UTI's

Today’s health and beauty buzz is on urinary tract infections (UTI’s).  I have yet to meet a woman who has not felt the pain and discomfort of a UTI. UTI’s are the second most common infection of the body and in the U.S. account for 8.1 million visits per year to health care providers.                                 

The bladder, the kidneys and the tubes connecting them are all part of the urinary tract system. The urinary tract system makes urine and carries it out of the body. The urine travels from the kidneys down 2 narrow tubes and is stored in the bladder. It is then emptied out through a tube at the bottom of the bladder. This tube is called the urethra.

What is a UTI?

Any part of the urinary tract system can become infected. Most UTI’s occur in the bladder and are not serious if treated right away. If they are not treated correctly the infection can spread to the kidneys. This is serious and can cause permanent damage.

Causes of UTI’s

1. Most UTI’s are caused by e coli. This is a bacteria that lives in the bowel. E coli are 80% responsible for causing UTI’s. There are many other bacteria along with fungi and parasites which also cause UTI’s but occurrence from these are much less frequent.  The bacteria from your stool gets inside the urethra, travels up to the bladder and causes infection. Bladder infections are also known as cystitis.
2. Sexually transmitted diseases can cause infection of the urethra but generally not of the bladder.
3. Lack of estrogen in menopausal women. Levels of estrogen which helps prevent recurrent UTI’s as well as levels of “good bacteria” found in the vagina which prevents the growth of bad bacteria, drop during and after menopause.
4. Catheters- Prolonged use of catheters are a common source of bacterial infections.
5. Sex may move bacteria into the urinary tract especially in women.
6.  Bacteria in the blood or lymph system can cause bladder and kidney infections.
7.  Kidney stones and enlarged prostrate can cause UTI’s in men.
8.  Birth control spermicidal foams and diaphragms.
9.  Diabetes or suppressed immune systems.

Who is affected by UTI’S?

Men, women, children, the elderly and even infants can be affected by UTI’s.

Women are at much higher risk than men for contracting a UTI.  UTI’s are most common in young to middle aged women because:-

1. The rectum is closer to the urethra in women than in men and so bacteria from the stool can easily be introduced.
2. The urethra is shorter in women and this allows bacteria to reach the bladder more easily.
3. Sex can push bacteria into the urethra.
4. The fluid produced by a man’s prostate gland helps to kill bacteria in his urinary tract.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of a UTI 

1. Pain whilst urinating and a strong urge to urinate whilst only passing small amounts.                                                                                 
2. Cloudy, bad or strong smelling urine or blood in urine.
3. Pelvic and abdominal pain in women and rectal pain in men.

Kidney infection symptoms include fever, chills and shaking, pain in the back and side, nausea and vomiting.

Many people go undiagnosed as UTI’s don’t necessarily cause symptoms. Go immediately to your doctor if you have any symptoms of a UTI.

 A urine specimen will be sent to the lab to see if there is any pus, red blood cells or bacteria present. This is usually the first course of action.

 A urine culture is sometimes done to determine what kind of bacteria is causing the infection. The lab uses the urine sample to grow bacteria to see which medications are best for treatment.

A cystoscopy may be called for if recurrent infections occur. This is a thin tube with a scope and is placed into the urethra in order to see into the bladder.

A CT scan may be done if an abnormality of the urinary tract is suspected.

Another test involves a dye being injected into the vein in your arm. X-rays are then taken of the urinary tract. The dye highlights the bladder so abnormalities can be detected.

Treatment of a UTI

•  Antibiotics are the most common method of treatment. Type and duration will depend on the type and severity of infection. Usually the infection clears in a few days but it is vitally important to complete the entire course of antibiotics.
• For menopausal women, a vaginal estrogen cream maybe prescribed.
• Pain killers.
• Sometimes a single dose antibiotic/antimicrobial pill is recommended to be taken immediately after intercourse.
• Drink lots of fluid to flush the kidneys.

