Outline
This is a technique which is gaining rapidly in popularity. It is aimed at several sectors of the market where there are cosmetic and practical uses. Essentially it involves introducing inorganic pigment (colours) into the surface of the skin to replace or enhance naturally occurring colour and shape. It can be applied with good effect to the eyebrows, eye lines and lips. Because it is fundamentally different to a recognised tattoo the treatment is not permanent – depending upon the area treated it can last from 12 months to 3 years. Claims that SPMU will last up to 5 years should be viewed as optimistic. Occasionally maintenance will be required to retain good definition of colour.
How the Treatment Works
The first and probably most important aspect is to carryout a detailed consultation to ensure that the shape and colour required is clearly defined followed by a patch test to ensure there is no likelihood of a reaction to the treatment. The next stage which should be undertaken no less than a week following consultation is the first of two procedures - the purpose of which is to apply a base coat. Pigment is applied using a fine needle effectively scoring the surface of the skin. There are two basic methods for micro pigmentation the first and most usual is the application of “block” colour which should result in a uniform appearance, the second method used on the eyebrows is analogous to the effect of brush strokes in what appear as individual hairs to create a very natural look. The general rule with SPMU is “less is more” in terms of colour to achieve a subtle but lasting result. For each area a procedure should take at least 40 minutes to an hour which is carried out using local anaesthetic cream.
After the first procedure there should be a gap of at least four weeks to allow the healing process to complete. During this phase there will be scabbing and a significant loss of colour but this is normal and should not be interfered with. The second procedure involves applying the finishing touches and it is only after the first stage has healed properly that the extent of the second procedure required can be clearly seen.
Advantages:-
- Difficulties in application of make up – where poor eyesight or loss of dexterity are a problem.
- Loss of appearance – e.g. over plucking eyebrows or deterioration of lip line resulting in “bleeding” of conventional lipstick
- Where time constraints or resistance to smudging is an issue
Client’s Experience
Based my experience with Anne as an electrologist I decided to undertake a course of semi permanent make up to replace my eyebrows which had over time had completely disappeared due to over plucking. The results were very pleasing – I now have a new look with beautifully shaped brows with a deep colour which is what I have wanted for a long time. I now intend to complete my makeover by having semi permanent make up on my top and bottom eyeliner. I would have no hesitation in recommending this treatment but everyone needs to be confident about the results and the treatment is only as good as the person carrying out the procedure” Annie Onslow
