Frequently Asked Questions
what is permanent makeup?
Permanent makeup, also known as cosmetic tattooing or micropigmentation, is a technique that enhances facial features by implanting pigment into the skin. It is commonly used for eyebrows and lip color to create a fuller appearance or correct asymmetry.
Unlike traditional tattoos, permanent makeup uses specialized pigments and techniques designed to fade naturally over time, typically lasting between one to five years, depending on skin type, lifestyle, and maintenance. The goal is to achieve a natural, long-lasting enhancement that reduces the need for daily makeup application.
It’s a great option for those who want to save time, have allergies to traditional cosmetics, or desire a more defined and polished look.
Am i a candidate for cosmetic tattoo?
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for permanent makeup. Individuals who should avoid or consult a professional before undergoing the procedure include:
Medical Conditions & Health Concerns
• Pregnant or nursing women – Hormonal changes can affect healing and pigment retention.
• Diabetics (especially uncontrolled diabetes) – Higher risk of infection and slow healing.
• Individuals with blood disorders (e.g., hemophilia) – Increased risk of excessive bleeding.
• Those taking blood thinners – Medications like aspirin or anticoagulants can cause excessive bleeding and poor pigment retention.
• People with autoimmune diseases – Conditions like lupus or psoriasis may affect healing and pigment absorption.
• Individuals with keloid-prone skin – Those prone to scarring may not heal well.
• Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation – The immune system is weakened, and healing may be compromised.
Skin Conditions & Medications
• Those with active skin conditions near the treatment area – Conditions like eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, dermatitis or actinic keratosis can interfere with healing.
• Recent Botox or fillers near the area – It’s best to wait at least 2-4 weeks before permanent makeup.
• Accutane users (within the last year) – Accutane thins the skin and can cause excessive sensitivity and poor healing.
Other Considerations
• Allergy to pigments or numbing agents – A patch test is recommended.
• Those prone to cold sores (for lip blush procedure) – Antiviral medication may be needed before treatment.
• Individuals with hard set expectations – Permanent makeup enhances natural features but won’t replace traditional makeup entirely. As with other beauty procedures, results may vary and are not guaranteed.
• All clients must be at least 18 years of age to receive permanent makeup, regardless of parental consent.
A thorough consultation with a trained professional is essential to determine if permanent makeup is a safe and suitable option.
how long does permanent makeup last?
Longevity of permanent makeup depends on several factors, including skin type, skin care products/procedures, lifestyle and overall health of the client.
Factors That Affect Longevity:
• Skin Type: Oily skin tends to fade faster, especially for microblading.
• Pigment Type: Lighter pigments (like soft browns and pinks) fade quicker than darker ones.
• Sun Exposure: UV rays can break down pigment, causing it to fade faster.
• Skincare Routine: Products with retinol, glycolic acid, or exfoliants can speed up fading.
• Lifestyle: Frequent swimming, sweating, and sunbathing may cause pigments to fade sooner.
• Touch-ups: A touch-up 6-10 weeks after the initial procedure is recommended, with maintenance every 1-2 years to keep the color fresh.
While called “permanent,” the pigments fade naturally over time, allowing adjustments or changes in shape and color as trends or personal preferences evolve.
hOw do i book an appointment?
• A booking fee is required to secure your appointment. This is a non-refundable fee that will go towards your service.
• You must read over the studio policies and all information provided in the FAQ page.
• Terms and conditions must be agreed upon before checkout.
Can i still get permanent makeup if i have had prior work done?
For those who have had previous work by another artist, it’s important for the previous tattoo to have faded about 80%. If you are not sure, you can send photos in clear and even lighting with a center, slight left, and light right angle. All new clients are considered initial appointments.
how do i prepare for my appointment?
Proper preparation for a permanent makeup procedure helps ensure the best results and smooth healing. Here’s what you should do before your appointment:
1. Avoid Certain Medications & Substances
• Blood Thinners: Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E, and other blood-thinning medications for at least 48-72 hours before your procedure (unless prescribed by a doctor).
