FAQ
If you have any additional questions, feel free to reach out to me and I’ll be happy to help!
What is cosmetic tattooing?
Cosmetic tattooing, also referred to as semi-permanent makeup or micropigmentation, is the process of implanting color pigment beneath the surface of the skin by means of tiny, sterile, disposable needles to produce the appearance of hair strokes, makeup, or to enhance the natural features of the face. Microblading refers to eyebrow tattooing.
Am I a candidate for microblading or semi-permanent brows?
Semi-permanent brows are great for anyone who has no brows, thinning brows or is simply tired of filling in their brows every day. Please refer to this list on the right for contraindications.
How long does the procedure take?
Appointments average around three and a half hours. This allows time for paperwork, consultation, brow mapping, pigment selection and the procedure itself. They may be shorter or longer depending on the current state of your brows and your desired look. However long it takes to have you leaving happy! 🙂
Does it hurt?
Probably not nearly as bad as you’re expecting. It is a form of tattooing, so there is some discomfort associated with the procedure. A lot of clients are even able to relax during microblading! Pain threshold levels vary from person to person and every effort is made to ensure you remain comfortable for the entirety of the procedure. Numbing will be provided to keep pain at a minimum.
How long is the recovery time?
There is no immediate downtime after the procedure, though you will need to follow aftercare instructions for two weeks. Your brows will go through a few phases including darkness, lightness and flaking while healing. Techniques that involve shading tend to have more intense flaking.
How long will my brows last?
This is different for everyone. Cosmetic tattoo treatments will not wash off, however, they will fade over time and may need to be refreshed every 1-2 years. It is recommended to get a yearly touchup to maintain the color, shape, and stroke integrity. The pigment may never fade out completely but will get lighter over time. This isn’t a bad thing! Fading allows the artist to adjust the shape and color of your eyebrow tattoo as your facial features and skin may change over time. Your skin type, lifestyle and many other factors can affect how quickly your brows begin to fade.
Frequency of sessions depends on a number of factors including: the pigment color used (lighter colors fade faster), lifestyle (sun exposure), and if any chemical peels come into contact with treated areas. Please note that final results CAN NOT be guaranteed as each unique skin type will hold pigments differently and break down at different rates. We will re-evaluate how your skin has received the pigment at your second session and make any changes necessary. Multiple sessions are normal for cosmetic tattoo procedures, with each new procedure requiring a minimum of 2 visits. Your second session can be booked no sooner than six weeks after your first appointment. Additional sessions will be charged according to our current pricing.
How do you choose a shape?
We will map your brows out according to your face shape, features, and proportions. We’ll talk about your preferences and I’ll draw a shape that I think is a good fit. We can adjust the shape until it looks just right for you.
How do you choose the right brow color?
We will select the perfect pigment for your brows based on your current brow color, hair color, skin tone, and desired results. You will always get to approve the color before beginning! Keep in mind, your brows will usually heal a bit lighter than they look immediately after the procedure.
What is the total price for new brows?
Please refer to our investment breakdown here.
Is the deposit additional?
No, the deposit is deducted from the total amount of the service. The remainder will be due at your appointment.
What will my eyebrow tattoo look like in the future?
During your appointment, we will analyze your skin's undertone to anticipate how pigment colors will fade in the future. We will also mix pigments to ensure color blends well with your existing eyebrow and hair color. The majority of our clients' cosmetic tattoos stay true to color and lighten naturally over time. There are some cases, however, where colors may fade to different tones according to the individual’s response to the pigments (like lifestyle and iron deficiencies). Many factors affect these changes. At your next appointment, we will re-analyze how your body has responded to the initial color. Special formula alteration to correct the color and to prevent further color change is made at this time. Over time, your eyebrow tattoo will eventually appear slightly softer and have more of a "powdered" look. This happens with all clients as the skin ages. To keep your hair strokes looking good, a refresher appointment is suggested every 1 to 2 years. Results vary with each client.
How many treatments are needed?
For most new clients, a minimum of two treatments are usually needed, at least 6 weeks apart. With most procedures, the color looks dramatically lighter after the first week. Some clients prefer this, while others opt for a bolder look. At the second session, we will assess the color retention and make adjustments as necessary. Everyone heals differently and at different rates. If your cosmetic tattoo does not heal perfectly after the first session, don’t worry! We can always go darker and add more density at your next appointment. A 1-2 year touch-up keeps the integrity of your microblading/brow design intact.
What factors affect microblading?
Sun exposure: The sun will extremely soften the look of your tattoo, so sunblock should be used (once healed) to prolong your enhancement.
The regeneration of skin cells: The longer the regeneration takes, the longer the pigment holds.
The speed at which the skin absorbs the pigment: The slower the absorption, the longer the pigment will hold.
The choice of color: Some colors fade quicker than others, e.g. a blonde color will fade quicker than a dark brown color. The area of treatment: Enhancements to the face, for example, fade more quickly due to constant exposure.
Bleeding during the procedure: Any bleeding during the tattooing procedure will reduce the amount of pigment absorption. Alcohol and certain medications act as blood-thinners and should not be taken prior to and following your appointment.
Aftercare: Failure to follow the aftercare diligently during the first 2 weeks of healing can contribute to less than desired results. For example sweating during healing can effect the appearance of the hair strokes when fully healed.
Iron Deficiency: If you suffer from Anemia or low iron this could affect the way your body reacts to the pigment. The pigment used contains iron oxide which can result in the hair strokes to fade or change in hue due to your body absorbing the iron.
What should I do before my microblading treatment?
If you have an ideal shape and color in mind, bring a few reference photos with you to your appointment. You may fill in your eyebrows as you normally would so we can take into consideration the shape you desire. If you regularly get your eyebrows shaped, waxed, threaded or tinted, please do so at least 3 days before your appointment. If there are any stray hairs that fall outside of our final shape, we can remove them. If you plan to go on a vacation, it is recommended to plan your trip a minimum of 14 days after the procedure. We require our clients to avoid any blood thinning medication for a minimum of 72 hours prior to their appointment. This includes Vitamin E, Aspirin, Niacin, fish oil supplements, and Ibuprofen. Do not drink any alcohol the night before and day of your appointment and limit the amount of caffeine you consume. If you have been on prescription Accutane in the past, you MUST wait at least one year before considering this procedure. It is highly recommended that you avoid SUN and TANNING BED exposure for 30 days BEFORE and AFTER your procedure. If you show up for your appointment with a new tan or a sunburn, you will need to reschedule and will forfeit your deposit. As your skin exfoliates from a sunburn, it will take the pigment with it.
Click to review our "DISCLOSURE & RELEASE AGREEMENT” before booking your appointment.