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Permanent Makeup can be one of the best decisions you will ever make. It can save time and take years off you. However it can be a little daunting if you are unsure of what it is and what will happen during and after the procedure.

I have complied a list of the most frequently asked questions and answers to help you understand more about Semi-Permanent Makeup. If you have any questions that I have not answered here please feel free to contact me.

What is the difference between Permanent Makeup and Semi Permanent Makeup?

Simple!!! There is no difference. Permanent Makeup can be called a number of things. Most often it is either Permanent Makeup, Semi Permanent Makeup, Micropigmentation or Cosmetic Tattooing. They all refer to the same thing. It is the process of implanting pigment into the dermis layer of the skin. The main confusion comes between Permanent/Semi Permanent Makeup. As I says there is no difference. The pigments are permanent, however when they are implanted under the skin they disperse over time along with the skin cells due to exposure to the elements. So the appearance of the pigment is faded.

Why have Permanent Makeup?

There are a number of reasons that clients decide to have Semi-Permanent Makeup: To save time! If you have a busy life and want perfect beautifully symmetrical brows, eye liner and lips then Permanent Make up will be perfect for you. You will look amazing from the minute you wake up. You will have perfect makeup even when going swimming, or doing any other kind of sport! No smudging or running! It can take years of you! Buy placing the arch and tails of your brows or redefining your lip line it can make a big difference and give a more youthful look. The pigments are hypo-allergenic so they are great for clients who have makeup allergies Cosmetic Tattooing can help clients with hair loss due to Alopecia or Chemotherapy Permanent makeup can help clients with health issues which cause tremors in their hands, so making the application of make up impossible. Clients with diminishing eyesight can benefit from Permanent Makeup.

What are the risks related to Permanent Makeup?

The risks are minimal, however this is an invasive procedure, therefore there are related risks involved such as allergic reaction, infection, scaring, incorrect pigment placement. As I say these risks are minimal as I adhere to all of the Health and Safety guidelines. It is extremely rare to hear of any reactions to Permanent Makeup.

Why is a consultation necessary first?

This give you an opportunity to meet me and discuss your expectations regarding your procedure. We will discuss what is realistic and what can be achieved. It will give you the chance to ask any questions and to run through what to expect. It is of the utmost importance that you feel comfortable with me and are able to ask any question and discuss any worries you have. Never let someone tattoo your face that you are not comfortable with. You will also be given a patch test at this point.

How long does Permanent makeup last?

Every client is different, how long your Permanent Makeup lasts is dependent on skin type and external factors. Such as, the effects of the elements, medication, smoking and lifestyle. By ‘effects of the elements’ I mean mainly the sun, over exposure to the sun causes the skin cells to breakdown and disperse and so the pigments disperse with them. The darker colours tend to last longer than the lighter colours. I advise a colour boost every 1-2 years.

Who will carry out my consultation and procedure?

I will. I will be on hand for you from the moment we meet at your consultation. At some of the larger permanent makeup companies you are not guaranteed who will carry out your Permanent makeup procedure unless you pay a premium. I take pride in going through the whole journey with my clients and creating a look that they 100% satisfied with from start to finish.

Does Permanent Makeup hurt?

It is paramount to me that you are comfortable during the procedure. I offer a topical aesthetic before and throughout. Most clients describe it as a slight scratchy sensation that disappears as the anaesthetic does its job.

How long is the recovery process?

The recovery is minimal. You can go back to your everyday life straight away. Your colour can be up to 70% darker during the first 3-4 days. You may experience light swelling on eye liner procedures as the skin is very thin in this area. Some also experience minimal swelling of the lip area. This will only last a day or two, then the crust that forms will start to flake away revealing a lighter and more natural colour. In many cases the client wishes to go darker on their top up appointment. It is always best to air on the side of caution on the first procedure. It is easy to add more colour, but not to remove it.

What if I don’t like the results?

I go to great lengths to ensure that you are happy with the colour and the shape and because of this I have never had a client who is not happy with the results of their Permanent Makeup. This may not be the case with every technician however, so I am able to offer advice and corrective help for any procedures done elsewhere that have not turned out as expected.

Does it matter if I have botox or fillers?

No it doesn’t matter if you have either of these. However I would not perform a Permanent Makeup procedure on someone who has had or is going to have either of these within 6 weeks of the botox or fillers as there is a risk of the permanent makeup being in the wrong place as a result.

Will I still need to tweeze?

Yes. Permanent Makeup will not interfere with your hair growth.

What qualifications and experience do you have?

I have been in the beauty industry for over 10 years and have a very artistic approach to all my procedures. I trained extensively one to one with the head trainer and owner of the internationally renowned Permanent Makeup Academy. I have performed many procedures all to the delight of my clients. (to see more please have a look at my About me page)

What ethnicities do you treat?

Permanent makeup is suitable for all ethnicities. I have an excellent understanding of skin tone and colour theory, so this stands me in good stead to perform permanent makeup on any skin tone. (please see my information page on skin tone.)

What about Health and Safety?

The government has amended the Local government (miscellaneous Provisions) act 1982 by means of Local Government Act 2003. This gives local authorities new specific powers to regulate businesses providing semi permanent skin colouring (micropigmention, cosmetic tattooing, semi permanent makeup, permanent makeup) section 120 and schedule 6. The Department of Health has published guidelines about this. You can find out more on ‘Regulation of tattooing and body piercing businesses’ on your local authority web site. I adhere strictly to all of the guidelines. I only use genuine top quality pigments which are non toxic and hypo-allergenic, bought straight from the manufacturer, state-of-the-art digital machinery and disposable, single use, applicators. I am full insured and hold all appropriate licences.