Semi-permanent makeup, also called micro pigmentation is a procedure that places tiny particles of pigment below the surface of the skin. The process is similar to tattooing, but there are important differences. Tattooing is permanent, and micro-pigmentation or semi-permanent makeup, as the name suggests, isn’t. The reason that tattoos are permanent and micro pigmentation isn’t, comes down to how deep the pigment is placed. Tattooing is much deeper, placing the pigment in the hypodermis (the third layer of the skin). Semi-permanent makeup (micro pigmentation) places the pigment in the epidermis and the dermis (the top two layers of skin). Here it can be broken down over time by the body, and this causes it to fade over time. Typically it takes about 18 months to fade.
Semi-permanent cosmetic can be used to enhance eyebrows, lips and eyelash line. It can also be used to create the appearance of hair stubble for men who have lost their hair and want to look shaven rather than shiny bald. More advanced forms of micro pigmentation can be used to cover scars and even to reconstruct the areola for women having undergone mastectomy and breast reconstruction.
Before the procedure begins, cosmetic pencils are used to simulate the results of the final treatment and to provide a template for the technician to follow. The technician will also discuss your skin tone to make sure the correct pigment colour is chosen.
For some areas, an anaesthetic cream may be necessary so that you have a comfortable treatment. The pigment is then applied to the skin with the micro pigmentation device. The device uses a very fine needle to push the pigment into the dermal layer of the skin. A further treatment is usually needed around two weeks later to perfect the results.
Your micro pigmentation technician should give you full after care instructions. Generally, they will advise you not to expose the area to sunlight and avoid swimming for several weeks, avoid makeup, don’t pick any flaking skin, don’t wear contact lenses if the eye area has been treated for the week or so after treatment. They may advise you use Vaseline over the treatment area for a few days.
The micro pigmentation will last somewhere between 12 and 18 months on average.The initial results may look a little dark, but the pigment will lighten after a few days. There may also be some initial swelling or minor bruising which will resolve fairly quickly after treatment.
All in all semi-permanent makeup is a fairly low-risk procedure with many benefits. For those wanting to look gorgeous straight out of bed in the morning, then it is the ideal solution. It is also a huge benefit to those who may be sight impaired or those who don’t have a steady hand, relieving them of the chore of trying to apply makeup. Whatever your reason for wanting semi-permanent makeup, always check the credentials of the technician who will be performing your procedure and check they are fully insured. It is also a good idea to ask them If they have a portfolio of their work to show you.