Prevention of UTI’s

• Drink lots of water and cranberry juice. Cranberry is thought to line the walls of the bladder to prevent harmful bacteria growth. Drinking water dilutes the urine so that you will urinate more frequently thus flushing the bacteria.
• Urinate as soon as you feel the urge.
• Probiotics are thought to be helpful in promoting the formation of good bacteria.
• 1000mg a day of a cranberry supplement.
• Wipe from front to back after both urination and a bowel movement. This will help prevent the bacteria from the rectum being introduced into the urethra and into the vagina.
• A recent study has shown that the introduction of a probiotic vaginal suppository “Lactin-V” from “Osel Inc” has proved beneficial in decreasing recurrent UTI’s by 50%. Phase 1 of the study showed minimal side effects.
• Avoid the use of feminine products such as douches and deodorants. This can upset the pH balance and cause irritation.
• Vitamin C may increase the acidity in the urine making it more difficult for bacteria to thrive. Take up to 1000mg per day.
• Urinating as well as washing prior to sex and immediately afterwards may decrease the risk of UTI’s. Your partner should also practice good personal hygiene. Women who's partners are circumcised seem to suffer less from UTI's.
• Wear panties with a cotton crotch to allow skin to breathe and moisture to escape. Avoid thongs.

Tips for collecting a mid stream urine sample

  Often you are requested to produce a urine sample and are   not given specific instructions. Poor specimens can alter test results.                                                     

1.   Wash your hands well. Write your name on container if it is not pre labeled. Open the container and place the lid down with the inner surface facing up.

2.   Wipe the entire vaginal/rectum area well with medicated wipes. These should be provided in your doctor’s bathroom. Wipe from front to back.

3.   Hold the vagina apart and begin to urinate. After a few seconds, place the container in the stream without stopping the flow. Do not allow the container to touch the genitals. Collect about 60 ml or 2 fl oz. Finish urinating into the toilet. This is a mid stream sample and most accurate for testing.

4.   Don’t get toilet paper, menstrual blood or feces into the sample. If you are menstruating, make sure you let the physician know as this will affect your test results.

5.   Replace the lid and hand sample to the nurse.

                              Stay healthy, happy and safe.

Consult with your physician before taking any medications including supplements/vitamins and do not self diagnose.

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information.

This policy is subject to change at any time.

Methods of Hair Removal

Spring has sprung and it is time to get ready for shorts, dresses and swimwear. Today's health and beauty buzz is on methods of removing unwanted hair.There are many different methods of hair removal, some working better than others depending on the area being treated.                                     

You too can run faster with shaved legs!



1. Shaving - Shaving cuts the hair off at the surface of the skin. It is a quick hair removal method and is suited for large areas such as the legs, underarms, bikini line and pubic area. Shaving does not alter the hair or make it grow quicker. Allow the water and steam from the shower to soften the skin for about 10 minutes. Apply a generous amount of shaving gel or cream. If you have sensitive skin with a tendency towards irritation, use one formulated for sensitive skin without added perfume. Use a good quality razor and change the blade frequently. There are some pretty good disposables razors on the market. Make sure the blade is clean and sharp. There will be less drag on the skin. For shaving the legs, hold the skin taut and shave against the growth beginning at the ankles and moving upwards. Don't go over the same area too frequently as this may cause irritation and razor burn. Underarms should be shaved in both directions of hair growth. Do not spray deodorant onto skin immediately after shaving. Clean the blade as you shave to prevent clogging. For the bikini/pubic area, shave in the direction of growth first and then against the growth keeping the skin taught.  Pat dry and apply a soothing lotion. Clean and dry your razor to prevent the growth of bacteria.

           Advantages of shaving

• It is cheap and quick.

         Disadvantages of shaving

• Risk of cutting.
• Razor bumps- Razor bumps are hairs that grow out of the skin and then grow back into the skin. There are many products on the market to treat razor bumps. Prevention is better than cure. Exfoliating skin gently can often prevent razor bumps.

2. Waxing, sugaring, tweezing, threading- These are all methods of hair removal which entail the hair being ripped out with it's root in tact. Waxing is a suitable method of hair removal for legs, bikini/pubic region, underarms, tummy and eyebrows. Waxing should probably be left to the professionals especially when it comes to eyebrows, underarms and Brazilian unless you are a proficient waxer.
Be cautious to select a salon with good hygiene standards. Contaminated wax cannot be sterilized as temperatures sufficient to do this would damage the wax. STD's can be passed on through contaminated bikini wax. Salons often don't change their wax frequently enough due to cost. Use an antibiotic cream after a wax in a salon.

