The CourierSeptember 26, 2003 - Conroe, Texas By Ruth Fields, Courier Advertising Writer Charline Utley isn't surprised at the recent popularity of permanent cosmetics. She had her own permanent cosmetics applied several years ago. "Everybody wants to look as good as they can," Charline said, noting that many celebrities, including Cher, Raquel Welch, Dolly Parton, and Elizabeth Taylor have had permanent cosmetics applied. In 2001, Charline, a semi-retired massage therapist, impulsively decided to attend a class to learn how to apply permanent cosmetics. "I just fell in love with it," Charline said. "It is just so exciting." Charline uses Premier Products' technique of applying permanent cosmetics. Unlike other permanent cosmetic lines, Premier Products is known for its pigments that contain no iron oxide. Some people with iron oxide in their permanent cosmetics experience complications when they later undergo MRIs for necessary medical testing, Charline said. Some experience burning at the site, while others' MRIs may yield inconclusive diagnoses. "Because ours doesn't have the iron oxide, it's a much safer one to use," Charline said. In addition, Premier Products' line includes more than 140 shades, so that clients can choose the perfect colors that will blend with their own skin tones. Premier Products' technique uses sophisticated instruments to introduce pigments beneath the skin. Although procedures may involve some discomfort, Charline makes having permanent cosmetics more comfortable. Before beginning each procedure, she applies a topical anesthetic so that when the pigments are introduced underneath the skin, discomfort is minimized. "I have had some people say they felt nothing," Charline said. Charline, who taught health and hygiene for ten years, insists on an aseptic environment. She uses only disposable, single-use instruments and always wears surgical gloves. Charline's private suite at a local Day Spa is quiet and relaxing. "Permanent cosmetics are popular among lots of people. For many people who are allergic to makeup, this is the only way for them to wear makeup. This is such a boon for people with allergies." Charline said. For others, it is a choice of convenience. "They are amazed at how much time they have saved." Athletic women, as well as women with oily skin, like permanent cosmetics because they last all day. Others choose permanent cosmetics because they're physically or visually incapable of applying cosmetics. Many men and women utilize permanent cosmetics to reduce the appearance of scars. Men can also have permanent cosmetics applied to enhance hairlines. Charline's most requested service is eyebrow enhancement. People's eyebrows aren't exactly the same, Charline said, but she strives for symmetry when applying permanent cosmetics. Before introducing pigments beneath the skin, Charline draws eyebrow on each client, helping them to decide what shape will be most flattering to them. "They usually don't want that surprised look,'' Charline said. "They don't want their eyebrows to get through the door before they do." Charlene also does eyleliner, including eyeliner on the mucosa of the lower lid, as well as lip liner and full lips. Soon, she plans to attend a class to learn to apply creamy lips and three-dimensional eyebrows. Charline always schedules 30-minute consultaions with clients before applying their permanent cosmetics. At that time, she can suggest colors that will be the most flattering. Charlene has 75 colors in stock and can get other Premier Products colors in one day. She can also blend colors together to provide custom colors for clients. Charline always schedules plenty of time for each procedure so that she can make sure clients are happy with their results. Some clients prefer a dramatic look, while others want to achieve a more subtle effect. Whatever look a client chooses, however, Charline strives to make permanent cosmetics look natural. "We enhance your natural beauty," Charline said.
For more information, or to schedule a consultation, contact: Charline L. Utley, Ph.D. Phone: 936-662-7467 Permanent Makeup Artist Charline L. Utley, Ph.D. is licensed with the Texas Department of Health. She holds training certificates through Premier Products. Charline's Permanent Makeup services are available in The Woodlands/Conroe, Deer Park, Crockett, Livingston & other East Texas county areas. © Copyright Enhancing Your Beauty Website from