Permanent makeup is having a moment and Nicky Harris of New Heights in Hair is part of it
By Patricia Nugent
Eyebrows are having a moment.
Drugstore shelves are overflowing with pencils, thickeners and dyes to attain that perfectly sculpted brow, as seen on models and celebs. And whether for brows or eyeliner, permanent makeup procedures have also dramatically increased over the last few years.
According to Nicky Harris, of New Heights in Hair, when she was certified in 2013, there were only two people doing permanent makeup in Cuyahoga County. Now there are more than 40.
Permanent Makeup vs. Microblading
Nicky says that microblading is a trending new service at many salons and spas in the area. And it differs from what she specializes in—permanent makeup. Although both techniques use a hand-held instrument to paint on the feathery brush strokes that resemble hairs, with microblading the pigment doesn’t penetrate as far as hers does, into the subcutaneous layer of the skin, and, thus, doesn’t last as long.
“Generally, microblading lasts up to a year, and permanent makeup might need a touchup after three to five years, but still looks beautiful for five to 10 years,” she says.
Looking Fab, Day and Night
When Nicky was a 20-year-old hairdresser, a client walked into the salon and apologized for how horrible she looked, having just recovered from the flu and rolled out of bed with no makeup. Yet, she looked fabulous.
“I asked why she still looked so good and she laughed and said it was because of her permanent makeup,” she says. “After that I was sold. I did my research and underwent training and apprenticeship in permanent cosmetics.”
Not only is Nicky a practitioner, she’s also a client, having the non-existent “tails” of her eyebrows finished off with this procedure.
“I love making a difference in people’s lives,” she says. “And my job is especially rewarding when I can recreate brows for women who have lost theirs due to chemotherapy, radiation or thyroid conditions.”
Define Your Eyes, Naturally
Even though thicker, darker, more dramatic brows are the trend right now, she cautions her clients to stick with a natural look.
“With the free initial consultation, we go over what color looks best with their eye color,” explains Nicky, who, in addition to being a hairdresser and makeup artist, has also studied color theory. “I try to balance a warm-toned liner or brow with a cool-toned eye. I paint on natural-looking brows and well-defined eyes that work with their face shape and coloring.”
The cost of the service includes what she calls a Perfection Appointment about a month after the initial three-hour service, during which she does any touch-ups if needed.
As a busy mom of a two-year-old daughter and nine-month-old son, Nicky appreciates the luxury of spending less time in front of the makeup mirror.
Summertime is around the corner, and what better time to relax a little in your daily routine? Maybe toss your brow pencil or eyeliner, yet still look your best. Or jump in the pool or lake without worrying about your brows “melting.” With a little help from Nicky, it’s easy.
New Heights in Hair is located at 9202 Broadview Road at the corner of Route 82 in Broadview Heights. Call today for your free consultation at 440-717-1177, ext. 204, for Nicky. Check out the stunning makeovers at NickyAtNewHeights.com, or at New Heights in Hair on Facebook.