       Steps for a professional wax

There are many different types of waxes. I prefer hot wax. It grips better and is less painful. Some waxes are used with muslin wax strips and some are not. Clean the area with a disinfecting solution. I used isoprophyl alcohol on my clients in my salon.  Apply a very fine layer of baby powder and rub well into the skin. Test the temperature of the wax on your wrist so you don't burn yourself. Apply the wax in a thin strip in the direction of the hair growth i.e. from knee towards ankle. Place muslin strip (if called for)on top of wax smoothing down onto the wax in the direction of hair growth. Lift up an area at the ankle so that you have a good grip. Support the skin at the starting point with your other hand and pull the strip up against the hair growth towards the knee. Try to keep the wax strip parallel to your leg as you pull upwards. Discard used wax. When the wax is complete, clean the area off using a mild disinfecting solution- witch hazel is good. Apply a soothing lotion such as aloe vera to calm inflammation.

  Advantages of waxing

• Because the root of the hair is pulled out along with the hair shaft, the area remains hair free for a longer period of time. This is particularly useful if going on vacation and during the summer season.
• Large areas can be treated relatively quickly.
• It is more affordable than some other methods of hair removal.

           Disadvantages of waxing

• It is uncomfortable and can be painful depending on the area being waxed.
• The hair needs to be grown out of the skin 1/4 " or the wax will not be able to grip it. Growing the hair long enough for waxing is often very inconvenient especially during the summer months. Hair grows at different stages and some hairs may appear soon after waxing.
• Ingrown hairs are common with waxing-The hair is pulled out at an angle and an ingrown hair is a hair that grows back into the follicle instead of growing straight out. Ingrown hairs can become infected resulting in pustules and even cysts. Exfoliation before waxing as well as once the hairs start to emerge through the skin, is helpful.
• Skin can be bruised and grazed during waxing.

3. Depilatory creams- These are a mixture of chemicals in a cream carrier. The cream is applied to the area and left on for the specific time indicated on the container. The chemicals dissolve the hair and it is wiped away with the cream upon removal.
         
                 Disadvantages of depilatories

• It is messy and time consuming.
• Allergies to the product can be an issue causing rashes, irritation and itching.
• The hair grows back rapidly.

4. Electrolysis- This is a permanent method of hair removal and in my opinion should be the only method of hair removal used on the face. It is safe for any area of the body but because of the cost, it is not financially viable for large areas of hair removal such as the legs. It is also time consuming. It is perfect for permanent removal of hair from the tummy, around the nipples, any area of the face and bikini line.  A fine needle is inserted into the hair follicle and a current is then applied at the base. This current  cauterizes the tiny veins cutting off the blood supply to the follicle and rendering it unable to produce a hair. Hair goes through different stages of growth. It is best treated with electrolysis when in the "anagen" stage of growth. This is when it is emerging through the skin, but visible. Because of the stages of hair growth, it is somewhat impossible to treat each hair just once and so often multiple treatments on the same hair may be required. 

                 Advantages of electrolysis

• It is the only FDA recognised method of permanent hair removal.

                 Disadvantages of electrolysis

• It is moderately painful depending on the area being treated.
• It is a lengthy procedure in that each individual hair follicle has to be treated.
• Expense involved. Electrologists charge for their time and not by the number of hairs treated.
• If treated by an inexperienced electrologist, skin damage can occur resulting in scarring and pitting of the skin as well as a poor success rate. Do research as described in my permanent make up blog to find a well qualified practitioner in your area.

5. Laser hair removal- Laser hair removal is not permanent and it is unethical for it to be advertised as being so. The lasers used for hair removal, work by targeting melanin and so the lighter the skin and the darker the hair, the better they work. Whilst laser hair removal does not cause permanent damage to all the hair follicles, it does retard new hair growth. New and better lasers are being continually introduced. Hopefully one day we will have the perfect solution to an age old problem for women.

                 Advantages of Laser

• Large areas can be treated. Men's backs and chests are often treated using this method.
• Hair growth is retarded.

                 Disadvantages of Laser

• It is expensive.
• It is not permanent.
• It is painful.

 6.  Bleaching- This is not a method of hair removal, but fine dark hair especially on the face can be successfully bleached rendering it unnoticeable.
                           
Stay healthy, happy and safe.

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information.

This policy is subject to change at any time.

DVT

March along with colon cancer, is Deep Vein Thrombosis awareness month (DVT). Today’s health and beauty buzz is on the causes of deep vein thrombosis. DVT is the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein usually in the leg but may occur in other areas. DVT sometimes causes pain but about half of DVT occurs without any symptoms. DVT occurs in approximately 2 million Americans each year and pulmonary embolism (a complication arising from DVT) kills 300,000 people per year.

