Permanent Cosmetics Convention

I think everyone should attend this!

http://spcp.org/conventi.htm

Copied from the SPCP.org web site:

FLAMINGO LAS VEGAS ~ MARCH 6-8, 2010
The Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals Celebrates
Twenty Years of Visionary Accomplishments

This convention we celebrate something grand, the SPCP’s Twentieth Anniversary! We are so proud to achieve this milestone and wish to celebrate this joyous occasion with all of you in family reunion style. There is no better time than the convention to do so. We’ll celebrate this event at the most popular hotel in Las Vegas - the one and only Flamingo Hotel & Casino! Located at the heart of the famous Las Vegas Strip, the Flamingo is just steps away from other casino hotels, an abundance of restaurants, and great shopping. We are excited to return to the beautifully renovated Flamingo after having our conventions there several times in the early 90s.

We are also excited to present an amazing line up of informative speakers and topics you simply won’t want to miss. The vendor room opens early again this year, on Friday night, giving you more opportunity to shop and pick up some great deals! Also, Friday night starts the silent auction in the vendor room, so be sure to enter your bids! As always, the convention is preceded by the two-day Train the Trainer Course and the Bloodborne Pathogens Class.

After receiving phenomenal reviews in Philadelphia and attendees craving more, we extended Hector Guisa’s lecture on PowerPoint to this year’s Saturday morning workshop. “Tools for Success - Build a Promotional PowerPoint Presentation” will provide you with basic hands-on training, to help you learn PowerPoint and what great things you can do with it to enhance your business. Each attendee will build a presentation on the spot! Space is limited, so sign up early for this special workshop. Saturday afternoon is devoted to Vendor Presentations: see and learn all about their various products and services.

Saturday evening we invite you to join together for the SPCP Family Reunion! We will introduce many who were around since “back in the day” as they say – even some retirees will be back to celebrate! This is a wonderful time to meet your fellow members and party the night away. Many great treats await you for this momentous occasion so be sure not to miss it!

Starting Sunday morning there are lectures through out the day, continuing through all of Monday. Our speaker lineup spans the globe. Coming from California is the lovely and talented Susan Preston. In her lecture “Stiletto Heels and Aging Attorneys; Sample Claims and How to Minimize Problems,” she shares some horror and humorous stories about claims, and how to protect your business from these types of claims.

We are happy to have Edward Zimmerman, MD who is presenting an update on current, in-office, cosmetic technologies covering topics that include laser liposuction, fractional laser resurfacing, and bundling technologies for optimal outcomes. He provides a bit of basic science and a review of rational use of the electromagnetic spectrum. Dr. Zimmerman discusses how permanent cosmetics may affect, or be affected by these procedures. Other topics address issues that permanent cosmetic professionals may face, such as Vitiligo.

Providing us with that good old New Orleans charm is one of our favorite returning speakers, Lana Duke. Lana provides us with her personal tips to success and speaks on “The Colors of Our Personalities.” We will learn how to determine our client’s “color.” She provides you with the tools you need to determine what personality color best fits your clients and how to work with them. Speaking of color, we are so excited to present our very first “Pigment Panel,” hosted by Debra Guastella, CPCP. After a brief presentation, our experts - Elizabeth Finch-Howell, CPCP, Mary Jane Haake, CPCP, Alexis Lawson, Pat Shibley-Gauthier, CPCP, and Darlene Story - discuss subject matters that are important to our understanding of pigments as well as answer all your important questions about them. This is an intense two hour session and the information shared will prove invaluable.

This year our hands-on procedures “SPCP style” will feature not one but TWO presentations with different types of procedures. Whether these methods are something you personally practice or not, attending these lectures are beneficial, teaching you the different techniques that are out there and giving you knowledge that you may not have! Our very own Jane Adler, CPCP, presents the Manual Method, giving you a broad look at using the manual device with different configurations to tattoo brows, eyes, lips and areolas. Our second video hands-on procedure demonstration comes to us all the way from Australia, featuring Val Glover-Hovan. She is presenting her pointillism technique for full lips using a single needle! This is a must-see.

We understand how all the new technology can become confusing to some and even scary to others, but we encourage you to embraced it and utilize it to promote your business! Kate Ciampi, CPCP will be sharing some tips and information on these new websites with her presentation, “Tweeting by Day, Wall Writing by Night – The Impact of Social Media.” There is more to this than Facebook and Twitter, and no, MySpace is not dead. And the best part of these websites is that they are free!

