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De Glamour

frequently
ASKED QUESTIONS

1/ WHAT IS S-PMU ?

S-PMU is Semi-permanent makeup, also known as micropigmentation, is a cosmetic technique that involves depositing pigment into the epidermis or dermal layer of the skin to create the appearance of makeup, such as eyeliner, eyebrows, lip color, etc. Some key things to know about semi-permanent makeup:

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   - It typically lasts 1-3 years before beginning to fade noticeably. Touch up appointments are needed to maintain the look.

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   - It is applied using a handheld device with an ultra-fine needle that deposits pigment into the skin. Several sessions are usually needed to achieve the desired look.

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   - It can be used to create definition for brows, eyes, and lips, add color, cover scars, and more. It is popular among those who want to reduce time spent applying makeup daily.

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   - Side effects can include swelling, redness, bruising, and discomfort during and after application. There are also risks like infection, allergic reaction, and granulomas if not done properly.

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   - It fades over time and does not fully permanently stay. The length it lasts varies based on factors like skin type, lifestyle, sun exposure, and color/area treated. 

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   - Proper aftercare like sun avoidance is crucial to prolong results. Annual touch ups are common for maintenance.

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   - Removal is possible but can be difficult and require multiple treatments over time. The pigment has to be broken down and absorbed by the body.

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So in summary, it provides a long-lasting but not completely permanent makeup look that requires ongoing maintenance over time. It can be a big time saver but proper research and artist selection is key.

4/Is S-PMU the same as body tattooing?

No, semi-permanent makeup (S-PMU) is not the same as traditional body tattooing. There are some key differences:

  • Depth - S-PMU ink is deposited into the upper dermal layer of skin, while body tattooing goes deeper into the dermis.

  • Pigments - S-PMU uses cosmetic-grade pigments approved for use around the eyes and lips. Body tattoos use a wider array of ink pigments.

  • Fading - S-PMU fades significantly over 1-3 years. Body tattoos are designed to be permanent with minimal fading.

  • Purpose - S-PMU is intended to enhance natural facial features. Body tattoos are more decorative and varied in purpose.

  • Equipment - S-PMU uses specialized fine needles and devices for delicate work. Body tattoos use different inking equipment.

  • Removal - S-PMU can be removed in some cases, but often fades on its own over time. Body tattoos are more difficult to remove.

  • Technician - S-PMU artists have specialized training in semi-permanent cosmetic techniques. Body tattooists learn a wider range of inking styles.

While both deposit ink into the skin, S-PMU is considered non-permanent and specially designed to enhance facial features through subtle pigmentation. Traditional body tattooing has bolder, more permanent results with different purposes, techniques and inks.

2/ What areas of the body can permanent makeup be used on?

  • Eyebrows - To add shape, definition, and mimic hair-like strokes to the brows.

  • Eyeliner - To add depth and definition along the top and/or bottom lash lines. Can be subtle or more dramatic.

  • Lips - To add subtle color, shape, and definition to the lips and edges. Both lip liner and/or full lip color can be added.

  • Beauty marks - To create simulated moles or beauty marks.

  • Areola - To recreate the areola around the nipple, often after breast reconstruction post-mastectomy.

  • Scars - To help camouflage and blend scars into the natural skin tone.

  • Scalp - To create the look of fine hairs on balding scalps.

  • Cleavage/décolletage - Subtle shading and contouring to create shape and definition.

The face is the most common place for permanent makeup application, but trained technicians can also work on body areas like the scalp, areola, scars, and décolletage in some cases. No matter the area being treated, it's important to choose an experienced and reputable permanent makeup artist.

3/ Is S-PMU actually permanent?

No, semi-permanent makeup (S-PMU) is not actually permanent. The term "semi-permanent" is a bit misleading. Here are some key points on the duration of S-PMU:

  • The pigment used for S-PMU does not permanently remain in the dermis layer of the skin. It does eventually fade over time.