              Causes of DVT:

• DVT can develop if you are sitting for a long time in a plane or a car. When you sit, your calf muscles do not contract which helps the blood to flow.
• If you have certain medical conditions which affect the way in which your blood clots. Some people’s blood clots more easily than others.
•  Prolonged stay in hospital lying in bed. The calf muscles not contracting can cause the formation of blood clots. Most hospitals in the US, automatically attach a compression device to the legs prior to and after surgery.
• Surgery- Injury to your veins can cause the blood flow to slow causing the formation of clots. General anesthetics can make your veins wider causing the blood to pool and then to clot
• Pregnancy increases the pressure in the veins in the legs.
• Oral birth control can increase the chance of blood clotting.
• Heart failure- The damaged heart does not pump the blood as well as a normal heart.
• Pace maker- This can irritate the walls of the blood vessels and decrease blood flow.
• Family history.
• Smoking affects blood clotting and circulation.
• Obesity- being overweight increases the pressure in your veins.
• Age-Being over 60 increases your risk.
• Cancer patients are at higher risk of developing DVT. Certain cancer drugs such as thalidomide to treat multiple myeloma and tamoxifen for breast cancer amongst many others are associated with a higher risk of blood clots.  It is thought that they cause damage to the blood vessels and reduce the production of proteins that protect us from blood clots. It is not fully understood why cancer patients are at higher risk, but it is thought that cancer leads to tissue damage and inflammation which leads to the activation of blood clots. The chemicals in tumors can lead to blood clotting.

Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition because the blood clot which has formed in your vein can break loose, travel through your blood stream and lodge in your lungs blocking blood flow. This is called a “pulmonary embolism” and can be fatal.    

                When there are symptoms, these include:-

1.     Pain and swelling in your leg including your ankle and foot.

2.     Cramping in the calf.

3.     Feeling of warmth in the area.

4.     Changes in your skin color such as red, blue or pale color.

5.     Shortness of breath and chest pain.

6.     Sweating.

7.     Light headedness, fainting and dizziness.

8.     Coughing blood.

9.     Anxiety and nervousness.

                  Treatments may include:-

1.     Aspirin therapy.

2.     Compression stockings.

3.     Blood thinners are the most common form of medication.

                 Prevention of DVT:-

 Pneumatic leg compression device. The garment is
 connected to a pump which automatically inflates
 and deflates at a pre set pressure and cycle.
The garment works day and night. Gentle squeezing
 of one leg is felt followed by a rest period and then
 the  sequence is repeated on the other leg.

•  Walk around as soon as you can after surgery. Ask for a compression device if you have not automatically been issued one and keep legs elevated by raising the bottom of the bed.
• Take all medication prescribed to you by your doctor. 
• When traveling long distances, walk around every hour. Flex and stretch your calf muscles and wear loose clothing.
• Do not drink alcohol, but drink plenty of water and other fluids.
• Wear compression stockings whilst traveling but consult with your doctor prior to using them.
• Control your blood pressure.
• Stop smoking and lose weight.
• Maintain an active lifestyle. Include daily exercise such as walking, swimming or cycling.

Discuss your risk factors for DVT with your doctor. He or she will decide if you are at risk. Diagnosis can be difficult.

One of the most common tests is called “venography” This is done by injecting a radioactive material into the vein on top of the foot. This mixes in with the blood and flows towards the heart. An x-ray of the leg and pelvis is then taken and this will show any blockages in the calf and thigh veins. It is a costly test and cannot be repeated often, but is very accurate.

Another accurate test is called “Duplex ultrasonography”. It is non invasive and can be repeated as needed. It is less costly than venography.

The 3^rd test is called “magnetic resonance imaging” (MRI) and is useful for detecting DVT in the pelvis and thigh. It is non invasive and becoming more frequently used. It allows for visualization of both legs simultaneously.  The down side is that it is expensive, not always readily available and cannot be used on patients with pace makers. Some people may also feel claustrophobic whilst having this test.

Consult with your doctor prior to embarking on any action to treat or diagnose DVT.

Tip of the day:

Opt for twilight anesthetic if at all possible for surgery.

Stay healthy, happy and safe.

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information.

This policy is subject to change at any time.

Dangers of Smoking

Today’s health and beauty buzz is on the dangers of smoking.  We all know by now how dangerous smoking is for our health as well as for those exposed to second hand smoke.

Some people are social smokers and think that lighting up on a girl’s/boy’s night out is harmless.  Here’s the bad news… The average cigarette is gone in 10 puffs. In about 5 minutes, 4,000 chemicals infiltrate your organs! 200 of them are poisonous and 60 are carcinogens.

