Permanent makeup is cosmetic tattooing to create the appearance of makeup.
Typical costs:
Permanent makeup typically costs $50 to $800 per procedure, depending on the type of makeup, the body part and number of visits required.
A permanent beauty mark generally costs $50 to $150. For example, the Permanent Makeup Clinic in Virginia charges $50 for a beauty mark, and SD Permanent makeup[1] in San Diego, California, charges $100. The Triad Permanent Cosmetic Clinic in North Carolina charges $150.
Permanent eyebrows, which usually require two visits, usually cost $400 to $600. For example, the Permanent Makeup Clinic charges $400 for eyebrows, and SD Permanent makeup charges $400 to $450. The Triad Permanent Cosmetic Clinic charges $595.
Permanent eyeliner usually costs $200 to $400 for just upper or just lower eyeliner, or $400 to $600 for upper and lower. For example, the Permanent Makeup Clinic charges $250 for upper or lower and $450 for both. The Triad Permanent Cosmetic Clinic charges $395 for upper or lower and $595 for both.
Full lip color with liner, which typically requires two to three visits, typically costs $600 to $800. For example, the Permanent Makeup Clinic charges $600, the Triad Permanent Cosmetic Clinic charges $625, and SD Permanent Makeup charges $700.
Permanent makeup is considered a cosmetic procedure, so it generally is not covered by health insurance.
To apply permanent makeup, also known as micropigmentation, the doctor or technician uses a handheld device with a very small needle that punctures the skin hundreds of times per minute to embed permanent pigment in the deeper skin layers known as the dermis.
Each procedure typically requires topical anesthetic and will take an hour and a half to two hours. After the procedure, normal activities can be resumed right away, though there might be some swelling or redness. The Society of Permanent Cosmetics Professionals[2] answers frequently asked questions about permanent makeup.
Additional costs:
As with any tattoo, color can fade over time and periodic touch-ups might be required. Touch-ups typically cost less than the initial application -- usually $100 to $250.
Discounts:
Some permanent makeup artists offer online specials or coupons. For example, SD Permanent makeup[3] has offered a $100 off special.
Shopping for permanent makeup:
Permanent makeup should be done by a doctor, clinic or other reputable provider. A board-certified plastic surgeon, who can be found through the referral services offered by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons[4] or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery[5] , can provide a referral to a reputable provider. Or, the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals[6] offers a technician locator. Because professionals of various backgrounds -- including physicians, nurses, cosmetologists and tattoo artists -- seek training and become permanent makeup providers, it is especially important to thoroughly investigate a provider before using their services. Dr. Laura Reed[7] , a permanent makeup provider in California, offers a guide to evaluating a permanent makeup professional.
The American Academy of Micropigmentation[8] recommends asking the provider for references and a portfolio, and offers a list of questions to ask, including: what is the provider's background, training and level of experience; whether disposable needles are used; what pigments are used; whether the provider can do advanced techniques such as hair strokes for brows; whether the dyes contain ink; and what kind of anesthesia is used.
Permanent makeup is a tattoo that can be very difficult and expensive to try to remove, and dissatisfaction with results is a possibility. RealSelf.com[9] offers reviews of permanent makeup by those who have had the procedure.
Risks are similar to those for other kinds of tattoos and include infection from dirty needles with diseases such as hepatitis or HIV, or allergic reaction that, in some cases, could lead to permanent disfigurement. The U.S Food and Drug Administration has not approved any colors for injection into the skin and, in an information sheet on permanent makeup[10] , notes that many colors have not been tested for safety.
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
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I got my eyebrows tattooed @ Lucy's nails Spa & Permanent Makeup and it is exactly what I wanted. Lucy was very professional and friendly, she informed me as what she was doing and how much more time was needed to achieve the look that we were seeking. This look is permanent. In two years I may require a touchup. It was worth the time, money and I would do it again. Lucy's is located in the 400 block of Massachusetts Ave. N.W.
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