8. Conclusions about errors
Our analysis leads to an important conclusion regarding the depiction of skin layers in semi-permanent makeup training materials. When accurately representing a cross-section of facial skin layers, the epidermis should be shown as approximately 3-6 times thinner than the diameter of a typical needle used in pigmentation procedures. This challenges the accuracy of images commonly used in training materials. Even when considering individuals with the thickest epidermis and the thinnest needles, the proportions depicted are significantly off from reality.
This discrepancy underlines the necessity for more realistic portrayals of skin structure in training materials. Accurate depictions are crucial for practitioners to understand their work's true scale and impact, ensuring the effectiveness and safety of semi-permanent makeup procedures.
The Extent of Misrepresentation in Graphics
Upon analyzing the training materials, a significant discrepancy is apparent. The depicted needle diameter to epidermis ratio is approximately 1:50. In contrast, the actual, more accurate ratio is closer to 5:1. This means the graphics in these materials are off by 250 times, which has considerable implications, especially for beginners in the field.
Consequences for Starting Artists
Such a vast misrepresentation leads to a false belief among new artists that the epidermis is much thicker than it truly is. This misunderstanding might prompt them to insert the needle deeper than necessary, believing there is sufficient space in the epidermis. Unfortunately, this can result in the pigment being implanted too deep, sometimes even reaching the hypodermis, leading to pigment migration or a “blowout.”
Empirical Support from Professional Artists
The idea that the epidermis is thinner than often shown in training materials is not merely theoretical. It is supported by the experiences of many professional artists in semi-permanent makeup. These experts confirm that the epidermis is thinner than portrayed, highlighting the ease of unintentionally reaching the dermis during procedures.
Visualizing Epidermis Thickness
To understand the actual thinness of the epidermis, especially on the face, it can be compared to the thickness of a sheet of paper. This analogy emphasizes the epidermis layer's delicacy, sharply contrasting with the exaggerated representations in some training graphics. This knowledge is essential for practitioners, particularly newcomers, to avoid overly deep pigment implantation and associated complications.
A Fascinating Sidenote (For Those Who Appreciate Humor)
If the training graphics we've discussed were accurate, with their portrayal of epidermal thickness as truth, a typical pigmentation artist would be as small as a grain of rice or a pea. In this scenario, they would be dwarfed by a standard paperclip about 3-4 centimeters long. If they maintained human proportions at this scale, everything, including their organs and skeletal structures, would need to be dramatically downsized.
In this miniature world, everyday objects would seem enormous. A pencil or coin would appear massive and hard to handle. The physical properties of materials, such as surface tension and air resistance, would present unique challenges. Even insects, often similar or larger, could pose significant threats, potentially seeing such a tiny human as prey or danger. This miniature person would be vulnerable to creatures like ants, spiders, or wasps, facing challenges in safety and self-defense.
Living in this proportionally altered reality would require a completely customized environment. Everything from clothing to tools would need to be specially made. Their nutritional needs would also significantly differ in quantity and consumption methods.
While this is a highly theoretical and imaginative scenario, it's an interesting exploration of scale and how size affects interactions with our environment. Of course, human anatomy and physiology principles make such a size implausible for a human being. Still, this thought experiment is useful for understanding the importance of accurate scale representation.