How does the ombre/powder method of permanent eyebrow makeup work?

The permanent eyebrow makeup procedure is a popular pigmentation method that is gaining increasing recognition among women who want to emphasize their look and save time spent on daily makeup.

The popularity of permanent eyebrow makeup continues to grow, which attests to its effectiveness and ability to meet customer expectations. However, before deciding on permanent makeup, it's important to understand that it is an invasive procedure that requires proper preparation and the choice of an experienced linergist. The decision to undergo permanent makeup should be thoughtful, conscious, and based on trust in the chosen specialist.

In this article, we will examine the individual stages of the permanent eyebrow makeup procedure using the ombre/powder technique, and learn what to pay attention to so that the process is not only effective but also safe.

Before deciding on a permanent makeup specialist, make sure they have the proper qualifications, a well-developed portfolio that aligns with your aesthetics, and that they use disposable cartridges and products, and that the procedure takes place in sterile conditions. It is also extremely important that the pigments used comply with the latest safety regulations, such as the REACH regulation. Meeting these standards ensures that the pigments are safe for clients' health. Clients should be informed about the pigments used during the procedure and be assured that they meet the highest quality standards.

Procedure Flow

Many clients wonder about the steps and actions that will take place during their appointment when opting for permanent eyebrow makeup. Below is a description of the various stages of this process.

How Long Does the Appointment Last?

The duration of the permanent eyebrow makeup procedure is individual and depends on the experience and technique of the PMU artist. However, it usually ranges from two to three hours.

What Happens During the Appointment?

Step One: Pre-treatment Consultation

The first step is a detailed consultation with the client. The linergist discusses the client's preferences regarding shape, color intensity, and presents the possible achievable effects. This is a key moment that allows tailoring the procedure to individual expectations.

Step Two: Consent to Perform the Procedure

After the consultation, the client gives consent to proceed with the procedure by filling out a statement or written consents. This is a standard procedure aimed at excluding all contraindications, ensuring that the client is aware of the process and potential effects. The consent also includes the possibility of sharing the image, which is often practiced by linergists to expand their portfolio.

Step Three: Pre-treatment Photographs

The linergist documents the state of the client's eyebrows before starting the procedure. These photos are an important element in assessing and analyzing the results.

Step Four: Preliminary Drawing

The preliminary drawing is a key stage in the permanent eyebrow makeup process. The linergist, using their experience and skills, shapes the eyebrows according to the client's preferences. This is a moment when attention to detail and accuracy are extremely important.

Making the preliminary drawing requires the utmost care, as it will form the basis of the final effect of the procedure. During the drawing process, the linergist considers the anatomy of the face, proportions, and individual features of the client. However, not only the skills of the linergist are key at this stage. The active role of the client is equally important. Before proceeding to pigmentation, the client has the opportunity to review the preliminary drawing. This is the moment when she can express her expectations, suggestions, and thoroughly check the proposed shape.

It is important that the client is satisfied with the preliminary drawing, as it largely reflects the final result of the procedure. Open communication between the linergist and the client at this moment is crucial. The client should freely express her preferences and possible corrections to achieve the desired final effect.

Therefore, before proceeding to pigmentation, the linergist and the client jointly approve the preliminary drawing. This is a moment when precision, care, and cooperation ensure that the effect of permanent makeup will meet the client's expectations.

Step Five: Pigmentation

A qualified permanent makeup artist uses a special disposable needle and sterilized tools, ensuring the safety of the procedure.

The application of the pigment is not painful, although some degree of discomfort may be felt. It should be noted that the level of discomfort experienced is individual and depends on each client's pain tolerance.

Some specialists decide to use mild anesthesia during work, but many perform the procedure without anesthesia, relying on experience, precision, and speed of execution, which minimizes the time the client is subjected to the process.

It is important to emphasize that the application of the pigment is the most time-consuming part of the procedure. It requires full concentration and precision from the linergist. Therefore, during this stage, the client should lie quietly, avoid unnecessary movements, and refrain from using a phone or other distractions.

A key element of this step is also communication between the linergist and the client. Open exchange of information about any discomfort or the need for a short break allows adjusting the pace of work to the individual needs of the client, making the whole process as comfortable as possible. However,

both parties should limit conversation to a minimum, as even small facial movements during talking can affect the precision of pigment application and distract the person performing the procedure.

Step Six: Preparation for Post-Treatment Photographs

After completing the pigmentation, the linergist prepares the client for photographing the results. Typically, excess pigment is removed from the brow area and face, and, if necessary, light makeup is applied. This makeup is intended to cover any skin imperfections but is not applied to the area that underwent pigmentation. It's important for clients to feel comfortable during the photography of the treatment results.

Step Seven: Post-Treatment Photographs

After completing the pigmentation and preparing the client, comes a moment of particular importance for linergists - taking a series of photos documenting the final result.

This is not only a procedure for documenting the results but also a significant element in building the linergist's portfolio. These photos are extremely valuable, allowing them to showcase earlier work to potential clients, helping them better understand what results can be achieved. Therefore, permanent makeup artists usually make every effort to capture the most accurate image of the final effect in the photos.