So as we prepare for the 2010 SPCP Twentieth Anniversary and Family Reunion, we hope you join us in the celebration. So many years of talent and experience will be represented! Those who are new as well as veterans in this wonderful industry will find much to learn and share at this great event. As we say, invest in yourself, your career, and the future. Please join us in Las Vegas on March 6-8th, 2010. Registration is now open and many have already booked rooms at the Flamingo. Please, if you have any questions at all, do not hesitate to contact me at the SPCP office. I so look forward to seeing you all!

Navy Women Can Wear Permanent Cosmetics

In an article published by NavyTimes September 8, 2009, Navy women will be allowed to wear permanent makeup as part of a change to the Navy’s cosmetics policy after November 1. Women must ask their chain of command for permission before undergoing the procedure.

Read the story here:


New+uniform+rules+coming+for+boots%2C+pins

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Bloodborne Pathogens Class

It occurred to me that I have been a serious slacker with this blog. While it is a gloriously beautiful day and the Cubs are playing (and hopefully winning) I am sitting in a bloodborne pathogens class. It is the third one I have attended within a year's time (I sponsored this one) and even now the discussion has changed.

There are always new things happening regarding our industry in this regard. It is amazing how many in the permanent cosmetics arena don't take this class regularly. In fact, there are many who never take it at all.

I have personally witnessed some very bad habits in this industry even from medical professionals.


Some things that come to mind to work safe...

Always use barrier film on lamps and essentially anything that you will be touching with gloved hands.

Don't adjust your glasses, blow your nose, scratch your face, pour more pigment or anesthetics, etc., with gloves that have touched the client. And for goodness sakes, DON'T answer your phone with gloves on either!

Be sure to cleanse ALL adjacent areas of the client's face - not just the immediate area. When you are stretching, etc., you are often touching various parts of their faces. Also realize that clients love to touch their tattoos even while you are working on them; then they will touch your counters and what nots. Be sure they know they cannot touch anything but make them wash their hands before and after the procedure before you let them out of the procedure room just to be on the safe side.


Tattoo and beauty shows...

If you see cosmetic tattooing being done at one of these shows, talk to the show organizer. While tattoos can be bandaged after being done at a show, you can't bandage cosmetic tattooing. The client touches her brows and then touches things at other booths. OTHER PEOPLE have been seen touching newly tattooed brows! This is not the environment for this sort of thing.

We all know this is not a one time deal, either. It is really unethical to tattoo someone at a show out of town and not be able to do a touch up for them. Other techs should not have to clean up these things and then the client gets upset when we need to charge them.

So since I am being called on now for not paying attention during class, I will close with a final thought.... remember next time you do an eyeliner on a woman with long acrylic nails there is more bacteria under one of those nails than there is on the rest of her entire body so be sure she is not going to be scratching!!

Moving Permanent Cosmetics Forward

With the need for professional credentials and continuing education with pretty much every profession these days, why is it that permanent cosmetics continues to be held back? Why is it that there continues to be weekend training classes or only 4-5 days? How is it that we can forever alter someones FACE and not be resp0nsible to obtain the best education possible to best prepare for this important, life changing task?

These are questions that I hope during the next year, are answered to. This is why I believe, while many disagree, that education requirements have a real place in equitable statewide legislation.

Permanent cosmetics is not a hobby. It is a career choice. Careers are expensive - an investment in time and money - the fact that one has to often travel to learn this career does not warrant limited training hours. Professionals need to trainer with the best possible trainers. Consumers need to have their work done by those professionals who are best PREPARED to deliver safe and beautiful permanent cosmetic procedures. ALWAYS ask about training and continuing education practices.

SPCP PRWeb Reprint Announcing New Permanent Cosmetic Training Requirements

Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals Releases New Permanent Makeup Training Requirements

As of September 1, 2008, the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP), the largest and foremost permanent makeup organization, requires all SPCP trainer members to provide a minimum of 100 hours of fundamental permanent cosmetic training.

(Vocus/PRWEB ) September 3, 2008 -- As of September 1, 2008, the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP), the largest and foremost permanent makeup organization, requires all SPCP trainer members to provide a minimum of 100 hours of fundamental permanent cosmetic training.

The SPCP is unmatched in raising standards for fundamental training requirements, and as such is often considered an example to other organizations and used as a baseline for legislative purposes. "As the leading organization in permanent cosmetics, the SPCP encourages other organizations to also adopt a 100 hour minimum training standard," says Marjorie Grimm, CPCP, instructor who teaches the SPCP's Train the Trainer program twice yearly at SPCP events.

As the leading organization in permanent cosmetics, the SPCP encourages other organizations to also adopt a 100 hour minimum training standard

The time is now for all permanent cosmetic trainers, legislators, industry organizations, and prospective students to recognize the need for raising the required standards of permanent makeup training. The promotional "fast track" permanent makeup training of two and three-day classes have no place in the industry. The student has no opportunity for success under these weekend-type permanent makeup classes, and the public is put at risk by technicians with insufficient training.

Each SPCP trainer member shall meet the following criteria:

• Business Setup -- Each trainer must be in compliance with all state educational statues, zoning regulations and health ordinances.
• Professional Background -- Each trainer must have a high school diploma, GED or equivalent, a minimum of five years experience in the application of permanent cosmetics, and have completed a minimum of 300 procedures within each instructional venue. Certified Permanent Cosmetic Professional (CPCP) credentials and attendance of the SPCP Train the Trainer class are required prerequisites. Minimum Continued Education Units of 16 hours every two years are required of trainers.
• Student Guidelines -- The student must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent to be considered for fundamental permanent cosmetics training.
• Fundamental Classroom Guidelines -- Training manuals and lesson plans outlining no less than 100 study hours are submitted by trainers and reviewed by the SPCP to ensure consistent guidelines. The SPCP supports higher hourly requirements imposed by various oversight agencies, states, counties, etc.

The SPCP’s greatest goal is that all who consider entering the permanent cosmetic industry recognize the need for quality training and SPCP membership. Locate an SPCP trainer member.

SPCP PRWeb Reprint on European Permanent Cosmetic Workshop

Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals to Host European Training Event in Brussels

The highest regarded permanent makeup organization worldwide, the SPCP, is soon to debut in Belgium with landmark educational event.

Brussels, Belgium (PRWEB) August 13, 2008 -- The Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP) is conducting its first European Workshop, which will be held in Brussels, Belgium October 12-14, 2008. This groundbreaking event is being held in consideration of hundreds of International SPCP members. The SPCP values and appreciates the support and attendance put forth by its European members at annual SPCP events in the U.S. and in concert with requests for a regional SPCP European workshop, the SPCP is delivering a three-day informational banner educational event!

SPCP; Recognize it. Require it.

• DAY ONE will focus on health and safety in the cosmetic tattoo workplace. David Vidra, LPN, who is the SPCP Health and Safety Advisor and OSHA Outreach Trainer, will present his comprehensive Bloodborne Pathogens Course, followed by a Wound Care Workshop. Vidra is known for his lively energy and is superb at making this industry-specific training experience enriching and powerful.
• DAY TWO will consist of presentations by Elizabeth Finch-Howell, CPCP, and Kate Ciampi, CPCP. Ms. Finch will provide greatly needed factual information about color theory; specifically how permanent cosmetic color theory differs from traditional color theory. She will also supply information about general pigment formulation, dispel common misinformation, and provide fact-based accuracy to enhance the attendees' comprehension of color and pigments. Ms. Ciampi is well known throughout the permanent makeup industry for her exquisite lip tattooing procedures. Critically acclaimed for her full lip color and her independent classes, she delivers the complete package of this very challenging procedure process.
• DAY THREE will begin with Ms. Debra Guastella, CPCP, presenting Areola Re-pigmentation. Ms. Guastella is a speaker in great demand on the subject of this advanced procedure and conveys critical information on both the artistic and medically sound placement aspects of a reconstructed breast areola. Guastella will close by sharing her impressive knowledge of color selection to complete a beautifully re-pigmented areola. Lesley DeDecker, CPCP will present 'Strategies of Success' with conceptual tips on how to build and operate a successful business. This bountiful event will close with the Panel of Experts gathered and attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of these industry icons about any challenging issues they may have experienced or anticipate.

Registration for this important event closes September 12, 2008 and is on a first come, first served basis. Register now on the SPCP website at www.spcp.org or by calling the SPCP administration office at 847-635-1330. SPCP membership is required and anyone who wishes to attend may join the SPCP by applying through the website at http://www.spcp.org/howtojoin.htm.

Creating the Future for the Permanent Cosmetic Industry

This event marks the first of its kind and it is with great excitement and anticipation that we look forward to seeing our International and American members at SPCP Europe 2008!

About the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP):
"Creating the Future for the Permanent Cosmetic Industry". The SPCP was founded in 1990 and remains the largest nonprofit individual membership supported organization worldwide. Dedicated to promoting safety, excellence and high professional standards, the SPCP provides innovative learning experiences and education enhancing materials including a professionally developed certification exam, subject matter experts to provide guidance to its members, associated professionals, regulators, media and the general public. The SPCP, through its global membership, sets the highest industry guidelines and standards by applying sound principles of its Code of Ethics. Online at www/spcp.org.

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SPCP PRWeb Reprint Announcing New Textbook - Permanent Cosmetics

Permanent Cosmetics the Foundation of Fundamental Applications

A Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals Publication the ultimate training tool for Permanent Makeup Trainers

(PRWEB) August 3, 2008 -- A long-awaited textbook on the subject of permanent cosmetics - Permanent Cosmetics - The Foundation of Fundamental Applications, by Marjorie Grimm, CPCP, past president of the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP) is now available for purchase and is due to ship in September. The culmination of this collaborative effort represents the quest to present long sought after facts, while dispelling many myths that have affected the permanent cosmetic industry for decades.

Grimm began the research for the book in 2005 in collaboration with the SPCP and industry experts. Kate Ciampi, RN, CPCP, David Vidra, LPN, an OSHA Outreach instructor; Elizabeth Finch, CPCP, a bench chemist and Liza Sims, CPCP, an esthetician, were called upon for subject-related factual information in their perspective areas of expertise. In addition to the support and input of industry experts, Marjorie also solicited and received permission to use critical medical and esthetics related data from a selection of cooperative sources. The result of such a broad compilation of research is a comprehensive textbook of information that will be used to affirm existing methodologies and set new standards of practice for the permanent cosmetics industry.

The book is written nonspecific to any device or product, ensuring its objective that the information will be applicable to all, regardless of preferences in this regard, their tenure or interest in the industry. Color photographs are used throughout the textbook, citing unique examples of permanent cosmetic applications that were previously only spoken of in past presentations. In addition to pictorial examples, technical concepts are provided from many perspectives.

The book is written as a resource for the technician, trainer, and student; offering guidelines for new concepts and applications of permanent cosmetics and providing practical and relevant information for all who are associated with the industry.

Permanent Cosmetics-The Foundation of Fundamental Applications is a refreshing infusion of information written for an industry and public eager for facts.

ABOUT THE SOCIETY OF PERMANENT COSMETIC PROFESSIONALS:
Creating the Future for the Permanent Cosmetic Industry…

The SPCP was founded in 1990 and remains the largest nonprofit individual member organization worldwide. Dedicated to promoting safety, excellence, and high professional standards, the SPCP provides innovative learning experiences and practice-enhancing materials, a professionally developed certification examination, and subject matter experts to provide guidance to its members, associated professionals, regulators, the media, and the general public. The SPCP, through its global membership, sets industry guidelines and standards by applying sound principles of its Code of Ethics.
http://www.spcp.org

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Marjorie Grimm, CPCP began her career in permanent cosmetics in 1993, having been impressed with her hairdresser's permanent eyeliner. This led her to seek education in the industry where she happened to meet Mary Jane Haake at a beauty show in San Jose, who then introduced her to the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals. This introduction to the SPCP would forever change her career path.

Majorie holds the prestigious position as one of the most credentialed people in the permanent cosmetics industry. As an SPCP Director, she was appointed President of the SPCP and served a two-year term from 2003-2005. Marjorie is a recipient of the coveted Industry Leader Award. She has also served as the SPCP's publicist, legislative consultant, and the assistant editor for the SPCP Quarterly. Marjorie is a certified trainer and subject matter expert. She operates Faces by Design Studio, in both San Jose California, and Seattle Washington.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
TITLE: Permanent Cosmetics
SUBTITLE: The Foundation of Fundamental Applications
PUBLISHER: Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals
AVAILABILITY: http://www.spcp.org Current orders shipped in September, 2008
PRICE: $149 USD; Softcover

SPCP PRWeb Reprint on Fall Conference 2008

Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals - SPCP, Hosts Annual Fall Conference The Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals, dedicated to public safety through education and superior standards is the largest professional organization in the field of Permanent Makeup. Des Plaines, IL (PRWEB) July 17, 2008 -- Since its inception in 1990, the Society of Permanent Cosmetics Professionals (SPCP) remains the largest and most respected professional organization within the permanent cosmetics industry. The SPCP holds two events each year. The Annual Convention is held in March and the Fall Conference is held in September. The Fall Conference, this year is being held September 20-21 in Orlando Florida. This is a favorite event for many as it is limited to 100 attendees. Known as the permanent cosmetics "networking extravaganza" event, attendees have the unique opportunity to interface with other technicians and industry leaders in a professional but yet more social setting. In addition to the headliner speakers and important presentation subject matters, this is the annual permanent makeup event that encourages a coming together of the talents in the permanent cosmetic industry. Members have come to rely on the stringent standards of the SPCP and respect the focuses on presentations, networking and sharing of news, techniques and tricks of the trade by long time professionals made accessible to industry newcomers. Members understand the benefits of networking with fellow colleagues and attending informative presentations and discussions, especially in the SPCP conference smaller class setting. This year conference will be held at the Crowne Plaza Orlando Universal. Exciting Highlights include: ~ A presentation by prominent plastic surgeon and international speaker, Richard O. Gregory, MD ~ Color adjustment and correction secrets of Marjorie Grimm, CPCP ~ Take your business to the next level with Johnny McCarty, CPCP to build a solid foundation, and Rose Ann Cloud, CPCP to best present your work. ~ A Bloodborne Pathogens Standard class and exam given by David Vidra of Health Educators, Inc. ~ Discover the latest shaded eyeliner tips from Liza Sims, CPCP ~ Foolproof client management skills presented by Penny Rudy, CPCP ~ Panel of leading experts to answer industry related questions ~ Great networking opportunities with fellow technicians and industry leaders Never before has the permanent cosmetics industry felt so strongly about continuing education -- last year's Fall Conference in Philadelphia was attended by a capacity crowd. Register today while there is still availability. For further information: http://spcp.org/conference.htm About the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals "Creating the Future for the Permanent Cosmetic Industry" The SPCP was founded in 1990 and remains the largest nonprofit individual member organization worldwide. Dedicated to promoting safety, excellence and high professional standards, the SPCP provides innovative learning experiences and education enhancing materials including a professionally developed certification exam, subject matter experts to provide guidance to its members, associated professionals, regulators, media and the general public. The SPCP, through its global membership, sets the highest industry guidelines and standards by applying sound principles of its Code of Ethics. http://www/spcp.org # # #

SPCP PRWeb Reprint on Semi-Permanent Make Up

Permanent Cosmetics Industry Reacts to Misleading Information on Tyra Banks Show

Tyra Banks Repudiates Permanent Cosmetics on national television. Society of Permanent Cosmetics Professionals (SPCP) responds.

(PRWEB) May 16, 2008 -- On April 21, 2008, Tyra Banks hosted a live demonstration during what was stated to be a semi-permanent cosmetic procedure using vegetable dyes and minerals. Verika Seddick from the White Tea Spa in New York conducted the demonstration.

The Society of Permanent Cosmetics Professionals (SPCP) would like to clarify statements made during that demonstration. Vegetable dyes are never associated with tattooing. They are dyes used in the food industry to dye vegetables, fruits and meats. The pigments used in the cosmetic tattoo industry are either inorganic or organic (organic pigments are produced through the process of organic chemistry.) Quite possibly Ms. Seddick was mislead by the use of the word "organic." In the world of pigment formulation, organic does not have the same meaning as our society looks upon organic agriculture. Equally disturbing as Ms. Seddick's and Ms. Banks' obvious lack of knowledge of what the demonstration entailed, were their comments regarding tattooing and permanent cosmetics. Ms. Seddick stated that she wanted to make an important distinction, "This is not tattooing and you would never want permanent cosmetics on your face." Tyra echoed her words. A contradiction was soon to follow; Ms. Seddick tattooed a member of the audience's bottom eyeliner on one eye.

This is not tattooing and you would never want permanent cosmetics on your face.

Professionals in the permanent cosmetic industry are incensed with this misrepresented and poorly conducted permanent cosmetic (tattoo) demonstration. There is grave concern that thousands and possibly millions of women who potentially could have viewed this demonstration now believe they can have semi-permanent makeup that is not tattooing and that the substance used will be dyes made from vegetables.

Furthermore, professionals are also incensed by the unprofessional and unhealthy manner in which the cosmetic tattooing demonstration was conducted. The following are a few of the known bloodborne pathogens (OSHA) regulations that were not adhered to as well as other matters of concern.

• The client was not screened to be a good candidate for an invasive procedure; it appeared as if she were plucked out of the audience without an interview.
• Ms. Seddick indicated she could do the woman's lips. All professionals in the permanent cosmetic industry know that women of color are often not good candidates for lip color procedures because of their propensity to hyperpigment.
• Ms. Seddick did not wear appropriate PPE (protective covering)
• The client's skin was not properly cleaned before an anesthetic was applied.
• The client was not provided with a protective covering.
• There was no barrier film on the lamp used for lighting during the procedure.
• There was no barrier film on the hand piece of the tattoo machine.
• There was no covering of the cord of the hand piece down to the power supply source.
• The procedure was conducted poorly in that the eye area was not "gripped" (portions of the eye area held in place for safety and appropriate depth of tattooing.)

