FAQ - Frequently asked questions on permanent makeup

WHAT IS COSMETIC TATTOOING?

Cosmetic Tattooing, also called Semi-Permanent Makeup or Micro pigmentation, is the process of implanting color pigment beneath the surface of the skin by means of a tiny, sterile, disposable needle to produce the appearance of cosmetic makeup or to enhance the natural features of the face.

HOW LONG DOES THE TATTOO LAST?

Typically 1-3 years but a few factors come into play here.  Some pigments are iron oxide based, which means if you have an iron deficiency your tattoo will fade faster. Some of the newer pigments are titanium oxide based, which last longer and fade out slower. The preference is titanium oxide based pigment and Bri loves to work with Permablend. If you’re a sun worshipper, get chemical peels, AHA, Glycolic etc. it will also cause the tattoo to fade faster. I recommend wearing SPF 50 on your tattoo (and your whole face really as we know what the sun does to our skin!) 

I’M NERVOUS...IS IT GOING TO HURT?

Don’t be nervous, I use an amazing topical anesthetic to numb the area before we start.  Your comfort is very important to me!  I also have a brow tattoo so I know how it feels.  Everyone’s pain threshold is different.  If yours is low feel free to take a NON BLOOD THINNING pain killer before your appointment like Tylenol. I continue to use numbing agents during the procedure as well 

DO YOU HAVE TO SHAVE MY EYEBROWS OR EYE LASHES TO GET THE TATTOO?

Don’t laugh, this is a common question! No it’s not like a body tattoo where the tattoo artist has to shave the area before we start. I use the natural hair growth of your brow as a guide to give you the most beautiful result, and if you have no hair I create a brand new natural growth look for you!

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT SHAPE AND COLOR TO USE?

I have 12 years of experience in the cosmetics industry, which has allowed me to work on every skin tone, brow shape, face shape, eye shape, and lip shape you could possibly think of!  This gives me a major advantage when it comes to choosing the design and color that suits you.  Having being “known” for brow design you can be confident you will walk out with a shape that suits your face and makes you look youthful, happy and polished!

fyi:

One procedure cannot guarantee desired outcome. In some cases, we need to see how our clients react to the pigment and review the healing process after the first procedure. Therefore, we offer one free touchup visit within 3 months of the first procedure. In very complicated cases (involving removal/color correction/camouflage/scar tissue/iron disorder) an extra charge may apply on extra touch-ups.

how to be prepared for your appointment

LIPS
If you have EVER had cold sores/fever blisters/herpes you MUST obtain prescription ZOVIROX/VALTREX from your doctor. Start prescription 1 day prior and continue for 1 day post procedure. Failure to pre-medicate may result in an outbreak which will compromise your results.

  • EYELINER
    *Please note* No lash extensions. We recommend removing any lash extensions a few days prior to your appointment to relieve that area.

  • Please stop any and all lash serums for a minimum of 3 months before your eyeliner appointment. The reason being is that those serums are stimulants. They will make your eyelids too fragile and vascular for cosmetic tattooing. After your eyeliner tattoo has healed, you may resume your serum at 4 weeks.

  • Come with no eye makeup on (especially mascara!) If we have to remove makeup at the appointment it can cause your eyes to become irritated and that is not ideal before your cosmetic tattoo.

  • If you wear contacts please come with your glasses. You will not be able to wear contacts during the procedure.

EYEBROWS
It is best to avoid alcohol, Aspirin, and Blood thinners (if possible) before your appointment. 

what can you expect after your service?

BROWS
For the first 3 - 6 days, the color intensity of your procedure will be significantly darker, as well as larger and sharper than what is expected for the final outcome. Although the area will appear healed after 10 days, it will not be fully healed for 4-6 weeks (8 weeks for lips) to reveal the actual color, this is based on how quickly the outer layer of your skin exfoliates.

LIPS
The lips will look very intense and may become swollen for 2-3 days. (BONUS! plumper lips!) Usually the scab will peel off in about 3 days. During this time the color will look quite pale, only the lip line will show a light color. Be patient until the skin matures (about one month), at this point you will see a more natural result. 

EYELINER

  • Do not use mascara or eye shadow for the first 10 days.  Do not disturb the lash roots.

  • Eyelid will be puffy and swollen for the first few days, to reduce swelling: Ice several times daily (approx. 10 min.) over the first 3 days to minimize swelling. Before putting on ice bag, place plastic wrap on your eye area. There are also eye shaped ice packs at your drugstore which works great and is good for puffy eyes even when you haven’t had a cosmetic eyeliner procedure!

One free touchup included on all services within 3 months.