Cosmetic Transformations

WHAT IS MICROPIGMENTATION?

Commonly referred to as permanent makeup, cosmetic tattooing or medical tattooing, micropigmentation is a revolutionary way to place or replace color in your skin.  Micropigmentation can be performed to enhance your eyes, eyebrows and lips.  It can also be used to camouflage scars, burns and vitiligo, or to give your nipple-areola complex a more natural appearance following trauma or surgery.

A safe and effective procedure, micropigmentation is performed by using sterile single-use needles to deposit pigment into your skin.  The depth that the needles go in micropigmentation procedures is more shallow than in traditional tattooing.  Micropigmentation procedures implant the pigment into the reticular layer of the dermis (approximately 0.05 mm to 2.0 mm), whereas traditional tattooing goes significantly deeper.

Because micropigmentation procedures are semi-invasive, proper sterilization procedures and personal protection equipment and clothing are necessary.  Rest assured that Kyla is thoroughly knowledgeable about bloodborne pathogens and cross-contamination prevention, having been highly trained by the most esteemed micropigmentation specialists and plastic surgeons, and she observes all of the precautions necessary to ensure your safety and your comfort.

IS MICROPIGMENTATION RIGHT FOR YOU?

It is ideal if you do not wish to reapply your makeup every day, if you engage in sporting activities that smear make-up, or if you suffer from an illness or trauma that has altered your features.  It can also be a very good choice if poor vision or poor hand control mean that you cannot apply makeup well.  Micropigmentation can enhance your overall appearance by giving your skin and features more color and definition.  Basically, micropigmentation is a good choice for you if meet any of the following:

- You have a desire to eliminate daily conventional cosmetic application;
- You have an active lifestyle and want a waterproof, perspiration-proof solution to conventional cosmetic limitations;
- You have visual impairments or loss of motor skills that make the application of conventional cosmetics difficult;
- You have conventional cosmetic allergies but like the appearance of conventional cosmetics;
- You have thin, asymmetrical or poorly defined lips, eyebrows or areolas;
- You have had a loss of eyebrows or eyelashes due to disease, trauma or aging;
- You have a desire to camouflage scars, burns or vitiligo;
- You have had breast reconstruction surgery and want a natural looking nipple-areola complex.

ARE THERE ANY CONTRAINDICATIONS?

Micropigmentation is a relatively simple, safe and painless procedure.  However, as with any semi-invasive procedure, there is a possibility of complications including, but not limited to, infection, swelling, bruising, rash, tenderness and a reaction to the pigment or anesthesia.  Although thousands of procedures have been successfully performed with virtually no complications, you could be advised against it if your medical condition may make micropigmentation more risky or may prevent the pigment from staying in your skin.  Be sure to advise Kyla of your medical history as well as any medication you are taking prior to your procedure. 

Some medical conditions would preclude you from having a micropigmentation procedure, such as auto-immune disorders, insulin dependent diabetes, hemophilia, as well as those who are presently on Accutane medication or strong blood thinners such as Comadin, or those who are pregnant or nursing.  If there is a question as to whether you have a medical issue that would be a contra-indication, then you will need to see your physician for approval.

Additionally, if you are prone to hypertrophic scarring or keloid formation, micropigmentation or any other form of tattooing might not be a good idea.  This is because the stimulation of collagen during the procedure can make these types of scars more pronounced.

Although the pigments used by Kyla have undergone significant human trails confirmed by histologies and have a 10 year history of zero allergic response, you might want to reconsider or have a test patch done on an inconspicuous spot if you have extensive allergies.

Rest assured that sanitary surroundings, sterile equipment (including pre-packaged sterilized, disposable needles) are used to ensure your safety.

WHAT PRECAUTIONS ARE TAKEN TO MAKE THE PROCEDURE COMFORTABLE?

In terms of what you will feel, every client is different and will therefore describe what they feel in different ways, such as a “vibrating” or “plucking” sensation.  Those of Kyla’s clients who have had conventional body tattoos have commented that micropigmentation procedures are virtually painless in comparison.  Most clients say that the procedure was much more comfortable than anticipated, and the benefits far outweigh any brief discomfort experienced.

Kyla takes every precaution necessary to make the experience as pleasant as possible.  There are different methods available to help with pain management, including topical anesthetic ointments and anesthetic blocks (administered by a doctor or dentist).  Kyla will discuss these methods with you to determine which one is right for you.

HOW DOES KYLA MAKE A TATTOO LOOK SO SOFT AND NATURAL-LOOKING?

Although micropigmentation is technically a form of tattooing, the special pigments used and Kyla’s delicate artistry guarantee soft results that are natural-looking and rejuvenating.  Unlike some pigment companies that have a very limited colour range and can consequently look harsh and unnatural in the skin, the Biotic Phocea pigments used by Kyla are available in a hundred colors that mimic those of the skin or hair as well as conventional cosmetics. 

Kyla also draws on her extensive artistic background to achieve a soft look that will harmonize with your features.  Many of Kyla’s clients have reported that unless they’ve told their friends they’ve had a micropigmentation procedure, the friends notice a fabulous difference but do not realize the difference is due to a permanent enhancement! 

