What is Micropigmentation and How Can it Benefit Me?

Micropigmentation, or permanent make up, is an innovative cosmetic procedure that enables both men and women to enhance the shape of their eyebrows, hairline, lips, eyes, and more, through the process of depositing pigment into the skin's dermal layer.

This smudge-free treatment lasts for years and is a great way to restore confidence and self esteem in those with alopecia, hair loss, chemotherapy patients, and more.

How is Permanent MakeUp Performed?

Permanent makeup is performed by inserting a small, thin needle and hypoallergenic mineral pigment into the second layer of the skin to lightly contour and enhance the lips, eyes, or eyebrows, and more. Your doctor will wear gloves during the procedure in order to prevent the spread of germs and other issues.

This procedure differs from cosmetic tattoos in that it uses a different pigment than tattoo ink, and it also less invasive. The instrument used is also slightly less advanced than tattoo devices.

The procedure itself takes approximately twenty minutes to a half hour and is typically performed in an office setting, which means you will return home the same day. Though, micropigmentation is usually a minimally painful procedure, depending on the area treated, some patients may receive anesthesia prior to treatment in order to make it more comfortable.

What to Expect Following the Procedure

Following treatment, patients will typically experience some swelling in the area treated. However, your specialist will instruct you on how frequently to apply ice to the area as well as what type of ointment to apply in order to help reduce the swelling. Patients who receive treatment in the eye area may also experience tearing afterwards, which is common. Therefore, your doctor will require that you have someone to drive you to and from your appointment.

Following your procedure, your doctor will also provide you with antiseptic to clean the treated area, and she or he may also advise that you avoid sunlight as well as certain products, like peroxide, as these can have a negative effect on your procedure.

Your coloring may appear more intense following the procedure; however, it will gradually fade within a few weeks.

If you develop a fever or rash or you experience excessive swelling or burning in the area following your procedure, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Who are Good Candidates for Micropigmentation?

Permanent make-up is great for both males and females who wish to improve the appearance of theirhairline, eyebrows, lips, and more.

It also great for those with allergies to traditional make-up.

Those with physical limitations, such as severe arthritis, may also benefit from permanent make-up. People who wear glasses and contact wearers with sensitive eyes may also be good candidates for this procedure.

Additionally, since permanent make up can also be used for medical purposes, known as dermapigmentation, it can also be used to treat scars, correct cleft lips, and restore areola pigmentation in those who have undergone chemotherapy or breast construction surgery.

Finding a Trustworthy Specialist Who Performs Micropigmentation

It is vital to find a specialist or doctor who is highly trained and experienced in this procedure in order to avoid a botched procedure.

In addition, you should have a consultation with your preferred doctor prior to treatment in order to discuss your needs. A good doctor or specialist should have no problems addressing all of your concerns. Therefore, be sure you feel comfortable expressing your expectations with your doctor and that you feel at ease to ask any questions regarding the procedure. When you visit the office, you should also examine the area for professionalism.

During your consultation, your specialist or doctor will also determine if you should receive anesthesia for your procedure, in which case, if they decide that you should, you will need to arrive earlier to your appointment in order to allow the anesthesia sufficient time to take effect.

Your specialist will also record your medical history, so be sure you are completely honest in order to avoid complications later. Additionally, be clear about why you want the procedure so your doctor understands your needs.

During the consultation, your doctor will also examine your skin for texture, tone, and complexion in order to match the pigment with your own natural tones. She or he may also take pictures.

Will My Insurance Cover the Procedure?

Permanent make up is considered an elective procedure; therefore, you will have to finance it out of your own pocket.

Maintaining Your Look

Some people may require two or more treatments in order to achieve desired results, so be sure to discuss with your doctor exactly how many treatments you will need when you go in for your consultation.

Also, the coloring will gradually fade over time; therefore, you will need to undergo additional treatments in order to maintain your look.