Permanent make-up is becoming ever more popular, especially during the summer months when we do not want to apply full coverage every day, but still want to feel ‘made up’. It’s also a great time saver.

The term ‘permanent make-up’ is slightly misleading, as it is long-term but not actually permanent. Often the question is “what is the difference between permanent make-up and a tattoo?”. Simply, the difference is the pigment that is used on application. Permanent make-up uses oxide based minerals which are hypoallergenic, whereas tattoo ink is unsuitable for the sensitive skin on the face.

Check out who you choose to do the procedure

Both applications require a great deal of skill, as the correct pigment must be used to avoid the colour coming out wrong. Done well, permanent make-up can look amazing – think Madonna, Angelina Jolie and many other celebrities – but done poorly, the results can be devastating. This is why the most important decision is to check out who you choose to do the procedure.

Many salons now offer this type of service but do not necessarily have properly trained technicians. It is imperative you do your research, ask to see photos of their previous work, and check what previous customers have said about their experience with the technician. If the salon is not willing to give you this information then run – this is not the place for you!

You must also have a test application prior to the full procedure, perhaps on the inside of your arm. This is to check whether you are allergic in any way to the pigment. This in any reputable salon should automatically be offered, so if it’s not you must question why.

I firmly believe you get what you pay for, so if it seems too good to be true it probably is. These procedures are not cheap and can cost up to and above £400 just for eyebrows. Expensive maybe, but not when you consider the repercussions of any mistakes with cheaper, poorly trained technicians. To remove permanent make-up and tattoos is generally done by laser, which is painful and even more costly, so do take this information into consideration before you proceed.

Eyebrows, eyeliner and lips are the most popular

Eyebrows, eyeliner and lips are the most popular choices when it comes to deciding what permanent make-up to go for. A topical anaesthetic type cream is applied to help numb the application, and while everyone has their own pain threshold, most people say the procedure is ‘mildly uncomfortable’. Do ask to look in the mirror to see the shape and how it is looking so you are comfortable with the potential outcome – this goes for eyebrows, eyeliner and lips. The original colour will appear quite strong but will soften after a few days, and it will of course fade with time and need touch ups after a couple of years. Once again, fade time is different for everyone.

Quick healing process

From a healing perspective, the little scratches which happen during the needle application will heal similarly as when have you have a small scratch anywhere on your body. You should be able to resume your normal make-up routine very quickly.

If you’re completely new to permanent make-up and unsure exactly what ‘look’ to go for, either take some photos of celebrities for inspiration, or ask your technician what they think would suit you. It’s important to get the right look for you before you part with your hard-earned cash and make a decision that will last a long time.