With her artistic expertise and extensive knowledge in color mixing and colour theory, Kyla can emphasize your features and rejuvenate your appearance without you looking overdone.  Kyla will discuss and work patiently with you throughout the consultation process as well as the procedure itself to ensure your satisfaction.

IS IT PERMANENT?

Perhaps the most common misconception about micropigmentation is that it is truly permanent.  Because the color is implanted into the dermal layer of the skin it cannot be washed off.  However, the colour will soften over time, because the body’s skin changes over time, and so will any coloration.  Color retention is affected by different factors including the darkness of the original color, an individual’s age and metabolism, skin type and condition, exposure to UV radiation (sun, tanning booths), smoking, certain drugs and medications, and skin peeling treatments such as Retin-A, glycolic peels and microdermabrasion. 

In general, the color lasts from 3 to 5 years and can be enhanced and refreshed by a maintenance, or ‘touch-up’ visit when needed.  A ‘touch-up’ is usually a minor adjustment that either thickens a line or adds a dot to make just the right shape, modifies a color to achieve the desired saturation, or fills in areas that may not have taken well the first time.

HOW LONG WILL THE PROCEDURE TAKE?

Many important steps need to be followed when a procedure is conducted correctly.  Therefore, initial appointments take approximately 1 to 2 hours.  This includes consultation time where questions are answered and a medical history is collected.  Time is then allotted for design, color selection, numbing, the actual procedure, and after care instructions. 

Usually 6 weeks after the initial procedure a “perfection visit” will be scheduled to ensure the lines and colors are as desired.  There is no additional charge for the “perfection visit” if it is scheduled within 3 months of the initial visit. 

Many factors can, and do, affect the appearance of micropigmentation, and maintenance visits, or ‘touch-ups’, should be expected periodically.  ‘Touch-up’ procedures require less time than the initial procedure.  Remember that although you may need these ‘touch-ups’ every 3 to 5 years, it just takes a mere hour or two to make you beautiful every hour of the day for many more years to come.

WHAT IS A ‘TOUCH-UP’ APPOINTMENT?

During the initial procedure, the treated area will be saturated as much as possible with color.  Due to swelling, there may be some areas where the tissue will no longer allow pigment to be implanted.  Those areas will show less color upon healing and may require another visit to be filled-in. 

Because everyone’s tissue reaction is different, some clients will need a ‘touch-up’ while others will not.  The treatment area must heal before a refinement procedure can be performed.  You should wait 6 weeks to allow for complete tissue healing and color stabilization.  Once the desired results are achieved, you can keep the color looking fresh with a maintenance visit or let the micropigmentation slowly fade over time.

WHAT IS THE ‘DOWN TIME’?

Immediately following a procedure, there may be a small amount of swelling, redness, or tenderness that lasts a few hours to a few days.  Generally, the eyebrow area swells less than the eyes, lips or scars.  The color looks much darker immediately after the procedure and lightens within 4-7 days.  During this time a light crust will form and the epidermal (outer) layer of skin will gradually peel or flake off revealing the softened color underneath.  A 10%-50% fade usually occurs and over time the color will soften. 

In most cases you can have a procedure performed and return to work or regular daily activities with minimal redness or swelling in a day or two.  A ‘perfection visit’ is usually scheduled 6 weeks after a procedure is performed.  There is no additional charge for this visit but you should be aware of it when planning a procedure so that you can plan your schedule accordingly.

HOW WILL I KNOW THAT KYLA WILL DO WHAT I WANT?

You will come into the office with your makeup on the way you like to wear it.  Based on the way you currently wear your makeup, Kyla will work patiently with you to create your desired look.  You will be involved throughout the process to ensure that you will be happy. 

Rest assured that in addition to exceptional empathy and discretion, Kyla has amazing artistic talent that sets her apart from other specialists.  Kyla actually began her career as an Oxford-trained university professor in the field of visual arts, but was motivated to change her path by her own experiences following hair loss due to cancer treatments.  Kyla subsequently opted for micropigmentation procedures herself and knows first-hand how nervous you will be to have your wishes fulfilled and the best artistic results achieved.  Kyla would also be happy to have you speak with some of her previous clients if that would help you feel more confident in her abilities to meet and surpass your expectations.

WHAT WILL THE COLOUR LOOK LIKE?

Pigment colors are selected to compliment your skin tone, hair, and eye color, or are custom-blended to match your favorite pencils and lipsticks.  A more conservative approach is advised because it is easier to make an existing color darker versus lighter.  That being said, colours will always look darker and more intense immediately following a procedure, then appear lighter and softer once healed.  For scar camouflage or areola re-pigmentation, patch testing is advised to obtain the best custom combination of colors for the treated area. 

Should you later decide on a different color, it can be lightened, darkened, or even changed. 

CAN I CHANGE MY APPEARANCE AFTER HAVING A PROCEDURE DONE?

