Permanent Makeup Terms

A

Acute: Having a sudden onset and a short duration; typically refers to a medical condition or illness.

Adverse Reaction
: An unintended and negative response to a procedure or product.

AIDS
: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; a late stage of HIV infection characterized by a weakened immune system.

Alcohols
: Organic compounds containing a hydroxyl (-OH) group; commonly used as disinfectants and antiseptics.

Allergic Reaction
: An adverse response to pigments or materials used in permanent makeup.

Analgesic
: A substance that relieves pain without causing a loss of consciousness.

Anesthetic
: Topical numbing products used to minimize discomfort during permanent makeup procedures.

Antibacterial
: Having the ability to inhibit or kill bacteria.

Antibiotic
: A substance that kills or inhibits the growth of bacteria.

Antimicrobial
: Having the ability to destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Antiseptic
: A substance that prevents the growth of microorganisms, especially on living tissues.

Areola Pigmentation
: Tattooing to recreate the natural appearance of the areola and nipple, often after breast surgery.

Areola
: The pigmented area surrounding the nipple of the breast.

Asepsis
: The absence of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms; sterile conditions.

Aseptic (Technique)
: Procedures or practices that prevent contamination and maintain aseptic conditions.

Asymmetric
: Lacking symmetry; not identical on both sides.

Autoclave
: A device that uses steam under pressure to sterilize equipment and supplies.

Autoimmune Disorders
: Conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues.

B


Bacteria
: Single-celled microorganisms that can be beneficial or harmful to humans.

Barrier Film
: A protective coating applied to the skin to prevent contamination.

Bilirubin
: A yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells.

Biohazard
: Substances or materials that pose a risk to human health, such as blood or bodily fluids.

Blade Configuration
: The specific design of microblading needles, influencing the appearance of strokes.

Blood and Bodily Fluids
: Substances that may contain bloodborne pathogens and pose infection risks.

Blood Spill Kit
: A set of tools and materials for safely cleaning and disposing of blood spills.

Bloodborne Pathogens
: Microorganisms that can be present in blood and pose a risk of infection.

Bloodborne: Transmitted through blood or other potentially infectious materials.

C


Camouflage
: Using micropigmentation to conceal or modify imperfections, scars, or irregularities.

Canthus
: The angle or corner at the junction of the eyelids.

Carbon Black
: A finely divided form of carbon used in tattoo ink.

CDC
: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; a federal agency focused on public health.

Chalazion
: A small, painless lump or swelling in the eyelid caused by a blocked oil gland.

Chronic
: Persisting over a long period; often used to describe long-term medical conditions.

Cirrhosis
: A condition in which the liver is scarred and damaged.

Client Consultation
: A meeting with the client to discuss expectations, risks, and desired outcomes.

Coil Machine
: A type of tattoo machine that uses electromagnetic coils to drive the needles.

Cold Sore
: A small, fluid-filled blister caused by the herpes simplex virus.

Color Additive
: A substance added to products to impart color.

Color Correction
: Adjusting or modifying existing permanent makeup to achieve the desired color.

Color Matching
: Selecting pigments that harmonize with a client's natural skin tones.

Color Theory
: Understanding
how colors interact and selecting pigments based on skin tones.

Color Wheel
: A circular chart showing the relationships between colors.

Colorant Migration
: The movement of pigment within the skin over time.

Complementary Color
: Colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel.

Conjunctivitis
: Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the outermost layer of the eye.

Contagious
: Capable of being transmitted from one person to another.

Contaminate
: To make impure or unclean by contact or mixture.


Contaminated Sharps
: Used needles or other sharp objects that may contain pathogens.

Contaminated
: Having been exposed to, or made impure by, infectious or hazardous substances.

Cornea
: The transparent front part of the eye that covers the iris and pupil.

Corneal Abrasion
: Scratching or damage to the cornea.

Corneal Burn
: Injury to the cornea caused by exposure to heat or chemicals.

Cross-Contamination
: The unintentional transfer of microorganisms between surfaces or tools.

D

Decontaminate
: To make something free from contaminants, especially harmful microorganisms.

Dermabrasion
: A method to improve skin texture by gently exfoliating the outer layer, revealing smoother, rejuvenated skin.