The smoke passes through your mouth and over your teeth.

Ammonia and formaldehyde (toxic gasses)  put your immune system on alert by causing inflammation.

The smoke travels down the windpipe and into the lungs. The nicotine passes into the bloodstream through the capillaries in the lungs.

The nicotine reaches your adrenal glands and stimulates adrenaline that raises your blood pressure and heart rate.

You are now at a greater risk for having a stroke!

Carbon monoxide (car exhaust fumes) builds up in the blood so your body is limited in the transportation of oxygen to vital organs.

Nicotine travels via your blood to your brain where your brain releases dopamine. (feel good hormone)

As dopamine levels drop to normal, the body wants another high causing you to light up again.

Your body will be absorbing toxic substances for the next 6 to 8 hours.

Smoking is held responsible for the following diseases:-

• Cancer of the bladder, kidneys, larynx (voice box), mouth, pharynx (throat), esophagus, pancreas, lungs, cervix and stomach.
• Increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Emphysema.
• Infertility.
• SIDS.
• Preterm delivery and stillbirths.
• Post menopausal women have lower bone density and are at greater risk for hip fractures.

                     Other side effects include:-

• Stains on your teeth, higher gum disease rate and plaque.
• Sticky brown tar in your lungs.
• Terrible smelling breath, hair, clothing, car and home.
• Lines around the mouth and wrinkles.
• Reduced sense of smell and taste

Second hand smoke (SHS) - This is breathing in the smoke coming directly from the tobacco as well as the exhaled smoke from the smoker. There is very strong evidence that SHS causes serious health risks. Many non smokers die of lung cancer and heart disease linked to SHS.

Children of smokers suffer more from asthma, pneumonia, ear infections, bronchitis and other breathing problems.

The hubbly bubbly, Shisha, Narghile, Goza or Hookah originated in the Middle East and has been used there as well as in Asia for centuries.  Smoking the Hubbly Bubbly has been on the rise for some time now. The tobacco is heated by charcoal and the smoke passes through a water filled chamber which cools it before it is inhaled.  Many people feel that hookahs deliver less tar and nicotine because the smoke is filtered by water. Not true. Water pipe smoking carries the same health hazards as cigarette smoking.

In addition to lung cancer, there has been increased incidence of lower lip cancer, esophagus and stomach cancers associated with water pipe smoking. There is also the increased risk of spreading herpes, TB and hepatitis by the sharing of the pipe.

Contrary to popular belief, exposure to carbon monoxide and other carcinogenic substances is far greater than in cigarette smoking and Hookah is addictive.

Nicotine is thought to be as addictive as heroin according to some experts. Smoking harms nearly every organ of the body.

Tip of the day: - Give it up.
 I have watched my father in law suffer from chronic emphysema due to years of heavy smoking.  It is not only distressing for him to gasp for air with every breath, but also extremely upsetting for his family to witness. He is permanently attached to a breathing machine making it near impossible to enjoy any kind of quality of life.

He relocated to the USA at almost 70 years of age. He was an attorney in South Africa and upon arriving in the US, obtained his real estate license and also license to practice law. He worked as a legal consultant for his son in law in his successful commercial real estate business for many years until he took ill. I dedicate this blog to my father in law who passed away May 7th 2012.

Stay healthy, happy and safe.

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information.

This policy is subject to change at any time.

Wake up with Makeup

Today’s health and beauty buzz is on permanent makeup or sometimes referred to as micro dermal pigmentation.

Permanent makeup is the implantation of tiny particles of pigment into the dermal layers of the skin.

The permanent makeup machine is specially designed to do this and differs from a traditional tattoo machine.

There are various parts of the body where permanent makeup can be performed.

·   Eyebrows: - This is an important focal point of the face.  One in three people have some kind of problem with their eyebrows. Some people have sparse, uneven or nonexistent eyebrows. Hours can be spent trying to draw on brows in the morning. Permanent makeup beautifies the brows with an exact design.

·   Eyeliner or lash enhancement: - The eyes are a prominent feature on the face and the “gateway to the soul”… Pigment applied to the eyelash line can create an illusion of having eyelashes for people who have sparse lashes. It is an advantage for women who find it difficult to apply liner, wear glasses and cannot see properly, have arthritis in their hands or are in a hurry and still would like to look good. It is great for swimmers and athletes as well.

