Every person loves looking great, but taking the time to apply makeup properly can be difficult and tedious. It’s a learned skill, after all, which means you have to practice multiple times to get it right. And even when you figure out things that look good, there are always accidents. Makeup smudges, or you can poke yourself in the eye with a brush or a pencil, the list of potential accidents and mess-ups could go on and on.
This is why permanent makeup has started becoming quite popular. Permanent makeup isn’t exactly permanent, but it is incredibly long lasting. It uses a specialized form of tattoo artistry to create an eyebrow tattoo, thus allowing you to look made up without having to take the time and energy to apply the make up regularly. Not only that, but it’s a one-time cost, which means that you won’t have to spend loads of money on makeup. If you wear makeup at all, then you know how expensive it can be. A simple eyeliner pencil could cost as much as $10, depending on the brand and style!
But there are several very real and important questions to ask about permanent makeup before you get it done. Is it safe? What is that one time cost? And perhaps most importantly, how long does it last if it’s not actually permanent?
Permanent makeup is a specialized form of facial tattooing. This means that it is a tattoo, and so there will be some discomfort after having the procedure done. Most people report only mild problems, with a bit of swelling and redness for a few days after, and an uncomfortable sensation (often described as “itching” or “vibrating”) while the procedure is done. However, it is as safe as any other tattooing procedure. Which is to say, as long as you’re seeing a qualified technician, you should be fine.
The one time cost can vary depending on a number of factors. You can get the procedure done for anywhere from $75 to $2000. However, it’s important to note that the cheaper it is, the more likely it is that the technician is inexperienced or a straight up scam artist. A reliable technician with the proper qualifications and experience under their belt will generally cost around $400, so you should expect to pay at least that amount.
As for how long it can last? That depends on the procedure done. Eyebrows, the most common procedure done, tend to last around 4-6 years between touch-ups. This is due to both the type of tattoo procedure done (which does not insert the pigmentation deeply into the skin) and the fact that eyebrow hair often thins over time.
Getting permanent makeup is often billed as a casual procedure that causes no trouble, and for many people that’s true. However, it’s important to remember that it is a form of tattoo artistry. This means there can be things that go wrong, and it’s important to pay attention to that fact. Still, many people are quite happy with their permanent makeup, so for some people it can be absolutely worth the cost.
