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Background

Micropigmentation—sometimes referred to as "permanent make-up"— is a technique in which minute, metabolically inert pigment granules are implanted below the epidermis for cosmetic and/or corrective enhancement. This ancient Asian beautification practice has gained popularity around the world. Micropigmentation is used to enhance facial features like eyebrows, lashes and lips; to improve conditions like scarring and vitiligo (uneven pigmentation); or to reconstruct the nipple/areola breast area.
Technique: Typically, two treatments are needed, one or more weeks apart. Needles penetrate the skin a few millimeters, in what is basically a tattooing process.

Benefits

• No downtime and resumption of most normal activities within 24 hours for majority of patients.
• The pigments used are made from safe, generally non-reactive compounds approved by the FDA.
• The process is relatively quick (for example, an upper and lower lash line takes about 30 to 40 minutes).
• Skin returns to normal by the next day. Swelling or redness is generally mild.
• Mild discomfort during procedure is avoided using topical and/or local anesthesia.
• Good alternative for women with make-up allergies (although procedure is designed to enhance features, not replace make-up altogether).
• Pigments are individually mixed for customized results, and designed to look natural. Results can be seen immediately (although full end result will be seen in about three weeks).

Other Considerations

• Permanent procedure. Laser surgery is required to remove pigment.
• Patients must avoid direct sunlight, refrain from applying make-up, and wearing contact lenses for a few days, and avoid swimming for several weeks.
• A small number of patients may experience allergic reaction or infection.
• Scarring is possible due to practitioner error. ASAPS recommends this procedure be performed under medical supervision.
• Pigments may cause interference with cranial MRI scans.
• Needles inserted too deeply in the skin can cause bleeding, spreading of pigments, and damage to hair follicles.