Embarking on the journey of enhancing your beauty with permanent makeup can be exciting, but it's important to talk about post-procedure care. Proper aftercare is essential for achieving the stunning results you desire. Your skin needs special attention to heal effectively. Some aftercare guidelines may seem confusing while others prohibitive.
Understanding Permanent Makeup Aftercare
After you have your procedure done your skin will immediately want to heal and will go through different healing stages. It typically takes about a week for most procedures, lips being the outlier. How.you care for your skin during this time can influence both the outcome and the longevity of your permanent makeup. Recent studies show that clients who actively follow personalized aftercare instructions report 39% better healing and color retention than those who follow generic guidelines. After many years and as my clients have aged with me I've come to rely less on a one-size-fits-all approach and instead more of personalized approach tailored to skin type, client history, desired result, lifestyle, etc.
The Importance of Individualized Instructions
Every person’s skin is distinct. Factors like skin type—oily, dry, or combination—sensitivity levels, and the area treated significantly affect aftercare requirements. For example, if you have oilier skin, using certain products might lead to slower healing and retention loss. A personalized aftercare routine provides the best chance for your makeup to heal beautifully and last longer.
Common Aftercare Guidelines
Even though personalized aftercare is essential, here are a few foundational guidelines I apply to most procedures:
Keep it Clean: In the first few days post-treatment, keep the area clean. Gently cleanse the tattooed area using a mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water and pat dry. Exfoliating or using harsh products can irritate your skin.
Sooth & Hydrate: Hydration is crucial for recovery. I will typically recommend and provide A&D ointment to keep your skin moisturized. This not only speeds up healing but also helps to maintain the vibrancy of your makeup.
Avoid Makeup: Give your skin a break from all forms of makeup on the treated area for at least a week. This will allow your skin to breathe and heal. Eye makeup, lipstick, etc., is fine. The idea is we don't want an infection.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Mistakes in aftercare can really hinder your healing process.
Sun Exposure: Stay away from direct sunlight during the healing phase. Tanning beds can dry the ink before it sets. Consider using a wide-brimmed hat if you need to be outdoors.
Sweat and Pools: Unless medically beneficial, avoid swimming pools & saunas for at least two weeks. If you're a major sweathog when you workout use a towel or headband or skip the gym for a week or so. Excess sweating can alter the ink and lead to uneven healing. I have workarounds for this though.
Picking and Scratching: Resist any urge to pick at scabs or peeling skin. This can result in patchy areas and a less-than-perfect finish.
Customizing Your Aftercare Plan
After receiving the detailed aftercare instructions, it is crucial to follow them carefully, particularly during the first 24 hours. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding the healing process.
Your Path to Beautiful Results
Proper aftercare is crucial for the success of your permanent makeup. Making sure to use these tips can go along way in ensuring long-lasting results.
See you at your appointment!
love erik