Sensitivity Concerns? Patch Testing PMU
We can certainly do a patch test to check for any reactions to permanent makeup (PMU). Similarly with other cosmetics such an hair dye, there are a standard procedures to patch testing PMU.
When is it appropriate to patch test permanent makeup?
- if you have any concerns about sensitive skin or allergies
- if you are taking any medication that makes your skin more sensitive such as sensitivity to light
- if you are highly sensitive to pain and want a small test to how it feels
Patch testing is just as important to test for sensitivity to numbing agents such as lidocaine (discussed in a previous Magic PJ’s PMU blog post) as it is for testing sensitivity to pigments. (A blog post on the high safety standards of EU approved tattoo and PMU pigments will come soon!)
Some people do experience increased swelling reaction from lidocaine which can make results look a little more pink and/or purple than usual for the first few days of healing. I have observed this first hand. This example is pictured a described further below.
Truthfully, it is never inappropriate to patch test. It’s always a good idea, really!
Once the lidocaine reaction eased, the color was exactly as custom blended. Thankfully I do have other all-natural numbing options although not as strong. For this masculine microblade client, we opted for the BioTat natural numbing gel for his second sesssion (all PMU takes 2 sessions with 6-8 weeks between when done properly) and that option had no reaction unlike the lidocaine, as seen in the included photo of this first hand example. A patch test helps ensure the best choice of numbing for your personal procedure.
How is a patch test performed?
I describe the procedure in 5 steps below:
1.We allow a dab of lidocaine to set upon a spot behind your ear for 30 minutes.
2. I then microblade a very small hair stroke behind your ear and apply PMU pigment to it. The skin in this location is thin and delicate enough to compare to the skin around your eyes.
3. We let the pigment sit for around 5 minutes, then wipe the pigment away. This technique ensures that the resulting mark is very temporary and should disappear in about a month. It is just enough pigment to test for any reactions which may including itching, swelling, and/or burning sensation. (A little soreness however is normal.)
4. After the single test stroke, I will apply some healing balm before releasing you to go about the next day or so normally while occasionally monitoring how the small microblade stoke feels.
5. You should return to come see me again at Magic PJ’s private studio in the next 24-48 hours so that I can confirm for myself the condition of the tested area. This is because even if you do not feel any undesirable sensations, there may be some visual clues that I can observe that you may not be able to see for yourself.
PMU patch tests at Magic PJ’s currently cost €30 and can be performed along with your free consultation.
25% off 1st PMU session
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25% off 1st PMU session ★
Enjoy 25% off your 1st PMU session at Magic PJ’s in exchange for client consent to use before/after photo for promo: mention this offer during your free consultation!
€300 service is now €225 with promo
Magic PJ’s Permanent Makeup & Tattoo is located at Burgermeester Reigerstraat 19 in Utrecht
pjsuperior@protonmail.com