fade as skin cells are constantly being replaced. But if you talk about getting permanent makeup removed, it is certainly not easy and there are complications involved. How difficult it would be to remove tattoo pigment depends on the color used in the process. It’s a time-consuming, painful, and expensive process to remove the ink. In some cases, the ink might not even be entirely removed.
Reasons To Be A Tad Cautious
First of all, the risk of infection is always there when it comes to anything involving needles. That is why it is always best to trust a licensed tattoo artist to take care of such procedures to help minimize the risk of infection. Always find a tattoo artist that is trained in blood-borne pathogens and only uses sterile needles to eliminate the risk of infection altogether. If you are prone to keloid scarring, there is more of a risk to your skin reacting to foreign particles that can create areas of inflamed tissue. Always consult with the permanent makeup technician before booking an appointment. Moreover, some people might even have an allergy to a particular type or color of tattoo ink. Once a reaction is triggered, it can be challenging to treat. To avoid any such complications the area behind the ear can be tested to see if the ink causes any reaction. You can also opt for taking a patch test to see if your skin reacts to the type of ink particle you want to permanently apply.
Things To Do Before Getting Permanent Eyeliner
As a precaution, it is better to stop taking any blood thinners three days before getting the procedure done, even things like Advil, aspirin, certain vitamins, and fish oils. This is to minimize the risk of any potential bleeding. Moreover, it’s better to stop using lash extensions a few days before you get your eyelids inked so that no glue is left behind on the lash line. You should also wait for the eyelid to heal completely before you start reapplying the extension. If you’re planning to have Botox in the eye area, you should get that done at least two weeks before or after permanent eyeliner is applied. For fillers, we recommend approximately six weeks. If you’re pregnant or nursing, have diabetes or your immune system is affected in any way, it wouldn’t be advisable for you to go through this procedure. Also, make sure that you take out your contact lenses before the procedure and avoid wearing them for a few days after it.
Finding a Good Artist
Before you rush towards getting booked for a procedure it’s imperative to do your research to find the best permanent makeup artist since the fast-growing industry of permanent makeup is yet out of sight of the state regulatory agencies and there are lots of unqualified people wielding needles. In the hands of a skilled person, there is nothing to worry about since he or she would perform it safely but if you take this lightly you might end up regretting it. The most popular cosmetic enhancements are permanent eyeliner, eyebrows, and lip color. Some practitioners even offer blush and eyeshadow.
Ask Questions
It is important that you ask the practitioner a number of questions. These questions could be:
-What is your experience in cosmetic tattooing?
-Would you be able to share your credentials?
-Are there any photos of your past work?
-Do you have a follow-up care policy?
Also, make sure that they use high-quality ink and medical-grade sterilization. It’s even better to request a tour of the facility where the procedures will take place.
Best Permanent Makeup in St Louis
Looking to get permanent makeup in St Louis? Look no further than Emily Thomas at Inked Beauty Bar. Whether you’re looking to get cosmetic eyebrows, lip blushing, or microchanneling, Emily is the best choice to help you achieve amazing results!