Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)2018-03-28T15:28:40-07:00

FAQ’s

What is permanent makeup?2018-03-28T14:17:52-07:00

Permanent cosmetics, also known as permanent makeup, micro-pigmentation, or cosmetic tattooing, microblading is the process of implanting pigment into the uppermost layer of the skin. Unlike traditional makeup, which places color on top of the skin, permanent

makeup involves safely implanting color in the skin for a long-lasting natural look.  These techniques employ the use of 100% disposable needles, for maximum safety, comfort, and control.

Does it hurt?2018-03-28T14:18:06-07:00

The development of modern techniques such as the Manual methods such as Microblading & SofTap® Comfort System has greatly enhanced client comfort. While everyone’s tolerance level is different, the majority of clients are pleasantly surprised in the comfort of their experience. You have to feel it to believe it!In addition, topical anesthetics are applied to desensitize the skin.

How long does it last?2018-03-28T14:18:21-07:00

Permanent makeup is “permanent” in that it never washes off or smears. However, you will notice a gradual softening over time. Longevity will vary based on colors chosen, skin type, and compliance with after care instructions. Color refreshers or touchups are recommended from one to ten years and vary on an individual basis. Any touch ups after one year are $100 for life.

How many applications are needed?2018-03-28T14:18:35-07:00

Generally, two individual applications are required in order to achieve the desired look. When necessary, a second application or enhancement is scheduled within four weeks and is included in the cost of the original procedure. In the case of corrections, sun damage or auto immune disorders etc a third session may be required.

What if I decide to have cosmetic surgery?2018-03-28T14:18:50-07:00

There are no contraindications to permanent cosmetic either before or after plastic surgery. In fact, having permanent cosmetics done, especially brows, often gives the appearance of a mini face lift.’

What is the difference between the SofTap® method, Microblading and machine method?2018-03-28T14:19:07-07:00

The SofTap® method or Microblading of permanent cosmetics used by Paige is performed manually using a small hand-held non-electric implement. By applying pigments manually in to the skin, the technician has complete control resulting in a very natural look. Manual method procedures are  very comfortable, quiet, and has less vibration than traditional machines.

We typically use machines for more designer looks such as ombre brows, shaded or winged liner and full lip shading.

What should I look for in a permanent cosmetic tech?2018-03-28T14:19:22-07:00

#1 Cleanliness. The implements should all come pre-sterilized and are discarded in a Sharps bio-hazard container following every procedure. In all applications, regardless of the instrument used, ****the technician behind the tool is what makes the procedure successful. When checking around for prices, remember, you usually get what you pay for so be sure and ask questions. Such as how many procedures have they done, can you see healed pictures of their work, are they blood borne pathogens certified, was their training legitemite meaning 100 hours hands on for fundamentals minimum not online etc. JUST BECAUSE SOMEONE HAS EXPERIENCE IN OTHER ASPECTS OF THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY DOES NOT MEAN THEY KNOW HOW TO TATTOO.

What is the recovery time?2018-03-28T14:19:34-07:00

With permanent makeup there is typically some temporary redness and/or swelling at the application site following the procedure, however, it is common for a person to return to work or other daily activities the same day.

Can I still wear traditional makeup over the permanent cosmetics?2018-03-28T14:19:49-07:00

Permanent cosmetics are designed to enhance your natural beauty. Wearing additional cosmetics is a personal choice.

What if I change my hair color?2018-03-28T14:20:04-07:00

Since all color choices are selected to harmonize with your skin tone and natural coloring, changing your hair color will not affect the look of properly applied permanent makeup.

What does it cost?2018-03-28T14:20:25-07:00

Pricing varies per procedures, refer to the pricing page for specifics.

Is it tattooing?2018-03-28T14:21:12-07:00

With the sudden popularity and media attention to the term microblading, many are led to believe microblading is not a tattoo process. Permanent cosmetics, micropigmentation, dermal implantation, microblading/microstroking, eyebrow embroidery, and long-time/long-lasting makeup, are all different names for the same procedure – cosmetic tattooing. Any time color is placed into the skin with any device, it is a tattoo process as defined by many wellinformed regulators, the medical community, and dictionary sources. Denying this process is a tattoo can be problematic for those who would, for religious or other personal reasons, normally refuse to have a tattoo.

Is a blade being used to perform the microblading tattoo procedure?2018-03-28T14:21:25-07:00

Microblading is performed with a grouping or configuration of needles affixed to a handle to manually create lines that resemble eyebrow hairs. Manual methods of tattooing have been used through the ages, and the tools have gone through changes over time from pre-historic sharpened stones to the hand tool devices currently being used. An actual scalpel or cutting-type blade should not be used under any circumstances as these are considered medical devices and cannot legitimately be used for this process. Any hand tool device (i.e., both handle and attached needles) used for microblading should be pre-sterilized and fully disposable.

Is it semi-permanent?2018-03-28T14:21:39-07:00

Some are promoting microblading or eyebrow embroidery as a semi-permanent process; and that the color only reaches the epidermal (outer) layer of the skin. A careful review of basic skin anatomy and physiology would reveal this is not true. By definition and tattoo industry standards, color is tattooed/implanted into the dermis of the skin. If pigment particles do not reach the dermis, they will disappear during the healing phase of the skin, during normal regeneration of cells at the epidermal level. Pigments do fade in the skin over time, but that does not make the process semi-permanent. It is impossible to predict how much pigment will fade away and how long it will take to do so with any measure of consistency or reliability.

Why does microblading not last as long as other eyebrow tattooing techniques?2018-03-28T14:21:54-07:00

This is simply because a much smaller amount of pigment is inserted (tattooed) into the skin as compared to fully or solidly filled eyebrow tattoos.

Is there less training needed to learn microblading as compared to learning permanent cosmetics?2018-03-28T14:22:11-07:00

No; if someone is new to the industry and does not already have a minimum of 100 hours of training in permanent cosmetics, they need to have a similar amount of training in microblading, even if it is for just that one type of procedure. There are many areas of study when learning these techniques, which include facial morphology and bone structure, brow shaping and design, color analysis, color theory, proper handling of equipment, prevention of cross-contamination, as well as practice work and the opportunity to observe procedures before actually performing them under supervision.

Anyone interested in pursuing training in cosmetic tattooing, including microblading, should first check with state and county regulating agencies. This would also include verifying the qualifications of any trainer, in addition to checking with regulatory agencies for trainer compliance with local health, safety, or permit requirements if the trainer is travelling from another state or country to offer training.

You can also contact the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP) at [email protected].

Visit us on our website at www.spcp.org