Frequently Asked Questions

       What are permanent cosmetics?

       How permanent is it?

       How safe is permanent cosmetics?

       Does it hurt?

       What can I expect following a procedure?

       How many touch ups are required for desired results?

       Is there any release or medical form to fill out?

       Can you get laser work done after permanent cosmetics?

       Will the lip color bleed into the skin over years or will the color change and become unattractive?

       Can you get any infections in the lips or other areas that are tattooed?

What are permanent cosmetics?

Permanent cosmetic makeup is a sophisticated micro-procedure known as cosmetic tattooing. Specially formulated colored pigments are deposited into the dermal layer of the skin.

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How permanent is it?

Aftercare and skin type determine the lasting visual results. Fading may occur and a refresher color may be desired after several years. The procedure takes about 1 1/2 hours and a coil machine is used.

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How safe is permanent cosmetics?

Strict sanitation and sterilization guidelines are followed. A prescription of Zoviraz is essential for those with a history of cold sores when considering permanent lip color. Patch tests are available for those concerned. There are no known allergic reactions to the pigments, but few cases have been reported from red colors. There can be allergic reactions to the cains used in the topicals.  

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Does it hurt?

In most cases discomfort is at a minimum. With the use of extremely effective topical anesthetics, we can provide near total numbing of the area.

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What can I expect following a procedure?

There may be some minor bruising or swelling for up to three days. We recommend that important dates or interviews be taken into consideration when scheduling your appointment for permanent make up. Nothing is to be put on the procedure area for one week with the exception of a light coating of Vaseline-important in aiding proper healing. No contact lenses are to be worn to an eyeliner procedure and should not be worn until eyes return to normal. Clients are to stay out of chlorinated pools or hot tubs for two weeks. Pigment will "flake" during the first week resulting in a less intense look that will appear immediately following the procedure. Makeup is not to be applied to the tattooed area for one week, and we recommend a new tube of mascara be used. Do not run your skin vigorously when washing your face for at least ten days. Bottom line is keep the area clean, put nothing on it and do not pick or scratch at any time. Sunglasses are recommended for your own comfort immediately following eyeliner procedures. You are in charge of your aftercare and the closer you follow aftercare instructions the better your permanent makeup application will stay. We do suggest that your doctor prescribes zoviraz or valtrex and that it be taken 7 days prior and seven days after all lip procedures just to be safe. Even if a cold sore shows up, nothing else is ever to be put on your lips. Once again, you are in charge!

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How many touch ups are required for desired results?

Most people need one to two touch ups for desired results. Thereafter, it's recommended to refresh once a year to maintain freshness.

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Is there any release or medical form to fill out?

A medical form that includes a release clause will be faxed or e mailed to you. This must be signed before your actual procedure.

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Can you get laser work done after permanent cosmetics?

You need to inform your doctor so that he covers the tattooed area. Lasers can burn the pigment and change the color to black. Be especially careful if laser is done around the lips.

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Will the lip color bleed into the skin over years or will the color change and become unattractive?

 The only way the lips will bleed out is if your technician is not experienced and holds the needle in the wrong direction. The color will fade into your natural lips color unless you use colors that are too blue or brown for your skin. An experienced technician knows what colors to use.

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Can you get any infections in the lips or other areas that are tattooed?

Yes, if you do not take care of the area after the tattoo. You should follow after care instructions and keep area clean. Your technician should use new needles on each client and autoclaved or disposable equipment.