It has some of the same qualities, yet it is very different. Only specialists in micro-pigmentation can perform this procedure on the face; tattoo artists cannot. APCI uses techniques, tools, and pigments specifically designed for micro-pigmentation procedures, making it safe, and sterile. Permanent makeup clinicians also use effective topical anesthetics that are not used by tattoo artists. APCI uses instruments much more delicate in design that provide natural-looking results.