Women all over the world will spend hundreds, if not thousands of dollars on cosmetics, perfume, and makeup products throughout their lifetime. Applying makeup and perfume can be time consuming and frustrating at times. A breakthrough that began in the 1930s can now help solve the woes of buying and putting on cosmetics every day. This procedure is known as permanent makeup, which is essentially colors of tattooed markings applied to the face so that the appearance of makeup is permanent. These tattoos can be applied to the eyebrows, lips, eyelids, or at the base of the eye for a permanent looking eyeliner. They can also be used to cover up imperfections. The process is performed with special inks approved by the FDA, and lines, cover ups, and markings are tattooed directly onto the face. Typically the procedure only lasts about an hour or two, and takes about two to three weeks to completely heal.
There are rules and regulations that must be followed when it comes to applying permanent makeup. In the United States, most places that provide these services are regulated by the Department of Health. They make sure that the clinic is clean and that all technicians are following the proper procedures. Much like a traditional tattoo shop, these locations must use clean instruments and follow certain cleanliness guidelines. Some localities prevent advertisements from claiming that the makeup is permanent, since like regular tattoos, they can fade over time. There is a disadvantage to permanent makeup as well. First, while the patient may really like the look initially, over time their tastes may change and they may begin to feel differently about it. Since the markings are applied to the face, it is almost impossible to cover it up. Another disadvantage is that the face changes over time, and thus the application will begin to either fade or change in color or shape.
Fortunately, there are ways that permanent makeup can be removed in the event that someone decides they no longer want it. Laser removal is the most common method, and serves as a sort of "eraser" of the tattoo. This process can be expensive and painful, however, and can sometimes leave scarring. Dermabrasion or surgical removal are other options. Some people use a method known as camouflaging, which basically covers up the markings by adding a new color pigment to the face, covering up the old one. Most clients are happy with their permanent makeup and enjoy the ease and beauty of having color or accents added to their face that will last a lifetime. They can enhance eyebrows, add color to the lips, cover up imperfections, and make the process of using makeup much easier and less expensive.
For more information on permanent makeup, please refer to the following websites: