Frequently Asked Questions

  • LESS INVASIVE: Ombré powder brows are achieved using a small machine, which disperses extremely fine dots of pigments even into and across the skin in an airbrush or shading technique. Microblading uses a hand-tool that creates incisions or small cuts into the skin. Over time, repeated incisions into the same spots will cause trauma to the skin more quickly.

    LESS PAIN & BLEEDING: Ombré powder brows are less painful due to the airbrush-like technique we apply, which creates less trauma to the skin vs. the blading technique of microblading. The latter also creates cuts into the skin, thus more bleeding is involved. With ombré powder brows, minimal to zero blood surfaces during the procedure. Some of our clients say that getting ombré powder brows is a similar sensation to an electric toothbrush pressed against the skin or rapid tweezing; some discomfort is to be expected as a needle is utilized.

    LASTS LONGER: Results do vary based on lifestyle, skin type, health, preferences, etc., but a single ombré powder brows session, using high-quality pigments, can last on average 2-3 years. Microblading, on the other hand, has a high likelihood of healing blotchy, spotty or with blurred strokes, thus requiring more frequent touch-ups, generating more long term wear and tear on the skin, eventually maxing out the skin’s lifetime capacity quickly. Like any injury to the skin, the body repairs the wounded area by building collagen fibers, creating a scar. Both treatments will eventually dull out the skin in this way permanently, so choosing the right method to save your skin integrity is critical.

    GREAT FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: Ombré powder brows are great for any skin type, unlike microblading, which is not suitable for those with oily skin. Microblading on oily skin requires several touch-ups, which causes more trauma to the skin.

    STILL LOOKS NATURAL: While ombré powder brows have a more “filled-in” look, the healed results appear like softly shaded brow pencil or powder. Immediately after the treatment, ombré powder brows can appear more saturated and bold, however, brows will fade 20-30%, leaving a very soft finish and shape that will allow our clients to quickly groom their brows going forward.

  • Ombré Powder Brows (also known as Powder Brows/Microshading) is the one of the newest machine techniques in semi-permanent eyebrow tattooing. The technique is described by its name, soft and light in the front and gradually darker towards the tails. Ombré powder brows can be applied with a soft, natural-finish or can be built up to resemble the look of darker makeup.

    The intensity of the ombré effect is contingent on how much existing brow hair there is, thus results vary per person. If you have darker hairs or patches in the front of your brows, you will likely need more a fuller powder-filled brow style, so your natural brow hairs blend seamlessly. Ombré is great for all skin types, but especially those with previous semi-permanent makeup, and oily, mature, and acne-prone skin.

    Microblading has a hyper-realistic eyebrow look achieved by manual hairlike strokes cut into the skin. This technique creates a natural result, giving brows a fuller appearance, however, this technique is best suited for normal to dry skin types with minimal appearance of pores.

    Semi-permanent eyebrow tattooing is often a two-step process, which includes an initial insertion of pigment, followed by a touch-up 6-8 weeks later. Sometimes a third or fourth session is necessary depending on your skin type or not following through on aftercare instructions.

    Results vary based on lifestyle, health, and skin type.

    Results should be evaluated after the touch-up application is completed.

    Microblading is not recommended for mature clients or those with large pores or oily skin.

  • Most of our clients will agree that the procedure is tolerable with a pain level of 3-5 (0-none, 10-worst). A topical anesthetic will be applied during the procedure to minimize any discomfort. As a needle or blade is used in the application, a certain level of discomfort is to be expected. But the pain level is similar to that of laser hair removal or teeth cleaning. Pain threshold levels vary from person to person and every effort is made to ensure you remain comfortable for the entirety of the procedure.

    PLEASE NOTE: Having this service performed during your menstrual cycle may increase discomfort during your procedure. If you are a frequent smoker, the topical anesthetics used during the treatment will not last as long. If you have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, be aware that this may affect your sensitivity tolerance to the procedure.

  • PERMANENT MAKEUP

    Here’s how to get ready for your Ombré Powder Brows procedure:

    Do not drink caffeine, alcohol, tea, or energy drinks for 24 hours prior to your appointment to prevent swelling and excess bleeding.

    Do not thread/tweeze/wax/perform electrolysis one week before the procedure.

    Do not tan two weeks prior to the service or have a sunburned face.

    Do not have any type of facial 2 weeks prior to the procedure.

    Refrain from exercising 24 hours before and 10 days after the procedure to maintain pigment retention.

