Originally published in Ocala Style Magazine

The Aesthetic Center offers its clients a multitude of make-up options.

"I worked with horses in the humidity and heat," explains licensed permanent make-up artist Kris Carroll. "By the time I got my hat and boots on, my make-up had already melted off my face. That's how I became interested in permanent make-up.

"One afternoon I was watching television and they were talking about someone in Alabama that did permanent make-up. I looked into it and ended up having my eyebrows and eyeliner done."

Kris was so impressed with her own experience and results that she wanted to offer this service to others.

"I trained in Jacksonville and Tampa and have been practicing for 8 years now," she says.

Kris is looking forward to joining the team at the Aesthetic Center on January 1st.

"The doctors and staff here are wonderful," Kris says. "I'm fortunate to have a career that I love. It's all about making people feel and look better."

So why use permanent make-up? This medically developed procedure is a method of implanting color pigment directly into the skin to create lasting cosmetic effects and aesthetics. Permanent make-up gives you the freedom to swim, shower, and exercise without the worry of smearing or running make-up. It can accentuate and improve definition of your eyes, eyebrows and lips.

Permanent make-up is also used in covering scar tissue, and disguising other skin defects. Women who have had reconstructive surgery following breast cancer can also benefit from the make-up which makes the areola area of the breast appear more natural.

"There are several different pigments and shades on the market," Kris says. "I chose the only one that I could find that is hypo-allergenic. The pigments we use at the Aesthetic Center have great staying power.

"I'm very attuned to what people need. Nobody wants pain, so I use the most quiet, gentle machine on the market. I also use a numbing cream that does an excellent job. I assure people that this process won't hurt them. By the time we're done with the consultation, my clients are very relaxed and at ease."

After determining which pigments and procedures would be best suited for each client, Kris uses a small, velvet needle to insert the make-up into the skin through a gentle vibration that compares to a very dull scratching.

Carey Robinson, 30, is very happy with her results.

"I had my eyeliner done just because I didn't want the hassle of putting it on everyday," she says. "My eyeliner would always end up smearing. Now, I have a nice, fine line that stays put and looks very natural. It wasn't painful either. The next day my eyes felt like I had been crying, but that went away quickly."

The entire procedure takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and is completely safe and sterile. Results will typically last from three to five years. Women from all walks of life and all age brackets are discovering the benefits of permanent make-up.

"It really is for everyone," Kris comments. Why settle for less when you can look your best 24 hours a day? I'm more than happy to discuss options and procedures with potential clients."

If permanent make-up isn't for you, the Aesthetic Center also offers the complete line of Jane Iredale skin care make-up.

These products combine the most popular and up-to-date colors with skin care benefits that far surpass over-the-counter brands. Jane Iredale is so safe and beneficial to use that it is recommended by plastic surgeons and dermatologists around the world. The make-up will not block pores, contains SPF protection, and is water-resistant. Jane Iredale products are composed of inert minerals that cannot support the growth of bacteria. They have been proven to contain anti-inflammatory agents that help to calm and soothe irritated, puffy skin. Conditions such as acne, rosacea and uneven skin tones can all benefit from Jane Iredale make-up.

"The products provide excellent coverage and are actually good for your skin," certified medical aesthetician Claudia Snook says. "Most make-ups have adverse effects on your complexion. They can clog pores and cause sensitivity problems. Because this line is mineral-based, it's actually great for people who have allergic reactions to other products because Jane Iredale doesn't contain the dyes and perfumes that other make-ups have."

Liquid Minerals is Jane Iredale's newest foundation. Thanks to liposome technology, minerals and antioxidants work hand-in-hand to produce a make-up that doesn't only produce a flawless, moist complexion, it also releases fresh antioxidants with every application.

"Antioxidants help the skin resist free-radical damage, mainly sun and other environmental damage," Claudia explains. "It feels like you're not wearing make-up. We have something for every complexion, every skin-type and every skin condition."

The Aesthetic Center
3320 SW 34th Circle
Ocala, FL 34474
(352) 629-8154
http://www.cosmeticocala.com/