Any client with permanent makeup must inform the MRI technician before the start of the magnetic resonance imaging. Microscopic metals in pigments can bounce around the skin, causing the patient to feel tingling or heating sensation. In rare cases, first-degree burns may occur at the site of permanent makeup.
To better understand the phenomenon, it may be useful to review the research conducted by the Department of Dermatology, University of Minnesota Hospital and Clinic, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, the translation of which is provided below*:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Permanent Cosmetics (Permanent Makeup): Detection of Complications and Adverse Events.
OBJECTIVE: To use a survey to determine the incidence of complications and adverse events in individuals with permanent cosmetics (e.g., permanent eyeliner, eyebrows, lips, etc.) who have undergone magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A questionnaire was distributed to clients who had undergone permanent cosmetic treatments. This survey asked study subjects to provide demographic data, information about treatments, and their experiences during magnetic resonance imaging procedures.
RESULTS: Data from 1032 surveys were tabulated. One hundred thirty-five study subjects (13.1%) underwent magnetic resonance imaging after undergoing permanent cosmetic treatments. Of these, only two individuals (1.5%) experienced problems associated with magnetic resonance imaging. One subject reported a sensation of "mild tingling," and the other a sensation of "burning"; both sensations were transient in nature.
CONCLUSION: Based on these results and information from peer-reviewed literature, it appears that magnetic resonance imaging can be performed in patients with permanent makeup without serious soft tissue reactions or adverse events. Therefore, the presence of permanent cosmetics should not prevent a patient from undergoing magnetic resonance imaging for imaging purposes.
The information provided in this article is not intended to replace the consultation that the patient must have with their physician to assess whether or not to undergo magnetic resonance imaging after a permanent makeup treatment.