Our skin is our canvas in permanent cosmetics. Our skin is a live organ that can change with seasons, health, age, and environment. Many clients have the notion that permanent cosmetics is much like make up and should behave the same way. Couldn’t be further from the truth. Here are the top 5 things you need to know about the healing process on permanent cosmetics:
1. The skin is live. It is a living breathing action oriented organ that is the largest on our body. It is responsible for many things including protection, heat and cold regulation, hydration and circulation. Our health determines how well the skin responds to permanent cosmetics.
2. Healing starts with inflammation response. For permanent cosmetics, to be permanent it must heal within the skin, basically tattooing. Inflammation is a natural first response and necessary for proper healing. Best to stay out of the way and let the skin heal itself.
3. The area will lighten in one week. Promise. The day of service the pigment is put in the dermal layer and it also stains the epidermis (outer layer) that exfoliates off in 3 to 5 days. The new skin underneath will need additional 2 to 3 weeks to fully heal.
4. Some ares will not hold. The skin is a live organ and has fluid, cells and areas that are different. Some areas just will not hold pigment the first session .This why we always include a touch up if needed. Certain areas such as lower eyelids are less likely to hold due to tears and eye shape. Tears have salt in them and sale removes pigment. Be patient.
5. Age and thickness of skin matters. Older, thinner skin has more difficulty holding pigment. Unhealthy skin, smokers and sun abuse will make it harder to hold. As techs, we can only work with what our clients presents. It may take more than one touch up.
It is important to understand this process for a happy and successful outcome. Be patient and follow instructions for aftercare!