Permanent Makeup Training: The Best Way to Decrease Permanent Cosmetic Risk Factors

According to plastic surgeon Dr. Jean Loftus, the greatest risk when it comes to permanent cosmetics is an untrained permanent cosmetic technician. The amount of training required varies greatly from state to state, and the permanent cosmetic industry is largely under-regulated. Additional risk factors can be mitigated by proper training.

Get Proper Permanent Cosmetic Training

The Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP) recommends that permanent cosmetic technicians receive a minimum of 100 hours of training (in one modality or type of permanent cosmetic machine) from a qualified instructor with professional experience. A good instructor makes sure you learn machine theory as well as useful tips and tricks, and provides you with helpful feedback. Establish a solid connection with an instructor who you can contact when you have questions.

Part of your training includes the indications of a permanent cosmetic candidate--in other words, who should get permanent makeup? Though some people seek out permanent cosmetics for the convenience of saving themselves time and money, others may be allergic to cosmetics or have facial features, such as uneven lips, that could be improved upon to give them self-confidence. Some permanent cosmetic technicians work in medical offices and perform post-surgery micropigmentation procedures, such as areola reconstruction. Because permanent cosmetics are permanent, your training as a technician should include not only education about risk factors, but how to pass this education along to your clients.

Client Risk for Permanent Cosmetics

The FDA lists several complications and risks for permanent makeup and tattooing:

Infection: As part of your permanent cosmetic training, you learn both safety and sanitation. After all, you are dealing with needles, blood, and possible skin diseases and conditions. Safety and sanitation are safeguards to infection.
Allergic Reaction: A client may have a reaction to the tattoo pigment, and because the pigment is in the skin, the removal of the irritant isn't quick or easy. Many color additives in tattoo pigments are not approved by the FDA.
Granuloma: A skin growth known as granuloma can form when the pigment, or foreign substance, is deposited under the skin.
Scarring: A person who is prone to keloids (bigger-than-normal scars) may develop keloids as a result of permanent cosmetics.
Removal: If a client is dissatisfied or changes his or her mind, the removal process can be costly, incomplete, or result in scarring.
MRI Complications: Because of ingredients in the pigments, some people with permanent makeup and tattoos experience swelling or burning during medical MRI procedures.

If you want to attend beauty school for permanent cosmetics or attend a school that specifically offers permanent makeup training, proper instruction and guidance are the best ways for you to reduce risks to your future clients.