Permanent cosmetic makeup is a technique to introduce pigments into the upper dermis of skin, thus imparting a long life. It serves the advantage of improving appearance by correcting imperfections.

Ideal candidates for the procedure are:

1. Athletes and dancers sweating profusely do not have to worry about
2. Those physically challenged by arthritis or multiple sclerosis or vision impairment finding difficulty applying
3. Candidates with alopecia universalis having missing eyebrows can
4. Those needing concealment of imperfections like scars, burn marks or leucoderma Permanent cosmetic makeup for the face includes eyebrows, eyeliner, lip colour, blusher.

The procedure is as follows:

1. A local anaesthetic like lidocaine is applied over the area to be
2. A hollow vibrating needle attached to the makeup applicator is dipped into the pigment of choice and introduced into the
3. An antiseptic like bacitracin is applied over the Three kinds of equipment are used:
4. Softap
5. Dynasty 2000, Sapphire
6. Noveau Contour Intelligent

Permanent cosmetic inks are composed of:

1. Pigments – organic (alizarin) or inorganic (iron oxides)
2. Diluent or carrier which maintains the pigment in a suspension form (propylene glycol) The procedure costs $200 to $1000 depending upon the area to be

The FDA has strict vigil over the inks that are used for the procedure. The Society for Permanent Cosmetic Professionals and the American Academy of Micropigmentation offer a course curriculum so that certified professionals are licensed to carry out the procedure by observing adequate safety measures.

In India, Permanent cosmetic procedures are carried out at the Blush Clinic founded by Dr. Jamuna Pai.

Although some may perceive it as expensive and unnecessary, opting for Permanent cosmetic makeup is a personal choice as it not only aims at improving the appearance but also enables one to conceal flaws.

Ms. Priyanka Joshi

Lecturer

Tags: MET Institute of Pharmacy