Art meets aesthetics

Micropigmentation is a transformative, semi-permanent technique blending artistry and science to enhance aesthetics and address medical concerns, requiring precision, expertise, and evolving technology for safe and effective results, says Dr Shikha Baghi.

Micropigmentation is gaining traction as a transformative technique. It has undergone significant transformation over the past decade, thanks to advancements in technology, tools, and pigments. To delve deeper into this fascinating field, Shriyal Sethumadhavan had the opportunity of speaking with Dr Shikha Baghi, Founder & CEO, Timeless Aesthetics Clinics & Academies, about her journey, the intricacies of the process, and its impact.

What is micropigmentation?

Micropigmentation, often referred to as permanent makeup, involves placing pigments in the epidermis – the outermost layer of the skin. This process mimics regular makeup, eliminating the daily use of pencils or lipsticks.

Unlike traditional tattooing, which embeds pigments into the dermis and lasts forever, micropigmentation is semi-permanent. The pigments in the epidermis gradually fade over a few years, ensuring a natural look. The specialised machines, pigments, and techniques further distinguish micropigmentation from conventional tattooing.

“Micropigmentation is about understanding your clients’ needs, and the satisfaction it brings when you see those beautiful changes on their face is immeasurable. ”

Mastering the art

Mastering micropigmentation requires a combination of training, precision, and aesthetic sensibility.

Choosing the right mentor is crucial. An experienced trainer not only teaches techniques but also helps understand longterm results – how brows, lips, or other areas will look months and years after the procedure.

The key skills required include:

• Hand dexterity for working within the delicate layers of the skin.

• Understanding pigmentology to select shades suitable for different skin tones.

• Design precision to create natural and aesthetically pleasing results.

For instance, extending an eyebrow’s tail too far can make a face appear droopy while shortening and lifting it can create a facelift effect.

Treatment areas

Micropigmentation has applications beyond cosmetic enhancements. It can treat several areas and conditions, including:

• Eyebrows, lips, and eyeliner for natural, polished looks.

• Scalp micropigmentation for hairlines, patches, or fullhead coverage.

• Scar and stretch mark camouflage to improve skin appearance.

• Vitiligo camouflage, offering confidence to individuals with depigmentation.

A poorly executed procedure, such as scalp microblading, can lead to irreversible gray lines. In micropigmentation, artistry plays a vital role. Designing eyebrows, lips, or scalp lines to match a client’s natural features is a skill that combines science and creativity. Permanent makeup can treat hypopigmented areas, but not hyperpigmented areas. But using micropigmentation techniques for correcting dark circles or dark scars can lead to long-term effects and be detrimental.

Evolution of technology

The most significant advancements have been in the quality of pigments. Initially, pigments available for brown and dark skin tones were unstable and often changed colour over time. Today, the industry has evolved to include a wide range of pigments specifically designed for darker skin tones, making treatments more effective and reliable.

The availability of advanced machines and tools has also played a pivotal role. It was challenging to source equipment in the early days. However, with increased awareness and better access to technology, practitioners in India now have access to high-quality tools and products, simplifying their work and enhancing results.

Social media plays a dual role in both spreading awareness and misinformation. Following COVID, there was a significant shift in the aesthetics industry, with individuals spending more time online learning about available treatments. Social media became a key tool in educating the public about the safety, accessibility, and effectiveness of permanent makeup, leading to an increase in demand for both treatments and training programmes. 

What’s trending!

The landscape of micropigmentation has seen some fascinating shifts. While some trends come and go, others have made a lasting impact. One of the major trends in the field today is the use of camouflage techniques. More people are seeking treatments like stretch mark camouflage, which has gained considerable attention recently. These treatments provide solutions for a range of concerns, from scarring to skin discoloration. As awareness grows, the demand for such treatments has surged, especially for conditions like stretch marks, burns, and surgical scars.

