If putting on eyeliner, lip stick and foundation each day has become a chore, the latest developments in permanent cosmetics offer a solution for saving time on that makeup routine.   

Permanent makeup is essentially a skin tattoo that adds coloring to specific areas of the face. The makeup can be used to enhance features that always require makeup, such as the eyebrows, lips and eyelashes but it’s not only an option for the average beauty regiment. 

Those who cannot apply makeup themselves, or those who have a serious skin condition that prevents them from wearing standard makeup can benefit from the ‘tattoo’ treatment while enhancing their looks. If you’ve ever wondered if permanent makeup is a good match for you and your lifestyle, consider these benefits and drawbacks of the procedure:  

Key Benefits of Permanent Cosmetics

Permanent cosmetics can be used on several areas of the face, and most treatments last up to a decade. Not only can you throw away that mascara wand for good with permanent eyelashes, but you might be able to skip the lipstick completely with permanent lip color. Other benefits of permanent cosmetics include:  

• Easy way to camouflage scars – from acne scars to age spots, permanent makeup can successfully cover up patches of skin and enhance other features for a more balanced appearance
• Reduced risk of skin irritation or allergies from conventional makeup – those who suffer from skin allergies and sensitivities to traditional makeup can still enjoy enhancing their features
• Lower costs of buying makeup – the average cost of permanent makeup is $400 - $600 per session, with advanced sessions ranging from $550 - $700+. A natural look that can be enhanced further with real makeup if needed – since permanent cosmetics are essentially a tattoo on the skin, real makeup can be applied over them to create a unique look
• Valuable to those who are vision impaired and have trouble applying cosmetics on a regular basis
• Saves time on daily application of makeup and beauty products  

Permanent makeup is also valuable to those suffering from neurological diseases that cause unsteady hands and poor motor coordination.  Sufferers of Parkinson’s disease or those with arthritis can enjoy an improvement in their looks with the help of permanent cosmetics.  

• Permanent cosmetics can be used for the following key areas:
• Hairline - to reduce the appearance of hair loss
• Lips – either a full lip color or lipliner
• Eyelashes – permanent eyeliner or eyelash replacements
• Beauty marks – either adding or removing marks for a unique look
• Eyebrows – adding color to the eyebrows to create a fuller, more balanced look  

Drawbacks of Permanent Cosmetics  

Although permanent makeup offers several benefits, there are some drawbacks of pursuing this artificial look.  The downside of permanent cosmetics includes:

• Some pain involved – permanent cosmetics are applied like a tattoo, and may cause discomfort during and after the procedure. Still, this can be treated with topical anesthetic and painkillers if necessary.
• No chance of reversal – the procedure does create permanent pigmentation of the skin which makes it difficult to make changes after the session. Still, skin lightening products and laser therapy may provide some resolution for areas that appear to be too dark or results are not what were expected
• Risk of an allergic reaction – some people do not respond well to tattoos and skin pigmentation procedures, and may develop an allergic reaction to the treatment. However, a professional skin specialist can determine if an allergic reaction will be a factor for each individual during the consultation.
• Safety – not all services may be administered by a qualified professional. Finding a qualified permanent makeup specialist lowers the risk of contracting an infection or other disease from an infected needle  

Permanent makeup offers several benefits for those who want to cut back on the makeup routine or just make it easy to enjoy an enhanced look without the hassles of daily makeup application. Learn more about permanent cosmetics in our information guide, or consult with a cosmetic dermatologist in your area to learn about permanent makeup services and options available.