Cosmetic Tattooing-What's the Deal?

by Christine Wheaton, Sassable staff writer

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Cosmetic tattooing, also known as semi-permanent makeup has been around for over twenty years, and has progressed considerably in that time.  It is true in the early days that sometimes the black ink would spread and/or fade to blue, but this can be avoided with the latest pigments which are true to color and a more shallow and accurate application of inks which eliminates spreading.

There are hundreds of colors to choose from now and the artists have really honed their skills and equipment. The trick is to find the right artist that knows their stuff. If done in a way to accentuate your particular face, the result can be quite lovely and natural. 

What IS Cosmetic Tattooing Exactly? Well it is done with an electric needle (with movements kind of like a very fast sewing machine) that deposits pigment into the dermis layer of the skin. At first the color will appear brighter than usual and it will be swollen. After the healing process (which could be anywhere from 2 days to a month-depending on your procedure), the top layers of skin have shed and you are left with a more natural look. Over time the color will fade (lighter colors fade faster) and you will have to come back for follow up visits. The various procedures could range anywhere from $100-$1000 and take 20 minutes to 120 minutes. They do use an anesthesia because otherwise, getting a tattoo on your eyelid does seem quite painful! 

Risks of Cosmetic Tattooing. There are some obvious ones and some scary ones but take a look because cosmetic tattooing should not be taken lightly, it is a big decision, so you should be well informed. 

-It IS permanent even though the color might fade a bit, it will only be fully removable by laser treatment which may cause hair follicle loss-yikes!

-Allergic reaction to the pigment. You can ask for a test on a part of the body other than your face, but still a sensitive location. Perhaps the inner arm or neck area. 

-Unprofessional, untrained, and uncertified technicians doing a shoddy job. There isn’t much regulation in this field so do your research to find the right person for you or else you might end up with eyeliner that looks like it was done in the back of a bus. 

-Along those same lines, HIV and Hepatitis are just a few of the diseases that can be transmitted through a dirty needle. Make sure the instruments and space are clean and sterile. 

Benefits of Cosmetic Tattooing. There is always two sides to every argument, so here are some positive things to consider. 

-If you have no or very little eyebrow hair or eyelashes due to a condition or just born that way, you can finally have that definition you always wanted. 

-If you can no longer apply makeup like you used to because of age or some other reason, you do not have to forgo your appearance. 

-No touch ups

-Barely any time needed to get ready in the morning

-Lots of women have low pigment in their lips, this solves that without the hassle lipstick!

Tips and Facts about Cosmetic Tattooing. 

-When you find someone you are considering for your procedure, make sure to see photos of their work and speak to previous clients

-Take a tour of the space to make sure it is clean and locate any credentials to confirm legitimacy. 

-Get the technician to apply regular makeup to your face just how you like it first. Pay close attention to your liner and brows making sure it is straight and even. 

-Any type of tattoo will fade more rapidly with sun exposure.

-It is commonly believed that the original root word of “tattoo” comes from the Tongan or the Tahitian word tatau, meaning to mark or strike twice.

-Although many places provide cosmetic tattooing, your best bet for a successful outcome would be one that employs a technician who has been in the field for at least 4-5 years. 

-It could take a while to heal, you might be red and swollen for a week or so, so plan your appointments accordingly.