Concealer Tattoos

  • By Bryce Cleveland
Concealer Tattoos

All You Need to Know About Concealer Tattoos

Keep reading to learn about the effects, procedure, healing, aftercare tips and more about Permanent Concealer Treatment.

The permanent makeup industry has evolved so much in the last decade or so that PMU treatments that can reproduce and replace nearly any cosmetic product have been developed. Some of these treatments have become actual beauty standards, while others have not.

One of the less well-known PMU procedures is permanent concealer. It is quite popular in some parts of the world, such as Asia and Brazil, but it has yet to gain global recognition.

Nonetheless, let us look into tattoo concealers.

Long-Lasting Concealer: What You Need to Know

What Is Permanent Concealer?

It is a cosmetic tattooing procedure that involves depositing pigment under the skin to hide imperfections such as dark circles, scars, and uneven skin tone.

Unlike traditional concealers that need to be applied daily, permanent concealer is a long-lasting solution that can last for several years.

The process involves using a small needle to inject the pigment into the skin's top layer, creating a natural-looking effect. It's important to note that while it is called "permanent," the pigment may fade over time and require touch-ups. Permanent concealer should only be performed by a licensed and experienced cosmetic tattoo artist to ensure safe and satisfactory results.

Is Permanent Concealer Actually Permanent?

It's important to note that while it is called "permanent," the pigment may fade over time and require touch-ups. Permanent concealer is intended to be long-lasting, but it is not necessarily permanent.

There are two forms of the treatment, each with a distinct lifespan: permanent concealer tattoos done with tattoo ink and semi-permanent concealer done with pigmented serums.

Permanent concealer done using tattoo ink can last up to a decade, whereas PMU concealer lasts 2-4 years on average, with touch-ups required to keep the results looking fresh.

Because the procedure hasn't been regulated or harmonized globally, technicians employ a variety of color solutions with varying pigment concentrations.

The Ins and Outs of the Permanent Concealer Treatment

How Is Permanent Concealer Done?

Permanent concealer is created by using an electric needling device to open up the skin under the eyes and deposit color into it. The device has a single needle or a multi-needle tip that vibrates and makes tiny dot-like incisions in the skin. Because it only penetrates the skin to the barrier between the first and second layers, the color is deposited very shallowly.

The color forms a layer between the skin's surface and the blood vessels located in the second and third layers of the skin (which is what creates the darkness). As a result, the vessels are less visible, and the skin is less see-through.

Some technicians not only treat the under-eye area, but also the upper lid.

Step by Step

Step 1: Consultation

A consultation is done with a licensed and experienced cosmetic tattoo artist to discuss the desired outcome, assess the skin tone, and determine the best shade and shape of the concealer.

Step 2: Preparation

The area to be treated is cleaned, and a numbing cream may be applied to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Your artist will also create a custom mix of color that is most suitable to your skin tone. This color is lighter than your complexion to add a brightening effect with a complementary undertone.

Step 3: Pigment application

The artist will use a small needle to inject the pigment into the top layer of the skin. They will work to achieve the desired color and shape while minimizing discomfort and bleeding.

The artist may have to repeat this until the desired amount of pigment is achieved.

Step 4: Aftercare

The artist will provide aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding certain activities or products for a period of time to ensure proper healing. Swelling, redness, and scabbing may occur, and the treated area should be kept clean and dry.

Step 5: Touch ups

Depending on the individual's healing process, touch-ups may be required after a few weeks to achieve the desired outcome.

If pigments with less concentrations were used, you might need to get more sessions to improve coverage. The touch ups will be 2-4 weeks apart to let the area heal.

Does It Hurt?

The permanent concealer treatment can be uncomfortable, but a numbing cream is applied to the treated area before the procedure to minimize pain.

While some discomfort may be experienced during the process, it is typically manageable.

Is It Safe?

When performed by a licensed and experienced cosmetic tattoo artist, permanent concealer is generally considered safe.

However, as with any cosmetic procedure, there are some risks to consider. The procedure involves using a needle to inject pigment into the skin, which can potentially lead to infection, allergic reactions, scarring, or unwanted pigment changes.

Before deciding to undergo permanent concealer treatment, it's recommended to discuss any concerns with a healthcare professional to ensure it's the right choice for you.

Preparing for Your Permanent Concealer Procedure

Before making a decision about getting treatment, do your research. Make sure you are aware of the long-term consequences as well as the benefits. And most of all, book a certified, qualified and experienced technician to do the procedure.

