Pairing Cosmetic Tattoos with Other Treatments
Cosmetic tattoos, also known as permanent makeup or micropigmentation, have become increasingly popular for enhancing natural beauty with minimal daily effort. From microbladed brows to lip blush, these treatments can significantly simplify your beauty routine. But what happens when you want to combine your cosmetic tattoo with other skin or beauty treatments?
It’s essential to understand which pairings are safe and which could cause irritation, pigment fading, or even long-term damage. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions when combining cosmetic tattoos with other aesthetic procedures.
Safe Pairings When Done Properly
1. Botox and Fillers
Timing Matters: Botox and dermal fillers can be safely combined with cosmetic tattoos, but timing is key. It's best to get Botox or fillers at least 2 weeks prior to the tattoo procedure to avoid shifting pigment placement (Kristjana, 2024).
Why: The skin and underlying muscles need to be settled before tattooing to ensure symmetry and optimal pigment retention.
2. Facials (After Healing)
Safe After: Wait at least 4–6 weeks after your cosmetic tattoo to resume facials.
Avoid During Healing: Facials that include exfoliation, steam, or extractions can disrupt healing and affect pigment retention.
3. Microneedling (Avoid the Tattooed Area)
Safe When: Microneedling can be done safely on other parts of the face, but not directly over cosmetic tattoos, especially within the first 3 months.
Why: The mechanical stimulation can cause pigment to blur or fade prematurely.
4. Laser Hair Removal (With Caution)
Precaution Needed: Laser hair removal can cause cosmetic tattoo pigments to darken or turn gray/blue if treated directly.
What to Do: Always inform your technician and ensure the laser avoids the tattooed area.
Risky or Unsafe Pairings
1. Chemical Peels
Avoid Completely (Near Tattooed Areas): Peels contain acids that can pull pigment from the skin or cause discoloration.
Even After Healing: Peels should never be performed directly over tattooed areas.
2. Laser Resurfacing
Highly Risky: CO₂ or fractional lasers can distort or remove pigment, especially in areas like eyebrows.
Consult a Pro: If laser resurfacing is needed, consult both your technician and a dermatologist beforehand.
3. Retinol or Retinoids
Avoid Use: We recommend discontinuing their use on your forehead and brows after cosmetic tattoo.
4. Tanning Beds or Direct Sun Exposure
UV is a No-Go: UV exposure can fade pigment rapidly and may even cause the color to change.
Best Practice: Use SPF and avoid sun exposure during the healing period and long term.
Final Tips for Safe Pairings
Communicate with Your Providers: Always inform your esthetician, dermatologist, or injector about your cosmetic tattoos before any treatment.
Follow Healing Protocols: Healing takes 4–6 weeks on average. Respect this window to preserve your results.
When in Doubt, Wait It Out: If you’re unsure whether a treatment is compatible, give your tattoo time to heal fully before introducing any new procedure.
Conclusion
Cosmetic tattoos can be a beautiful, low-maintenance way to enhance your features, but only if you protect your investment. By timing and coordinating your beauty treatments wisely, you can safely enjoy the benefits of both permanent makeup and other enhancements without compromising your results.
Thinking about a treatment combo or not sure if your current routine is tattoo-friendly? Ask your technician, and they’ll help guide you based on your skin type, pigment, and goals.
References
Kristjana. (2024, February 7). Botox and microblading, what to consider? Go Permanent. https://www.gopermanent.com/microblading/botox-and-microblading.html
Danielle R., Feather & Blade Intern