Permanent Makeup

We are constantly looking for ways to put on our makeup in the shortest amount of time possible. At last count, it can be done in less than five minutes. But with the new permanent makeup making an appearance, it may take us even less time... as long as you are not squeamish. Permanent makeup falls under the category of tattooing. While it may not be for everyone, it is worth considering. Here is what I found out.

So What Kind of Makeup Can Be Tattooed In Place?

• help for sparse brows
• eyeliner to make lashes look thicker
• lips (the most extreme is the full lip treatment that eliminates the need for lipstick

Dying Your Lashes... who would most benefit?

• Women who are near-sighted.
• Athletes and women on the go.
• Women with allergies to make-up. No reason to apply mascara every day.
• Women who don't have a steady hand.

Things To Consider:

There would be NO thickening or lengthening . If you are satisfied with the length, but are only looking to darken them, this would save you time in the morning. Some people do get carried away with the amount of mascara that they put on. This would be a more natural look. The downside of this is the fact that the color only lasts as long as the lashes do not fall out. This is not a permanent thing. Apparently there is a little discomfort involved but the process is safe according to research. It can be done in the morning and you are back to work the same afternoon. You might find a little swelling or soreness in the area but it will go away in a day or two.

Things To Be Aware Of:

The inks and dyes used for permanent makeup are color additives and surprisingly enough, none have been approved for permanent makeup. The FDA is currently evaluating the safety of permanent makeup as it grows in popularity. They are most concerned with unsterile equipment that can transmit infectious disease so it is extremely important to be sure that all equipment is clean and sanitized. It is not easily removed and in some cases may cause an permanent discoloration. Blood donations cannot be made for a year after the tattooing is done.

Here are some of the comments I received after asking your thoughts on getting a tattoo.

• Cool if small and hidden
• I don't particularly like them -- pain is OUT for me! And I have heard they hurt.
• NO WAY!!!!!!!
• Comment: I'll never do it, cuz when I'm old and my skin is loose and droopy and saggy, it'd look horrible.

The Final Word...

Hi Shirley, After reading your upcoming subject of tattooing make up, I am writing to tell you that I am 55 and 3 years ago I went to a tattoo artist, named Linda in Port St Lucie, FL near where I live. I had my eyebrows, top and bottom eyeliner and lips done. The result is fabulous. The only thing I put on my face is blush!! That is it. When I get up in the morning I shower, do my hair and go out the door. Same applies to swimming; in the pool, out of the pool and makeup is still on. I really wish I would have done this 30 years ago. I would have saved money, time, but most importantly I would look the same all the time. I feel that I am ready for the nursing home, when that time comes. I wish all newborn girl babies could have tattooed makeup!! Very pleased with the results. ~ Ms Gerry P Knam

In reponse to your idea of an article on permanent makeup, I had a boss who did permanent eyeliner. It was painful and got infected and looked awfully raw for about a week or so. I'd never do it. I never thought that it looked good., since she normally wore no makeup at all. Eyeliner comes and goes as a fashion statement. I like to be able to do or not do liner. I'd find a similar objection to permanent shadow or blush, or whatever. How would one chose colors that would go with everything or changing fashions? Good luck on the article. It should be interesting. ~ Norma/Natima