Frequently Asked Questions

What is Semi-permanent Makeup?

 

Semi-permanent make-up, also known as micropigmentation, is a form of temporary cosmetic tattooing that utilizes pharmaceutical grade pigments that are applied with a microblading hand tool and tiny needle or tattoo machine beneath the surface of the skin.  Used to enhance, correct and contour eyes, brows and lips.  This pigment will stay in the skin for a number of years, gradually breaking down and fading over time.

 

Am I a good candidate for Semi-Permanent Makeup?  As long as the procedure area is healthy, non-sensitive and non-irritated, you can receive tattoo services. If you have had previous surgical work or tattoo services in the area before, please send us a photo of your face in GOOD lighting (outdoor is usually best), so we we can see your brows, lips etc prior to scheduling. Send an email to: hdbrowsmicroblading@gmail.com or text 661-282-1606

 

How long will my semi-permanent brows last?

Microbladed eyebrows last 1 to 3 years for most people, before it usually needs a touch up. This can vary depending on the skin type and how you take care of the treated area.

Cosmetic tattooing is designed to fade over time. Factors such as skin type, lifestyle, age, metabolism, medications, and pigment color affect the longevity of the tattoo. The sun and some kinds of lighting (tanning beds) can affect the rate at which these pigments are broken down. To take care of your brows follow the aftercare instructions and touch-up your brows every 12-18 months (as needed). Touch-ups are normal and expected for Permanent Cosmetics.

​

*Please note that final results vary and CANNOT be guaranteed due to the nature of skin as it heals. A follow-up appointment is recommended at 6-8 weeks where we can assess your pigment retention and make any changes necessary.  You must be 18 years old

​

Will cosmetic tattooing completely replace my regular makeup?

 

This completely depends on the individual. Cosmetic tattooing is an enhancement, not a complete replacement for topical makeup. Healed pigment IN the skin will never fully replicate the vibrancy of color that topical makeup produces ON the skin.

 

Many women are accustomed to bolder looks with makeup that cannot be successfully achieved without risking undesirable results. LESS IS MORE! The more your skin is packed with pigment particles, the less control you have over the color as your procedure ages with time. Soft and natural will always win!

 

What is the difference between Powdered Brows & Microblading?

 

• Powder/Ombré Brows is the only semi-permanent makeup service suitable for ALL SKIN TYPES, (even oily skin).

• Powder Brow is done with a machine and is more of a pixilated effect and heals powdery and more a solid “makeup look”

• Microblading Brows mimics more of the hair strokes your brow hairs already have

• Powder/Ombré Brows are great for a more shaded effect. Microblading Brows will give you a more realistic looking hair stroke like eyebrow. 

• The Microblading & Powdered/Ombré Brow technique lasts 1-3 years based on your lifestyle, skin type, UV exposure and after care. 

• Powder/Ombré Brows are great for you as it provides a more shaded effect. Microblading Brows will give you a more realistic looking hair stroke like eyebrow. The Microblading & Powdered/Ombré Brow technique lasts 1-3 years based on your lifestyle, skin type, UV exposure and after care. 

 

DOES IT HURT & What is the Process?

Of course there will be some discomfort.  However, topical anesthetics are used to maximize your comfort during the cosmetic tattooing procedure  But of course, pain tolerance varies from client to client. NOTE:  receiving the procedure during your menstrual cycle may increase your sensitivity as well.  We begin with a topical numbing cream applied and takes approx. 15- 20 minutes to take effect. The tattoo (in most cases) is barely felt at this point.  A secondary numbing agent is used throughout the procedure to attempt maximum comfort.     Most clients describe the pain level as a 0-2 out of 10.  Some even fall asleep.

 

By the end of the procedure, the numbing cream is wearing off and you're feeling a slight sting (sort of like a sunburn), and the skin is irritable and sensitive to touch due to the strokes of the tiny blade, shader or vibration of the machine (depending on service choices) and stretching of the skin to ensure clean, crisp tattoo work. (for me, this is the most uncomfortable part of the whole process the last 10-15 minutes or so). BUT ... we are almost done Just a few finishing touches are usually needed at this point to attain desired results.

 

How long will I take to heal?

 

Everyone is different and healing times vary according to your health. Generally speaking the skin surface will heal in under a week, and the basal layers (underneath layers) of the skin take a little longer. This said, there is no real down time as long as you follow the Post Care ​

 

How long do the results last for?