  • Results typically last 1-3 years before requiring touch ups, though some fading can start in as little as 6 months.

  • Fading occurs due to the natural exfoliation of skin cells and breakdown of ink pigments over time.

  • How long S-PMU lasts depends on several factors: ink color, application method, sun exposure, skin type, lifestyle habits like smoking, etc.

  • While S-PMU does not permanently stay, the results can often last longer than conventional makeup applied daily.

  • Periodic touch up appointments every 1-3 years are needed to maintain the freshness of the S-PMU results.

  • In rare cases, the ink may fully fade in just 6-12 months requiring earlier touch ups.

So in summary, while the term "semi-permanent" implies long-lasting results, S-PMU does not permanently remain intact. It does gradually fade over months and years requiring ongoing maintenance through repeat appointments.

5/Does permanent makeup hurt?

While permanent makeup application does involve some discomfort from the needle depositing ink, there are ways to minimize pain and make it tolerable:

  • Numbbing creams help dull sensation.

  • Gentle, quick techniques avoid going too deep into skin.

  • Areas like eyebrows hurt less than more sensitive eyeliner or lips.

  • Ice packs, over-the-counter meds, and breaks between sessions can help.

  • Most clients describe it as a manageable tingling, scratching or burning sensation.

Discomfort is usually mild and dissipates within hours. Numbing and gentler application techniques keep the procedure relatively comfortable for most people.

6/How long does it take to heal, and will there be any side effects?

The healing process for permanent makeup typically takes:

  • First 24 hours - Some swelling, redness, and minor bleeding immediately after. Cold compresses help.

  • Days 2-4 - More pronounced swelling, tenderness, and redness as skin starts healing. Scabs may form.

  • Days 5-10 - Scabs start flaking off, revealing the finished results. Swelling and tenderness decrease.

  • Days 10-30 - Residual swelling and dryness around the area. Color looks softened and muted.

  • 4-6 weeks - Area is fully healed, no longer tender. Final true color is visible.

Possible side effects include:

  • Infection - Uncommon but can cause redness and pus. Requires antibiotics.

  • Allergic reaction - Swelling, bumps, oozing. Topical steroids help treat.

  • Granulomas - Small bumps that can form due to pigment clumping. Resolves over time.

  • Irregular pigmentation - Uneven color, blurring of lines. Often fixes itself as healing completes.

  • Corneal abrasions - Rare, but eyeliner can cause eye irritation during healing.

Proper aftercare and avoiding touching or scrubbing the area helps minimize adverse effects. Most side effects like redness and irritation typically resolve within 1-2 weeks.

7/How long do permanent makeup procedures take?

The time required for a permanent makeup application can vary depending on the area being treated, but general timeframes are:

  • Eyebrows - Approximately 1-2 hours. Time is needed to shape and create fine hair strokes.

  • Eyeliner - Around 1-1.5 hours for top liner, less for lower liner only.

  • Lip liner or full lip color - 1-2 hours depending on complexity of shape and color techniques.

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There should be allowance for anesthesia time if numbing cream is used. Implanting pigment is generally a slow, meticulous process. Most clients can expect permanent makeup sessions to take 1-3 hours depending on the areas addressed. Some procedures may require two visits spaced a month apart.

8/The Advantages of Microshading

The Advantages of Microshading

 

  • Achieve subtle or dramatic results to suit your needs

  • Long-lasting when touched up yearly; lasts 2+ years

  • Waterproof and perfect brows, even during workouts

  • Saves time on daily brow grooming and products

  • Fills gaps and makes brows appear fuller

  • Provides symmetry and structure if brows are uneven

  • Custom-shaped based on your facial measurements

  • Can help reconstruct brows lost from alopecia, chemotherapy, etc.

  • Great for active lifestyles and sports

  • Alternative for sensitive skin or those who can't wear makeup

  • Better option than microblading for oily skin, large pores, or alopecia

  • Always wake up with perfectly shaped brows

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