Why drinking coffee before your PMU procedure is a problem?
Whether you are thinking of getting Nano brows, Microblading, Ombré brows or Lip blush drinking coffee/ tea or any caffeinated beverage is not a good choice for you and your artist before your PMU procedure. This is an important piece of advice that should always be shared your client prior to booking their appointment.
But why? What does my morning coffee has to do with PMU procedure.
The recommended waiting time between the consumption of alcoholic or caffeinated products prior to a permanent makeup treatment is 24 hours (the night before definitely still counts!). This will help to reduce the risk of adverse effects, which we will go into detail about below.
It might be just a cup of warm coffee/tea for you, but drinking it results in poor or in some cases uneven healed results. Here is a list of all the challenges faced by you and your artist if you drink coffee 24 hour prior to your appointment:
Increased Sensitivity:
Caffeine can heighten sensitivity to pain, potentially making the procedure more uncomfortable for individuals. Since permanent makeup procedures involve needles and can cause discomfort, heightened sensitivity due to caffeine intake may amplify any discomfort experienced during the process.
Risk of Bleeding:
Caffeine consumption can temporarily increase blood pressure and heart rate. Elevated blood pressure may heighten the risk of bleeding during the procedure, leading to potential complications such as excessive bleeding, bruising, or poor pigment retention.
Prolonged Healing Time:
Caffeine's diuretic properties can contribute to dehydration. Dehydrated skin may take longer to heal after the procedure, leading to increased discomfort, prolonged swelling, and potentially affecting the final outcome of the permanent makeup.
Potential for Uneven Pigment Absorption:
Dehydration caused by caffeine consumption can affect the skin's ability to absorb pigment evenly during the procedure. This may result in patchy or inconsistent pigment distribution, requiring additional touch-ups to achieve the desired results.
Interference with Anesthetic Effectiveness:
Some permanent makeup procedures involve the use of topical anesthetics to minimize discomfort. Caffeine consumption before the procedure may interfere with the effectiveness of these anesthetics, reducing their ability to numb the skin adequately.
To ensure the best possible outcome and minimize potential complications, individuals undergoing permanent makeup procedures are often advised to avoid caffeine consumption for at least 24 hours before the appointment. It's essential to follow any specific pre-procedure instructions provided by the technician or healthcare provider to optimize the experience and results of the permanent makeup procedure.
What about after the treatment?
After a permanent makeup procedure, it's generally advisable to avoid consuming coffee or any caffeinated beverages for the remainder of the day, if possible. Here's why:
After the procedure, the treated area may feel sensitive or sore. Caffeine can exacerbate this discomfort due to its stimulating effect on the nervous system, potentially making you feel more sensitive to any residual pain or irritation. Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it can increase urination and potentially contribute to dehydration. Dehydration can exacerbate swelling, which is a common side effect of permanent makeup procedures. By avoiding caffeine, you can help reduce the risk of additional swelling and promote faster healing. In the days following a permanent makeup procedure, the pigmented area may undergo slight color changes as it heals. Caffeine consumption can potentially interfere with the body's healing processes, which may affect the retention and longevity of the pigment. To ensure the best possible results and pigment retention, it's wise to avoid caffeine during the initial healing phase.
Instead of coffee, consider hydrating with water or herbal teas to support the healing process and promote overall well-being. If you have any concerns or specific instructions from your technician, it's always best to follow their guidance to optimize the outcome of your permanent makeup procedure.
What else to avoid?
Blood Thinners: If you're taking blood-thinning medications or supplements such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil, consult with your healthcare provider about whether you should temporarily discontinue them before the procedure. These medications can increase bleeding and interfere with the healing process.
Retinoids and Exfoliants: Avoid using retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and other exfoliating products on the area to be treated for at least one week before your appointment. These products can thin the skin and increase sensitivity, making the procedure more uncomfortable and increasing the risk of complications.
Sun Exposure: Minimize sun exposure and avoid tanning beds for at least one week before your appointment. Sunburned or tanned skin can be more sensitive and may not hold pigment as well.
Facial Treatments: Avoid facial treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser treatments on the area to be treated for at least two weeks before your appointment. These treatments can irritate the skin and affect the healing process.
