FAQs - permanent makeup

Cosmetic tattooing, also referred to as semi-permanent makeup or micro-pigmentation, 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 and makeup or to enhance the natural features of the face.

A highly-effective, topical anesthetic cream and gel are used for numbing before and during your procedure. Pain threshold levels vary from person to person and every effort is made to ensure you remain comfortable for the entirety of the procedure. Having this service performed during your menstrual cycle may increase discomfort during your procedure. If you are a frequent smoker, the topical anesthetics used during the treatment will not last as long. If you have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, be aware that this may affect your sensitivity tolerance to the procedure.

As a precaution, we do not perform cosmetic tattooing on pregnant or nursing women.

Cosmetic tattoo treatments will not wash off, however, they will fade over time and may need to be refreshed every 1-2 years. 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 2 months after the initial appointment. Additional sessions will be charged according to our current pricing.

For most clients, a minimum of two treatments are usually needed, at least 8 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, do not worry! We can always go darker and add more density at your next appointment.

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 more quickly 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 affect the appearance of 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 fading or change in hue due to your body absorbing the iron.

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 three 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 thinning blood 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 the 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.

Your semi-permanent makeup will appear darker and more intense than expected for the first few days. This will gradually lighten during the complete healing process. Redness and swelling is minimal.