·   Lip liner or full lip color: - The lips are the"gateway to the heart". Lip liner is used to contour and shape the lips. It is used to rectify problems when the lips are too full or not full enough. It can also be used to even an uneven mouth. Full lip enhancement, adds pale color to the lips.

·   Remedial permanent makeup: - With the use of skin toned colors, certain imperfections can be improved. After a mastectomy and reconstruction of the breast, the nipples and aureole can be pigmented onto the breast.

                         Tips on choosing a permanent makeup artist

1.  Go for a consultation.  Discuss exactly the effect you are hoping to achieve. Take a look at photographs of work done on other clients.  Use this time to get to know the technician. Colors of pigment should be discussed and a scratch test performed. This is usually done in an inconspicuous area behind the ear to make sure you are not allergic to the pigment. The area is checked the next day for any reaction.

2.  Ensure the operator is licenced and experienced in the art of permanent makeup. Certificates and licence should be displayed and on going education is required for all technicians in order to remain licenced.  Some of these procedures are paramedic and require a skilled technician. Ask how many procedures he or she has performed. Ask if you may contact a previous client. Be aware that different States have different licencing laws.

3.  Make sure the facility is clean. Sterile sealed needles should be used on each and every person and then discarded.  The technician should take before photographs and photographs will be taken after the procedure. Disposable gloves should be worn and often a face mask will used by the technician. Other instruments should be sterilized in an autoclave sterilizer.

4.  Your technician should be trained in blood borne pathogens and adhere to standard practises.

5.  Ask your doctor to refer you to a skilled professional or do some research yourself. Contact professional societies such as the SPCP and ask for a list of their members in your area. Try to get a personal recommendation if possible.

6.  Your medical history should be honestly discussed with the technician and it is most important to discuss a predisposition to cold sores (herpes virus) if your lips are being treated. Often the technician will recommend a medication be obtained from your physician prior to treatment.

                                           Facts on permanent makeup:-

•       Permanent makeup can fade over time. This is due to wear and tear on the skin, use of certain products on the skin, exposure to sun and your own body chemistry. Touch ups are required periodically.
•       The cost of permanent makeup varies greatly depending on location and skill of the technician. Don't go for the cheapest deal you can find. You get what you pay for in this case. Procedures range from $400-00 to $800-00. This will usually include a topical anesthetic ointment which is applied to the area prior to treatment. It should also include one touch up.  Touch ups are done to fill in any areas missed the first time or when the pigment was perhaps not administered deeply enough into the dermis in some areas. Touch ups intensify the color which will fade in the initial few weeks and are used to correct any discrepancies. This is usually done 6 to 8 weeks after the initial procedure when the area is healed.
•       Numbing ointment is applied to the area prior to the implantation. This greatly helps with the pain associated with the procedure. Tolerance is different for everyone. Sometimes a numbing injection can be administered by your dentist prior to the lips being pigmented. This does somewhat distort the mouth making it more difficult for the technician.
•       It is a lengthy procedure so allow yourself plenty of time. It can take upwards of 2 or more hours. You will probably be swollen and should go straight home to rest. Have someone drive you if you have taken anti histamines or pain medication. Swelling varies and can last anything from a few hours to a couple of days.
•       During the procedure, there will be some bleeding and the area will be tender for a couple of days. Make sure you follow the after care instructions carefully. Not co operating can jeopardize your result. If in doubt, ask.
•       Permanent makeup is very safe. According to the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP), there is no associated risk of HIV or increase in Hepatitis B due to permanent makeup.
•       There is generally no allergy risk to the pigments, it is important that the technician be as skilled in pigment selection as in technique. Certain colors change once implanted into the skin.   
•       Permanent makeup should be natural and look better than manually applied makeup.

       Permanent makeup is different from a tattoo in that it is not implanted as deeply into the skin as a traditional tattoo. Technicians undergo a thorough training and are usually trained estheticians, nurses or specialize specifically in permanent makeup. Although poorly applied permanent makeup can be somewhat rectified by using an erasing procedure, it is difficult, timely, expensive and painful. Choose carefully. 





My beautiful and very talented mother.



      One of the best permanent makeup artists in our area, my mother, recently retired. She performed hundreds of permanent makeup procedures and people travelled from around the country to see her. Many doctors and surgeons referred patients to her. She has been in the beauty business for 56 years. She was one of the pioneers of permanent makeup in South Africa and has trained many technicians, myself included. It is however, not my forte due to my aversion to needles and blood.

Stay healthy, happy and safe.

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information.

This policy is subject to change at any time.