    Wash your hair the morning of your appointment, healing tattoos cannot get wet for the first 72 hours, so you will need to avoid washing your hair too soon.

    Schedule fillers and Botox at least 3 weeks before or after the appointment. Please inform us of any current injections.

    Do not take Fish Oil, Aspirin, Ibuprofen or Vitamin E 72 hours prior to the procedure (they are natural blood thinners).

    If you have skin conditions, provide a doctor's letter stating it's safe to proceed with the procedure.

    Stop using glycolics, chemical peels, and retin-a 4 weeks before the procedure.

    Avoid Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) products near the eyebrow area and exfoliating skincare products 2 weeks before and after the procedure.

    Failure to follow pre-care instructions may affect your final results.
    Here’s how to get ready for your Lip Blush Tattoo procedure:

    Lips must not be dry for the procedure! Keep them fully moisturized with a lip ointment like Aquaphor or Vaseline starting from a week prior to the procedure.

    Exfoliate the lips 1-2 days before the procedure using a soft toothbrush or DIY sugar/honey scrub.

    Cold sore sufferers - see important note below

    If you have a history of cold sores:

    Ideally, you are advised to see your doctor for anti-viral medication which you should start 2-3 days prior to the procedure

    If available, topical Zovirax can be applied preventatively during the first week of healing.

    Otherwise, it is recommended to take L-lysine 1-2 weeks before and after the appointment to reduce the risk.

    However, cold sores are a risk of lip blush treatment regardless of whether you have had them in the past. It is therefore recommended for ALL clients to take L-lysine, and if you experience an unusual tingly sensation in the lips or notice any bumps appear - see your doctor immediately as you may be experiencing an episode of cold sores. Prompt treatment is crucial in minimizing the extent of a cold sore outbreak.

    No alcohol or caffeinated products 24 hours before treatment, and no aspirin or blood-thinning medications five days prior.

    Do not take Fish Oil or Vitamin E one week prior to the procedure (they are natural blood thinners).

    Absolutely no injections of Novocaine, Botox or fillers should be administered to you ten days before treatment. Please inform us of any current injections.

    If you use or have used Retin-A or any other medications, please advise the technician.

    Wash your hair that morning - because you can't get your healing tattoo wet you will need to avoid washing your hair too soon.

  • The first appointment typically takes 3-4 hours over the course of 10 steps. In the first session, the brow is shaped and styled to the client’s preference, and the pigment is applied.

    CONSULTATION & DRAWING

    Duration: 15 minutes to 1 hour

    We understand that a permanent makeup procedure can be daunting! Our number one priority is ensuring all our clients feel comfortable with their decision, and that’s why every appointment begins with a consultation.

    During your consultation, your artist will work with you to discuss your goals, lifestyle, shape of your existing brows and the problem areas you wish to address. Bringing reference photos and inspiration images is highly recommended and greatly appreciated.

    Step 1: Consultation

    Step 2: “Before” photos are taken

    Step 3: Mapping

    FEEDBACK AND APPROVAL

    We do not move forward until the shape is approved by the client!

    Step 4: We get your feedback on mapping

    Step 5: Final approval on the brow design!

    PERMANENT MAKEUP PROCEDURE

    Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

    The actual procedure doesn’t take too long. It starts off by outlining and scratching the surface with the machine followed by the application of the topical numbing gel. We leave this on for about 5 to 10 minutes before proceeding.

    After which, we continue to do the first pass on the area (lips, eyes, brows). After the first pass, we sit you up and do a check point to show you that initial progress before finishing up your permanent makeup!

    Step 6: Outlining and numbing

    Step 7: Initial pass of the procedure and checkpoint

    THE FINAL LOOK!

    Once your permanent makeup application is complete, you will get one final look and review. Any final updates will be made at this time and your first application will be considered final and approved by you.

    Step 8: Final look and review

    Step 9: Minor adjustments

    Step 10: Explain aftercare steps

    Step 11: After photos

    Step 12: Check out (Payment and booking of touchup/perfecting session in 6-8 weeks)

  • The tattooed area is a healing wound, so proper aftercare is critical. After your procedure, it is crucial to avoid applying makeup directly on the treated area during the initial healing phase. This allows the skin to recover properly and minimizes the risk of infection or other complications. However, if you wish to wear makeup, you can do so outside the tattooed area, as long as you apply it carefully and avoid getting any makeup on the healing wound. It is important to avoid tinting your lashes or brows during the healing phase, as the chemicals in these products may interfere with the healing process and potentially cause irritation or adverse reactions. Refrain from using any skincare products that contain active ingredients like Retin-A on or around the tattooed area until it is fully healed. These ingredients can be harsh and may disrupt the healing process.

