FAQs

Semi Permanent Makeup (SPMU) - What is it?

Semi Permanent Makeup (SPMU) is cosmetic tattooing. The specialist techniques used for semi permanent makeup are often referred to as 'micropigmentation' or 'micropigmentation implantation'. The cosmetic implantation technique deposits coloured pigment into the upper reticular layer of the dermis.

How will my Semi Permanent Makeup (SPMU) procedures be performed?

Cosmetic Ink Edinburgh uses a digital pen to dot pigment into the upper derma. The process includes a consultation, patch test, the application of pigment, and at least one or more follow up visit for evaluating the healed design work and colour of the pigment.

What is the difference between cosmetic tattoos (semi permanent makeup SPMU) and body tattoos?

The purpose of cosmetic tattooing is to enhance your natural features. Cosmetic tattooing is softer and more subtle and creates a natural, realistic result. As opposed to the ink that is used in body tattooing, cosmetic tattooing uses semi permanent pigments/makeup ink. These pigments are designed to gently fade over time. Fading is desired as it allows you to make changes to colour and shape over the years as you age and hair/skin/styling preferences change.

What can I expect from my brow tattoo?

Whether your brows are sparse and uneven, or you're looking for low-maintenance, polished, balanced appearance, brow tattooing can enhance your current arches. Cosmetic Ink Edinburgh will map out an measure a bespoke design for your face shape. A shape and design that we both agree on. The benefits include; water and sweat proof brows, camouflaging sparse areas/scars, fuller/symetrical brows, semi permanent results which will allow you to make adjustments in years to come.

Who benefits from Semi Permanent Makeup (SPMU)?

Interest in this service spans the young to the more mature; those who desire a soft, natural enhancement to their appearance. It is especially valuable to people who can't wear traditional cosmetics due to allergies and skin sensitivities; active people who want to look their best for sport activities such as swimming, hiking, biking, tennis,aerobics; and those who don't want to worry about 'sweating off' or reapplying cosmetics. Semi Permanent Makeup also benefits the visually challenged who have difficulty applying their cosmetics; and others with dexterity related conditions such as arthritis, parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke survivors and alopecia and people who have undergone chemotherapy or have experienced hair loss.

Will Semi Permanent Makeup (SPMU) work well for me?

If you have extremely oily skin, the hairstroke eyebrow technique may not work well for you. The constant production of oil may cause the hairtrokes to heal with a softer look. Your end result will look more powdered. If you have little to no existing hair, your tattoo will appear more 2-dimensional than those clients who have more hair naturally. If you are a frequent smoker, your pigment may fade sooner. If you are iron deficient or anemic, your pigment may fade sooner.

How long does each procedure take?

The initial procedure will generally take approximately 2 to 3 hours; there are records to establish; photographs to take; desired design and colour to discuss; the procedure to perform; and the aftercare requirements to discuss. Follow up or colour fresher procedures usually do not require the same amount of time.

Is it painful?

To ensure your maximum comfort, a highly effective. topical anesthetic gel is used for numbing during your tattoo. Pain threshold levels vary from person to person and every effort is made to ensure you remain comfortable for the entirety of the tattoo session. Having this treatment performed during your menstrual cycle may increase discomfort during your procedure. Most clients actually tend to dose off during their tattoo, and tend to compare the sensation to threading/tweezing/a light scratch.

Is it safe?

All needles will be new and sterile for each client. Unopened and sterile needles will be opened in your presence.
Disposable sterilised one-time use machine parts will be purchase and used, and disposed off in a sharp container immediately after the procedure has been completed.
Personal protection equipment such as disposable one-time aprons and gloves are new for each client and changed during the procedure when needed.
Disposable one-time use chair/bed covering for each client.

Bekki has undergone Infection Control Training combined with all of the above, the treatment is completely safe.

What if I don't like it?

Although the procedure is considered permanent, you do have flexibility in changing things in the retouch.

How many treatments are needed?

For most clients, a minimum of two treatments are usually needed 6-12 weeks apart. At the second treatment, we will assess the colour retention and make adjustments as necessary. Everyone heals differently and at different rates. If your cosmetic tattoo does not heal perfectly the first time, do not worry! We can always go darker and add more density at your next appointment.

PLEASE NOTE: If you have had your eyebrows previously tattooed and are interested in cover-up/re-work, you MUST email Cosmetic Ink Edinburgh a clear photo PRIOR to booking your appointment. We cannot guarantee results for cases such as these and we must approve that your eyebrows are workable. In some cases where the previous work is too dark, dense, discoloured, or large. tattoo removal will be highly recommended before we begin the cover-up/re-work. Previously tattooed areas and cover-ups may require additional touch-ups for best results and will be charged accordingly.

What factors will effect my tattoo?

Sun exposure: The sun will extremely soften the look of your tattoo, so sunblock should be used (once healed) to prolong your enhancement.

The regeneration of skin cells: The longer the regeneration takes, the longer the pigment holds.

The speed at which the skin absorbs pigment: The slower the absorption, the longer the pigment will hold.

The choice of colour: Some colours fade quicker than others, e.g. a blonde colour will fade quicker than a dark brown colour.

The area of treatment: Enhancements to the face, for example, fade more quickly due to constant exposure.

Bleeding during the procedure: Any bleeding during the tattooing procedure will reduce the amount of pigment absorption. Alcohol and certain medications act as blood-thinners and should not be taken prior to and following your appointment.

How will my tattoo look in the future?

During your appointment, Bekki will analyse your skin's undertone to anticipate how pigment colours will fade in the future. She will also mix pigments to ensure colour blends well with your existing eyebrow and hair colour.The majority of our clients' cosmetic tattoos stay true to colour and lighten naturally over time. There are some cases, however, where colours may fade to different tones according to the individuals response to the pigments (like lifestyle and iron deficiencies). Many factors affect these changes.

At your follow up appointment, Bekki will re-analyse how your body has responded to the initial colour. Special formula alteration to correct the colour and to prevent further colour change is made at this time. Your eyebrow tattoo will eventually look softer and have a more 'powdered' look. This happens with all clients as the skin ages. To maintain your brow tattoo a refresher appointment is suggested every 1 to 2 years. Results vary with each client. Please note that clients with oily skin types may heal to a softer/powdery result.

Do pigments pose allergy problems?

People can develop and allergy to anything, anytime; however, pigment allergies are considered rare. Some doctors recommend that people with environmental allergies or allergies to conventional makeup have permanent cosmetic procedures because they can replace cosmetic products that people are sensitive to. While allergic reactions to any type of tattooing pigments on the body or on the face, through permanent cosmetics, may occur at any point in time, they are extremely rare.

Can I still have an MRI scan?

Numerous studies have shown that even for people who have large body tattoos, there is little to no potential for irritation resulting from an MRI. In the rare instance where discomfort resulted, it was localised and very temporary. However, with that said, it is prudent to advise your MRI technician that you have permanent cosmetics.

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