May 25, 2011

Many say permanent make up is a worthwhile investment for your appearance. However, others question whether the procedure is worth your money and if it is safe.

"This is done with a sterile needle that comes in an individual package and it penetrates the skin to the depth of a dime," said Mary Hunter, CPCP, a permanent make up professional.

Hunter says she enjoys helping others to feel fantastic.

"Permanent makeup makes it possible for people to restore color that's lost as you get older, and to do something once so they don't have to do it everyday," said Hunter.

Hunter owns and operates Eyebrow Renovation and Permanent Makeup in downtown Charlottesville. She was trained through the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals.

"I didn't like the way I looked, other people wouldn't care as much as I did," said Jackie Lockwood who decided to give the makeup a try.

After fighting breast cancer and undergoing chemotherapy for seven years, Lockwood's hair grew back. However her eyebrows and eye lashes lacked their usual luster. She opted for permanent eyebrows and eyeliner.

"it's worth it, it's worth it for the time and of course for the money," said Lockwood.

However, many still wonder how it works and if it is safe.

"I'm very happy when someone comes in and says, are you using a sterile needle? Are you using approved pigments? Are you trained are you certified? Ask me all of those questions," said Hunter.

Hunter says she uses only FDA approved organic pigments, the same coloring found in cosmetics, drugs and foods people eat.

"Mary's youngest client is 20, her oldest client is 95, it's not just women who have this done," said Lockwood. With a portfolio of success stories, Hunter says it is all about teamwork and she demands client feedback as she works.