Additionally, this series of photos serves as a form of quality assurance for the client. In case of any doubts or questions after the completed procedure, these photos provide an excellent basis for analyzing changes and potential corrections.

Post-treatment photos are therefore not just a quality control tool but also a form of art documenting the linergist's skills, which is significant for both professionals and their clients.

Step Eight: Post-Treatment Care. Taking Care of Permanent Makeup

Immediately after the ombre/powder brow pigmentation, it is extremely important to follow the specialist's recommendations. Each linergist may have their own set of instructions, tailored to the techniques used during the procedure and the individual skin characteristics of the client. Proper care during this sensitive period is crucial not only for the skin healing process but also for achieving the desired quality and satisfying pigmentation effect.

Additionally, there are universal post-treatment care rules to be respected to support the regeneration process and maintain the longevity of the effects:

• Avoid direct sunlight: UV rays can negatively affect the healing process, so it's necessary to protect the brows from the sun.
• Water protection: For the first few days after the procedure, avoid soaking the brows. This includes immersing the head in water during bathing, as well as avoiding saunas and intense physical exercise.
• Caution in care: Avoid scraping off scabs that will appear during the healing process. Their natural falling off is part of the skin regeneration process. Scratching off the scabs formed during the healing process can lead to a lack of pigment or scars in the pigmented area. Deciding on permanent eyebrow makeup requires awareness of the healing process. Right after the procedure, the brows are darker and thicker than the target effect, so it's necessary to be patient and take care of the permanent makeup according to the linergist's recommendations.
• Maintaining hygiene: The brow area should be kept clean and free of cosmetics or other preparations that may contain irritating or allergenic ingredients.

Adhering to these rules not only allows for proper healing of the brows but also contributes to the longevity of the pigmentation effect.

Effect Right After the Procedure

After completing permanent eyebrow makeup, it's important to understand that the effect right after the procedure may be surprising. The brows may appear darker and thicker than expected - there's no need to panic. This phenomenon results from the healing process and oxidation of the pigment. Don't worry if the brows seem intense - it's completely normal.

The day after the procedure, the pigment may oxidize, making the brows look even darker. However, this is a natural and necessary stage to achieve the final result. It is important during this time not to scratch off scabs or interfere with the skin around the brows. Also, avoid applying makeup and any cosmetics to the freshly done brows.

Remember that the healing process takes several weeks, and the final effect will be visible after the pigment stabilizes in the skin. Take care according to the specialist's recommendations, avoid sun exposure, and avoid saunas and pools in the initial period after the procedure. Arm yourself with patience and follow the care instructions to enjoy a lasting and satisfying effect of permanent eyebrow makeup.

Contraindications in Permanent Eyebrow Makeup

Before undergoing a permanent eyebrow makeup procedure, it's important to understand potential contraindications that may affect the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. Contraindications are divided into absolute, which constitute a total contraindication to the procedure, and relative, which require additional assessment and consultation with a specialist.

Absolute contraindications:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Performing permanent eyebrow makeup is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to potential side effects on the child's health.
• Skin diseases: Active skin diseases such as rosacea, eczema, psoriasis can affect skin healing and complicate the recovery process.
• Skin infections: The presence of skin infections, such as herpes, in the area planned for the procedure can lead to the spread of infection.
• Inflammatory skin conditions: Skin irritations, sunburns, or other inflammatory conditions can hinder the procedure.
• Unhealed wounds or scars: There should be no unhealed wounds, scars, or other skin damages in the area planned for the procedure.

• Relative contraindications:

  • Medication intake: Some medications can affect skin healing, so it's advisable to consult with a doctor before the procedure.

  • Autoimmune diseases: Individuals with autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, should consult with a doctor before the procedure.

  • Skin hypersensitivity: A tendency to allergies, hypersensitivity to the ingredients used during the procedure, may require additional evaluation.

  • Skin cancers: A history of skin cancers may be a contraindication, especially if there is a risk of recurrence.

  • Blood disorders: People with blood diseases, such as hemophilia, may have problems with blood clotting, affecting the healing process.

  • Diabetes: Metabolic diseases, especially diabetes, can affect skin healing and complicate the recovery process.

  • Psychosocial factors: Depression, mental disorders, or unrealistic expectations regarding the effects can be psychosocial contraindications.

  • Allergic contraindications: Individuals with a history of allergic reactions to ingredients used during the procedure should be cautious and consult with the PMu artist.

  • Poor health condition: The general health condition of the client can affect the skin healing process and cause contraindications.

  It's important to emphasize that the final assessment of contraindications should be made by an experienced specialist during the consultation before the planned procedure. The safety and effectiveness of permanent eyebrow makeup depend on considering all factors affecting the health and well-being of the client.

