FAQ
What is microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent makeup method; the technique is a feathering of hair-like strokes directly on the skin’s surface that creates natural-looking eyebrows. Microblading creates the background and fills in the areas of the brow that are either empty or sparse so that a full and complete brow is accomplished. Unlike a traditional eyebrow tattoo, Microblading does not leave a flat, dull and fake look that tattoos leave behind. The Microblading method can fill in sparse brows or create an entire brow, which makes it the perfect procedure for both Men and Women. Microblading is not recommended for people with an oily skin type or whom have had previous work done by another artist.
What is the Hybrid Brow?
This style of brow combines the microblading and ombre style all in one. It is a combination of microblading beginning at the head which blends into shading throughout the body and tail. Perfect for those who are looking for a super natural, yet more bold style of brows, "the makeup look". The Hybrid Brow is also recommended for people with oily skin and whom have had previous work done by another artist.
Does it hurt?
There are mixed reviews on pain. Everyone has a different level of sensitivity so if needed, topical anesthetics can be applied before treatment to alleviate any sensation or discomfort. During the treatment, numbing cream will be applied no matter what at the second pass through. Some clients naturally feel one brow is more sensitive than the other. You will hear a scratching noise/ sensation throughout the treatment. Music is usually played during the procedure, however feel free to bring your own head phones for music to distract you.
Is it safe?
Absolutely. Sterilized, disposable needles and supplies are used during the process.
Will I be swollen?
You won't be swollen, you may just have slightly red skin around the brows, but this will last no more than 1 hour or so.
Will I need a touch-up?
Yes. After you have completed the peeling process of your first treatment the color will fade significantly and over the next four to six weeks can continue to fade as much as 50%. This is considered an extremely positive occurrence as it allows you time to reflect on your shape and color. After this period your follow-up appointment is carried out. At this point any changes you would like to make are discussed.
How often do I need a touch up?
In order to keep your eyebrow tattoo results looking fresh, a touch up every year is recommended.
How long does it last?
It will last as long as it’s maintained. Untouched, the ink will last up to 4 years.
Why do I need a touch up if this is semi-permanent?
Because color is implanted in the facial area where there tends to be more fluid circulation than other parts of the body. Your face sees the most wear of any piece of you—exposure to the sun, food, facial products—the list goes on and on. All of these things cause permanent color to fade, which is why you will need a touch up.
How long does it take?
The procedure takes roughly about two - three hours. Please allow a solid 3-hour window for your appointment. I likely won’t need that much time, but this isn’t something I want to rush.
Do I need to take a day off work?
No. There’s no downtime associated with the treatment. Redness and swelling will dissipate within an hour after. Your brows will appear darker initially, but not so dark that you will be prevented from your activities of daily living.
How long does it take to heal?
Healing time varies from individual to individual. Usually, it takes about a week to ten days for the epithelial crust to form and slough off. Your skin will be considered healed after that happens. Then, the pigment takes some time to settle into the skin. A good month should pass before I consider the process complete.
What’s the process like?
The eyebrow tattoo is a two-step treatment, consisting of an initial procedure and then a touch up between 4 to 6 weeks after. After taking your before photo, I will draw the brow design in pencil so you get an idea of shape and form. (Please note that nobody’s face is totally symmetrical and you need to be realistic with your expectations. There is no point in trying to make the eyebrows identical or match a photo of your favorite celebrities' eyebrows if your face shape looks nothing like theirs.). Once we have agreed on a final shape (ultimately it is your decision – but I will always voice my opinion on what I think suits you aesthetically), I will shape your eyebrows then we will decide on the color. Shortly after that, a topical anesthetic may be administered to ensure comfort. Once you’re numb, the pigment is deposited. During healing, it's normal to experience some pigment loss; this is why we have the touch up in place.
What can’t I do after the procedure?
You are advised to keep the skin clean and dry - that means no swimming, sweating or otherwise getting the area wet; no tanning or prolonged sun exposure; no picking, peeling, scratching or rubbing the tattoo, this may result in a loss of color and scarring. You can still wash your hair and face and once they’re healed, you treat them as your own.
How do I extend the life of the procedure?
Your beautiful eyebrows will last longer if you apply sun block often and avoid abrasive facial treatments in the brow area.
How many colors do you have?
Of the 9 main colors I use, I can blend several to achieve even more shades to suit the client. ALL clients who have had the procedure done will be conscious they have brows that are very obvious, however please bear in mind, the skin has been broken to allow the pigment settle, and healing has yet to take place. This is why I ask you to bring your eyebrow pencil (if you use one) with you at appointment - so I can match the pigment to the desired HEALED RESULT, which emerges after the crusts naturally fall off and the skin gently exfoliates naturally itself to reveal the new brow. Clients who are used to having no brows for a long time, can find this few weeks challenging. I usually advise clients who have no brows to start wearing pencil or brow shading for some time before the process so they get used to having a brow!
I already have permanent makeup and want to change the shape. Can you help?
Yes, changes to your old design can be made but with that being said there are a ton of variables at hand. If you have previous work done by another artist this will result in an in person consultation that is an additional fee in order to move forward with an appointment.
Do you have to shave off my own eyebrow hair?
No. Every attempt is made to retain all natural hair and integrate it into the design of the permanent eyebrows. In some cases, where shaping of the natural brow is required, a few hairs here and there may need to be removed to create a clean and aesthetically pleasing result.
I have heard some clients just do not retain pigment even after a few visits. Could this happen?
Yes, it does happen and yes it's true! A third appointment is often set up in this case so the client has the opportunity to return and I get the chance to review the work and sort out any (if any) tweaks that might need to be done. Often times the clients cancel this apt as all is usually well, however there are the occasional few that may need a few extra strokes to finish off the look. Some ladies skin may react to the trauma of the tattooing, and the skin may try to push out the foreign body of pigment by producing an extreme scab, so they eventually fall off taking all the pigment with it. There is a condition called Pigment Allergy (PPD Allergy, a condition known by dermatologists) or Auto Immune disease symptoms (the client may not even be aware of it). The skin would have over reacted and become super sensitive to the pigment and reject it at any cost.
Can you guarantee your work?
Unfortunately, I cannot. How the skin will react is different for everyone and many factors are to be taken into consideration. Skin type, age, scarring, diet, stress levels, facial products used, etc. all play a key role in how the pigment will hold, which is why it is important to know that more than one touch up may be required. I can guarantee that your face is important to me and that I will act in accordance with my experience and expertise to give you my absolute best. I can guarantee that I will strive to make you gratified and content every time. But there are no guarantees in this industry. Please think long and hard before you decide to go for it.
What if I don’t like it?
Although Microblading is considered to be semi-permanent, the procedure does allow flexibility for color or shape change to some extent. However, I will work closely with you to ensure that you are satisfied with the proposed technique. I will allow you to have as much control over the procedure as possible, so there’s very little room for error. If you do not like the decision you made, the Touch Up can be cancelled and the pigmented area naturally fades away over time. If you aren’t 100% sure you would benefit from this procedure, please opt for a more temporary option.