Dermatitis
: Inflammation of the skin that may occur as a reaction to pigments or other substances.

Dermatologist: A medical professional specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions.

Dermis: The second layer of skin, where pigments are implanted during permanent makeup procedures.

Diabetes: A chronic condition characterized by high levels of blood glucose.

Disinfect: To destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms on surfaces.

Disinfectant: A chemical substance used to disinfect surfaces and objects.

Disinfection: The process of eliminating or reducing harmful microorganisms.

Dry Eye Syndrome: A condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears.

E

Eczema: A group of conditions that cause inflammation of the skin.

Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain.

Engineering Controls: Measures implemented to isolate or remove hazards from the workplace.

EPA: Environmental Protection Agency; a federal agency focused on environmental protection.

Epidermis: The outermost layer of the skin.

Ethyl Alcohol: A type of alcohol commonly used as an antiseptic.

Exfoliation: The removal of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.

Exposure Control Plan: A systematic approach to minimize the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

Exposure Incident: A specific contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials.

Exposure Incident: Any occurrence where the skin or mucous membranes come into contact with blood or bodily fluids.

Eyeliner Tattoo: Permanent makeup application to define and accentuate the eyes by tattooing eyeliner.

F

FDA: Food and Drug Administration; a federal agency regulating food, drugs, and medical devices.

Feathering: A method in permanent makeup where strokes are applied with a light touch to mimic natural hair.

Fever Blister: Another term for a cold sore.

Fitzpatrick Scale: A classification system for skin types, helping determine the most suitable pigments and techniques.

Fitzpatrick Type: A classification system for skin types, guiding treatment decisions.

FTC: Federal Trade Commission; a federal agency focused on consumer protection.

G

Germicide: A substance that kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms.

Glycerin: A colorless, odorless liquid often used in skincare products.

Granuloma: A small, inflamed area of tissue that may form as a reaction to pigments.

H


Hand Hygiene
: The practice of keeping hands clean to prevent the spread of infection.

Hand Tool
: Instruments used in various manual processes, such as tattooing.

Hand Washing Facility
: A designated area for washing hands to maintain hygiene.

HAV
: Hepatitis A Virus; a virus that causes inflammation of the liver.

Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom)
: Regulations ensuring proper labeling and communication of hazardous materials.

Hazardous Waste
: Waste materials that pose a risk to human health or the environment.

HBV
: Hepatitis B Virus; a virus that causes inflammation of the liver.

HCV
: Hepatitis C Virus; a virus that causes inflammation of the liver.

HDV
: Hepatitis D Virus; a virus that can only infect individuals already infected with HBV.

Healed Results
: The final appearance of permanent makeup after the initial healing period.

Hepatitis B
: A viral infection affecting the liver, transmitted through blood or bodily fluids.

Hepatitis C
: A viral infection affecting the liver, often transmitted through blood.

Herpes Simplex
: A viral infection that causes cold sores or genital herpes.

Herpes Zoster
: The virus responsible for causing shingles.

HEV
: Hepatitis E Virus; a virus that causes inflammation of the liver.

HIV
: Human Immunodeficiency Virus; a virus that attacks the immune system.

Hydrate
: To supply with water or liquid.

Hygiene Protocol
: Established procedures for maintaining cleanliness and preventing infection.

Hygienic Swabs
: Disposable swabs used for cleanliness and sanitation purposes.

Hyperpigmentation
: Darkening of the skin caused by increased melanin production.

Hypertension
: High blood pressure.

I


Immune Response
: The body's reaction to foreign substances, including pigments.

Immune System
: The body's defense system against infections and diseases.

Immunization
: The process of making an individual immune to a specific disease.

Incubation Period
: The time between exposure to a pathogen and the onset of symptoms.

India Ink
: A liquid used in tattooing, traditionally made from lampblack.

Infection Control
: Measures to prevent the spread of infections.

Infectious Waste
: Materials that may contain pathogens and require special handling and disposal.

Inorganic Pigment
: Pigments derived from minerals and metals.

Interferon (IFN)
: Proteins produced by the body to fight infections and tumors.

Invasive Procedure
: A medical procedure that involves entering the body or a body cavity.

Iron Oxide
: A compound used as a pigment in tattoo inks.

