WHAT IS COSMETIC TATTOOING?
Cosmetic tattooing, commonly known as semi-permanent makeup or micropigmentation, involves implanting colored pigment beneath the skin's surface using tiny, sterile, disposable needles. This technique creates the illusion of hair strokes, enhances makeup, or accentuates the natural features of the face.
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WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COSMETIC TATTOOING AND STANDARD BODY TATTOOING?
Cosmetic tattooing aims to enhance a client’s natural features. This technique is softer and more subtle, providing a natural-looking enhancement. In contrast to body tattoos that use ink, cosmetic tattoo procedures utilize pigments specifically formulated to gradually fade over time. This fading is intentional, allowing the artist to adjust color and shape as the client’s natural pigmentation and facial features evolve over the years.
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IS THE STUDIO AND EQUIPMENT SAFE?
Without a doubt! We take great pride in maintaining a pristine and sterile studio environment. We exclusively utilize single-use, disposable needles and supplies, ensuring that every setup for each new client is safely discarded afterward. Each of our stations is meticulously disinfected prior to opening and after every procedure throughout the day.
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DOES COSMETIC TATTOOING HURT?
A highly effective topical anesthetic cream and gel are applied for numbing before and throughout your procedure. Pain thresholds differ from person to person, and we strive to keep you comfortable during the entire process. It’s important to note that undergoing this service during your menstrual cycle may heighten discomfort. Additionally, if you are a regular smoker, the effects of the topical anesthetics may not last as long. Those diagnosed with Fibromyalgia should also be aware that this condition may influence your sensitivity to the procedure.
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HOW LONG DOES COSMETIC TATTOOING LAST?
Cosmetic tattoo treatments are designed to be long-lasting, but they will gradually fade and may require touch-ups every 1-2 years. The frequency of these refresh sessions is influenced by several factors, including:
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The pigment color used (lighter shades tend to fade more quickly)
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Lifestyle choices (such as sun exposure)
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Exposure to chemical peels in treated areas.
Please understand that we cannot guarantee final results, as each individual's skin type holds and breaks down pigments differently. During your second session, we will assess how your skin has responded to the pigment and adjust as needed. It’s common for cosmetic tattoo procedures to involve multiple sessions, with a minimum of two visits required for each new procedure. Your second session can be scheduled no sooner than two months after the first appointment, and any additional sessions will be billed according to our current pricing.
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HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE NEEDED?
Typically, clients need a minimum of two treatments spaced at least eight weeks apart. After the first week, the color often appears significantly lighter. Some clients appreciate this effect, while others prefer a more vibrant look. During the second session, we will evaluate color retention and make any necessary adjustments. Keep in mind that everyone's healing process varies in pace and outcome. If your cosmetic tattoo doesn’t heal perfectly after the initial session, there’s no need to be concerned! We can always deepen the color and increase density at your follow-up appointment.
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WILL COSMETIC TATTOOING BE SUITABLE FOR ME?
If you have very oily skin, the hair stroke eyebrow technique may not yield the best results. The continuous oil production can cause hairstrokes to heal with a softer, diffused appearance, leading to a more powdered look than anticipated.
If you have minimal to no existing hair, your tattoo may appear more two-dimensional compared to clients with naturally fuller brows.
Frequent smokers may notice that their pigment fades more quickly.
If you suffer from iron deficiency or anemia, you might experience faster fading of pigment, along with possible bleeding or bruising during and after the procedure.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have previously tattooed eyebrows, we cannot guarantee outcomes in such cases. If the prior work is too dark, dense, discolored, or larger than desired, we will likely recommend tattoo removal before proceeding with our services. Previously tattooed areas often require additional sessions, which will incur extra charges. Special cases may be assessed individually. Kindly send us photos BEFORE booking so we can determine if your brows are suitable for work at this time. Not doing so may result in the loss of your deposit. Please reach out with any additional questions.
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WHAT FACTORS WILL IMPACT MY COSMETIC TATTOO?
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Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can significantly lighten your tattoo's appearance, so it’s essential to use sunblock (once healed) to maintain your enhancement.
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Skin Cell Regeneration: The duration of skin cell regeneration affects how long the pigment will last; the longer the process, the longer the pigment remains.
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Pigment Absorption Rate: The slower the skin absorbs the pigment, the longer it will hold.
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Color Choice: Some colors tend to fade more quickly than others. For instance, blonde shades fade faster than dark brown ones.
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Treatment Area: Tattoos on the face tend to fade more rapidly due to constant exposure.
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Bleeding During Procedure: Any bleeding that occurs during the tattooing process can decrease pigment absorption. Avoid alcohol and certain medications that act as blood thinners before and after your appointment.
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Aftercare: Neglecting proper aftercare during the first two weeks of healing can lead to less-than-ideal outcomes. For example, sweating during the healing process can impact the final look of the hairstrokes.
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Iron Deficiency: If you suffer from anemia or low iron levels, this could influence how your body reacts to the pigment. The pigment contains iron oxide, which may cause hairstrokes to fade or alter in color due to your body absorbing the iron.
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WILL MY SKINCARE IMPACT MY TATTOO?
Using chemical exfoliants and anti-aging products like retinol, glycolic acid, and lactic acid can gradually lighten your cosmetic tattoo with ongoing application. This occurs because these products increase skin cell turnover and accelerate exfoliation in the area. We advise stopping the use of these products at least 3-4 weeks prior to getting a cosmetic tattoo. Additionally, for optimal long-term results, it's best to refrain from applying these products directly on the tattooed area once your cosmetic tattoo has healed.
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WHAT SHOULD I DO BEFORE MY PROCEDURE?
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If you have a specific shape and color in mind, bring a few reference photos to your appointment.
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Feel free to fill in your eyebrows as you normally do so we can consider the desired shape.
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If you typically shape, wax, thread, or tint your eyebrows, please do so at least three days prior to your appointment. Any stray hairs outside the final shape can be removed during the procedure.
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If you’re planning a vacation, schedule it at least 14 days after your procedure.
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Clients must refrain from taking any blood-thinning medications for at least 72 hours before their appointment. This includes Vitamin E, Aspirin, Niacin, fish oil supplements, and Ibuprofen.
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Avoid alcohol the night before and on the day of your appointment, and limit your caffeine intake.
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If you've been on prescription Accutane in the past, you must wait at least one year before considering this procedure.
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It is highly advisable to steer clear of sun exposure and tanning beds for 30 days before and after your appointment.
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Arriving with a new tan or sunburn will require you to reschedule, and you will lose your deposit. As the skin heals from a sunburn, it will take the pigment with it.
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HOW WILL I LOOK RIGHT AFTER MY PROCEDURE?
Following your semi-permanent makeup procedure, the results will initially appear darker and more vibrant than anticipated for the first few days. This color will gradually soften throughout the healing process. Any redness and swelling will be minimal. Be sure to check our comprehensive aftercare instructions.
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WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT LONG-TERM AFTERCARE?
It's essential to apply a good sunscreen daily after healing to maintain the true color of your tattoo. Remember, just like any tattoo, exposure to sunlight can cause the color to fade more quickly.
The rate of fading varies based on several factors, including:
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Skin type
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Lifestyle
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Sun exposure
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The pigment color used
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Presence of broken capillaries
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Any chemical peels performed after your procedure
If you plan to undergo a chemical peel, laser treatment, or any other medical procedure, be sure to inform the technician about your cosmetic tattoo. It's crucial to handle the tattooed area with extra care to avoid any adverse effects.
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