Quality label for Hygiene in permanent make up 

Press Conference "Belgian Hygiene Quality Label" (bhql) April 14th, 2003 bhql

Joëlle Senden has contributed to the realization of the long-awaited code of hygienic and ethical charter for practitioners of permanent make-up, tattoo artists, jewelery shops and piercers. On April 14th 2003, the Minister of Health Jef Tavernier, signed the cooperation agreement with the industry; l'Association des Tatoueurs et des Perceurs professionels Walloon ATPPW, Federation of Belgian tattooist BAT Supreme Council for Jewelry and Watches HRJU, Flemish Bond Piercing VPB, Mr Robert Mylle tattoo expert, Ms Joëlle Senden, expert permanent make-up/micropigmentation. "Practitioners of permanent makeup, tattoo artists, piercers, jewelers now have a quality as regards a strict ethical code and hygiene standards.
That legislation was drafted by the industry, and government. The first in Europe.

The Belgian Hygiene Quality Label has become BHQLeague. The work of the BHQL now paying off. The Royal Decree of November 25, 2005 is effective from January 1, 2006 for tattoo and permanent make-up. This new legislation means that specialists in permanent make-up must respect hygiene rules at work.
These new rules are in the interests of customers and in the interest of the professionals. Professionals follow a specific training in hygiene.

Bhqlabel is Bhqleague
Although the purpose of the Bhqlabel was reached - there is now a legal basis for permanent make up and tattoo - is the work of a professional association not completely.
The existing legislation contains a number of points that can be improved and this remains the view of the professional is really necessary. There are also cases where the Belgian State has not yet developed regulations that are interesting, for both the authorities, professionals, and consumers (eg on the composition of the inks)

The hygiene course, imposed by Federal Public Health, has taken its inspiration from the Quality Label. Congrats to the designers!

The mandatory hygiene course, imposed by the Federal Public Health Service FPS, is for every professional in permanent makeup, microblading,tattoo. This is a guarantee that the professional works hygienically. In addition, these appropriate measures limit further spread of the Corona Covid-19 virus. It is not unlikely, after Corona times, that you will choose a professional who has followed and passed the exams of this hygiene course.

Scientific research Cornet requests collaboration with the Belgian Hygiene Quality Label

BHQL contributed to an international study on pigments for permanent makeup and tattooing, titled Cornet Scientific Research "Health Safety in connection with the use of tattoo and permanent makeup" (2006-2008). This was conducted in collaboration with the Belgian Hygiene Quality League, followed by IWT Flanders. The Cornet pilot project was partnered with IWT, the Institute for Science, Innovation, and Renewal.

The goal of BHQL has been achieved: legislation for permanent makeup and tattooing now exists. However, the work of this professional association is not yet complete. The Royal Decree adopted many aspects (though not all) of the BHQL's Code of Good Practice and made them mandatory. The decree, which came into effect on January 1, 2006, rendered the voluntary initiatives associated with the label redundant. Despite this, BHQL continues to exist.

The current regulations still have areas for improvement, and the input of professionals remains crucial. Additionally, there are areas where the Belgian government has not yet developed regulations that may be of interest to authorities, professionals, and consumers (e.g., ink compositions). BHQL continues to be the advisory body for professionals, authorities, and consumers. Through its role as an umbrella organization, BHQL has established important connections with European institutions and has recently joined a large-scale international project ("CORNET"), which will span several years. This scientific research project, part of EURANET, aims to draft European guidelines that could later serve as the basis for EU legislation regarding tattoos, piercings, and permanent makeup. As the original goal of issuing labels is no longer relevant, BHQL has changed its name to the Belgian Hygiene Quality League (2006-2008).

BHQL was invited to participate in the international scientific project Cornet, focusing on "Health Safety in connection with the use of tattoo and permanent makeup." The research is part of EURANET and involves BHQL, which is consulted as the only professional association in Europe. This project will lead to the development of European guidelines that could form the basis for future EU legislation on permanent makeup, tattoos, and piercings. BHQL will develop general knowledge based on the Code of Good Practice for permanent makeup and tattoos.

And yes, the sector has not remained stagnant. A significant development in 2022 was the European regulation REACH 22.

Certified Pigments & Safe PMU Techniques for Sustainable and Responsible Results: REACH 22

As a professional, it is essential to stay informed about the REACH regulation regarding pigments. "REACH" stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals, a European regulation that governs the production and use of chemicals.

Concerns about the chemical components in inks have been thoroughly analyzed, and their risks are regulated at the EU level. Since January 2022, thousands of harmful chemicals have been restricted in tattoo inks and permanent makeup under REACH, aiming to protect European citizens.

It is important to note that iron oxide can only be used if it contains a minimal amount of chromium or other metals. The standard is so strict that using iron oxide has become nearly impossible, leading many suppliers to switch to organic pigments.

It is vital to emphasize that the permanent makeup industry itself is responsible for the pigments it uses. Complying with the REACH regulation is not only a legal obligation but also a key aspect of ensuring both professional and client safety in the short and long term. As professionals, we cannot claim ignorance; it is our responsibility to stay informed and act in accordance with the applicable regulations to ensure everyone's safety.

Safe Techniques

The latest techniques to ensure safe, refined, and long-lasting PMU results. With years of expertise, I have introduced several innovative methods that ensure a natural effect, minimal skin impact, and optimal healing. Using precision and advanced techniques, I apply pigment at the correct depth, preventing scars and achieving durable, harmonious results. My focus? Bringing out the best version of your personality, with respect for your skin and wishes.

Microblading Phi Brows Artist
Since 2014, I have been a Phi artist. That year, I introduced microblading to Belgium, and it remains a great success today. I create ultra-fine hairs with a manual pen. For more information, visit www.microblading.be.

Nude Lips Technique, July 2000
An efficient and safe technique where the entire mouth is colored with full pigment.
Nude lips enhances the aesthetic aspect by coloring the mouth with full pigment. It gives a refreshing color, flatters your lips, and lightly corrects asymmetry. With a touch of gloss, you'll radiate every day, beautifully and naturally!
Nude lips also corrects injuries like a labial cleft.

The Art of Designing Nipple and Areola Complex, September 2001
The art of designing a harmonious nipple and areola complex after breast reconstruction or aesthetic surgery. I created the "Art of Designing" technique for this. Through research and study, Joëlle Senden developed a theory for designing the nipple and areola complex, always respecting nipple position. Through this theory, I improve the aesthetics of the nipple and areola complex, always maintaining respect for the nipple's position.

Permanent Makeup Handbook, Irma Wiechmann-Hulscher, June 2003
Interview with Joëlle Senden: Nipple & Areola Reconstruction
"What especially attracted me was that Joëlle conducted research into developing a measuring method to achieve as much symmetry as possible in the breasts after reconstruction." This technique was published in the Newsletters of The Academy of Micropigmentation, 2001, The Journal of Micropigmentation, June 2001, and Medical Newsletter, Permanent Cosmetics Newsletter, Linda H. Dixon M.D., Hawaii, July 2001.