The permanent cosmetic industry is due an apology from Ms. Banks. Readers may go to the following link if they wish to view the demonstration, and the fallacious words spoken about permanent cosmetics. http://www.imeem.com/people/3NyCHVT/video/J-QttpeF/tyra_banks_show_april_21_2008_beauty_tips_from_around_t/

SPCP Position Statement Regarding Semi-Permanent Makeup

It is the position of the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals that pigments (colorants) placed into the dermis using needles are considered to be permanent. Results of fading, color change or lack of color are expected and are the result of factors such as skin variations, and sun fading. Improper application or faulty equipment can also affect the length of time color appears in the skin.

Permanent Cosmetics, Permanent Makeup, and Cosmetic Tattooing are all terms used to correctly identify the process of implanting pigments (inks) into the skin for cosmetic purposes. The term "semi-permanent" is reserved for long-wear topically applied makeup and is misleading to be associated with the tattoo industry. It implies mechanical control of the length of time a pigment may remain in the skin. There are no documented findings to suggest cosmetically tattooed skin can be reverted to its previous unaltered state within a specified time frame stated by the technician or any other person.

Rationale:
Permanent cosmetics, when performed professionally with reputable pigments/ink, is an act of tattooing and is performed with the clear intention of the resulting implanted color to remain permanently.
Using the name semi-permanent is a crutch for less than favorable results and may also be considered an excuse for not properly explaining the nature of tattooing to a client.

There is no debate that what we do is tattooing. The accepted definition of a tattoo is a permanent mark or design made on the skin by a process of pricking and ingraining an indelible pigment or by raising scars. (Dictionary.com)

It is also common knowledge that many tattoo pigment colors are highly resistant or impossible to remove even with the most advanced laser techniques, so not only permanent, but also some may be non-removable as well. (FDA Science Forum, 2006, Body Marking: Tattoos, Permanent Make-up and Laser Removal.)

SPCP supplier members who manufacture pigment and devices were contacted to provide information that would support their pigments or devices as being able to provide semi-permanent results. None responded with affirmation that this could occur.

Readers are encouraged to go to this SPCP website link to read more on the subject of "semi-permanent" cosmetics. http://www.spcp.org/public_semi_permanent_makeup.htm

About the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals

Creating the Future for the Permanent Cosmetic Industry…
The SPCP was founded in 1990 and remains the largest nonprofit individual member organization worldwide. Dedicated to promoting safety, excellence, and high professional standards, the SPCP provides innovative learning experiences and practice-enhancing materials, a professionally developed certification examination, and subject matter experts to provide guidance to its members, associated professionals, regulators, the media, and the general public. The SPCP, through its global membership, sets industry guidelines and standards by applying sound principles of its Code of Ethics.
http://www.spcp.org

New Tattoo Ink...A Wash?

I happened to be reviewing some of my old blog posts and ran across one from 2006 talking about the Freedom 2 inks. Whatever happened to that? We were bombarded with media releases and related articles and waited..........and waited..........and waited......................and waited.

I am still waiting. Last I heard the black was not dark enough. DUH! You put it into a semi-opaque little capsule, how is it NOT going to be lighter than traditional sumi ink??

Well, I hope they figure out something soon. As a very old song by the Kinks goes....

....so tired.....tired of waiting.....tired of waiting for you...u...u.........!

FULL LIP PERMANENT COSMETICS

I have finally gotten to the point that if another person calls me to fix their lip tattooing I am going to have to turn them down. I am going to tell them to go back to the person who did them and make THEM be responsible for fixing them up, otherwise they continue to keep tattooing messes on people's faces and assume all is well because they don't hear anything further.

This week I had someone do a brown liner that pulled gray, and then someone else who tried to enlarge a client's lips by going over a very strong vermilion ridge, AND completely made the bow off-center.

PLEASE - if you are a client, be sure your artist has at least TWO YEARS of doing other procedures before they do full lips and look at MANY examples of their OWN HEALED work!

PLEASE - If you are an artist, be sure you have at least TWO YEARS of doing other procedures before you even attempt to do this! GET PROPERLY TRAINED!

Happy New Year!

Well, travel, training, and life overall has gotten in my way of blogging but I am going to really work hard (sigh, too many resolutions this year) to be more productive on this end of things. I do have some pretty strong opinions - not just on cosmetic tattooing - but we will stick to that for now.

My latest "man, does that piss me off" topic is about business ethics. I am convinced there is enough business for everyone out there and this goes for the industry suppliers as well so why is it necessary to be so shady? It is bad enough we have snake oil salesmen out there trying to convince everyone their products, by far, are superior to everyone else's, but NOW I have learned there is concerted effort to create a monopoly in Europe for a particular type of device.