  • Permanent makeup for brows can take up to 7-10 days. Lip blush can take up to 3-7 days to heal on average.

    Please note that healing times can vary per person based on your individual skin type and lifestyle factors, and sometimes clients may experience longer healing times. While the surface layer has appeared to heal the soonest, please keep in mind that it still takes 3-4 weeks for the pigment to surface to its true color. and skin layers underneath to fully heal.

    Proper aftercare is an extremely important aspect of the long term success, effectiveness, health, and overall satisfaction with your permanent makeup procedure. You must follow the below instructions in order to achieve the best possible results.

    Skin sensitivity, redness and swelling is to be expected for up to 2 days after the procedure and will go away with proper aftercare

    Before every ointment application, take a dry, clean Q-tip and wipe off any existing ointment on your brows, Dampen another Q-tip and with water and gently wipe clean. Pat dry with a tissue and reapply the ointment.

    Do not exfoliate or use a washcloth/wipe on the brow.

    Do not pick, itch, or scratch the tattoo as it can remove pigment. A cold compress may be used to relieve discomfort

    Avoid hot tubs, steam rooms, pools, long hot showers, sweaty exercise for one week.

    Avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds for 2 weeks.

    Avoid putting makeup on the area for the first week.

    Avoid facials for 4-6 weeks.

    Do not use any anti-aging products on or around the brow area.

    Alcohol consumption in excess can slow down healing.

    While your skin begins to shed, your brow tattoo may appear to be extremely faint. Don't worry, the pigment will resurface when your skin is completely healed in 3-4 weeks.

  • IMPORTANT NOTES ON PERMANENT MAKEUP HEALING

    Discontinue applying ointment after peeling has completed.

    A thin layer of dry skin will appear as your brows heal and let it naturally exfoliate away. Picking and scratching can cause scarring or loss of color.

    Do not apply make up over healing areas.

    Avoid excessive rinsing and hot water on the treated area. That includes sweating/exercise, direct sun exposure, saunas, hot showers and swimming for the first 10 days. Wear a hat when outdoors.

    Your face should only be getting wet at the end of the shower.

    Avoid facials/Botox/chemical treatments up to 6 weeks after your procedure.

    Avoid products containing AHAs (glycolic, lactic acids or Retin-A) on or near the brows for 4 weeks. This will only help fade the pigments.

    Avoid sleeping on your face for the first 10 days. Use a fresh pillowcase while you sleep.

    Use broad spectrum sunblock after the area has healed to slow down fading.

    This protective measure helps shield the skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause premature fading and damage.
    LIP BLUSH

    For the first day: avoid touching the lips with fingers. Blot lips gently with clean tissue or cotton as they may leak lymph fluid. Keep them constantly moisturized by dabbing on Vaseline or a neutral lip ointment using a clean Q-tip several times throughout the day. Once you are home, you can use an icepack wrapped in paper towel (never use ice directly) against the lips to minimize swelling and tenderness. If it is safe for you to use (see drug facts or your doctor), a single dose of ibuprofen 2-3 hours after the procedure can help minimize swelling and discomfort if needed. Before brushing teeth, apply additional Vaseline/ointment so that it is easy to remove toothpaste residue.

    Before bed, rinse the lips with cool water, blot dry and reapply a generous amount of Vaseline/ointment.

    For the first 48 hours: avoid spicy or temperature-hot foods as well as colored/staining foods (e.g. coffee, curry etc.). Drinking through a straw is recommended. Continue applying Vaseline/ointment to lips repeatedly throughout the day to maintain constant moisture.

    During peeling stage: Continue to liberally moisturize the lips (by dabbing, not rubbing) and DO NOT PICK at flakes of pigment. Dry lips and picking at the flakes can cause blotchiness and interfere with the healed color, as well as introduce the risk of infection.

    Until all flaking is completely over:

    -Do not use makeup on the lips

    -Avoid excess UV exposure

    -Avoid direct water pressure, baths, swimming.

    -After the flaking is over:

    Continue to keep lips moisturized as they will feel dry for a couple weeks.