  Preparation for the Procedure

  Before you proceed with the permanent eyebrow makeup procedure, there are several important considerations to ensure a comfortable and effective process:

  • Comfortable attire: Choose comfortable clothing for the procedure. Comfortable clothes will facilitate both you and the person performing the procedure by eliminating potential difficulties related to uncomfortable or complicated outfits.
  • No makeup: Before your appointment for permanent makeup, refrain from wearing makeup. Even if you are accustomed to emphasizing your brows or eyes, the makeup will be destroyed during the procedure. Therefore, it's better to come without makeup or with a "no makeup" look.
  • Avoid exfoliating treatments: Avoid all skin exfoliating treatments at least two weeks before the planned procedure. Chemical peels, dermapen, microdermabrasion, or other actions that could irritate the skin should be postponed. The skin should be in its most natural state directly before the procedure.
  • Proper hydration: Ensuring proper hydration is a key element before any cosmetic procedure. Remember to consume an adequate amount of water in the days leading up to the permanent makeup. Well-hydrated skin favors better pigment absorption and accelerates the healing process.
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption: Before the planned eyebrow permanent makeup procedure, it's recommended to limit the consumption of beverages containing caffeine. Caffeine can affect blood thinning. Caffeine can have a stimulating effect on the circulatory system and affect the elasticity of blood vessels, which may increase bleeding during the procedure. Limiting caffeine intake aims to minimize potential complications related to bleeding and improve overall skin resilience during the procedure. Additionally, it's advisable to avoid alcohol consumption at least 24 hours before the scheduled time to ensure optimal conditions for the procedure.
  • Limiting medication intake before the procedure: Before the planned permanent makeup, it's advised to avoid blood-thinning medications for at least 24 hours before the procedure. It's important to remember that some commonly used medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, can affect the clotting process. Therefore, clients should inform the person performing the procedure of any medications taken before the procedure to receive precise preparation instructions. In case of doubts, it's always worth consulting with a doctor or linergist before the planned procedure.
  • Avoiding other cosmetic treatments: Before the permanent makeup procedure, it's recommended to avoid other cosmetic treatments such as henna, brow lamination, Botox, or using products with retinol at least a few weeks before the appointment. The time gap will allow the skin to fully regenerate and prepare for the new procedure.

  It's important to remember that every body is different, so it's also crucial to consult with the linergist before the procedure in case of any doubts or additional questions about preparations. Taking care of these details will ensure that the procedure itself runs smoothly, and the effects are satisfying.

Touch-Up – Eyebrow Correction 6 Weeks After the Procedure

Touch-up, also known as correction, is a process that usually takes place about 6 weeks after the first permanent eyebrow makeup session. It is an essential step intended to refine the effect, adjust the shape, and fill in any pigment gaps. Correction is a common practice in permanent eyebrow makeup for several important reasons.

Why is a Touch-Up Important?

After the initial permanent eyebrow makeup session, there might be a slight loss of pigment during the healing process. The correction, usually performed about 6 weeks after the first session, allows for adjusting the color intensity and precisely modeling the shape of the eyebrows. This period is when the pigment stabilizes in the skin, allowing for a more lasting effect. The touch-up session enables perfect alignment of the makeup to the client's expectations and correcting any imperfections that may have occurred during healing, thus ensuring complete satisfaction with the result.

The Touch-Up Process

• Consultation with the Client: Before starting the touch-up, the linergist conducts a detailed consultation with the client to understand her expectations, any changes, or issues with the initial outcome.
• Assessment of the Pigmentation State: The linergist evaluates the state of pigmentation after the first session, identifying areas that require adjustments and enhancements.
• Adjusting Shape and Color: Based on the discussions with the client, the linergist precisely adjusts the shape of the eyebrows and the color of the pigment, ensuring the most satisfying outcome.
• Application of Pigment: The correction involves the careful application of pigment using a disposable needle and sterilized tools, similar to the initial procedure.
• Post-Correction Photos: After completing the touch-up, a second series of photos is taken to document and compare the effects with the previous state.

Is a Touch-Up Mandatory?

While not an absolute necessity, a touch-up is a widely recommended practice. Many clients opt for it to achieve a fuller, more lasting, and more satisfying result of permanent eyebrow makeup. The touch-up also provides an opportunity to discuss any changes in the client's expectations and adjust the makeup to evolving preferences.

The touch-up is an integral part of the permanent eyebrow makeup process, aiming to ensure a lasting, aesthetic, and personalized effect.

Henna and Lamination as a Complement to Permanent Makeup

For those with permanent makeup and light or gray eyebrow hairs, henna and lamination are excellent complements to the procedure. Henna provides a natural look to the brows, emphasizing their beautiful shape and adding subtle color. Lamination should also be considered, especially when brows require additional styling.

However, it's important to understand that henna and lamination are not alternatives to permanent makeup but rather additional tools to enhance the natural beauty of the eyebrows. Both treatments can be used as a complement, allowing clients to enjoy an even better effect. It is important, however, not to overdo the frequency of these treatments to avoid excessive strain on the hair and to maintain the durability of the permanent makeup effect.

It's important to remember, however, that both henna and lamination can be performed after the permanent makeup has healed.