Are the regulators in these countries that naive? Are the professionals in these countries that complacent? Body artists can use traditional coil machines (among others) so what is the reasoning behind this ridiculous requirement? I have not been able to find anything in print - it just seems when studios in Norway are being visited by the officials they simply tell them it is a requirement to only use one type of device.

What could be the possible reason? If it is to prevent a needle stick injury to the client, that just does not occur. I have checked with the leading insurance company for the cosmetic tattoo industry, Professional Program Insurance Brokerage (Marine did not respond to my email), and they told me they never had a claim for needle stick injuries.

If anyone has written info on this, I surely would like to know.

Latest News...

Well it seems from the email I have gotten it is time to get this thing moving again. I will need a bit of time to review some of my old posts here so as to not be redundant - well, maybe in this industry some redundancy is a good thing - more like nudges, reminders...at any rate, I am back with info, opinions, and other such tidbits.

Thanks for asking!

Linergists - Yet Another New Name

Just when you thought the cosmetic tattoo industry was full of crazy names like micropigmentation and semi-permanent makeup, along comes a new tag for those who perform these procedures - linergists.

Give me a break! First of all, this would infer that all they do is create lines. Is that the full scope of their knowledge? When I see some of their claims, I guess it might be. They incorrectly state they are working in the epidermis so that is why it is semi-permanent. WHO teaches these people this garbage? I was actually hoping this industry was finally turning around to realize exactly what it takes to practice successfully. It seems like yet another step backwards.

Buyer beware!

Cosmetic Tattooing - Required Elements

While viewing a message board this morning, there was a brief discussion over a machine that people TRY to use but continues to have issues with . Bad issues.

I cannot understand why, even with discussion and advisement, permanent cosmetic technicians would try to gamble with their profession on "hit or miss" equipment.

In this industry, never "short-change" these required elements:

Good eyesight
Good eye-hand coordination with superb fine motor skills
Artistic ability with a knowledge of skin and makeup
RELIABLE, safe equipment and pigments
Integrity - to work cleanly, safely, competently, fairly

Eyesight - a given. If we cannot see exactly where we are tattooing the tiniest detail, we have to stop working at that very moment. We are talking about our client's faces - there is no room for error.

Fine motor skills - This is imperative. Now that you can see the tiny details, you have to be able to coordinate your needle properly. If you cannot coordinate a two handed stretch with a device in your hand and maybe even with some tissues or cotton swabs, too - you can't perform cosmetic tattoo procedures.

Artistic ability - You don't need to be a portrait artist but you will need to be able to draw a straight line, a controlled curve line, and have other abilities such as a good idea of color theory and how it applies to the skin tones of our clients. Also, if we have no sense for general principles of makeup artistry, how can we possibly make sound recommendations for our clients?


Reliable equipment and supplies - Equipment must be safe and have a proven track record. Just because something gets ink into the skin does not make it a worthy investment. Machines, in particular, should be soundly engineered so as to not allow for cross-contamination. In the tattoo industry, having a machine go out on us mid-procedure is unacceptable. Even if you have a back-up, who needs to waste the time and supplies to make the change?

Supplies such as ink and anesthetics must come from reputable sources and meet industry guidelines for safety and performance. This is one area the cosmetic tattooers clearly have above the body artists. Through the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals, these suppliers are bound by ethical guidelines that require pigment manufacturers to fully disclose all ingredients. Body art manufacturers will say they have MSDS's available but most of those are not written to standards and they hide behind "trade secrets."

Integrity - Much of the above already has to do with integrity. Our industry depends on its professionals to do the right thing. It is fairly simple when you think about it. Be fair in our representation of our skills; be fair in our representation of our competitors; treat our clients fairly. How hard is this to do? True professionals are proud of their industry and the services they provide. Weaving a web of false manipulations and claims hurts us all.

Happy New Year!

Where did 2006 go? Truly - I think I might have missed some of it. How did we end up in January? There was no lull in December this year; in fact - there was no lull at all this year. Cosmetic tattooing as compared month to month against 2005 was increased every single month!

The industry is alive and well - or is it? Is it that my clients were more discerning because they knew of me and my reputation? It seems I am hearing more and more cases of permanent makeup being done in the back ends of nail salons without a single autoclave or even sharps container in sight! I am hearing of standards falling by the wayside - in fact, it was just discovered that an association for "micropigmentation" (fake name for cosmetic tattooing) has lowered their standards for education in this industry!

