Fast facts

Permanent Makeup

What it is: Permanent makeup is a cosmetic tattoo applied through a process called micropigmentation. The permanent makeup procedure utilizes a device that rapidly punctures skin multiple times in a desired area to embed pigment beneath the dermal layer.  

What it addresses:  Defining or enhancing certain areas of the face with color, including:

- Eyebrows
- Eyes
- Lips

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Question

Can permanent makeup be corrected or removed if the application gets messed up?

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Asked by: Anonymous

Answers (2)

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1
July 20, 2008

Can permanent makeup be corrected or removed?

Liza Sims, CPCP
Liza Sims, CPCP

Permanent makeup is a cosmetic tattoo. It can rarely be removed completely. Lasers are often ineffective on permanent cosmetics because titanium dioxide, present in almost all pigments can turn black in the skin if exposed to intense heat / light of some lasers.

When considering the commitment of permanent cosmetics, it’s important to select the best technician possible. You must consider the commitment to be permanent and go into it with the knowledge that removal is very difficult if not impossible.

The Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals – SPCP - is the largest and oldest organization of cosmetic tattoo professionals and can be a great source of information for the person considering permanent makeup. 

An experienced permanent cosmetic professional may be able to help with color correction and/or shape of an undesired or less than perfect existing application.

For assistance with tattoo removal, consult a doctor who has experience in the area of permanent makeup removal.

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November 26, 2007
Sophy Merszei
Sophy Merszei

Permanent makeup can sometimes be removed by laser, however it may take several sessions and there are no guarantees. Eyeliner is more difficult to remove than brows or lips.

The safest bet when choosing to commit to something permanent is to start out with a light, natural look. You can always add more color, but removing it is difficult.

Stay away from pure black pigment in large quantities as it can sometimes discolor over time. Brown colors are a better choice, even for those with deeper hair and skin tones.

Experienced, board-certified technicians can be found through the American Academy of Micropigmentation.  Always ask to see before-and-after photos and ask how much experience the technician has.

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