Permanent Makeup (Artmake) — Osaka Shinsaibashi Clinic

What is Permanent Makeup (Artmake)? — Long-lasting Makeup as a Medical Procedure

Artmake is a medical procedure in which pigment is embedded in the shallow layer of the epidermis (just above the basal layer) using a medical-grade needle. Unlike tattoos, which inject pigment deep into the dermis, artmake retains pigment in the epidermis to shallow dermis, where it gradually fades over 1–3 years through the skin's natural turnover cycle (approximately 28 days). In Japan, only licensed physicians and nurses are permitted to perform this medical procedure. At Zetis Beauty Clinic Osaka Shinsaibashi, qualified medical staff conduct all treatments.

Treatment Mechanism — The Science of Pigments and Needles

The pigments used are primarily inorganic pigments such as iron oxide and titanium dioxide. A 2021 study conducted at Shibuya Mori Clinic in Japan (Medicine journal, DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000025755) surveyed patients who received artmake treatments on eyebrows and eyeliner between 2016–2020, evaluating the incidence of complications such as persistent redness, itching, swelling, and infection after treatment, as well as satisfaction levels on a 5-point scale. This research analyzed cases treated under Japan's domestic safety standards and provides valuable evidence that proper medical management is essential for minimizing risk.

Three Treatment Options at Osaka Shinsaibashi Clinic

Our clinic offers treatments for three areas: eyebrows, eyeliner, and lips.
【Eyebrow (Aibrow)】We combine hand-drawn technique (hair-stroke method) with powder shading (machine technique) to create three-dimensional eyebrows that are indistinguishable from natural brows. The hand-drawn technique, which creates individual hair strokes, is also called microblading and allows for natural hair flow expression.
【Eyeliner】Pigment is applied along the upper and lower eyelids to define and accentuate the eyes. After treatment, the color maintains a clear, non-smudging appearance.
【Lips】We evenly color the lip outline and interior to enhance color and definition. Lip artmake is also effective for correcting asymmetry between the left and right lips.

Treatment Flow and Downtime

During the initial consultation, we assess your bone structure, skin tone, and preferences to determine the design. After applying a local anesthetic cream and waiting 15–30 minutes, the treatment begins. Treatment time varies by area: approximately 60–90 minutes for eyebrows, 30–45 minutes for eyeliner, and 60–90 minutes for lips.
Immediately after treatment, the color appears darker, but over 1–2 weeks of skin turnover, the superficial pigment flakes off, revealing a natural, settled color (healing phase). Generally, 2–3 treatment sessions are required for completion, with a correction treatment performed 4–8 weeks after the first session to confirm proper pigment retention.

Pre- and Post-Treatment Precautions

【Before Treatment】Please come without makeup. If you are taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications, please consult us in advance. We do not perform treatments on pregnant or nursing women.
【After Treatment】For one week after treatment, avoid makeup, sun exposure, pools, ocean swimming, and saunas on the treated areas. Allow scabs to shed naturally; removing them prematurely can cause uneven coloring. Continue moisturizing care and use petroleum jelly or other products as directed by your physician.
【Color Retention】While individual variation occurs, the pigment typically fades naturally over 1–3 years. Fade speed varies depending on sun exposure, metabolic activity, and skincare routine.

Our Commitment to Safety

A 2023 study (Skin Research and Technology journal, DOI: 10.1111/srt.13281) reported that magnetic substances (magnetite, goethite, and hematite) found in commercial permanent makeup inks can cause heat sensation and pain during MRI scans. Our clinic uses only medical-grade pigments and conducts thorough screening for MRI history and metal allergies before treatment. As noted in a 2024 review (Journal of Clinical Medicine, DOI: 10.3390/jcm13020503), approved pigments and hygienic treatment environments are essential for preventing adverse reactions. Our clinic strictly adheres to these standards.