DEFINITELY!  You can still apply makeup over your enhanced lips, eyeliner or brows for added variety.  You can also have Kyla modify your micropigmented colours, although you should note that it is easier to go darker than to go lighter with micropigmentation procedures.  Therefore it is always best to start out with a lighter, more subtle colour before progressing to a darker colour, unless you are 100% sure that you want a darker, more dramatic effect (you can then add lighter conventional cosmetics on top of the darker enhancement if you want a more subtle variation).  See the above and below questions for more information.

CAN I REMOVE A MICROPIGMENTATION PROCEDURE?

As with any form of tattoo, the removal of micropigmentation is not an easy process.  That is why choosing a qualified professional like Kyla who has tremendous artistic skill as well as a conservative approach is important.  During the initial application, a “less is more” philosophy works best.  A more natural look or lighter color can always be changed later with conventional makeup, or adjusted or darkened if necessary at a ‘touch-up’ appointment.  Shape can also be adjusted at a ‘touch-up’ visit, but not drastically, so a good original design is a must.

CAN I HAVE AN MRI PROCEDURE AFTER A PROCEDURE?

Yes.  According to experts in MRI scanning safety, test studies have confirmed that the iron particles in the color pigments used by Kyla are too microscopic in size to react as true metal pieces.  However, it is recommended that any person with micropigmentation inform the radiologist and MRI technician because the treated area(s) may show up as a very slight residue.

CAN I DONATE BLOOD AFTER A PROCEDURE?

Due to the possible risk of infection, the Canadian Red Cross requires a one-year wait between getting a micropigmentation procedure and donating blood.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO HAVE A MICROPIGMENTATION PROCEDURE PERFORMED BY KYLA?

Procedures range from 250 to 1100 dollars, according to their complexity.  This may seem costly, but is in fact economical when considered in relation to the money and time that would be spent be on conventional cosmetics over a three to five year time period.  And for individuals who are disfigured due to trauma, surgery or the effects of illness, the ability of these procedures to dramatically improve the skin’s appearance are nothing less than a miracle.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD KNOW?

The color selected may appear to be different once it is injected under the skin.  This is due to each individual’s unique skin color and chemical composition.  Most colour issues will be corrected by Kyla during your follow up appointment which is scheduled 6 weeks after your procedure and which is included in the initial cost.  Address your concerns and questions to Kyla who would be happy to discuss everything with you further.

Additionally, for people with tendencies to cold sores/herpes, an anti-viral prescription is needed prior to getting a lip micropigmentation procedure. 

And if you spend a lot of time in the sun or in tanning beds or booths WITHOUT PROTECTION, you should NOT opt for micropigmentation since the UVA rays will change and fade the pigment tones.

Kyla also suggests that you should not alter your physical appearance while undergoing major stress in life.  It’s probably best to wait until the issues are resolved.

WHAT’S THE FIRST STEP?

An initial consultation with Kyla is very important.  She will take a medical history survey, evaluate your health, review the choice of pigment shades available for your procedure, and help you choose the most appropriate shade to complement your hair and skin tones.  Kyla will also explain the risks involved and the type of anesthesia to be used, if needed. 

A color chart may be used to select a pigment shade for your procedure. If your color is not on the color chart, Kyla can blend a color specifically for you.  As a guideline, your pigment selection should be conservative.  You do not want to select an extreme color that can quickly go out of fashion.  Also, colors will look different once injected under the skin, as your underlying skin tone will affect the perception of the pigment.  Ask Kyla to help you select the most appropriate color.  Together, you will also agree on the placement of the pigmentation.

For any procedure involving the eye, contact lenses and makeup should not be worn the day of the procedure and transportation should be arranged.  Kyla may recommend that a skin patch be performed.

NOTE:
Lip Pre-Procedure Precautions:
If you have ever had fever blisters or cold sores, Kyla suggests that you obtain a prescription for an anti-viral medication from your physician prior to any lip procedure.  If you follow your physician’s directions, usually fever blisters and cold sores can be avoided during the healing of your lip procedure.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE PROCEDURE?

The area to be pigmented will be measured, outlined and marked.  You will then check the final placement in the mirror and suggest any changes that you might want.  A local or topical anesthetic will be applied to the site to ensure comfort.  Kyla will then implant the pigment into your skin using methodical motions to cover the specified area.  With anesthesia, you should feel little more than a slight “plucking” sensation. 

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE PROCEDURE?

After the procedure, you may experience swelling or tenderness at the pigmented site.  Cool compresses can be applied to diminish the swelling and make you feel more comfortable.  The pigmented site should be kept moist for 4 to 7 days.  You may be advised to apply an ointment or dressing.  For best results, the pigmented area should be left undisturbed (which means avoiding unnecessary washing and scrubbing).  You will be given aftercare instructions which will include avoiding laser therapies and chemical peels and wearing sunscreen on the pigmented site.  With any facial procedure, you should avoid placing cosmetics on the pigmented site until it is healed (usually 4 to 7 days), and you may be asked to forgo wearing contact lenses for a few days if any procedures are done near the eyes.  You will be able to resume all normal activities within 24 hours.