What is Micropigmentation (Semi-Permanent Makeup)?

The terminology for semi-permanent makeup varies by region. In the UK and the US, it's often called Permanent Makeup or Permanent Cosmetics Makeup, while in the UK and Europe, it's termed Micro-Pigmentation. In most Asian regions, it's commonly known as Semi-permanent makeup or SPMU. Internationally, it's generally referred to as PMU (Permanent Makeup), encompassing various cosmetic tattooing techniques. This involves depositing pigment into the epidermal layer of the skin using safe, regulated pigments and micropigmentation needles. These pigments, also known as colorants, consist of organic and inorganic minerals in a glycerin base, chosen specifically for their low allergenic properties.

Semi-permanent makeup is sometimes likened to a cosmetic procedure because it can create perfectly realistic lines such as eyebrows, eyeliner, and beautifully defined lips. It enhances facial features such as eyebrows, eyes, lips, and even other parts of the body to achieve a makeup-like enhancement effect. It can also be used for pigment reconstruction/renewal (known academically as Skin Camouflage Behavior Art or Skin Cover Behavior Art) to improve pigment deficiencies in various areas of the skin. For instance, patients who have undergone breast cancer surgery or breast surgery may wish to reconstruct the areola using pigment reconstruction techniques.

Different areas of the body can undergo semi-permanent makeup/tattooing. The most common procedures in today's beauty market include eyebrow embroidery, eyeliner tattooing, lip tattooing, and hairline tattooing, among others. These typically last around 2.5 to 4 years, gradually fading depending on an individual's metabolism. In the beauty industry, it's often said that "results may vary" due to individual differences in response to the technique.

Eyebrow Tattoo (Microblading):

Previously known as soft brows or embroidered brows, the new terms include "feather brows" (Microblading/Hair Stroke/Eyebrow Embroidery), "powder brows," "ombre brows," and "combination brows." Eyebrow artists use various techniques such as tattooing, shading, dotting, sweeping, and a zigzag method to create different eyebrow styles. Despite being semi-permanent, clients need not worry about being stuck with the same eyebrow shape indefinitely. Modern technology allows for adjustments in color depth based on individual hair color, with common colors being brown, gray, and black. Even with semi-permanent makeup, it's essential to carefully select the right eyebrow shape and colorant. Clients are advised to consult with semi-permanent makeup artists/eyebrow artists to choose the most suitable solution, eyebrow style, color, and colorant, and to perform a trial drawing on the client's face for confirmation.

Currently, there are three main types of eyebrow tattooing:

1. Feather brows: Creating realistic-looking lines within the natural eyebrow, suitable for those with sparse or missing eyebrow tails and a popular choice for men.
2. Powder brows: Applying color to the eyebrows in a mist-like manner, giving them a more dimensional appearance, preferred by those who are accustomed to makeup.
3. Combination brows: Combining the advantages of feather brows and powder brows by filling in gaps with realistic hair strokes and then applying color using the powder brow technique.

Lip Tattoo (Lip Blush):

Previously known as lip embroidery or soft lips, the new terms include "gradient lips" and "crystal lips." This technique involves injecting pigment into the lip epidermis using a machine needle to improve lip color and shape. Lips are mucous tissues with slower turnover rates than regular skin, so the effects last longer but won't completely fade away. However, habits like smoking or regular use of exfoliating products can accelerate fading.

The choice of lip color is crucial, mainly divided into red, orange, and pink shades, depending on skin tone and personal preference. Those with fair skin tones can suit any shade, while those with medium skin tones suit all shades except pink. For those who prefer a natural look, lighter colors like orange are recommended, while red shades offer a more pronounced makeup effect.

Eyeliner Tattoo (Eyeliner Embroidery):

Formerly known as eyeliner tattooing, the new term is "invisible eyeliner," a semi-permanent makeup/tattooing trend that has emerged in recent years. The procedure involves tattooing a horizontal line at the base of the eyelashes without deliberately extending it outward, allowing for the application of additional eyeliner according to makeup preferences. Communication with the semi-permanent makeup artist is essential to consider one's eye shape and makeup habits.

Hairline Tattoo:

Hairline tattooing involves using tattooing techniques to create the appearance of hair follicles/lines/dots on the hairline using the Small, Medium, Pointing (S.M.P) technique to improve sparse or thinning hairlines. The results are immediate and can effectively improve the appearance of thinning hairlines or hair loss. The procedure is simple, non-surgical, and has a short recovery period.

Benefits of Semi-Permanent Makeup/Tattooing:

- Suitable for busy professionals who wish to reduce makeup time.
- Ideal for those who struggle with makeup application techniques.
- Helps address deficiencies caused by illness, injury, or surgery.
- Suitable for individuals with sparse eyebrows, eyelashes, or hairlines, asymmetrical eyebrows, or oily skin prone to makeup melting.
- Allows for a refreshed look even without makeup for those with hectic schedules.