As cosmetic procedures advance, so too do the technologies we use to perform them. Nowhere is this more true than in the field of permanent makeup. Permanent makeup and other non-invasive cosmetic procedures are becoming more and more popular in our modern times. This is partially due to advancements in permanent makeup technologies and techniques which allow cosmetic surgeons to apply permanent makeup in a safe and effective manner. While the word “permanent” is somewhat misleading in this case, permanent makeup certainly provides a level of consistency that will last many years!
With all of this in mind, today we will discuss the advances in permanent makeup techniques by defining permanent makeup and delving into some examples of modern permanent makeup procedures. To learn more, join us at SCALE 2020 in Nashville where we will be covering a wide range of cosmetic and aesthetics topics including cosmetic tattooing, injectables, cosmetic surgery, and much more!
What is Permanent Makeup?
Permanent makeup, sometimes also referred to as cosmetic tattooing, is essentially a tattoo or series of tattoos which is meant to mimic the appearance of superficial makeup. Yet this only tells part of the story. Cosmetic tattoos can be used as replacement for makeup, fill out thinning eyebrows or eyelashes, conceal scarring, and much more! In the hands of a skilled cosmetic surgeon, permanent makeup is less of a makeup alternative and more of an option to change your skin’s appearance in a number of different ways.
To answer the most frequently asked question: yes, permanent makeup is essentially the same as getting a tattoo. The key is to understand that a qualified medical professional should use the necessary sterilization, anesthetics, and safety precautions during your procedure. In other words, this will be a very different experience than getting a tattoo of the infinity symbol on your wrist.
Modern Permanent Makeup Techniques in 2020
The advances in permanent makeup have allowed the field to grow dramatically in the past several years. To understand the advances of permanent makeup techniques, it is vital to review common examples of cosmetic tattooing, how they work, and how long they last.
Microblading for Fuller Eyebrows
Perhaps the most common form of permanent makeup is microblading. The primary reason being the microblading is extremely effective at providing a natural, full eyebrow look that nobody would ever know was cosmetically enhanced. The idea behind microblading is to “fill” in sparse areas in the eyebrows with specifically tailored tattooing. So while your natural eyebrows will remain the star of the show, they will appear fuller and more sharp with the underlying microblading techniques.
Modern advances in microblading have taken the procedure from a rudimentary filling process to a fine tuned effort to sculpt your eyebrows exactly how you desire. The results are very different depending on the individual’s goal look.
Permanent Lipstick with Lip Blushing
Lip blushing is a procedure which brings coloration to your lips which mimics lipstick for one to two years. Lip blushing techniques have come a long way in just the past ten years, from bluntly tattooing lips with a solid color to intricate techniques that can range from a slight coloration to a fully formed “fresh lipstick” look. The techniques have also gotten considerably safer and more standardized in recent years.
One aspect to keep in mind when considering lip blushing is that it can be painful. Qualified doctors will certainly use a topical anesthetic or numbing agent before the procedure, but the fact remains that patients are tattooing their lips. Anyone who has ever split their lip or even bitten their lip understands that lips are one of the most sensitive body parts. For those who love the procedure, the pain is worth 2 or more years of skipping lipstick.
Permanent Makeup can Conceal Scars
Last but not least, permanent makeup or cosmetic tattooing can be used to conceal pre-existing scars. Almost everybody has scars from a childhood injury, nasty accident, or even a previous surgical procedure. What few people realize is that cosmetic tattooing has advanced to a point that many scars can be effectively “removed” through concealing tattoos. This can be used for everything ranging from areola recreation to covering skin grafts to removing scars from self harm.
Learn More About the Future of Permanent Makeup at SCALE 2020!
July 22-25th 2020 marks the 15th annual Symposium for Cosmetic Advances & Laser Education SCALE conference! Join us in Nashville to discuss cutting edge technology relating to melanoma research, aesthetic surgery, laser surgery, medical dermatology, atopic dermatitis, injectables, and just about everything in between. We are proud to hold our conference in the world famous Music City Convention Center in downtown Nashville, TN. Check back frequently to view our full list of exhibitors and event sponsors to find out who will be attending.
SCALE 2020 is available for registration now! Click here to view the convenient accommodations at the nearby Westin and Omni hotels for out of town guests.