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Everything you need to know about semi-permanent makeup.

Everything you need to know about semi-permanent makeup.

A significant trend in recent years, semi-permanent makeup is a new technique imported from the United States, which allows one to avoid daily makeup application. However, before embarking on this, it's better to be informed about how it works. Here are some useful insights.

Summary
Published January 10, 2022, updated on October 4, 2024, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 3 min read

What does semi-permanent makeup entail?

Semi-permanent makeup involves the insertion of natural pigments into the epidermis, using a clinical blade or a fine needle. It's a sort of semi-tattoo, performed by a professional, at various locations on the face depending on the individual's needs. Also referred to as semi-pigmentation, it can be applied to:

  • The eyebrows

  • The lips

  • The eyes

  • The face

During the procedure, the practitioner must scrape the skin to facilitate the implantation of mineral or organic pigments. For this reason, the task must absolutely be entrusted to an experienced professional. Moreover, since the operation is relatively painful, the use of an anesthetic cream is often necessary.

What is the expected result?

If semi-permanent makeup is gaining popularity, it's also because it's less expensive than permanent makeup. Moreover, it allows for a natural result without any scarring. For instance, you can:

  • Gently redefine the contour of the lips

  • Enhancing the gaze by adding a black outline

  • Adding a beauty mark on the face to enhance its allure

To let your imagination run wild, and always under the expert advice of the practitioner, you can also rely on a wide range of colors. In addition to the classic gray-black and brown, there are also nude shades, as well as red, pink, green, and blue.

Semi-permanent lasts between 2 and 5 years, and the maintenance of the makeup depends on factors such as: skin tolerance, cellular renewal, sun exposure, or even the type of color chosen.

Are there any contraindications for this type of makeup?

Before embarking on any new endeavor, it is always crucial to be informed about the risks or contraindications to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Today, thanks to the use of natural pigments, the risks of allergic reactions are minimal. Practitioners must also adhere to strict standards to ensure patient safety.

However, as intolerance can vary from one individual to another, it is necessary to take all necessary precautions. It is particularly essential to inform the practitioner if one is undergoing treatment with antidepressant medications.

The same applies to individuals who have recently undergone laser treatment. Furthermore, patients with sensitive skin, or those who are prone to rapid reactions, must undergo an allergy test before any procedure.

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