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What You Need to Know BEFORE you Schedule!

Tattoo Machine

A L L E R G I E S ?? If you are allergic to LIDOCAINE or Epinephrine, we cannot perform any Cosmetic Tattoo services on you, as these are the types on numbing agents we use.


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 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: BrowBaeby@gmail.com. If you have received Micro-blading in the past, unfortunately, we cannot work on your brows.

 

What is the difference between Powdered Brows & Microblading?

Powder Brows is the only semi-permanent makeup service suitable for ALL SKIN TYPES, (even oily skin).  The "ideal candidate" for Micro-Blading is only about 30% of those wanting a brow tattoo service. It is not recommended for mature skin types or people with oily skin. Over time, those "hair-like" strokes will fade or bleed together and end up looking like a semi-powder brow anyway.  In my personal opinion, I believe that Microblading is more harsh and its just not suited for everyone.  They will fade faster than Powder, take longer to heal and can cause micro-scarring due to the trauma of cutting into the skin.  They will also (over time) appear more "ashy" in color (blue/gray), which is harder to color correct later, if at all.  

If you happen to have little to no hair, Powder Brows are great for you as it provides a more shaded effect and will give you a more realistic looking eyebrow. Powder Brows are also great for people with hair as well, especially if you’re looking to add more dimensions and shape.

 

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

DOES IT HURT & what is the process?

Its a tattoo!  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 (without numbing) with an outline of the desired shape with the tattoo machine to open the skin. A topical numbing cream is applied and takes approx. 20-25 minutes to take effect. The tattoo (in most cases) is barely felt at this point.  Additional numbing agents are used throughout the procedure to attempt maximum comfort.

 

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 vibration of the machine 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 do the results last for?

Semi-Permanent Cosmetic procedures 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 3 months 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 and a follow-up appointment is recommended at between 6-12 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.

 

Touch-ups:  Why do I need one?

POWDER 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 a week of your first treatment 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.   

 

 

LIP BLUSH:  Is a 2+ step process.  Lips heal very quickly and change color dramatically from your initial session to the "healed" results.  They will lighten about 50% once fully healed vs what they look like when you've finished your first session.  And they change again and again over 4-6 weeks as they continue to fully heal.  Trust the process!  Lip Blush typically lasts 2-3+ years. 

We recommend an Annual Refresh (done within 2 years of your 1st session, at a discounted 50% off the current rates, for our CURRENT CLIENTS who have received tattoo work by me).  A great way to keep your cosmetic tattoo work crisp.
 

Can I workout or swim after my procedure?

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!

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 Instructions.
 

How long will the procedure take?

Most procedures take about 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 or lip shape for your face. This is where we see all the non-symmetrical parts of the face and brow shape and use skilled methods of corrective tattoo'ing to create as close to symmetry as possible.  REMINDER: Brows are Sisters, NOT Twins!  

Your brows/lips are drawn on in the manner in which they will be tattooed for your approval before starting the actual tattoo. Once you have decided the shape suits your desire, we will begin the procedure.

 

What is Lip Blush?
Will it look like lipstick?  NO.  It does not replace your lipstick.  It will however give your lips a natural, opaque and blushing of color (similar to a tinted chapstick).  Like "blush" on your cheeks, Lip Blush will add a tint of color and gently accentuate the shape and color of your lips.  You can still apply lipstick or any other lip product over your lip blush tattoo.  If you want a wake up with make-up look that doesn't "look" like you have makeup on, this is what this service provides.

 

As we lose collagen and elasticity in our skin, the natural color in our lips, starts to break down and we lose our shape.  Making our lips appear smaller and dull in color.  Not only are you able to add color, but we can also help to camouflage minor asymmetries, scarring or hyperpigmentation. 

We cannot tattoo outside of the lip tissue, so blushing will not change your lip size, but WILL create the appearance of fuller looking lips.  Lip Blush typically lasts 2-3+ years.

 

 

How Long Does Lip Blushing Last?

Results will vary from person to person, but on average, can last anywhere from 2-3+ years.  Each year you will see the color get lighter until it disappears.  It will gently fade out exposing the color of your own lips.  It is recommended to do a touch-up within 6-months of your initial session.   This is due to your body wanting to push out pigment in the healing process.  Because lip tissue regenerates so quickly, an "Annual Refresh" is recommended every few years or as desired for maintenance.

Is Lip Blushing Painful?

Of course pain level is different for everyone, and come on, its a tattoo (lol).  Some are more sensitive than others and especially so if you do not follow the pre-care rules.  The process feels like having a sunburn that you keep touching.  Its uncomfortable, but tolerable for most people.  

We can use a Lidocaine numbing cream to help with any discomfort if requested, but I personally would recommend against it (if you can tolerate without).  Topical anesthetics make it very difficult to apply color evenly as the skin will appear completely white and/or splotchy.  This effect can take a few hours to go away, making it impossible to know if the pigment is even at the end of your service.  So, IF you can tolerate it, I would suggest NO topical numbing cream for lips.  If you choose to go with a topical, just be sure to schedule a touch-up appointment before you leave so we already have it on the books to make any adjustments to the Blushing if needed.  

