What is it?
A gentlewoman from South Carolina called to inquire about permanent makeup. In a long, lovely drawl, she asked, “Now is this tattoo?” Yes. A silence followed, then, “Well, just how would I explain it to my husband?”

Micropigmentation is a modern term for this cosmetic specialty that uses the same technology as tattoo. It is a specialty within tattoo that requires specific education and training. Artistic and technical skill combined with extreme attention to tiny detail determines the final look of the inserted pigment. You choose whether you want it to look like tastefully applied traditional makeup, or a brighter you, who appear to wear no makeup at all.

We do not know what she told her husband, but she loves her permanent makeup!

Who may benefit from this?
The person who wants distinctive facial features around the clock, year after year without a thought or care…

• Professional women, busy moms, active women and dancers who don’t want smearing makeup
• Men and women in the public eye
• Men wanting a discreet power boost to their appearance
• Anyone wanting convenience and spontaneity

People with…
• Poor vision
• Contact lenses, glasses or have had Lasik surgery
• Limited dexterity
• Allergies related to cosmetics, or sensitive skin
• A need for color correction due to scarring, breast areola loss, cleft lip and vitiligo
• Full or partial hair loss for whatever reason: aging, alopecia, burns, chemotherapy, trichotillomania, injury or surgery

There is no upper age limit on permanent makeup. People in their eighties can be candidates for it if their skin is in good condition.

Is it really permanent?
“Long term” would be a more accurate description. The fading process varies from individual to individual according to body chemistry and lifestyle, especially sun exposure. The more intense the color, the less obvious will be the change. For example, soft taupe eyeliner will fade sooner than black eyeliner. To keep the colors fresh and perky, we recommend a touchup for a nominal charge every one to three years. If you wish, you may alter somewhat the design and color of your makeup during a touchup session.

Does it hurt?
We use topical anesthetics developed especially for permanent makeup. Some discomfort is usually experienced, often as a tingling sensation. Any discomfort is of short duration.

Is it safe?
If applied properly permanent make up is very safe. Allergic reactions to pigment are rare. Occasionally a person can develop an allergic reaction to a tattoo they have had for years. Keeping your permanent cosmetics protected from the sun deters fading and may be a good precaution against the slight possibility of ever developing an allergic reaction. To accomplish a pleasing range of color, we use both organic and inorganic (synthetic iron oxide) pigments that are developed for permanent makeup by reputable manufacturers.

In synthetic iron oxides the metals are basically inert, although blacks and browns do have magnetic properties, which may cause complications with MRI. There have been reports of people with tattoos or permanent makeup who experienced swelling or burning in the affected areas when they underwent MRI. This seems to occur only rarely and apparently without lasting effects. If you are having MRI, tell the technician about your permanent makeup in order to take the appropriate precautions, avoid complication and assure the best results.

At the Studio, we take a conservative and multi-step approach. (See the last question, Describe the process…). We are partners in this process of bringing forth your best face.

What about my permanent makeup down the road if I change the color of my hair or my face changes through aging or plastic surgery?
The color and design of the permanent makeup is chosen in consideration of the present and the future. Eyebrow colors are chosen that enhance the eyes, harmonize with the skin and are neutral enough to work with almost any hair color. Just because the hair on your head turns gray or white does not mean the eyebrows must match that. The colors of all procedures can be adjusted at any time. Good makeup design will divert attention, rather than accentuate, the southern direction a face takes as it ages. Good design will enhance the effects of cosmetic surgery.

What about sterilization and sanitation?
The Permanent Makeup Studio uses a disposable system and follows the sanitation standards as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control. The Studio is used exclusively for permanent cosmetics.

How much does it cost?
Fees are determined at the consult and vary according to the feature being enhanced and the design. The price range for most procedures is $375 to $625. Maintenance touchups are $150 per hour and can be pro-rated if less that an hour is needed. There is a small charge for your design consultation which will be applied towards the cost of your cosmetic tattoo. A $200 deposit is required to book an appointment for a procedure, and a minimum of a 24-hour notice is a requirement in the case of a schedule change.

What method of payment is expected?
To make an appointment for a procedure, a deposit of $200 is required. The balance is due at the time service is rendered. We accept cash, checks, Visa and Mastercharge.

Describe the process and time involved for an application of permanent makeup.

Consultation: up to one hour
Much gets accomplished at the consult. Together, we explore if permanent makeup is right for you. We ask each other questions. We discuss and demonstrate with traditional makeup which method, design and colors will give you the “look” you desire. Bring your favorite makeup colors.

Most regular activities can be resumed immediately after an application of permanent makeup. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when scheduling a procedure:

Do not schedule a procedure right before or during menstruation because you may have heightened sensitivity.
Allow at least 5 days for healing before boarding an airplane, especially after an eyeliner application. This is an extra precaution against contact with germs.
Allow an eyeliner procedure to heal at least one week before activities that would subject you to lots of dust, like using a weed eater, riding in a rodeo, or cleaning the attic.
Schedule an eyeliner procedure at a time when your allergies are not flaring up.
Avoid antibiotics before and for at least seven to ten days after a procedure so as not to compromise the work of the antibiotic or the adherence of the pigment.

“Saturation” Session: 45 to 90 minutes per procedure
This is when the most work gets done. Based on our “rehearsal” at the consult, we mix the desired colors and lay in the design.

“Focus or “Perfecting” Session: 15 to 60 minutes per procedure
This is scheduled 3 to 6 weeks after the Saturation Session. Some procedures require a second Focus Session 3 to 6 weeks after the first one. As the name suggests, we fine tune our work and add finishing touches. These sessions are included in the cost of your procedure.