BEAUTY MEETS MEDICINE, PARAMEDICAL DERMAGRAPHICS FOR PATIENTSThe word dermagraphics comes from the Greek derma, “skin” and graphein “to write”. Dermagraphics, or micropigmentation is the procedure of placing microns of pigment into the dermal layer of the skin for cosmetic (permanent makeup) and paramedical reasons. Permanent makeup has become extremely popular in the past fifteen years giving women alternatives and freedom from daily applications of eyebrow pencil, eyeliner, and lipstick and lip liner. Mature clients with dexterity and vision problems feel relaxed and enjoy renewed self-confidence knowing they look their best with permanent makeup. Paramedical or reconstructive services attempt to correct birth defects, disfigurement from accidents or illness, provide cosmetic corrections from surgery such as reconstruction of breast areolas, and scar therapy. Patients who have Vitiligo and Alopecia may benefit from this service as well under the direction of their physician. The cleft lip The cleft lip is a congenital disorder. In fetal development the palate area fails to close completely and one or two fissures remain affecting the upper lip and nose resulting in differently shaped nostrils. Corrective surgery is done early in infancy. When this type of corrective surgery deforms the shape of the mouth reconstructive dermagraphics can restore the lips contour giving the mouth shape and lips natural color. Scalp Thinning hair can be blended with pigmented hairline strokes to give the illusion of fuller hair working particularly well with accidents, burns or baldness due to an operation. This is not recommended for men with male pattern baldness. Beard, moustache Thin or bald patches due to accidents, scarring, or correction of cleft lip respond well to dermagraphics techniques used to simulate stubble or hairs. Breast areolas Camouflage a periareolary scar: The inverted T- shaped (anchor) scar that results from breast reduction due to mammary hypertrophy or ptosis fades with time. Often the circular serrated scars left around the areola can be blended with the existing areola color. Recreate an areola with a dimensional nipple: Breast Cancer patients having a complete or partial mastectomy benefit because there is no down time or admittance to a hospital necessary to receive this service. Repigmentation of a grafted areola: After surgery a nipple or areola can look too pale or unnatural looking. Non-symmetrical areola: Women and men with too small, too pale, or poorly defined areolas. Paramedical dermagraphics help to hide the visual reminders of trauma, illness, or accidents. This process is an integration of a patient’s visual appearance and closure. Submitted by Stephanie Miller |