The Health Advantages of Permanent Makeup

The art and science of permanent makeup goes by many different names:

micropigmentation, permanent cosmetics, derma pigmentation, intradermal

cosmetics, dermagraphics and cosmetic tattoos. As the procedures associated with

permanent makeup become more main stream the public becomes more aware of

the benefits, especially for individuals that suffer from illness, disease, injury or

scarring. In my recent article “Building a Bridge: Cosmetic Surgery and

Micropigmentation” I explored the relationship between cosmetic surgery and

permanent makeup. I would now like to discuss how permanent makeup can work

as part of the solution for a variety of medical conditions.

Physicians as Partners

According to the Third Edition of “Medical Issues for Permanent Cosmetic

Technicians” published by the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals

“permanent cosmetic professionals are part of a new and exciting trend in the

aesthetic medical arena”. It goes on to say that plastic surgery and dermatology

centers are now offering permanent makeup procedures in order to attract new

patients. At times physicians recommend permanent makeup to compliment other

cosmetic procedures, such as Botox or a face lift, but it also helps the patient feel

better about themselves and the way they look during or after a difficult illness or

injury. The artistic eye of a trained permanent makeup practitioner can analyze

color and form to achieve the best look when the doctor has exhausted medical and

surgical options.

Know Your Medical History

It is important that the permanent cosmetic professional inquire into a client’s

medical history. For specific medical related issues the physician should approve

the procedure. Healing time and the strength of the immune system are incredibly

important. Some of the most common medical conditions that warrant permanent

makeup are cancer patients experiencing hair loss due to chemotherapy and areola

repigmentation after breast reconstruction. It is preferable to have permanent

makeup applied before chemotherapy or in the early stages of treatment to reduce

stress and promote healing. A Doctor’s release should be provided. Permanent

makeup can also be used to assist patients that suffer from Vitiligo-the absence of

pigmentation in the skin, Trichotillomania-a condition that causes compulsive

plucking of hair or Alopecia-a condition that leads to complete or partial hair loss.

Permanent makeup can also help Hypothyroid patients who have thinning eyebrows.

Individuals who have recently had a facelift or plastic surgery should wait until their

physician has determined they are healed, this can take six months or more, but

patience will guard against infection. Anyone with medical issues that create a

higher risk for infection, such as an artificial hip, mitral vale prolapse or

autoimmune disorders should be on an antibiotic. If you are on medication consult

your doctor, it is essential that you do your homework.

Toxicity Issues and Camouflaging Scars

Permanent makeup is also a viable alternative for individuals that suffer from

allergies or toxicity issues. Patients should talk with their doctors about potential

side effects related to pigments then consult a trained permanent makeup

practitioner. In many situations the pigments are less toxic than applying

conventional cosmetics every day. Individuals that suffer from arthritis, loss of

vision or neurological problems that cause painful or unsteady movement of the

hands can also enjoy the freedom achieved through permanent makeup. In her

book “The Essence of Beauty” Dr. Adrianna Scheibner, M.D. says in Chapter 9 “the

applications of the procedure [derma pigmentation] within the realm of medicine are

numerous”. “In the past few years,” Scheibner continues, “corrective camouflaging

has emerged as a useful service to dermatologists and plastic surgeons when they

can no longer medically improve a patient’s appearance”. Camouflage, applied by

an experienced permanent makeup professional, is a tricky procedure. In the

“Procedures of Macro-Theory Dermagraphics” printed by the American Institute of

Permanent Color Technology it states that “the application of camouflage is unlike

any other procedure…when applying camouflage you actually are taking something

away, or diminishing something that already exists, from the skin. Because of this,

camouflaging is an imperfect procedure”. Camouflaging is difficult and the results

never exact. Camouflaging strives to recreate the skin’s natural appearance;

realistic expectations are essential with this type of procedure. Also, when seeking

assistance with scar camouflage the procedure should be done when scars are a

pale white color, not red or pink.

There are many potential issues when a candidate for permanent makeup

suffers from illness or injury. The permanent makeup professional you choose

should have experience and provide you with referrals from previous clients and a

portfolio. An experienced permanent makeup professional will know the right

questions to ask during your initial consultation and will guide you through the

safest and healthiest way to looking your best. To learn more about permanent

makeup visit my web site http://www.DawnColors.com.

makeup