Permanent Make-Up Frequently Asked Questions
Q-What is Permanent Make-Up?
A-Permanent Make-Up is a form of tattooing. It is implanting pigment into the dermis layer of the skin.
Q-Is it painful?
A-No, it is not painful. Clients are always surprised by this - although some people may experience a small level of discomfort due to varying pain tolerance and/or resistance to anesthetics. We use a very effective topical anesthetic for all procedures. Most say that during the process they feel a slight tingle. After, the treated area is just a little bit sore. With eyeliner procedures, your eyes will feel the soreness as if you have been crying a lot. Eyebrows or lips, being a larger area, will have more soreness post procedure.
Q-How long does it last?
A-Permanent make-up is permanent, although, like a tattoo, it will lose its vibrancy over time, depending on the individual. Exposure to sun and chlorine will have an effect. Touch-ups can be done whenever needed - on some it may not be for 10 years, on others, it could be 2 years. Avoid tanning and using glycolic acids (fruit acids, which are commonly found in some toners, cleansers and moisturizers. Read the labels). This will help the durability of your permanent make-up.
Q-What is the recovery time?
A-There is no down time - you may experience some swelling and your permanent make-up will look dark for about 3-5 days. You will be instructed to keep a lubricant on your make-up during that time, depending on your procedure. You will be able to wear brand new make-up on your brows and eyeliner after 4 days and brand new make-up on your lips after 10 days.
Q-Can I still wear regular make-up?
A-Absolutely! Permanent make-up will enhance any other cosmetics you use!
Q-What if I change my hair color?
A-This is not really a concern when having your eyeliner or lips done. The colors we choose for brows are chosen according to the hues found in skin and hair, so that the brows look natural with almost any coloring.
Q-Can I get cosmetic surgery if I have Permanent Make-up?
A-Absolutely! Properly placed permanent make-up will not be affected. If you are planning on getting any lip injections, it is wise to get your permanent make-up done first as it will cut back in the discomfort.
Q-Am I safe?
A-Our clients' health and safety are the most important part of any and every procedure. We use only sterilized, one-time-use needles. Variations Salon is licensed through Wayne County and the State of Michigan and our technicians are fully certified!
Q-What should I expect after?
A-To feel relaxed from your treatment and excited because your life just got easier! Your new make-up will look a little darker than normal for just a few days. Your eyes/lips will be slightly tender and maybe a bit swollen. You can easily go to work the next day without any trouble whatsoever. We do recommend that you do not have your permanent make-up applied right before any major event. Wait 5 days for eyeliner and brows and 10 days for any lip procedures. Within the week, the area may peel leaving your color softer and better. If instructed by your technician, you will book your follow up appointment 4-6 weeks out to perfect your make-up.
Q-How long are the procedures?
A-It takes about 1-2 hours for most procedures.
Q-What do I do to prepare?
A-Please refer to our before and after care instructions by clicking on the link below:
Q-Will I still be able to have a MRI?
A-Yes, just let your MRI tech know that you have permanent make-up.
Q-What about changing styles?
A-Thicker, fuller looking lashes, beautifully arched brows, evenly shaped, natural looking luscious lips never go out of style. We help our clients figure out the most flattering, natural look for them. Maybe 10% of our clientele ask for something that is seasonal, like bright blue eyeliner, or ruby red lips, but even these colors can be transformed into more natural colors later on.
Q-Should I worry about allergies?
A-You should always be cautious, as it is possible to be allergic to the pigment or the topical anesthetic. However, we use only brands of pigment that have no known allergic reactions. Remember, permanent make-up is a wonderful alternative to cosmetics if you have sensitive skin or allergies. If you are prone to allergies, ask your technician for a patch test which we recommend having done 2 weeks prior to your services.