• Alcohol & Caffeine: Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine 24 hours before to minimize bleeding and pigment dilution.
• Retinol & Skincare Actives: Stop using retinol, glycolic acid, or exfoliating products at least 2 weeks before, as they can make the skin more sensitive.
2. Plan Around Treatments & Events
• Botox & Fillers: If getting permanent makeup near the treated area, schedule it at least 2-4 weeks after injectables.
• Facials & Peels: Avoid chemical peels, laser treatments, and intense facials at least 4 weeks before your appointment.
• Major Events: Expect mild swelling and scabbing, so avoid scheduling the procedure right before an important event.
• Sun Exposure: Avoid tanning or sun bathing the week before your procedure as we can’t perform treatments over sunburned skin.
• Post Procedure Restrictions: You will need to refrain from sweating, water and sun exposure on the treatment area for 10 days.
3. Special Considerations for Each Procedure
• Eyebrows: Avoid tweezing, waxing, or tinting for at least one week before the appointment.
• Lips: If prone to cold sores, take an antiviral medication (like Valtrex) a few days before and after to prevent outbreaks. Stay hydrated for smooth lips.
4. Preparing for the studio
• Arrive well-rested and well-hydrated to help your skin heal optimally.
• Eat a light meal before your appointment to prevent lightheadedness.
• Avoid excessive exercise the day of as this may increase blood flow resulting in increased bleeding during your procedure which may lead to undesirable healed results.
• Allow yourself an extra 10-15 minutes for parking and finding the studio. There is a strict 10 minute grace period. Prepare your route ahead of time to avoid being late and incurring any late/cancellation fees.
• You may want to bring a jacket or light blanket if you get cold easily as the studio may get chilly at times.
• Although not necessary, feel free to have photos prepared of what your goals are, or come in with how you normally fill in your brows.
Following these guidelines will help you achieve the best, long-lasting results from your permanent makeup and make for a smooth and enjoyable process.
what can i expect after my appointment?
Immediately after your permanent makeup procedure, you can expect some temporary side effects as your skin begins to heal. Here’s what to anticipate:
1. Swelling & Redness
• Mild to moderate swelling and redness are common, especially for eyeliner and lip procedures.
• Swelling usually subsides within a few hours to a couple of days.
2. Darker & More Intense Color
• The pigment will appear much darker and bolder than expected in the first few days.
• This is normal, as the pigment is still fresh and will soften by 30-50% as it heals.
3. Tenderness & Slight Discomfort
• The treated area may feel tight, dry, or slightly sore, similar to a sunburn.
• Avoid touching or scratching to prevent infection and pigment loss.
4. Scabbing & Flaking
• Light scabbing or peeling may start within a few days and last up to a week.
• It’s crucial not to pick at the scabs, as this can cause uneven healing and pigment loss.
5. Healing Timeline
• Days 1-3: Darker color, mild swelling, and slight tenderness.
• Days 4-7: Scabbing and peeling (don’t pick!).
• Days 7-14: The color may appear lighter or patchy, but it will even out.
• Weeks 4-6: The true color will settle in, and a touch-up may be needed to perfect the results.
6. Aftercare Is Key
• Avoid water, sweat, and makeup on the area for at least a week.
• Apply any recommended ointment as directed by your artist.
• Follow all aftercare instructions provided by your artist to ensure the best healing and pigment retention.
These reactions are normal and temporary, leading to beautifully healed results in the coming weeks.
do i need a touch up?
A client may need a permanent makeup touch-up based on several factors that affect how the pigment heals and settles in the skin. Here’s what determines the need for a touch-up:
1. Healing & Pigment Retention
• Some areas may fade unevenly or lose pigment more than others.
• The skin naturally pushes out some pigment during healing, making a touch-up necessary to perfect the shape and color.
2. Skin Type
• Oily skin tends to fade faster and may not hold pigment as well, especially for microblading.
• Dry or normal skin typically retains pigment better and may require fewer adjustments.