    - use a neutral lip balm with SPF

    If you use Retin-A, do not use it close to the treated area for thirty days.

    It will cause the area to peel and lighten.

    Smoking is discouraged for optimal results.

    What to expect with lip blush healing (this timeline is a guideline only and will vary for each individual): 

    Day 0 (day of procedure): lip color will appear vibrant and bright as they are expected to heal 40-50% lighter. They may be slightly swollen and feel tender.

    Days 1-3: lip color will appear even more vivid and start to feel tight and dry.

    Lips may still be slightly swollen.

    Days 3-10: the superficial layer of skin and pigment will begin to flake off. The lip underneath may not show much pigment at this stage - this is normal.

    Days 10-30: the true lip color will develop by the end of the month; your lips will have settled into their final shade. At this point, you will be ready for your 6–8 week touch-up session, during which any necessary adjustments or enhancements can be made to achieve the desired result.

  • Excessive bleeding: Excessive bleeding during your appointment can significantly affect the retention of your permanent makeup. When blood interferes with the ink, it hinders proper penetration and may lead to quick fading or ashy healing. To minimize bleeding and ensure optimal results, it is crucial to follow pre-care instructions diligently. Avoiding blood thinners such as alcohol, coffee, tea, and aspirin for 24 hours before your appointment is highly recommended.

    Sun exposure: Protecting your eyebrows from sun exposure is essential to prevent premature fading. Apply sunblock daily to your healed eyebrows to maintain their longevity and color vibrancy.

    Oily skin: Oily skin is not ideal for microblading, but it is well-suited for the Ombré brow technique. Oily skin tends to absorb and break down pigment more quickly, leading to faster fading of the permanent makeup color. Oily skin may require more frequent touch-up sessions to maintain the desired intensity and prolong the longevity of the permanent makeup. The natural oils in oily skin can cause the pigment to appear ashy or grayish over time, diminishing the desired color effect. In some cases, a third session (at an additional cost) may be necessary to reinforce color.

    Pigment color choice: Color choice plays a significant role in the longevity of permanent makeup. Lighter colors tend to fade faster, so it is advisable to opt for slightly darker shades. However, darker colors may eventually ash out over time. This is a normal occurrence and can typically be corrected during annual visits.

    Skin care routine: When it comes to your skin routine, be cautious with exfoliating products, acne-fighting treatments, and anti-aging products, as they can contribute to premature fading of your permanent makeup. It is recommended to minimize contact between these products and your eyebrows for optimal color retention.

    Pre and after care requirements: Adhering to pre and aftercare instructions is crucial for optimal results. Failure to follow these instructions may impact the desired outcome. As professionals, we provide these instructions to ensure the best possible results and offer our expertise. However, it is ultimately your responsibility to follow them.

  • If you have previous PMU, please email or text photos of your brows with no makeup in natural light to aelita.pmu@gmail.com or (206) 234-9521 to get appointment approval.

  • This procedure can trigger cold sores for carriers of the herpes simplex virus. To prevent cold sores from flaring up it is recommended to go to your family doctor and get Zovirax or another antiviral medication prescribed to take 5 days prior procedure, the day of, and 5 days after. Note that a cold sore outbreak can alter the healed results of the tattoo.

  • Certain health conditions or diseases will disqualify you from getting any permanent makeup procedure done. You may NOT receive any permanent makeup procedure if you have any of the following Health Contraindications:

    - Under 18 years of age, even with parental consent

    - Pregnant or breastfeeding

    - Diabetes mellitus (requires valid doctor’s note)

    - High blood pressure or mitral valve disorder (requires valid doctor’s note)

    - Used Accutane within the last 12 months

    - Used prescribed retinoids or tretinoin (requires valid doctor’s note)

    - Received Botox anywhere at the eye level or higher within the last 3 months

    - Active skin irritations, sunburns, rashes, eczema, or psoriasis near the procedure area

    - Cancer and/or undergoing chemotherapy (consult a doctor)

    - Viral infections and/or diseases

    - Transmittable bloodborne diseases

    - Autoimmune diseases

    - Glaucoma

    - Hemophilia

    - Allergic to pigmentation and makeup

    - Healing disorders or prone to keloid scarring

    - Epilepsy or faint spells

    - Any treatment, medication, or illness that compromises the immune system/healing process

    Please notify us if you are allergic reactions to topical anesthetics.

    Please notify us of any other medications you are currently taking.

    Please notify us if you have a health problem or disease not listed above.