FAQs

This collection of Frequently Asked Questions provides brief answers to many of the common questions about Semi-permanent Make-up

1Who is it suitable for?

Anyone and everyone, men and women. Many women find that it saves them precious time every morning, gives their face a ‘younger’ and healthier appearance and has the obvious benefit of staying put 24/7.

2How long does it take?

It takes 20 minutes for the anaesthetic to work, then the procedure can take up to 2 hours, depending on the procedure (lips and full lip blush, taking the longest). However, I will never rush your procedure and would prefer to allow as much time as each procedure needs in order to get the desired result.

3How long will it last?

Skin types and external factors contribute to the length of time that the SPM lasts. Generally, darker colours remain in your skin for longer. Natural or lighter colours are often more vulnerable to the effects of the sun, swimming and breakdown by the body’s natural response. Other factors that contribute to fading include medications, smoking, metabolism and lifestyle. You may want to refresh or renew your SPM anywhere from 3 months onwards.

4Do I need to have a scratch test or a consultation before booking my appointment?

Not sure if SPM is for you? Feel free to call me for a consultation. I am obliged to offer you a scratch test, which should be carried out at least 48 hours before your appointment. I take my clients well being very seriously and would recommend this. It is, of course, your right to waive the scratch test. In the consultation form, you can sign to agree that this is completely your responsibility.

5Does it hurt?

Depending on your pain tolerance, it may be a little uncomfortable. Topical anaesthetics are applied to the skin before and during the procedure to minimise any discomfort. Many clients describe the sensation as a ‘tingling’ or ‘scratchy’ feeling.

6How long will it take to recover?

Generally, the colour will be most visible for the first 3 to 5 days. You may also experience light to moderate swelling, especially with eyeliner and lip procedures. After the initial 3 days, the healing skin will begin to gently flake off and the treated area will lighten considerably. In some cases, it may be too light, so we recommend a top-up appointment after 2 to 4 weeks to refine and perfect.

7What can I expect post treatment?

Treated areas will initially look dark and will lighten considerably after a few days. Please be aware that on most SPM procedures, you will lose between 40% to 70% of the colour initially placed, during and post healing. This is normal.

8What is your health and safety policy?

The Government has recently amended the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 by means of the Local Government Act, 2003 (Section 120), to give LAs new specific powers to regulate businesses providing semi-permanent skin-colouring (e.g. micropigmentation, semi-permanent make-up and temporary tattooing) and cosmetic piercing (body piercing and ear piercing). This change in the law came into force on the 1 April 2004. This extends the powers that local authorities already had in relation to tattooing, ear piercing, electrolysis and acupuncture. The Department of Health has published guidance about the change in the law: Local Government Act 2003: Regulation of cosmetic piercing and skin-colouring businesses – guidance on section `120 and Schedule 6. The document can be down loaded from The Department of Health website[2].
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Publications/PublicationsLegislation/DH_4076283
Let’s Face It adopts and adheres to the current legislation. Besides the premises for special treatment having to be licensed, the therapist who provides the treatment also has to be registered with the council.
In accordance with Standard Condition 9(a) for special treatment licences issued under Part II of the London Local Authorities Act 1991, Any person working in an establishment licensed for the provision of special treatments must themselves be registered with the City Council for the provision of those treatments.
A further useful publication by Salford Council entitled advise and safe practice can be downloaded from the Salford Council Website http://www.salford.gov.uk/micropigmentation.pdf

9What if I decide to have plastic surgery at some stage?

No problem. I will work conservatively, respecting the natural lines and features of the face.

10Will it look natural?

Yes, the healed result will look very natural. The healing process can take up to 21 days. Remember, your SPM will look more dramatic for the first 3 to 7 days. You can choose to plan ahead for a little “down time”, though most clients return to their normal routine immediately following a procedure.

11Will I need to tweeze and/or tint my brows?

Yes. SPM does not affect the hair growth or colour in any way. It only colours the skin under the hair.

12What if I have specific medical needs?

You may have specific requirements for SPM, such as scars, alopecia, trichotillomania, chemotherapy, areola reconstruction, vitiligo, loss of sight or other health related concerns. SPM is an extremely beneficial and very successful solution to these types of medical concerns.

13Are there any risks?

Because this is an invasive procedure, there are risks as well as benefits. These include infection, allergic reaction, misplaced colour, scarring, undesired result or colour. I adhere to all Health & Safety guidelines, and my vast levels of experience ensure that any risks are minimised.

14What are the health and safety issues related to SPM and general guidance to consider when choosing a technician?

The Government amended the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 by means of the Local Government Act, 2003 (Section 120), to give Local Authorities specific powers to regulate businesses providing cosmetic piercing (ear piercing or body piercing) and semi-permanent skin-colouring (e.g. micropigmentation, semi-permanent make-up and temporary tattooing). This change in the law was brought into force on the 1st April, 2004. This extends the powers that local authorities already had in relation to tattooing, ear piercing, electrolysis and acupuncture.
Semi-permanent skin colouring businesses will have to:
• register with their local authorities; and
• follow byelaws on the cleanliness and hygiene of practitioners, premises and equipment to protect customers against the risk of infection.
It will be an offence to carry on such a business without being registered, to carry on such a business in premises that are not registered for that purpose or to breach byelaws.
General Guidance to consider when choosing a Technician
1. Ensure the technician posses a special treatment licence issued by the Local Authority
2. HSWA etc. (1974) and training, requires technicians to provide any appropriate training, qualifications and health and safety provisions, as far as reasonably practicable
3. Hygiene, sterilisation, disinfection, and waste and sharps (needles) disposal guidelines. Must include personal and environmental hygiene standards, sterilisation of the equipment, cleanliness of all work surfaces, and compliance with the Hazardous Waste Regulations (2005)
4. Pigments must be appropriate for the use of cosmetic or body art
5. Public and Employers liability insurance must be on display or available for inspection if requested
6. Professionally presented client before and after pictures, ensure that the images are the technicians own work, don’t just rely on pictures on display on a website
7. Pre Consultation prior to treatment, an important opportunity to ask any uncertainty and answer any concerns that you may have regarding your treatment
8. Request client testimonials, an ideal opportunity to seek further endorsements from clients and to champion their opinions
9. Ask the technician if they have membership of a trade association
10. DO YOUR RESEARCH, if you are working on a limited budget, it is vital that you do your homework and thoroughly research the market.

15What ethnicities do you treat?

I provide SPM procedures for women and men of all ethnicities. I understand that different skin types and skin colour accept the colour differently. I also understand the importance of selecting the appropriate colour and design, which is critical to a successful outcome.

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