Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions about Permanent Makeup

Q: Is this method painful?

A: A scratching sensation is felt; this varies from mildly irritating to fairly sensitive according to one’s pain threshold.  The process is very superficial. Most people describe the process as irritating rather than painful. A strong anaesthetic cream is used prior to; and an anaesthetic gel during treatment.  The anaesthetic creams have improved vastly over the years.  Very sensitive clients may take two painkillers 30 min before appointment.

Q: Why is the colour darker initially?

A: As the skin heals a fine scab forms, this takes between three to seven days to fall off, taking a lot of colour with it.  The colour initially looks too light as the scab falls off and a further two weeks is needed for the colour to settle to its end result. Therefore, a darker colour is applied to reach the desired result.

Q: Machine or Hand Tool (Microblading) for brows?
A: A natural hair-stroke affect can be acquired using both techniques. Decide whether a more temporary or longer result is required.  Discuss with Cathi which procedure you would prefer – sometimes a combination of both can be used.

Q: How many sessions will I need?

A: I try to get the desired effect in one session.  However, all skins heal differently – some have slight fading; others may fade a lot – requiring a second session.  This can depend on many factors:  the correct after-care needs to be followed as if too much colour comes off in the first few days, it is gone, and another procedure is needed.  Other factors are the different rates at which our skins heal, acidity, medications, hormones. Further sessions will be charged to cover the cost of needles and equipment used.

Q: How long does it last?

A: It is permanent, but does have fading – some faster than others.  Exposure to UV light lightens tattoos. Fading also depends on skin type, type of pigments used, medication, hormones, topical treatments like peelings, micro-needling and lasers.  Some people never need touching up; and others may need it as soon as a year or two.  If one finds ones tattoo fading quicker, we can use a darker colour to compensate for this.

Q: Is the procedure safe?

A: Strict hygiene levels are followed.  All equipment used is individual; sterile; and disposable.

Q: What if my skin is allergic?

A:  Pigments used are of the highest quality.  Clients with allergies to make-up; eczema; psoriasis; and porphorea have had great success with permanent make-up.  In the nearly thirty years of working, I haven’t had a client with an allergy to the inks.  If any irritation occurs phone me to discuss possible irritants ie the Vaseline.  It is important to follow hygienic after-care treatment using ear buds and a NEW Vaseline containing no fragrances.

Q: What if my skin is very sensitive?

A:  Sensitive skins may experience redness and swelling – usually only on the top eyelid and lips.  Lips, usually only for a few hours; top eyelids may still have swelling the following day.  An ice pack (ice in a plastic bag) can be applied to reduce swelling. A sensation like sunburn may be felt for a few hours on the affected area.  An anti-inflammatory can be taken, but this is normally not needed.

Q: How will we decide on colour?

A: Usually pigments are mixed according to one’s skin and hair colour, although any specific colour can be matched – bring along relevant make-up.

Q: What will it look like when I’m old and grey?

A: Because of gradual fading the tattoos blend nicely as they soften with time; as do one’s natural eyelashes, eyebrows, and lip colour.

Q: I’m worried about it looking unnatural

A: We can work conservatively for these clients; rather coming a second time and adding, darkening and thickening as necessary. With the brows, soft feathered hair-strokes are applied.

Q: What if I don’t like colour or shape?

A: A misconception of permanent make-up is although being permanent; it can be removed or changed if necessary.

Q: Can I use something else besides Vaseline?

A: Vaseline is used for a number of reasons:

  • by keeping the scab slightly moist, it slows down the healing keeping the scab on longer, in turn resulting in even colouring and preventing too much colour loss.
  • it acts as a protective barrier against dust; germs; and water.
  • it contains no perfumes or additives that might irritate the area.

Q: Am i too old and wrinkly for the procedure?

A  No.  I give a lift to dropped brows and an openness to tired heavy eyes.  Lips are given a fuller, more lifted shape and the new definition on lip edge detracts from the wrinkles around the mouth.