Isopropyl Alcohol
: A type of alcohol commonly used as an antiseptic.

K


Keloid
: An overgrowth of scar tissue that can occur in response to skin trauma.

L:


Lab Coat
: A garment worn by healthcare professionals to protect clothing and maintain hygiene.

Lachrymal Gland
: The gland that produces tears.

Lachrymal Sac
: A structure that helps drain tears into the nasal cavity.

Laser Tattoo Removal
: The use of lasers to break down and remove unwanted tattoos or pigments.

Lash Enhancement
: Permanent makeup application to create the illusion of thicker and darker eyelashes.

Latex Allergy
: A hypersensitivity to latex, which is present in some gloves and medical products.

Linoleum
: A type of floor covering made from solidified linseed oil, among other substances.

Lip Blush
: Adding a hint of color to the lips through micropigmentation, creating a subtle and natural enhancement.

M:


Manual Device
: Handheld instruments used in various manual processes, such as tattooing.

Melanin
: The pigment responsible for the color of the skin, hair, and eyes.

Melanocyte
: A cell that produces melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color.

Meningitis
: Inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Microblading
: A technique for enhancing eyebrows by creating fine, hair-like strokes using a manual handheld tool.

Microneedling
: A technique involving tiny needles to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture.

Microorganism
: A microscopic organism, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

Micropigmentation
: The process of implanting pigment into the skin to enhance features like eyebrows, lips, or scalp, creating a long-lasting makeup effect.

Migration
: The movement of tattoo pigment within the skin over time.

MRI
: Magnetic Resonance Imaging; a medical imaging technique that uses magnetic fields.

MRSA
: Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus; a type of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Mucous Membrane
: The moist lining of body cavities, such as the mouth and nose.

N:


Needle Configuration
: The arrangement of needles on a tattooing tool, affecting the pattern and style of application.

Needlestick Injury
: Accidental puncture or injury caused by a needle, posing a risk of infection.

Nevus
: A common, benign growth on the skin, often referred to as a mole.

NIH
: National Institutes of Health; a federal agency focused on biomedical research.

NIOSH
: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; a federal agency focused on workplace safety.

Non-invasive
: Not entering the body or disrupting normal body tissues.

Nonporous Surface
: A surface that does not allow the passage of liquids or gases.

O:


Occupational Exposure
: Contact with potentially hazardous materials in the workplace.

Ombre Brows
: A style of eyebrow shading that results in a gradual, blended transition from light to dark.

Ophthalmologist
: A medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders.

Optometrist
: A healthcare professional specializing in eye care and vision testing.

Organic Pigment
: Pigments derived from organic compounds, often used in tattoo inks.

Organisms
: Living entities, including bacteria, plants, animals, and humans.

OSHA
: Occupational Safety and Health Administration; a federal agency focused on workplace safety.

Other Potentially Infectious
Material (OPIM)
: Materials that may contain pathogens.

P:


Paramedical Tattooing
: The application of tattoos for medical purposes, such as scar camouflage or areola reconstruction.

Parenteral
: Administered in a manner other than through the digestive tract.

Parenteral
: Administered in a way other than through the digestive system.

Patch Test
: A small test to check for potential allergic reactions to pigments or anesthetics.

Pathogen
: A microorganism that can cause disease.

Pathogenic Microorganisms
: Microscopic organisms that can cause disease.

Percutaneous
: Entering through the skin, as in the case of a needlestick injury.

Permanent Makeup (PMU)
: The application of long-lasting cosmetic tattoos to enhance facial features.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
: Equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards and prevent the spread of infections.

Phlebotomy
: The practice of drawing blood, often relevant in paramedical tattooing.

Pigment
: Colored substances used in permanent makeup to create the desired hue.

Pointillism
: An artistic technique using small, distinct dots to create an image.

Porous Surface
: A surface that allows the passage of liquids or gases.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation:
Darkening of the skin that may occur after inflammation or injury.

Powder Brows
: A technique involving shading to create a soft, powdered effect for eyebrows.

Pre-procedure Instructions: Guidelines provided to clients before a permanent makeup procedure.

Punctum: The opening of a tear duct.

R

Regulated Waste: Waste that requires special handling and disposal due to its potential hazard.

Retention
: The ability of the skin to hold onto pigment, influencing the longevity of the permanent makeup.