It's recommended to avoid alcohol, aspirin, and blood-thinning medications for a few days before the treatment. It's also important to keep the treated area clean and avoid sun exposure for a few days before the procedure.

Aftercare Tips for your Permanent Concealer Treatment

Here are some aftercare tips to follow after a permanent concealer treatment:

  • Keep the treated area clean and dry for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
  • Avoid touching or rubbing the treated area, as this can cause irritation and infection.
  • Apply ointment or cream to the treated area if directed by the artist to help with healing and to prevent scabbing.
  • Avoid sun exposure, swimming pools, hot tubs, and saunas for at least two weeks after the procedure.
  • Do not apply makeup or other cosmetics to the treated area until it has fully healed.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that may cause sweating for at least a week after the procedure.
  • If the treated area becomes red, swollen, or painful, contact the artist immediately as this may be a sign of infection.

The Healing Process of Permanent Concealer

How Long Does It Take to Heal?

The healing time for permanent concealer can vary depending on individual factors, but it typically takes around 2-4 weeks for the treated area to fully heal.

Touching Up Your Permanent Concealer: What to Expect

Are Touch Ups Necessary?
Depending on the individual's healing process and the quality of the pigment used, touch-ups may be required after a few weeks or months to maintain the desired effect.

For treatments that used tattoo inks, touch ups are usually no longer done since the desired coverage is achieved in the first session. But for less concentrated pigments, additional sessions may need to be booked to achieve the desired coverage.

A licensed and experienced cosmetic tattoo artist can assess whether touch-ups are needed during a follow-up appointment.

Understanding the Benefits of Permanent Concealer

How Well Can Permanent Concealer Camouflage Dark Circles?

Permanent concealer can effectively camouflage dark circles up to 80% coverage, as it involves using a tattoo needle to deposit pigment into the skin, creating the illusion of even skin tone.

However, the effectiveness of the treatment may vary depending on the individual's skin type, the severity of the dark circles, and the skill of the cosmetic tattoo artist. As well as dark circles being persistent in being visible.

How Long Does It Last?

The longevity of permanent concealer can vary depending on individual factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and sun exposure.

Generally, it can last anywhere from 2 to 5 years when done with a pigmented serum, but touch-ups may be required to maintain the desired effect. The use of concentrated tattoo inks can make the treatment last for a decade.

Potential Risks of Permanent Concealer Treatment

Are there any side-effects?

As with any cosmetic procedure, there are potential risks and side effects to consider. These may include infection, allergic reactions, scarring, or unwanted pigment changes.

Allergic reactions can be prevented through patch tests before the procedure.

It's important to choose a licensed and experienced cosmetic tattoo artist and to follow aftercare instructions carefully to minimize the risk of complications.

Are There Alternatives?

For those who are hesitant to undergo permanent concealer treatment, there are non-permanent alternatives such as traditional concealer, color-correcting creams, or under-eye fillers.

There is also a treatment called BB glow that can improve complexion by injecting tinted serums. Although this is regulated more strictly. It has similar risks and it has yet been approved by the FDA as well.

Removing Permanent Concealer: What You Should Know

Can It Be Removed?

So far, there is no PMU removal method that is appropriate for removing a concealer tattoo.

Permanent concealer removal with saline or glycolic acid has not been proven. Lasers cannot be used on pigments that contain titanium dioxide (and because titanium dioxide is a white pigment, most concealer tattoo colors contain it) because the color changes to grayish or even black when touched by the laser beam.

Note: Do not get any laser procedures if you have permanent concealer. Lasers should never come into contact with titanium dioxide which is often an ingredient in the pigments used in Permanent Concealer.

How Much Does Permanent Concealer Cost?

This will depend on the number of sessions since they are charged per session. The average can be $350 to $800 per session.

It's important to do research and choose a reputable and experienced cosmetic tattoo artist, and to consider the long-term costs of touch-up sessions when budgeting for the treatment.

Permanent Concealer: Key Points to Know

Permanent concealer is a cosmetic tattooing procedure that involves depositing pigment into the skin under the eyes to camouflage dark circles or other skin imperfections.

The treatment can last anywhere from 2 to 5 years, and may require touch-ups to maintain the desired effect. While permanent concealer can be an effective way to achieve a long-lasting and natural-looking result, there are potential risks and side effects to consider.

It's important to choose a licensed and experienced cosmetic tattoo artist, follow aftercare instructions carefully, and discuss any concerns or questions with a healthcare professional or cosmetic expert.

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