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Frequently Asked Questions

What is microblading/shading?

  • Microblading is the technique of creating hair strokes using a blade and simultaneously implanting pigment into the dermal layer of the skin. Each hair stroke mimics natural hairs and allows it to seamlessly blend into the existing hairs while also adding fullness resulting in natural looking brows!

  • For additional fullness; micro-shading can also be done by using a special blade which creates micro-dots mimicking a shadow effect. Doing this creates a slightly more dramatic brow that still looks very natural.

What are powder brows?

  • Powder brows are different than microblading because instead of creating single hair strokes; it uses a ultra fine tattoo needle and permanent makeup device that delivers pigment into the skin to create a powder affect. The purpose of this type of brow is to create a fuller and more dramatic brow that mimics filling in brows with a powder, pencil or pomade. Its built up in layers to create a fuller result. By working in layers; the artist is able to build up the intensity to your desired look. This procedure is also well known as "Ombre Brows". It's great if you prefer a more full and dramatic brow look which doesn't require filling with makeup daily. 

What is tattoo lightening? 

  • It is not what you'd expect it to be. No lasers are involved! For this method, I use Li-Ft solution which is a saline mixture. It is used to implant the mixture into the skin of the treatment area. The saline binds to the pigment and pushes it up to the surface which is what later results in a "scab". When the scab heals and comes off, that is what lightens the tattoo overall. This procedure is not a straight forward process. Even though this treatment is highly effective, the amount of sessions varies person to person. The results depend on the persons skin type, depth of the tattoo, quality of pigment, etc. There are times where the permanent makeup can be lightened enough to do a cover up after one or two sessions. Otherwise, more sessions will be required to achieve optimal result. Typically even after just one session, it will lighten the pigment significantly. But more times than not, multiple sessions are required if it's initially improperly done by the artist you saw. Each session is required to be about 4-6 weeks apart to allow the skin to fully heal before doing another lightening session. Doing it to soon could result in scar tissue forming. If the method of using saline lightening is not removing stubborn pigment, you may need to get laser removal to further remove the remaining pigment. But if at the consultation I see that the pigment is extremely dark and/or done improperly with a heavy hand, I won't want to waste your time and money and will recommend laser treatments before I do anything. Which is why it's so important to see an artist that is properly trained, uses quality products and proper techniques that doesn't cause such stubborn implantation of pigments that heals poorly.  

What is permanent makeup?

  • It is the micro-implantation of pigment into the skin for aesthetic purposes for either enhancement, contour, or outlining of certain features. It can also be a valuable procedure for camouflaging scars, burns, missing hairs such as from alopecia, and can even correct some facial irregularities that someone may be insecure about. Its very beneficial for those who don't like spending time every morning doing your brows. This is a great alternative as it can last up to 3 years (depending on level of care) and gives you water proof, smudge proof and overall beautiful result that can boost your confidence! This makes a great gift for your significant other that they will surely appreciate and love!

Is permanent makeup similar to traditional tattooing?

  • It has similarities in the general process, yet it is very different. Only artists who undergo specific trainings can perform this procedure on the face; as a regular tattoo artist cannot. At Brows En Pointe I use only techniques, pigments and tools that are specifically designed for micro-pigmentation procedures. The tools I use for all services are delicate and specifically designed to be gentle for the use on the face which provides natural looking results. Permanent makeup artists use topical anesthetics that are not allowed for use by tattoo artists. Making all services I provide safe, sterile and mildly painful.

Is permanent makeup safe?

  • Yes, since all services are performed as sterile procedures. Using only disposable products such as, disposable needle cartridges, blades and all supplies for the duration of the procedure which prevents infections. All products will be opened before the procedures begin to ensure to the client that they are new and sterile. There are no known long-term side effects from these services. There are only short-term side effects which may include redness, swelling, minor lymphatic draining or bleeding and some tenderness. All these short-term side effects tend to subside following the days after the procedure as it heals. There are no known allergic reactions to pigments.

Is there pain with any of these services?

  • There is only mild discomfort. That is only because while creating any outlines or the first pass to create the fine hair strokes, it is required to stretch the skin very well to be able to make those perfect crisp lines. If anesthetic is applied right away, the skin is no longer as moldable and cannot get that perfect stretch to create those lines. With that, there may be some minor discomfort and could feel like light scratching. In my experiences, it's been said that it is slightly uncomfortable but definitely tolerable. Once the outlines or strokes are created; a topical numbing will be applied which will alleviate any further discomfort. Stress balls are available as well as a weighted blanket for added comfort.

How long do the procedures take to complete?