However, not all new trends are met with unanimous approval. Some procedures like under-eye camouflage and cheek blush have sparked debate within the industry. While these treatments have found popularity, experienced practitioners advise caution. It is important to wait and observe the results before jumping on trendy treatments that may not have long-term benefits. For instance, treatments like BB Glow, which once gained widespread attention, were found to cause more harm than good, leaving practitioners wary of jumping on similar trends without sufficient evidence. 

Busting myths

One of the common concerns is the fear of side effects. Many clients worry about the safety of introducing pigments into their skin. To address these concerns, clients are reassured about the safety of these treatments, emphasising that if there were even a 1 per cent chance of a side-effect, the procedure would not have been undertaken.

Another myth is the fear of permanent makeup causing unnatural changes to the face. While it may take about a week for clients and their families to adjust to the new look, the results are designed to enhance natural beauty, not alter it drastically.

Impact on medical aesthetics

Beyond enhancing beauty, permanent makeup has a profound impact on medical aesthetics. Its importance lies in helping individuals regain a sense of normalcy and confidence. Touching examples would be of patients with alopecia, hormonal disorders, or cancer, for whom permanent makeup restored not only their appearance but also their self-esteem. For many, it is not about vanity but about feeling like themselves again.

Treatments like scalp micropigmentation for men and brow restoration for women dealing with hair loss have proven to be transformative. Additionally, permanent makeup plays a significant role in addressing genetic conditions like dark lips, which can often lead to unwarranted social judgments.

Contraindications and precautions

Micropigmentation is generally regarded as a safe procedure, but, like any treatment, it comes with certain precautions. One significant contraindication is hyperpigmentation, as it is not effectively treatable with camouflage techniques. Individuals with underlying health issues, such as pregnancy or active herpes outbreaks, should avoid micropigmentation procedures. Ahistory of herpes is especially important, as it can trigger an outbreak when the skin is punctured. Additionally, people with a tendency to develop keloids or thick, raised scars must also be cautious.

“For practitioners looking to incorporate micropigmentation into their portfolios, the field offers a high return on investment with relatively low initial costs. The procedure is not only rewarding. ”

Despite these limitations, micropigmentation remains one of the safest aesthetic procedures when performed by trained professionals who understand the nuances of the treatment.

“Treatments like scalp micropigmentation for men and brow restoration for women dealing with hair loss have proven to be transformative. ”

Addressing challenges

Like any cosmetic procedure, micropigmentation can present challenges such as pigment fading or undesired results. Changes in colour can occur over time, but techniques exist to correct these pigments and restore the desired appearance. However, if a client receives a tattoo instead of a permanent brow or lip colour, the situation becomes more complicated. Tattoos, due to their deeper application in the skin, may require laser or chemical removal procedures to correct.

Shape-related issues also arise, where clients may not be satisfied with the final result. In such cases, emergency removal services are available, allowing for the removal of pigments within 72 hours of the initial procedure, making it easier to reverse any mistakes early on.

While allergies related to micropigmentation are rare, they can occur. Allergic reactions may be caused by either the pigment or the needle used in the procedure. However, needles are typically made of stainless steel, which is unlikely to cause allergic reactions. The pigments available today are stable and have undergone extensive research and development to ensure they are safe for use. For clients concerned about potential allergies, a patch test can be performed to check for any adverse reactions before proceeding with the full treatment.

Training and skill enhancement

For practitioners looking to incorporate micropigmentation into their portfolios, the field offers a high return on investment with relatively low initial costs. The procedure is not only rewarding but also allows for personal satisfaction, especially when practitioners see the transformation and joy in their clients. However, mastering the skill of micropigmentation takes time and practice. Finding a great mentor and receiving proper hands-on training are crucial for success.

Training programmes vary, but they generally involve handson practice, as this is essential for mastering the craft. Asix-day programme is available for those who have limited time, focusing on key techniques like eyebrow and lip micropigmentation. For those who wish to dive deeper into the field, more extensive training programmes lasting two months are offered, where practitioners are mentored through the process and given ample time to practice.