3. Initial Color & Desired Final Look
• Lighter shades (soft browns, pink lips) fade faster and often need more layering for full saturation.
• Clients wanting a bolder or more defined look may need a touch-up to enhance the color.
4. Lifestyle Factors
• Sun exposure, skincare products (like retinol), and frequent exfoliation can cause premature fading.
• Clients who sweat often or swim frequently may experience faster fading and require more touch-ups.
5. Procedure Type
• Some techniques, like microblading or nano brows may require a touch-up at 6-10 weeks to reinforce the strokes.
• Other methods, like lip blush or powder brows, may last longer but still benefit from a follow-up session.
6. Desired Longevity & Maintenance
• Clients who want their permanent makeup to stay fresh-looking over time should plan for annual touch-ups.
• Those who prefer a more natural fade may opt for less frequent maintenance.
When to Schedule a Touch-Up
• 6-10 weeks after the initial session (to fix any fading or uneven areas).
• Annually or every 1-2 years for maintenance, depending on personal preference and how well the pigment holds.
A touch-up ensures the best, long-lasting results by refining color, shape, and saturation.
Will it hurt?
The level of pain experienced during a permanent makeup procedure varies from person to person, but most clients describe it as mild discomfort rather than intense pain. Here’s what to expect:
1. Pain Level Factors
• Microblading & Powder Brows: Feels like light scratching or pressure.
• Lip Blush: Lips have more nerve endings, so this procedure can feel more intense.
• Pain Tolerance: Everyone has a different pain threshold, so the experience varies.
• Menstrual Cycle: Some women may feel more sensitive if they have the procedure done close to their period.
2. Numbing Cream Helps!
Most artists apply a topical numbing cream before and during the procedure to minimize discomfort. Many clients report feeling only mild pressure, tingling, or scratching rather than actual pain.
3. Healing Discomfort
After the procedure, the area may feel tender, tight, or slightly swollen, similar to a mild sunburn. This typically lasts a few days and fades as healing progresses.
4. Ways to Reduce Discomfort
• Avoid caffeine and blood thinners before the appointment.
• Follow aftercare instructions to minimize irritation.
• Communicate with your artist—if you’re uncomfortable, they can apply more numbing gel.
While permanent makeup isn’t completely painless, it’s very tolerable for most people, and the results make it worth it.
How do you select the shape/color?
The shape and color for permanent makeup are carefully selected based on the client’s facial features, skin tone, personal preferences, and lifestyle. Here’s how professionals determine the best options:
1. Shape Selection
A skilled artist will design a shape that enhances the client’s natural beauty using:
• Face Shape Analysis: The ideal brow, lip, or eyeliner shape is chosen to complement the client’s facial structure.
• Golden Ratio & Symmetry: Many artists use mapping techniques or tools to ensure balance and symmetry.
• Client Preferences: Some clients prefer bold, defined features, while others want a soft, natural look.
• Existing Features: For brows, the artist considers natural hair growth patterns; for lips, existing shape and fullness are assessed.
2. Color Selection
The right pigment is chosen based on:
• Skin Undertone: Warm, cool, or neutral undertones affect how pigment heals.
• Natural Hair or Lip Color: The goal is to enhance, not overpower, natural features.
• Pigment Fading Over Time: Lighter pigments fade faster, while darker shades last longer.
• Client’s Desired Look: Some prefer subtle, natural tones, while others want a more defined, makeup-like effect.
3. Customization & Pre-Draw
• The artist pre-draws the shape and lets the client approve it before beginning.
• Color swatches may be tested on the skin to see how they blend with natural tones.
4. Adjustments Over Time
• Touch-ups (6-8 weeks later) allow for minor refinements in both shape and color.
• Pigments settle over time, so the final healed result is softer than the initial application.
This careful selection process ensures the most flattering, long-lasting results for each individual.
What are acceptable forms of payment?
You can pay the remaining of your service fee in cash the day of your appointment. You can also pay with a credit/debit card or Apple Pay with a 3% fee.
Tipping is optional. It is never expected but always appreciated!