Ribavirin (Copegus, Rebetol)
: An antiviral medication used to treat certain viral infections.

Rotary Device
: A type of tattoo machine that uses a rotating motor to drive the needles.

S


Sanitary Practices
: Measures taken to maintain cleanliness and prevent contamination.

Sanitization
: Thorough cleaning and disinfection of tools and surfaces to maintain a hygienic environment.

Sanitize
: To reduce the number of microorganisms to a safe level.

Scar Revision
: The process of minimizing the appearance of scars through various tattooing techniques.

Sebaceous Gland
: Glands in the skin that produce sebum, an oily substance.

Sebaceous
: Relating to sebum, an oily substance produced by sebaceous glands.

Sepsis
: A severe response to infection that can lead to organ failure.

Sharps Container
: A container designed for the safe disposal of sharp objects.

Sharps
: Objects capable of causing punctures or cuts, such as needles.

Single-Use
: Intended for one-time use and not to be reused.

Skin Anatomy
: The study of the structure and function of the skin.

Skin Fitzpatrick Type
: A classification system based on skin's reaction to UV light.

Skin Undertone
: The natural tones beneath the skin's surface, considered when selecting pigments.

Source Individual
: A person whose blood or other potentially infectious materials may be the source of exposure.

Spores
: Resistant reproductive bodies of certain microorganisms.

Standard Precautions
: Infection control practices designed to prevent the transmission of infectious agents.

Sterilization Indicator
: A device or substance that confirms the effectiveness of sterilization.

Sterilization
: The process of eliminating all microorganisms to maintain a sterile environment during procedures.

Sterilize
: To eliminate or destroy all forms of microbial life.

Stratum Corneum
: The outermost layer of the epidermis, consisting of dead skin cells.

Stratum Granulosum
: The layer of the epidermis just beneath the stratum corneum.

Subdermal Layer
: The layer of tissue beneath the dermis.

Surgical Attire
: Clothing worn by healthcare professionals during surgical procedures.

Surgical Scrubs
: Clothing worn by healthcare professionals in surgical settings.

Symmetry
: The quality of being made up of exactly similar parts facing each other.

Syphilis
: A sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

T


Tarsal Plates
: Thin, rectangular plates of dense connective tissue in the eyelids.

Tear Duct
: A duct that drains tears from the eyes into the nasal cavity.

Titanium Dioxide
: A white pigment used in various applications, including sunscreen and tattoo ink.

Topical Anesthetic
: Creams or gels applied to the skin to minimize pain and discomfort during micropigmentation.

Topical Steroids
: Medications applied to the skin to reduce inflammation or allergic reactions.

Touch-up
: Additional application or adjustment of pigment after the initial procedure to perfect the results.

Trichotillomania
: A mental health disorder characterized by the compulsive urge to pull out one's own hair.

Tuberculocidal
: Capable of killing the bacteria that cause tuberculosis.

Tuberculosis (TB)
: A bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs.

U


Universal Precautions
: Safety guidelines to protect healthcare providers from exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

Unsanitary
: Lacking cleanliness or measures to prevent contamination.

UVA Rays
: Ultraviolet A rays, a type of UV radiation from the sun.

UVB Rays
: Ultraviolet B rays, a type of UV radiation from the sun.

V


Vascular System
: The body's network of blood vessels, including arteries, veins, and capillaries.

Vector-borne Transmission
: The spread of infectious diseases through vectors like mosquitoes.

Verruca Vulgaris
: Common warts caused by human papillomavirus (HPV).

Virus
: Microscopic infectious agents that can only replicate inside living cells.

Visual Aids
: Tools used to enhance understanding through visual means, such as diagrams or charts.

W


Waste Disposal
: The proper disposal of waste materials to prevent environmental harm.

Waterborne Pathogens
: Microorganisms that can cause disease and are transmitted through water.

Waterproof Eyeliner Tattoo
: Permanent makeup applied to the eyelids to simulate the appearance of eyeliner.

Work Practice Controls
: Practices that reduce the likelihood of exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

Work Surface
: The area where work is performed, often referring to a clean and sanitized space.

Wound Healing
: The natural process by which the body repairs damaged tissues.

Wound
: An injury to the body that typically involves a break in the skin.