Is Permanent Makeup Safe?
- Ana Montgomery
- Feb 3
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
If you’re researching permanent makeup, chances are you’ve asked yourself:
“Is permanent makeup safe?”
It’s a smart question — and one I hear almost every week.
My name is Ana, and I’m a permanent makeup artist at Body and Brows by Ana. I’ve been practicing permanent makeup for over 10 years, have worked with 2,000+ clients, and have performed more than 4,000 procedures.
Here’s the honest, experience-based answer.
Short Answer: Yes — When It’s Done Correctly
Permanent makeup is safe when:
Proper sanitation protocols are followed
Single-use tools are used every time
High-quality pigments are chosen
In over a decade of practice, I’ve been extremely fortunate to never have a client experience a serious complication or adverse reaction.
That doesn’t happen by accident — it happens because safety is treated as non-negotiable.
Meet Your Artist: 10+ Years of Experience, 4,000+ Procedures
Experience matters in permanent makeup.
Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of helping thousands of clients enhance their brows, lips, and eyes safely and beautifully. Every procedure is approached with care, precision, and respect for your skin.
Permanent makeup is a tattoo — and it deserves that level of professionalism.
Who Should NOT Get Permanent Makeup
A responsible artist doesn’t work on everyone.
I may decline service for clients who are:
Pregnant
Under 18
Actively undergoing cancer treatment
Living with heart disease or diabetes
Experiencing active skin conditions like eczema or acne
Taking certain medications that affect healing or pigment retention
Some mature skin types that won’t retain pigment properly
Your health always comes first — even if that means saying no.
What Real Safety Looks Like in Our Studio
Every procedure follows strict sanitation standards inspired by Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines.
That includes:
Brand-new single-use needles (opened in front of every client)
Nitrile gloves
Barrier film
Disposable cotton rounds, wipes, micro-brushes, and masks
All surfaces disinfected with professional Cavi Wipes
Non-porous equipment to prevent absorption of contaminants
Everything that touches your skin is disposable. Period.
Single-Use Needles & Disposable Supplies
The most common question clients ask is whether we use a new needle every time.
The answer is always yes — and I show each client their sealed needle before beginning.
Transparency builds trust.
Professional Sanitation Standards
Cleanliness isn’t optional. It’s foundational.
From surface disinfection to protective barriers, every step is designed to minimize risk and protect your health.
Why Pigment Quality Matters
I use only FDA-approved pigments that have been safety tested.
High-quality pigments heal better, reduce irritation, and age more predictably over time. This is not an area where shortcuts are acceptable.
Required Training & Certifications for Safe PMU
A safe permanent makeup artist should have:
Bloodborne pathogen certification
American Academy of Micropigmentation certification
At least 100 hours of apprenticeship under a certified trainer
Training protects clients. Always ask your artist about credentials.
The No. 1 Safety Question Clients Ask
Most clients ask:
“Do you really use a new needle every time?”
My answer:
“Yes — and I’ll show you.”
It’s a simple moment that reassures people and sets the tone for the entire appointment.
Aftercare — How Clients Help Prevent Infection
There is a small risk of infection, and clients play a big role in prevention.
Important aftercare habits include:
Washing hands before applying aftercare
Keeping pets away from treated areas
Drying brows with paper towels (not regular towels, which hold bacteria)
Following all instructions carefully
Healing is a partnership between artist and client.
View our full aftercare guide
My Honest Answer — Would I Get Permanent Makeup Myself?
If a close friend asked me, “Is permanent makeup truly safe?”
I’d say yes.
And my proof is simple:
I get it done myself.
I would never offer a service I wouldn’t trust on my own face.
Final Thoughts on Permanent Makeup Safety
Permanent makeup doesn’t have to be scary.
With the right artist, proper protocols, quality pigments, and good aftercare, PMU is a safe and beautiful way to enhance your natural features and simplify your routine.
Take your time, ask questions, and choose a professional who prioritizes safety over speed.
Schedule a Complimentary Consultation
If you’re considering permanent makeup and want honest answers, we offer complimentary consultations to help you feel confident and informed before moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions About Permanent Makeup Safety
Can permanent makeup cause infections?
Rarely — and usually only when aftercare instructions aren’t followed or sanitation standards are poor.
Are PMU pigments FDA approved?
Yes — we use FDA-approved pigments that have been safety tested.
Most clients describe it as mild discomfort rather than pain.
How long does healing take?
Initial healing typically takes 7–10 days, with full results visible after several weeks.
What happens if I don’t follow aftercare?
Ignoring aftercare can lead to poor pigment retention or increased risk of infection.
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