Frequently Asked Questions
What is microblading, powder, and combination eyebrow tattooing?
Microblading is a form of manual tattooing, done with a hand tool to create crisp, hair-like cuts into the skin that are so delicate and thin, that they resemble the appearance of actual eyebrow hair. This is the most natural style of eyebrow tattooing, however, it is not suitable for all skin types. If you have oily skin, large pores, tan frequently, or have overall damaged skin, microblading is not the best option for you. Touch-ups are most frequent with microblading.
Powder Brows is an eyebrow tattoo done with a tattoo machine, that has a more opaque appearance to it. The tattoo does not have any hairstrokes and resembles makeup. The intensity of the color is customizable- meaning it does not have to be a heavily saturated, solid brow. It can be very airy and soft, depending on the desired look. This option is great for all skin types and those who want the least frequent amount of maintenance.
Combination Brows is an eyebrow tattoo that involves both microblading hair strokes and powder brow shading. The application of this typically involves hair strokes throughout just the front of the brow, or the front and upper portion of the brow. This is the most common method of eyebrow tattooing I do. It is suitable for most skin types, however, the microblading hair strokes usually fade faster than the powder portion of the brow.
Who cannot receive cosmetic tattooing?
I will under no circumstances perform permanent cosmetics on
Anyone under 18 years of age (Consider a brow tint instead!)
Pregnant women(Consider a brow tint instead!)
Those with sexually transmitted diseases
Those with any blood borne pathogens
Anyone on the prescription Retin-A
Anyone with previous permanent makeup who has not contacted me prior to booking their appointment
Anyone who has has taken Accutane and has not been off it for a minimum of 1 year
If you have a sunburn or have been sun bathing within the past 2 weeks prior to your appointment
For permanent eyeliner, anyone who has had recent eyelid surgery
For permanent eyeliner, anyone who has been on a lash growth serum such as Latisse and has not been off it for at least a year
Those who are on active chemotherapy
A doctors note is required for post chemotherapy patients
Anyone with a bleeding disorder
If you take a daily aspirin or blood thinning medication, a doctors note is required prior to getting permanent makeup
Does permanent makeup hurt?
Everyone’s pain tolerance is subjective, however, for both eyebrow tattooing and permanent eyeliner, I use a topical pre-numbing cream(Lidocaine) and I use a secondary numbing(Tetracaine, Epinephrine, Lidocaine). If you are someone who does not typically numb at the dentist or are someone who in general does not respond well to anesthetics, the numbing cream may not be effective for you. Most clients find the procedures to be minimally painful, and I have had some even fall asleep.
How long does the procedure take?
Eyebrow tattooing takes around 2-3 hours per session
Permanent eyeliner takes around 2 hours
How long does permanent makeup last?
Microblading typically requires maintenance every 9-15 months.
Combination and powder brows typically require maintenance every 1-2 years.
Permanent Eyeliner typically requires touchups every 2-5 years.
Before coming in for your maintenance session, you want your brows to be at least 50% faded. The reason for this is because we want to be able to freshen up your brows with minimal risk of scarring, and not oversaturate the skin with pigment.
*Longevity of your permanent cosmetics depends on individual’s skin, proper aftercare, and other varying factors. Clients should limit chemical peels, sun exposure without SPF and the use of retinols. Retin-A should not be used.
Is there anything special I should do prior to my appointment?
For eyebrows refrain from waxing and plucking any unwanted hair for a minimum of 4 days prior to your appointment. This allows me to see the natural hair growth pattern. I will groom away any wanted hair with a brow razor.
Just like with a body tattoo, it is best to refrain from alcohol consumption for at least 24hours prior to your appointment due to its blood thinning properties.
For permanent eyeliner, refrain from wearing contact lenses to your appointment. You will not be able to wear them for 24 hours.