 

Semi-Permanent Cosmetic Tattoo can last for many years. The actual length of time is variable and depends on factors such as lifestyle, UV/sun exposure, skin type, beauty regimen, the density of color implanted into the skin (softer enhancements do not last as long as strong, bold enhancements). We recommend a touch-up ($100) within 6 weeks of your first session. This will allow us to check healing and ensure the desired color & saturation has been achieved.

 

*Please note that final results CANNOT be guaranteed as everyone retains and breaks down pigment differently.  A follow-up appointment is recommended between 6-8 weeks where we can assess your pigment retention and make any changes necessary.  People with lighter hair, correction work or sparse eyebrows may require more than one follow-up to reach their desired look at an additional cost.

 

How long will the Cosmetic Tattoo take?

 

Most appointments take 2.5-3 hours from start to finish. Typically the longest portion of the appointment is in the "shaping & prepping" part.  A technique called Mapping is used to help find the ideal brow for your face.  This is where we see al the a-symmetries of the brows and work on making the corrective adjustments needed to get as close to symmetrical as possible.  YOU are part of this entire process, step-by-step.   Your brows are drawn on in the manner in which they will be tattooed for your approval before starting the actual service.  Once you have decided the shape suits your desire, we will begin the procedure. 

 

As a REMINDER: Brows are Sisters, NOT Twins!  Its impossible to make them identical as our faces are just NOT symmetrical.  Only 2% of the worlds population has a symmetrical face.

 

Touch-ups: Why do I need one?

 

MICROBLADING BROWS: The touch-up session. Also known as the PERFECTION session is necessary 6 weeks after the initial session as everyone heals differently and outcome will vary. Some areas may not hold pigment as well as others and will need to be refilled. Brow thickness and more strokes can also be added at this time. Clients with oily skin may require a deeper shade during touch-up as oils tend to lighten the pigment. Within 1-2 weeks of your first session the color will fade as much as 30% or more (lighter) in shade and will heal to a more natural look. Your touch-up session is when we refine your brows to ensure it looks perfect and retains the color.

 

POWDER/OMBRÉ BROWS:  are meant to look more soft and natural.  The look is created by tattooing tiny, pixelated dots on the skin in layers.  This is what creates the "powdery" effect.  Based on how many passes, color choice, preferred  style and how the individual clients skin heals and retains pigment, there may be areas of the tattoo that are slightly lighter/darker than others.  Within 1-2 weeks of your first session the color will fade as much as 30% or more (lighter) in shade and will heal to a more natural makeup look.

 

This is where a "TOUCH-UP" comes in.  After your brows have fully healed (at least 6 weeks from your initial  appointment), a touch-up is where you can decide if you want to make minor color or shape changes.  Other than your initial 6-12 week touch-up, the beauty about Powder Brows is that you can go without a touch up for quite some time. Typically, 1-3 years.   (I personally like mine done every 12-18 months because I prefer a bit of a bolder color so I don't have to add any makeup at all to them, and because I have super oily skin which does break down pigment faster than those who do not).

 

Can I workout or swim after my procedure? NO

 

We recommend that you avoid sport on the day of the procedure, and avoid swimming (fresh or salt water), saunas and steam rooms for at least 7 days or until the skin has fully healed as this could cause infection and the tattoo to fade! 

 

What factors will affect my cosmetic tattoo?

 

Bleeding during the procedure: Excessive bleeding during your appointment will greatly affect how your body retains pigment. It actually will push pigment out of the skin while trying to apply the tattoo.  And, while this is not entirely in our control, it is important that you follow prep instructions to help minimize bleeding.  This includes avoiding blood thinning medications, alcohol and caffeine before your procedure.

 

• Smoking: Smokers may notice that their tattoo will fade faster

• Anemia/iron deficiency: Your body will absorb these iron based pigments more quickly.

• Sun exposure: Increased exposure to the sun will cause premature fading.

• Color of pigment: Lighter colors fade more quickly than darker colors.

• Strong immune systems

• Exfoliants & resurfacing agents (glycolic, salicylic, aha etc).

• Oily skin 

 

**   As with every tattoo, we recommend avoiding pools, salt water, and extreme sun exposure for at least 2-weeks following your appointment, so make vacation plans accordingly!

**   Please make sure you are healthy enough to be tattooed before scheduling an appointment! 

​

​