Fast facts

Permanent Makeup

What it is: Permanent makeup is a cosmetic tattoo applied through a process called micropigmentation. The permanent makeup procedure utilizes a device that rapidly punctures skin multiple times in a desired area to embed pigment beneath the dermal layer.  

What it addresses:  Defining or enhancing certain areas of the face with color, including:

- Eyebrows
- Eyes
- Lips

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Question

How can I avoid looking fake if I get permanent makeup?

I want permanent makeup, but I am afraid it will look really obvious and give my face that fake, "painted" look.  Can this be avoided?

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Asked by: Anonymous

Answers (2)

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1
July 18, 2008

How to find a permanent makeup technician

Liza Sims, CPCP
Liza Sims, CPCP

Fabulous Permanent Makeup requires knowledge of the skin, structure of the face, traditional color theory as well as color theory as it relates to the living canvas of the skin. Color takes on an entirely different personality once placed in the skin, which also has color of its own.

It also requires a thorough understanding of traditional cosmetic makeup application. While it is a form of tattooing, again, it is a specialized form.

The Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals - SPCP can be contacted for help in finding a specialist in your area.

Always schedule a consultation before making an appointment for any permanent procedure. Word of mouth is the best form of advertising, so start asking people in your area. Call your local eye surgeons, plastic surgeons, hair salons, and ask who they recommend. Once you begin hearing the same name(s), schedule a consultation and look at their finished (healed) work. Pictures of fresh work are not a good indicator of what the finished result looks like.

Take time, do research, ask questions and make an Informed Decision. Your face is too important to gamble with.

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2
November 26, 2007
Sophy Merszei
Sophy Merszei

Permanent make up tends look artificial when the pigment colors are harsh and the application is too deep. Applying color more superficially with a light touch tends to look more natural.

If you're planning to do eyebrows, don't wax or shave off all your natural brow hair. The permanent color should be hidden within the natural brow hair. Removing too many brow hairs will lead to a very "painted-on" look.

If you have no brow hair at all, ask the technician to fill in the eyebrow area with individual hairstrokes rather than a solid line.

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