Cosmetic Tattoo
Also known as micro-pigmentation or permanent make-up, this form of tattooing is used for aesthetic enhancements or medical camouflage using traditional tattoo machine and/or micro-blading tools.
Things to Look for When Choosing a Cosmetic Tattoo Artist
- How many years of experience do they have?
- Too low of a price indicates inexperience, what’s their price point?
- Do they have training from a reputable micro-pigmentation school?
- Do they have corrective/camouflage experience & training?
- Do they have a background in makeup artistry, preferably in art & aesthetics?
- Do they have certifications, licensing, and/or are they member of professional associations?
- It takes time to discuss your needs and ideas, are they open to communicate during the consultation?
- Are their before and after photos for you to view the quality of their work?
- Can they provide patient references?
- Do they have insurance?
To learn more about Dermak Esthetics & Nutrition’s artist and her qualifications, view the About Lisette page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they are both permanent and have some of the same qualities. Specialists in micro-pigmentation use techniques, tools and pigments that are specially designed for the face making the procedure very safe and sterile. The instruments are much more delicate in design and provide natural-looking results and less discomfort. A tattoo machine and/or a micro-blading tool is used during the procedure.
Safety and comfort are of utmost concern. Sterile and disposable single use individually wrapped needles, pigments and any other products used are discarded after each procedure. Strict hygiene and sterilization procedures that conform to CDC (Centre for Disease Control) guidelines are implemented. Also hypo-allergenic, Canadian manufactured pigments are used.
A topical anaesthetic is applied prior to and, if needed, during each procedure to reduce discomfort. Some clients feel a slight prickly sensation to no feeling at all.
The procedure takes approximately 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the area(s) to be worked on.
Immediately following the procedure, there may be some swelling and redness and very rarely, a small amount of bruising, lasting a few hours to a few days. Within 3 to 7 days, the colour will be lighter and less dramatic. A touch-up is usually done after 4 to 6 weeks to allow for changes in shape or colour. Detailed aftercare instructions are provided and reviewed after each procedure.
Generally, the lighter, more natural colours will require periodical touch ups, and the darker dramatic colours tend to last a bit longer, but everyone is different. Results will depend on age, skin tone, sun exposure, body chemistry and the degree of care taken to maintain the procedure. Some people will need a touch up in 2 to 6 years depending on the mentioned factors.