How Painful is Permanent Makeup? Your Guide to Comfort During the Process
The idea of waking up with perfectly sculpted brows or effortlessly defined eyes is incredibly appealing. But for many considering permanent makeup, one question looms large: How much does it hurt?
It's a valid concern! After all, permanent makeup involves needles depositing pigment into the skin. While pain tolerance varies greatly from person to person, understanding what to expect can significantly ease any anxieties.
Here's an honest look at the pain factor in permanent makeup and what artists do to ensure your comfort:
The Short Answer: It's More Discomfort Than Agonising Pain
Let's get this out of the way first: for most people, permanent makeup procedures are not excruciatingly painful. Instead, clients typically describe the sensation as a mild to moderate discomfort, a scratching or vibrating feeling, or sometimes a dull pressure.
Think of it less like a traditional tattoo on a sensitive area and more like a strong scratching sensation or even a feeling similar to getting your eyebrows threaded or tweezed, but over a larger area and for a longer duration.
Factors That Influence Pain Levels:
Several elements play a role in how much you might feel during your permanent makeup session:
Your Personal Pain Threshold: This is the biggest factor. Some people are naturally more sensitive to pain than others. What one person finds mildly irritating, another might find more uncomfortable.
The Area Being Treated:
Eyebrows: Often described as the least painful. The skin on the brow bone is thicker, and the sensation is usually compared to scratching or light pressure.
Eyeliner: This area is more delicate. While artists are incredibly careful, you might feel a tickling or vibrating sensation. Some find it slightly more uncomfortable than brows, but still very tolerable.
Lips: The lips are quite sensitive, and you might feel more of a "stinging" or "prickling" sensation. However, topical anaesthetics are highly effective here.
The Artist's Technique: A skilled and experienced artist will work efficiently and precisely, minimizing discomfort. Their gentle touch and proper use of tools make a significant difference.
Type of Procedure: Microblading (hair-like strokes) can feel like light scratching, while powder brows (shading) might feel more like a buzzing vibration. Lip blush might have a different sensation due to the nature of the skin.
Anxiety Levels: Believe it or not, being extremely anxious can heighten your perception of pain. Staying relaxed and trusting your artist can help.
Time of Month (for women): Some women report increased sensitivity to pain during their menstrual cycle. If you're particularly sensitive, you might consider scheduling your appointment outside of this time.
The Power of Topical Anaesthetics: Your Best Friend for Comfort
This is where the magic happens! Professional permanent makeup artists always use high-quality topical numbing creams or gels before and often during the procedure.
Pre-Numbing: A strong topical anaesthetic is applied to the treatment area before the procedure begins. This sits on the skin for 15-30 minutes, allowing the numbing agent to take effect.
Secondary Numbing: Once the skin is open (after the first pass), a secondary anaesthetic, which works on broken skin, is often applied. This helps to keep you comfortable throughout the rest of the session.
These numbing agents are incredibly effective at significantly reducing pain. Many clients report that once the numbing kicks in, they feel very little, if anything at all, during the actual pigment implantation.
What You Can Do to Maximise Your Comfort:
Choose a Reputable Artist: This is paramount. Experienced artists not only have better technique but also know how to manage pain effectively and safely.
Communicate! Don't be afraid to tell your artist if you're feeling uncomfortable. They can always apply more numbing cream.
Follow Pre-Care Instructions: Your artist will give you instructions to prepare for your appointment. This might include avoiding caffeine, alcohol, or blood thinners (like aspirin, if medically advised) before your session, as these can increase sensitivity and bleeding.
Get a Good Night's Sleep: Being well-rested can help your body cope better with any discomfort.
Eat a Meal Beforehand: Don't come in on an empty stomach.
Stay Hydrated: Good hydration promotes overall well-being.
Breathe and Relax: Deep breathing exercises can help to calm your nerves and distract you from any sensations.
The Takeaway: Don't Let Fear of Pain Hold You Back
While you will likely feel something during your permanent makeup procedure, it's typically a manageable level of discomfort, not sharp or intense pain. Thanks to effective topical anaesthetics and skilled artists, the experience is designed to be as comfortable as possible.
The temporary discomfort is a small price to pay for the long-lasting convenience and confidence that permanent makeup offers. If you've been dreaming of effortless beauty, don't let the fear of pain stop you from exploring this amazing solution!
