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FREQUENTLY

ASKED

QUESTIONS

What is Permanent Makeup?


Permanent makeup (also known as cosmetic tattooing or PMU) is a technique that uses pigments and specialized tools to enhance facial features by mimicking the look of makeup. Common services include eyebrows, lips, and more!


Unlike traditional tattoos, PMU pigments are designed to fade gradually over time, allowing adjustments as your face and style change.


Results typically last 1–3 years, depending on skin type, lifestyle, and aftercare.


The goal of permanent makeup is to create natural-looking enhancements that save time, boost confidence, and provide long-lasting definition—all while keeping your features soft and balanced.

Am I a good candidate for permanent makeup?

Most people are great candidates for permanent makeup, but there are a few important exceptions. You should not book if you are:


  1. Pregnant or breastfeeding
  2. Currently taking Accutane or undergoing chemotherapy
  3. Prone to keloid scarring
  4. Experiencing active breakouts, infections, or open wounds in the treatment area


If you’ve ever had a cold sore, you must take an antiviral (such as Valtrex) starting 48 hours before a Lip Blush appointment to prevent a flare-up during healing.

If you have certain medical conditions—such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, blood clotting issues, or heart conditions—you may still be eligible, but a doctor’s note or written clearance may be required before we proceed.

Your safety is always the priority. When in doubt, reach out first or consult with your healthcare provider to ensure this service is appropriate for you.


How do I know which service is right for me?

You don’t need to have it all figured out before booking—that’s exactly what the consultation is for.

Whether you're choosing between Microblading, Powder, Combo Brows, or Lip Blush, we’ll walk through your goals, natural features, skin type, and lifestyle to find the best fit.


During your appointment, I’ll assess your skin and facial structure, talk through what you’re hoping to achieve, and recommend the technique that will give you the most natural and long-lasting results.

Every case is unique, and I’m happy to consult with you beforehand if you’re unsure. Just reach out—we’ll talk it through together and find the right path for you.

What’s the difference between Microblading, Powder, and Combo Brows?


  1. Microblading: Hair-like strokes for a very natural, soft look
  2. Powder Brows: A soft-shaded, filled-in look — like powder makeup
  3. Combo Brows: The best of both — hair strokes + shading for more depth

We’ll talk through which technique is best for your skin type, lifestyle, and goals during your consultation..

What is Lip Blush?

Lip Blush is a form of cosmetic tattooing designed to enhance the natural shape, color, and definition of your lips.


Using a specialized machine and ultra-fine needles, pigment is deposited into the top layers of the skin to create a soft, sheer tint that heals to look like a natural flush—not a heavy lipstick.


The goal is to even out tone, correct asymmetry, and give the lips a fuller, more youthful appearance without changing their structure.


It’s perfect for restoring faded color, defining the border, and creating a polished look that lasts 1.5 to 3 years.

Think of it as your lips—but better.

Permanent Makeup Comparison Guide

Microblading - Powder Brows - Combo Brows - Lip Blush


Look/StyleHair-like strokes for a natural lookSoft, filled-in makeup lookNatural hair strokes + soft shadingTinted, even lips with soft definition
Best ForDry/normal skin with sparse natural hairOily, mature, or textured skinMost skin types, clients who want more dimensionClients with uneven tone, dull lips, or fading color       
Skin Type SuitabilityNot ideal for oily or textured skinGreat for all skin typesFlexible for all skin typesWorks for most; cool/dark lips may need neutralizing.
Longevity1–2 years1.5–3 years1.5–3 years 1.5–3 years
Healing Time7–14 days7–14 days7–14 days5–10 days (with full results in 4–6 weeks)
Touch-Up Needed?Yes, after 6–8 weeksYes, after 6–8 weeksYes, after 6–8 weeksYes, after 6–8 weeks
MaintenanceMore frequent for oily skinLower maintenanceModerate maintenanceTouch-up every 12–18 months to maintain color
Pain LevelMild (numbing used)Very mild (numbing used)Mild (numbing used)Slightly more sensitive area, but numbed throughout       
GoalRealistic, fuller-looking browsSoftly defined, filled-in shapeNatural + polished brow definitionRestore shape, color, and youthful tint to lips


Does it hurt?


Discomfort is very minimal!


Most clients describe the sensation as mild scratching or light pressure. A strong topical numbing cream is applied before and during your session to ensure your comfort

.

*The lips are more sensitive than other areas (like brows), so some clients may feel slightly more discomfort—but it’s still very manageable.


How long does it last?

Results typically last 1–3 years depending on your skin type, how well you follow aftercare, and when you come in for maintenance. Oily skin types may need more frequent touch-ups.

