Q&As

Your Questions Answered

• What is Permanent Make-Up?
  Permanent Make-Up, also known as Permanent Cosmetics, Cosmetic Tattooing, Micropigmentation and sometimes Semi-Permanent Make-Up, is a non-surgical procedure where pigments are implanted into the upper Dermal layer of the skin.

  The machine used is called the Precision Plus and is manufactured by medical standards. This machine carries a Class 2A medical Certificate, therefore making it suitable to be used in hospitals. New, encapsulated needles are used for every client and all needles are disposed off at the end of each treatment session.

  The latest technique we have had added to our treatment list, is ‘Microblading’ which is mainly used when performing eyebrow procedures. This technique is also known as the ‘hand-method  ‘embroidery’, Soft Tap or Microstroking and refers to a completely manual procedure using a hand tool with attached needles fused together as opposed to a machine. The technique involves depositing the pigment much closer to the surface of the skin allowing the technician to create crisp hair strokes which mirror natural eyebrow hairs.

• Is Permanent Make-Up a tattoo?
  Yes, Permanent Make-Up is a form of tattooing. However, the machine and hand-method used by Geraldine Viljoen are non-aggressive and the pigment is implanted more superficially in the skin than an ordinary tattoo.

  Please note that in order to re-enhance the colour of the treatment area, periodical retouches are required.

• How long does is last?
  Permanent Make-up lasts anything between a few months to a few years depending on the individual being treated. There is therefore unfortunately no exact period of time that we are able to give you due a number of factors that contribute to the fading process.

  These include:
  • Sun Exposure
  • Age
  • Metabolism
  • Medication
  • Health and condition of your skin
  • Overall heath etc.

• Who will perform the treatments?
  Treatments will be carried out by Specialist Consultant in Permanent Make-Up, Geraldine Viljoen. She has over a decade of international experience in the beauty and permanent make-up industry. Read More
• Do I need a consultation first?
  Yes, as it is important to discuss you needs and expectations before your treatment.

  The Consultation will include:
  • Time to answer all your questions
  • Go through your medical questionnaire
  • Show you before and after photographs of the procedure that you are interested in
  • Perform a sensitivity test
  • Draw the shape discussed with a cosmetic pencil to give you a realistic idea of what to expect on the day of treatment.

• How long does the procedure take?
  Please allow 30 minutes for a consultation and approximately 30 – 45 minutes per treatment depending on the amount of work needed to be done to the area. Please note that all clients are advised to arrive prior to their scheduled treatment time (this will differ from treatment to treatment).
• Do I need a retouch appointment?
  All new treatments include a follow-up procedure that needs to be completed 4 – 8 weeks following your initial treatment. This procedure is included in the initial treatment price.
• Does it hurt?
  Sensation will vary from person to person and will mainly depend on the individual’s pain threshold. Geraldine always ensures she has sufficient time with each client so that she is not rushed and that you are comfortable. 
• What can I expect post procedure?
  You may experience slight redness, sensitivity and swelling in the treated area post procedure. Rest assured, this will subside quickly. The pigment will also appear darker initially; this is a normal reaction following the procedure and will begin to fade as it goes through the healing process.
• How do I take care of the treated area post procedure?
  Geraldine Viljoen will provide you with a detailed Aftercare Advice and Instruction leaflet to guide you through the healing process.
• When would I need to return for a follow-up procedure?
  As everyone responds differently to the procedures and the longevity of the pigment is determined by the individual skin that is being treated, the best indication of when you need to return for further treatment would be to ensure that you have still some pigment visible in your skin.

  By keeping an eye on the area and by coming back for treatment while there is still a shape visible, it will ensure that Geraldine can layer the pigment on top of the previously applied treatment area. This will prolong the effects and will result in you only needing one treatment at the time. We find that our clients return between 6 – 12 months to have the area retouched and re-enhanced. 

• How much do the procedures cost?
  The treatment price will be determined by the treatment chosen on the day of the consultation and the amount of work needed to be done in the area. Geraldine will be able to give you a price at the time of the consultation once the area is assessed and the treatment plan established. (Pricelists for new and follow-up procedures are available on request.)
• Who is the procedure suitable for?
  Permanent Make-Up is suitable for everyone over the age of 18 and who is medically fit to have treatment. From busy career women and mums who that have little time to apply make-up, to active athletic women who would like to have a smudge free eyeliner after their gym session as well as anyone with limited vision to apply their own make-up, will benefit from having Permanent Make Up done. We also treat men and women who have experienced hair loss as a result of Alopecia, Cancer or hormone related disorders.

  Please note that treatment is not advised during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

  All clients undergoing Cancer treatment are advised to make their Oncologist aware of their plans to have permanent make-up. A medical note from your specialist is required to proceed with your treatment as he/she needs to confirm that you are able and suitable to have treatment. We also need to know when the best time mid-treatment is to have your procedure with us. Your safety and health are of paramount importance to Geraldine and therefore we will only treat you if this has been agreed by your Oncologist.

Click here from more information about Our Treatments.

Please contact us to book your consultation today at enquiries@geraldineviljoen.co.uk
or alternatively call us on +44 (0) 7875 697 477 / +44 (0) 203 664 8985