The minimum of classroom hours seems to have been decreased by ten hours! The American Academy of Micropigmentation should be questioned by their members as to why they chose to go backwards in an industry that MUST continue to tighten up training requirements on a steady and ever increasing basis. It is imperative that those who are profiting from eager students willing to part with thousands of dollars be held accountable to provide a quality education. This cannot be accomplished in 40 classroom hours. No amount of home study will suffice.

(Please note that the above referenced "guideline" has been subsequently removed from their website thusly noted on January 9th - does this mean this change is now reversed? I hope so - in that case, this posting may have helped after all since it was vehemently complained about on their message board by the person who is "in charge" over there. I have the cached version on file in any event.)

(Please note again: On January 10th it is now noted that they have moved the page of guidelines and it is now back to the minimum of 50 classroom hours. This seems to be an accomplishment - certainly worth bringing all the attention to it. It also makes one wonder who is making decisions like this there...)

Most recognize even 50 classroom hours does not properly prepare one to be competent in this industry but in unregulated areas, trainers need to be competitive. Someone needs to raise the bar, however. I hereby challenge EVERY trainer in this industry to make this year a memorable one for their students - increase the hours of fundamental education by at least ten hours. In fact, increase it each and every year - the prosperity of cosmetic tattooing depends on it!

Semi-Permanent Cosmetics for REAL

Well, now there will be more turmoil in the cosmetic tattoo industry. It seems our friends at Freedom-2 not only will have a pigment that can be lasered in one session (PRTI - permanent but removable tattoo ink) but they also have TLT - Time Limited Tattoo - which is the world's FIRST (get it, FIRST, all you semi-permanent cosmetics proponents) non-permanent tattoo ink option. Apparently this ink fades at a pre-determined, time-release schedule. So it seems to truly "disappear".

This is going to be very confusing for the general public if people out there don't stop this whole "semi-permanent" scam going on. Read previous blog postings of mine to see the problem. Because of natural fading of tattoo ink, these folks decided to call permanent cosmetics "semi-permanent." A huge disservice and now, it will be a nightmare because clients will be looking to get the new REAL semi-permanent makeup and can end up with regular tattoo ink. Consumer education is going to be greatly needed and clients will have to be sure they are getting TLT pigments!

I am not sure how this does it - this story is yet to be told, but it seems that the material that encapsulates the pigments only have a certain life span and must break down at a predicted rate. My feelings are this will be great for the cosmetic tattoo client who would like to "try" permanent cosmetics, and if they really are happy with it, they can have the PRTI pigment replace the TLT pigment before it totally disappears.

Time will tell if this can happen. Visit www.freedom2ink.com for more information.

New Tattoo Ink on the Horizon

Great News! Finally, for those who are "on the fence" worried about whether or not they want cosmetic or traditional tattooing because of its "permanence" there is a new ink by Freedom-2 that can be lasered in one session!

Maybe too good to be true at the moment, but I already have clients lined up and waiting. It seems that it will be expensive but worth it for those who want that safety net of being able to remove it. It seems color is specially microencapsulated with a polymer coating so that when the laser hits it, the capsules break and the color is absorbed into the body and voila! No tattoo!

Disturbing though, are their claims that tattoo inks being used today contain toxic and carcinogenic materials - they should have said "SOME" because I know my inks are all from FDA color additive listings, too, just like they claim theirs are. It bears watching as I am not sure at this point if the color selection will be what we are used to in the cosmetic tattoo arena.

Check it out at www.freedom2ink.com

Lunch Time Eyebrows

So now it comes to this - the "latest word on the streets" - lunchtime eyebrows. Word has it that small salons - like the dime a dozen nail salons with questionable practices for sanitation (never mind sterilization) are doing their own version of "semi-permanent" makeup.

They are claiming to their patrons it only lasts two years, bargain prices, AND they can do it during their lunch hour since it only takes a half hour.

Needless to say this will further complicate things for anyone who really does a great job in their cosmetic tattoo business. What will these "semi-permanent" artists tell their patrons when the stuff won't come off after two years and is start to turn blue because it seems they only know how to tattoo black brows and the quality of the ink is very questionable?

All I can say is, buyer beware!!

Latest on "Semi-permanent" Makeup

It seems that a "letter" was sent from Hawaii with no return address to people affiliated with an association that promotes calling cosmetic tattooing "semi-permanent."

The writer, a coward who uses a fake organization name to sign off with, goes on to make damaging accusations about the executive director of another association.

It seems that rumors have been flying that the author of this blog is responsible for those letters. Not only are these allegations false, but the statements are, in my opinion, likely made by those who actually sent this mailing themselves.

A desperate attempt for attention. Not worth writing another word about here.