 

When it comes to picking out a color ...

Bring in your favorite lipstick or a photo of another HEALED lip blush tattoo you like for reference.  We will then custom create a color just for you to come as close to replicating it as possible.  

 

If you're still unsure about color, we can help guide you in color options that best fit your complexion, lifestyle and shape.  My suggestion is to go with a lighter color that will heal most naturally, and then later you can bump up the color a shade or two if you choose to do a second session.

What Should I Expect After Getting Lip Blushing?

For me personally, I had light swelling (which is typical), but again, everyone reacts differently.  Some don't swell at all and others can look as if they just stepped out of the plastic surgeon's office with fresh lip injections.  In my experience, the swelling and numbness completely fade within a few to several hours.  

Immediately after your appointment, your lips will appear super bright and stained, but don’t panic!  This color will fade up to 50% once fully healed.  After 7 days, your skin will be healed and you will notice a light, milky color.   

As your lips heal throughout the next seven days, you'll want to coat them with a thin layer of Aquaphor, avoid eating or drinking spicy, citrusy, or salty foods, and it's also best to wait at least four days before working out again to preserve the ink.  As you work your way through the healing process, by day three or four, your lips will become dry and start the shedding phase. The biggest thing to remember is not to pick or bite your lips. As tempting as it is, you have to let your skin shed and flake off on its own — otherwise, you could lose your color.  After 30 days, your color will be completely developed, and you'll see your final results.

I have suffered with cold sores in the past, will this effect my Lip Blush?

If you're someone who has EVER had a cold sores, it is recommended to take an antiviral medication prescribed by your doctor (like Valtrex, Aciclovir) at least 3-5days before and at least 3-5days after your lip blush.  This procedure can cause the dormant virus to come out, so it is important to ** Contact your doctor BEFORE scheduling your procedure to ensure you have the appropriate prophylactic medications on hand to start antiviral therapy accordingly. **
 

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 factors will affect my cosmetic tattoo?

Bleeding during the procedure: Excessive bleeding during your procedure 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, salcylic, aha etc).

  • Oily skin   


                                                                           

Cosmetic Tattooing is NOT RECOMMENDED for any clients who are or have:

  • Pregnant or nursing

  • History of Keloids or Hypertrophic scarring Diabetic (require doctor’s note) 

  • Chemotherapy (consult your doctor) 

  • Viral infections and/or diseases 

  • Epilepsy, Pacemaker or major heart problems 

  • Organ transplant or Skin irritations 

  • Psoriasis near the treated area 

  • Flushed/red skin, Rosacea, Eczema, Dermatitis, acne in your brows, sun damaged skin sunburn etc.

  • Sick (cold, flu, etc.) 

  • Accutane in the past year 

  • Botox 2 weeks before and after appointment

  • Heart conditions, Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure, Poor general health. 

  • Any treatment, medication, or illness that compromises the immune system is likely to interfere with healing, making you NOT
    a good candidate for cosmetic tattoo procedures.

  • All clients must be 18+ for any tattoo service w/a valid photo ID                   

 

How can I book an appointment?

 

Scheduling & Salon POLICY:

  • A NON-REFUNDABLE RESERVATION FEE of $100 is required when booking a new appointment. This fee will be applied to your balance the day of your appointment. The remaining balance can be paid in CASH, VENMO or credit card on the appointment day.

  • Once the deposit is paid, your appointment date will be secured.

  • Fees are NON-REFUNDABLE. Cancelling your appointment for any reason will result in losing your fee amount. Please be sure you are serious before booking.

  • PLEASE BRING PHOTO I.D. It is required by State Law at time of the appointment.

  • NO GUESTS OR CHILDREN are allowed.  To maintain Safety & Sanitation precautions, they will not be allowed in the treatment room. Only the person receiving the tattoo is permitted inside. No exceptions.

  • PLEASE BE ON TIME! 10+ minute late arrival will result in loss of fee and a rescheduled appointment.

  • 72 hours notice (3 business days) is required to cancel and reschedule appointments.  (*Business days are Monday-Saturday, CLOSED Sundays).

  • There is never any guarantee working on delicate facial skin as everybody heals differently. Results may vary depending on the individuals: skin type, skin health, lifestyle, medications, general health and skin care products used. Please understand this before booking.

  • Prices are subject to change without notice.

  • We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone.

 

CLICK ON THE LINKs below for Pre & Post Care Instructions for your Cosmetic Tattoo:

**  Prior to Your Procedure (How to prepare for your tattoo)

**  After Care Instructions  (How to care for your tattoo)

**  What to Avoid during Healing (Do's & Dont's)
** 
Stages of Healing - (What to expect?)

 

** 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!

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** CONSENT - HEALTH INTAKE FORM:  If you would like to review our health intake form prior to your appointment, click on the link above.  A copy of this form will need to be filled out at the time of your appointment, or you are welcome to download, and print from home to fill out at your leisure.

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