What is the after care?


You’ll be given detailed aftercare instructions, but in general:


  1. Keep brows/lips clean and moisturized for the first 7-10 days
  2. Avoid sweating, makeup, and sun exposure
  3. Don’t pick at scabs or flakes
  4. Apply healing balm as directed
  5. Touch-ups perfect the shape and color once healing is complete.


How do I prep my lips?


Proper prep is key to beautiful, even results. Here’s how to get your lips ready:


7 Days Before:

  1. Avoid sunburn or chapped lips—keep lips moisturized with a healing balm.
  2. If you’re prone to cold sores, begin taking an antiviral 48 hours before your appointment (Valtrex or acyclovir recommended).

3–5 Days Before:

  1. Gently exfoliate lips with a sugar scrub or damp washcloth to remove dry skin.
  2. Stay hydrated—drink plenty of water to keep lips plump and smooth.

24–48 Hours Before:

  1. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil (all can thin the blood).
  2. Do not get lip fillers within 4 weeks of your appointment.

Day Of Appointment:

  1. Come with clean, makeup-free lips.
  2. Bring your antiviral prescription if applicable.
  3. Eat a light meal beforehand—don’t arrive on an empty stomach.


How do I prep my brows?

Good prep = better healed results and smoother application. Here’s what to do before your session:


1-2 Weeks Before:

  1. Avoid sunburn or excessive sun exposure on your face.
  2. Skip chemical peels, facials, or retinol in the brow area.
  3. Stop using growth serums like Latisse or GrandeBROW in the brow area.
  4. Avoid waxing, tinting, or threading—we’ll shape your brows at your appointment.
  5. Let your natural brow growth come in so we can map with accuracy.

24–48 Hours Before:

  1. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, aspirin, ibuprofen, and fish oil. These thin the blood and can cause excess bleeding.
  2. No intense workouts or sweating.

Day Of Appointment:

  1. Come with clean, makeup-free skin.
  2. Skip heavy lotions, oils, or sunscreen on your brow area.
  3. Eat a light meal beforehand and stay hydrated.


What to Expect: Healing Timeline for Brows & Lips


Each person's healing process is a little different, but here’s a general overview of what you can expect after your PMU session:


Days 1–2:

  1. Color will appear bold, dark, and more intense than expected — this is normal.
  2. Swelling may occur (especially for lips).


Days 3–5:

  1. Flaking or light scabbing begins.
  2. Do not pick — let the skin shed naturally.


Days 6–10:

  1. Color may look patchy or too light — this is a normal part of the fading cycle.
  2. Trust the process! Pigment will resurface gradually.


Weeks 2–4:

  1. Skin continues to heal beneath the surface.
  2. Final color begins to settle, but may still shift slightly.


Weeks 6–8:

  1. Time for your touch-up! This is where we assess how your skin retains pigment and make any necessary adjustments to shape, saturation, or tone.



⚠️ Important Reminder:


Permanent makeup is not an exact science—

Results depend on many factors outside the artist’s control, including:

  1. Skin type (oily, dry, textured, mature)
  2. Skin health and immune response
  3. Medications, hormones, and lifestyle
  4. Aftercare compliance
  5. Pigment retention over time


That said, permanent makeup is a collaborative process between artist and skin.

Because each person's skin responds differently to pigment, and healing is influenced by many factors (like skin type, health, and aftercare), results may vary from client to client.

While I can’t guarantee exact healed results, what I can promise is honest guidance, professional expertise, and a thoughtful approach to helping you get the best outcome possible.

Your included touch-up session is built in to fine-tune the work once your skin has healed.

You’re in skilled, caring hands—and I’ll walk with you through every step of the journey.

What if I dont like my results?

Your satisfaction is incredibly important to me — not just with the final result, but with the entire experience.

That’s why I take time to map your features carefully, choose pigments thoughtfully, and ensure you're fully involved in the design process before anything is done.


That being said, permanent makeup is a healing art—not an exact science. Skin can heal unpredictably, and results may vary based on factors like skin type, health, lifestyle, and how closely aftercare is followed. While most clients heal beautifully, it's possible to experience slight color loss, asymmetry, or other minor imperfections that may need adjusting.


If you're unsure or unhappy with how your results are healing, I ask that you communicate with me openly.

I must have the opportunity to assess your skin, understand your concerns, and make any necessary refinements at your touch-up session. Often, small adjustments make a big difference—and I’m here to support you through that process.


I’m proud of the quality and care I put into every service, and I deeply value the trust you place in me. You can expect professionalism, honesty, and ongoing support from start to finish.