What is Cosmetic Tattooing?
Cosmetic Tattooing, also referred to as Permanent Makeup, Micropigmentation, Intradermal Cosmetics, etc. is the implantation of specially formulated pigments into the second layer (dermis) of the skin with specially designed instruments. The cosmetic tattooing application will define and enhance your facial features, save you time and give you the confidence of looking your best everyday.
How long does Cosmetic Tattooing last?
Cosmetic Tattooing is considered permanent (or semi-permanent) because it is implanted into the skin and cannot be washed off. Though the procedure will be visible for many years, fading can occur over time. The longevity of the procedure is affected by numerous variables including skin type, age, body chemistry/iron deficiency, lifestyle/sun exposure, color of pigment (lighter colors fade faster), and skin care products used (anti-aging/acne will contribute to faster fading). With this in mind, the degree of permanency will vary with each individual and final results cannot be guaranteed. A follow-up appointment after your initial treatment is strongly recommended so that your pigment retention can be assessed and any adjustments can be made. Yearly brightener appointments are also recommended to keep your treatment looking its absolute best.
Does Cosmetic Tattooing hurt?
As pain is subjective and varies with each individual, it is impossible to predict each person’s reaction to the procedure. In general, there can be some level of minor discomfort expected, similar to tweezing or electrolysis. To minimize any discomfort, topical anesthetics are used throughout the procedure allowing the majority of clients to remain quite comfortable for the duration of the session. I will work with each client to achieve the highest level of comfort possible.
How long does each procedure take?
Please expect to spend 2-2.5 hours for the initial appointment, which will include a consultation/assessment, design, numbing and application. For follow up sessions, 1-2 hours will be necessary depending on the amount of pigment required.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Since there are many variables that can affect the result of your procedure, it is very important to be aware of and avoid things that will adversely affect how your body will retain pigment. Such issues include:
- No procedures can be performed if you are pregnant or nursing
- Procedures should not be performed if you have certain medical conditions such as Diabetes, Epilepsy, Viral Infections/Diseases, Psoriasis/Skin irritations near treatment area, or are undergoing Chemotherapy
- Do not work out the day of your procedure
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, power greens, Niacin and Vitamin E 24 hours prior to all procedures
- Do not take aspirin/blood thinners 48-72 hours prior to all procedures
- You must be off Accutane for 1 year for all procedures
- No tanning 2 weeks prior to all procedures – if you have a tan/burn on your face, the pigment will fade much quicker as your skin exfoliates.
- Avoid pools, salt water and tanning for 2 weeks following all procedures – if you have an upcoming vacation please take this into account
- You must be off Retin-A / Retinols for 7 days prior to all procedures and avoid using for 30 days after. Please note that continued use on/near the treatment site will lead to premature fading
- No waxing or tinting of eyebrows within 72 hours of procedure
- No Botox 2 weeks before or after your eyebrow or eyeliner procedures
- Eyelash extensions should be removed 72 hours prior to eyeliner procedure
- Latisse must be stopped at least 2 weeks prior to eyeliner procedure and cannot be resumed until 2 weeks after your final appointment
- Extremely important for lip procedures: If you’ve ever had a cold sore you MUST take an anti-viral medication such as Zovirax or Valtrex prior to the procedure. Typically the medication is started 2 days before the procedure and continued for 3 days after. If you do not take an anti-viral, a severe outbreak will likely occur across the lip area, which will greatly affect your comfort and the procedure healing/results.
How will I look immediately after?
For the first few days your cosmetic tattoo will appear darker and bigger than when it is fully healed. As the initial healing process continues, which is typically 10 – 14 days, the tattoo will lighten and shrink. Some swelling and redness can be expected, but often it is minimal. If you experience swelling you can use ice periodically to reduce it, if necessary.
How do I book/cancel an appointment?
Please use the booking tab on this website to schedule your appointment and submit your deposit. The deposit will be applied to your procedure fee at the time of service. If you need to cancel/reschedule your appointment, 48 hours notice is required. If less than 48 hours notice is provided, the deposit will be forfeited. If more than 48 hours notice is provided, the deposit will be refunded or applied to another date. If you are more than 15 minutes late for your scheduled appointment and the tardiness cannot be accommodated, the deposit will be forfeited and another deposit will be required for a future appointment.
When can I come in for my follow up appointment?
In order to allow enough time for your skin to heal after the initial appointment, you must wait at least 6 weeks to have your follow up. Pigment implanted into your skin will continue to clarify over the first month following the procedure. Waiting until after this process has finished will give us the best indication of how you healed and retained pigment.
