Permanent makeup
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Permanent makeup is a specialized procedure in the field of aesthetic cosmetology, involving the introduction of pigment into the papillary layer of the dermis to permanently enhance selected facial features. This technique uses the phenomenon of micropigmentation, which is the controlled deposition of pigment in the skin using precise needle devices. Unlike traditional tattooing, the pigment is placed more superficially, resulting in an effect that typically lasts from 1 to 3 years and gradually fades. The procedure is most commonly performed on the eyebrows, eyelids, and lips, both for aesthetic and corrective purposes.
Permanent makeup – what is it
Permanent makeup (medical and aesthetic micropigmentation) is a procedure that involves:
- precisely inserting mineral or organic pigment into the papillary layer of the skin,
- shaping and coloring eyebrows, lips, or lash lines,
- correcting facial asymmetry,
- camouflaging discolorations, scars, or lip vermilion defects.
From a dermatological perspective, this is a controlled micro-injury to the skin, initiating a healing process that includes:
- the inflammatory phase (1–3 days),
- the proliferative phase (up to 7–10 days),
- the remodeling phase (several weeks).
The pigment remains in the skin due to the presence of macrophages and fibroblasts that "encapsulate" the pigment particles. The gradual lightening of the color results from immunological processes, cellular metabolism, and UV radiation exposure.
Indications for the procedure include:
- sparse or asymmetrical eyebrows,
- loss of lip contour,
- visually drooping eye line,
- allergy to colored cosmetics,
- the need for daily, time-consuming makeup.
Contraindications include, among others, active skin infections, uncontrolled diabetes, bleeding disorders, active herpes, pregnancy, and autoimmune diseases in the active phase.
Permanent Makeup – Types
Permanent makeup techniques differ in the way the pigment is applied and the visual effect achieved.
Permanent eyebrow makeup:
- hair stroke method – imitation of individual hairs,
- powder technique (ombre brows) – soft shadow effect,
- hybrid technique – combination of hair and shading.
Permanent lip makeup:
- contour with shading,
- full color fill (lip blush),
- correction of asymmetry and optical enlargement of the vermilion border.
Permanent eyeliner makeup:
- lash line enhancement,
- classic eyeliner,
- decorative liner (shaded).
In medical micropigmentation, the following are also used:
- nipple-areola reconstruction after mastectomy,
- scar camouflage,
- correction of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
The choice of technique should consider:
- skin type (dry, oily, vascular),
- age of the patient,
- facial structure,
- Fitzpatrick skin type,
- desired effect (natural vs. expressive).
Permanent makeup – effects
The effects of the procedure can be divided into aesthetic and functional.
Aesthetic effects:
- more defined facial contour,
- optical thickening of eyebrows and eyelashes,
- improved symmetry,
- even lip color,
- “fresh” look without daily makeup.
Functional effects:
- time-saving,
- durability in high humidity conditions and physical activity,
- solution for people with hand tremors or vision impairments,
- improved psychological comfort for patients after oncological treatments.
Immediately after the procedure, the color is about 30–40% more intense than the target effect. The final result is assessed after 4–6 weeks when the pigment stabilization process is complete.
Durability depends on:
- skin type (pigment lasts shorter on oily skin),
- UV exposure,
- body metabolism,
- applied care.
In some cases, a touch-up may be necessary after 6–8 weeks.
Permanent makeup - price
The cost of permanent makeup depends on several key factors:
- the treatment area (eyebrows, lips, eyelids),
- the technique used,
- the experience of the linergist,
- the quality of pigments and equipment,
- the need for prior correction or removal of old pigment.
In Poland, approximate prices are as follows:
- eyebrows: 900–1800 PLN,
- lips: 1000–2000 PLN,
- eyelid line: 700–1500 PLN.
The cost may also be influenced by:
- the need for prior laser removal of unsuccessful permanent makeup,
- skin preparation treatments (e.g., laser therapy, mesotherapy, skin regeneration around the lips).
When choosing a place for the procedure, the following are of key importance:
- adherence to medical procedures and aseptic conditions,
- health qualification,
- the quality of pigments used (compliance with EU REACH standards),
- the possibility of consultation and post-procedure control.
Permanent makeup is an aesthetic procedure requiring precision, anatomical knowledge, and experience—both in a technical context and in the assessment of facial proportions.
