As a permanent makeup artist, one of the essential aspects of my job is ensuring that clients are well informed about the procedure, including potential risks and contraindications. One common concern that arises is whether individuals who are prone to keloid scarring should avoid permanent makeup. This blog will delve into what keloids are, why they form, and how they impact the decision to undergo permanent makeup treatments.
Understanding Keloid Scarring
Keloids are raised, often large, scars that grow beyond the boundaries of the original wound. Unlike regular scars, keloids can continue to grow even after the wound has healed. They result from an overproduction of collagen during the healing process, leading to thick, fibrous tissue that can be much larger than the initial injury.
Keloids can be triggered by various forms of skin trauma, including cuts, burns, piercings, and even acne. Individuals with a family history of keloids or those of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent are more likely to develop these types of scars.
The Risks of Permanent Makeup for Keloid-Prone Clients
Permanent makeup involves implanting pigment into the skin using needles, a process that inherently causes some degree of trauma to the skin. For individuals prone to keloid scarring, this trauma can potentially trigger the formation of keloids. Here are the main reasons why those prone to keloids should exercise caution:
Risk of Keloid Formation: The primary concern is that the micro-needling process used in permanent makeup can provoke keloid formation. If a keloid develops, it can be larger and more disfiguring than the original treatment area, leading to cosmetic dissatisfaction and potential discomfort.
Unpredictable Healing: People prone to keloids often experience unpredictable healing patterns. Even minor skin trauma can result in significant scarring, making it challenging to predict the outcome of the permanent makeup procedure.
Limited Treatment Options: Treating keloids can be difficult. Options like steroid injections, laser therapy, and surgery exist but can be expensive, time-consuming, and not always effective. Preventing keloid formation by avoiding triggers is generally preferred over treatment.
Consulting with a Specialist
If you are prone to keloid scarring and are considering permanent makeup, the best course of action is to consult with both your permanent makeup artist and a dermatologist. A dermatologist can assess your skin's tendency to form keloids and may provide insights or alternative cosmetic solutions that pose less risk.
Special Note about Permanent Makeup for Eyebrows
For the eyebrows, there are two types of tools in which permanent makeup pigment can be applied into the skin:
A permanent makeup machine or device. This is similar to a tattooing machine and will gently puncture the pigment into the skin.
Microblading - a non-powered tool made up of pins that are grazed into the skin. This method of application may be seen as more traumatic for the skin and so the permanent makeup machine is generally the prefered choice of tool for clients who suffer with keloid scarring.
Alternative Solutions for Enhancing Your Features
For those who are advised against permanent makeup due to the risk of keloid scarring, several alternatives can help achieve similar aesthetic goals without the risk:
Temporary Makeup: High-quality makeup products can provide the desired enhancement without the risk of permanent scarring. Techniques such as brow pencils, eyeliner, and lip tints can create long-lasting looks with proper application.
Henna or Tinting: For brows, consider henna or brow tinting. These methods provide a semi-permanent solution that doesn’t involve breaking the skin.
Non-Invasive Procedures: Explore options like lash lifts or brow lamination, which enhance your natural features without causing skin trauma.
Final Thoughts
While permanent makeup can offer a convenient and long-lasting solution for many, it’s essential to weigh the risks carefully, especially if you are prone to keloid scarring. Open communication with your permanent makeup artist and dermatologist is crucial in making an informed decision that prioritises your skin’s health and your aesthetic goals.
For those with keloid tendencies, exploring alternative methods to enhance your beauty can provide peace of mind and satisfying results without compromising your skin’s integrity. Remember, the goal is to enhance your natural beauty safely and effectively.
If you have any further questions or need personalised advice, please don't hesitate to reach out. Your safety and satisfaction are always my top priority! You can email info@rachaeltsang.com or book a consultation here at our permanent makeup clinic in Tunbridge Wells.
