I have just returned from a National Conference of permanent makeup technicians. There is a growing concern because of the lack of regulations in our industry.
It was suggested that important information be shared to help you make a wise decision , when choosing a permanent make up artist. No matter what you are told, permanent make up is a tattoo, an invasive procedure that is permanent so, do your "homework" before choosing your technician!!
There are two types of machines used for permanent makeup. One type, the coil is a traditional tattoo machine. There are two parts of the coil machine that get contaminated with body secretions when being used. Both of these parts can be sterilized in an autoclave or can be thrown away after each use. The other type of machine is the rotary machine or "pencil" machine. There are three parts on a rotary machine that come into contact with body secretions. There is only one rotary machine that is safe to use. Both the needle and the chamber that holds the needle are disposable and the "pencil" that is held is autoclavable. None of the other rotary machines can be cleaned properly and are not safe. Infectious diseases such as AIDS and hepatitis can be spread!! (A hint; ask to see the technicians autoclave when interviewing them) Tattoo pigments that have been used for many years are iron oxide and titanium oxide based. They have a proven "track record".
With no regulations I'd suggest sticking with something tried and true.
It was brought to our attention, at the conference, that there are permanent make up technicians (not doctors) that are injecting areas with local anesthetics before a procedure and some are also using prescription medications. This is dangerous and practicing medicine without a license!! Beware!!
Permanent Makeup is wonderful for today's active women. It is used widelyin medical reconstruction and camouflage. It's an alternative to those with allergies to conventional make up.
Hopefully, with this information that I have shared with you, you will ask the right questions and choose wisely!
