- Ask about your professionals background and training.
- Ask how long they have been doing micropigmentation (semi-permanent cosmetics).
- Ask if they have passed any examinations for Board Certification by the Academy.
- Ask if they use disposable needles. This is so important to your safety and welfare.
- Ask if they were trained by an American Academy of Micropigmentation Board Certified Instructor.
- Ask what pigments they use? Iron Oxides and titanium dioxide are the least likely to cause problems. Some synthetic organic pigments are okay but make sure there has never been an allergic reaction. If a practitioner states they use “vegetable-based” pigments or dyes that is a red flag because there is no such thing used for coloring the face. Note: You can have an MRI safely after permanent makeup. (J Magn Reson Imaging. 2002 Feb;15(2):180-4). Questions? go to: http://www.mrisafety.com
- Ask if your makeup is “permanent” or if it will fade. If they insist your makeup is permanent, and will not fade, then consider consulting a second professional. All colors soften and fade over time and need to be refreshed every year or two in most cases – especially eyebrow colors with muted browns, golds and grays.
- Ask if your practitioner can offer you procedures like color correction, hairstrokes for your brows, and eyeliner that won’t turn “tattoo” blue.
- Ask your practitioner if their eyeliner colors contain any ink (Pelikan Ink). Inks are fine for traditional tattoos. However, if used for eyeliner, inks have been known to migrate or spread under the skin and look like a permanent bruise.
- Ask about pain control. Injections of local anesthetic should not be used for permanent makeup. Topicals work well, are safe and don’t need a doctor. Occasionally, a dental block may help control pain but rarely is required for lip procedures.
The American Academy of Micropigmentation continues to protect the public by offering information about the profession and professionals, sources for competent training, safety guidelines for products and a team of physicians with an unparalleled background in all aspects of permanent makeup.
Many members of the Academy offer their services free to cancer survivors who’ve lost their eyelashes and brows to chemotherapy. Also, members know how to do medical tattooing of the breast after surgery. Patients with unsightly scars from accidents, burns, hair transplants or cleft lip repair benefit from the artistic skills of Academy members. Top permanent makeup professionals and members of the Academy undergo years of training and continuing education.