Unlike their treatment alternatives such as microblading, the application of semi permanent makeup includes absolutely no cutting or scratching of the skin. Instead, using a handheld device equipped with an ultra-thin needle, the colour pigment is placed onto the top layer of the skin which will then sink around two millimetres into the dermis layer. The healing process of semi permanent makeup is considerably shorter than alternative treatments.
While the treatment area is likely to experience slight redness, scabbing and will feel tender to the touch, the skin will not bleed or be exposed to trauma.
While applying a cold pack to the treatment area will not entirely prevent side effects, it will help to ease swelling and work effectively as a comfort measure. Always aim to use a refrigerator temperature cold pack and avoid those that must be placed in the freezer. Cooling the skin works effectively whereas freezing the treatment area may cause damage. Your treatment area would already be feeling somewhat delicate which means that applying freezing temperatures to the skin risks complications due to frost damage.
We suggest purchasing HypaCool instant cold packs as they can quickly be activated when squeezed. There is no need for them to be placed in the freezer and they will achieve the perfect cooling temperature instantly. HypaCool packs are single use, which means that you will not risk spreading bacteria to the treatment area.
If you take only one piece of advice, then it should be never to pick, peel or scratch the treatment area. Scabbing and itching are normal; it shows that your body is naturally healing itself, so allow your skin to work its magic. While it may not look appealing, leave the skin to shed at its own accord.
Disturbing the healing process through picking scabs, itching or peeling dead skin will not only create an uneven pigment but also dramatically increase the risk of infection. If you allow the skin to heal naturally, then you will experience no scarring.
It is strongly recommended to keep the treated area shaded from sun exposure until the healing process is complete; this includes both natural sunlight and the use of sunbeds. As mentioned previously, the treatment area will already be tender and delicate, so exposure to the sun will only intensify this and increase the likelihood of complications.
If you have opted for semi permanent eyebrows or eyeliner, wearing large sunglasses when in direct sunlight will provide adequate protection. Lips are somewhat harder to protect; an oversized brimmed hat may be able to shade the face. Avoid the use of sunbeds altogether.
While it may prove somewhat tricky and sound a little gross, try to keep the area as dry as possible during the healing process. When showering or bathing, do not splash your face with water or use your standard face wash. Instead, apply a small amount of a gentle face cleanser to a cotton pad and clean your face. Avoid any cleansers that include alcohol, acids or strong chemicals as it risks burning the treatment area. Simple Skincare has a wide range of ‘kind to skin’ face cleansers, ideal to use during the healing process.
If you do accidentally get the treatment area wet, not to worry, simply pat the area dry very gently using a clean tissue or cotton pad.
To maximise your results, aim to avoid any form of heavy exercise for five to ten days after your treatment; this differs depending on the individual and the speed of their healing process. Light exercise such as walking is permitted as long as you do not sweat. Sweat is filled with salt which will begin to fade the pigment in the semi permanent makeup. Salt is an ingredient that is used to remove cosmetic tattoos, so allow the skin to heal before you start working out again.
During the healing process, do not apply any cosmetic products to the treatment area; this includes both makeup and skincare. Applying makeup, moisturisers, serums or any form of product to the skin risks a reaction against the pigment, ultimately, causing a nasty infection.
Every individual heals at a different rate which means that there is not an exact number of days before clients can begin wearing makeup and using skincare products again. We usually recommend allowing a seven to ten-day period to allow the skin to heal naturally. Do not attempt to apply any products in or around the treatment area if there is still swelling, tenderness or scabbing. Always wait until the skin is back to normal.
If you are happy to avoid hot showers and baths altogether during the healing process, then that would be ideal, but if not, limit the duration as much as possible. When spending a long period of time in a hot bath or shower, the steam will start to affect the treatment area. As mentioned previously, you must keep the skin as dry as possible. Steam will cause excess moisture to build-up on the surface and also cause sweating; both of which prolong the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