  • The length of time solely depends on the type of procedure you have chosen. With initial sessions for any procedure whether it's microblading, microblading + shading or powder brows. I typically block out about 2 hours so that the shape can be perfected and approved by you as well as a brief explanation of what to expect. Most touch up procedures, tattoo lightening, brow shape and/or tinting, brow lamination, lash lifting and/or tinting can take anywhere from an hour to and hour and a half depending on the person. 

What is the healing time for permanent makeup procedures? 

  • It varies from person to person. In general it is expected to experience some swelling and redness for up to 24 hours following the procedure. To help with such, cold compresses can help to reduce the swelling around the area of treatment. It is very important that the area to be kept clean. No makeup should be applied until the area has healed. Skin peeling is to be expected as well as some lightening of the color that was applied. If any additional adjustments are desired, they can be made at the follow up visit for a touch up. Following the procedure, regular routines can be resumed with attentiveness to the area and avoiding things that can alter the results such as facials, exfoliation, tanning, swimming and direct sunlight as it's an open wound for the first few days. Overall healing times vary between 4-7 days depending on the person. 

How is my desired look and shade determined for permanent make up? 

  • First, the artist will conduct a consultation and ask you for any preferences that you may have with the shape and/or color. It is recommended that your service is done with shapes and shades that best compliment not only your face shape but your hair color. If you have light hair, it's best to get it a shade or two darker and if you have dark hair, it's best to get it a shade or two lighter. Doing so gives it a more natural appearance. But overall, it's your decision for what color and shape you want. I can only give my professional opinion on what suits you. In addition, I will be drawing out the framing for you to see and approve before implanting the pigment. It will be done in a special pencil and can be adjusted to your liking. 

Is the procedure results guaranteed?

  • Here at Brows En Pointe, I want all clients to be satisfied with their results. However, once the pigment is implanted the results will always vary per person and how they follow the after care instructions. If you follow the instructions properly, there is a high chance that the results will look great! But, if you do not follow the instructions properly, you risk the results healing to look patchy or uneven and even can become infected. Once you leave the office, it is up to you to follow all instructions to have desired results. As it is an open wound for the first few days, not following the instructions and not keeping the area clean; you risk it becoming infected. Overall, it's normal to need touch ups from time to time to keep up the shape and color. Our skin sheds daily and it's normal for the permanent makeup to fade over time. How fast that happens is dependent on your care. You are welcome to as many touch ups as needed to keep up the results. If you don't receive any touch ups; your results will be "semi-permanent" and will fade completely over time. Annual touch ups are best to keep up desired results.

How long does permanent makeup last?

  • Gradual fading is to be expected for any permanent makeup procedures. It varies from person to person. It is also depends the skin type, pigment used, the technique, quality of the work, personal care routine, and sun exposure. On average, pigmentation can last from 3-5 years, and some may not fade for longer periods. Every person metabolizes the pigment differently. Periodic touch ups are recommended to maintain the desired look. 

Will my eyebrows look fake? 

  • No, the best thing about microblading and powder brows is that the unique techniques that are used results in soft, natural looking brows! When implanting the pigment using this techniques; they can have a more natural result than when using cosmetics. If you prefer natural brows; that is what can be done for you. But if you do prefer to have a more dramatic brow, that can be done for you as well! Everyone has different preferences and I do my best to give you the result you want.

What will my brows look like after the procedure?

  • The first day, it is expected for the area to be a bit red and swollen. Typically the next day the brows will appear to be darker than expected but that is normal because it is the pigment and some blood forming a scab which will give it the darker appearance. The following days as the scab forms, it will also begin to peal off. Once the scabs have healed, you should be left with a lighter result that shows the color that was selected. So there is no need to worry if it appears darker the first few days, there is no need to worry that it looks darker than you expected.

How is Brows En Pointe different from other PMU Artists?

  • I believe that every artist is unique and has their own techniques that works for them. I'd say that one of the biggest differences between myself and other artists is that I started a career in the medical field and worked as a medical assistant for nearly 9 years in hospitals, private practices and clinics. I was well trained and had hands on experience in many sterile procedures by assisting Doctors. That experience gave my the confidence as well as knowledge that I apply to all my services. Working in the medical field; having steady hands, very close attention to small details was not only crucial but also required as we had peoples lives in our hands. It is what also helped me perfect my trade. It gives my clients the confidence that I will be providing them with healthy and professional experience from all aspects. 

Can I get my microblading/powder brows done if I've had Botox or fillers?

  • It is recommended by plastic surgeons and dermatologist that it's best to wait a minimum of 2 weeks after you've received Botox or fillers before getting any of these services. Of course, if there are no complications or scar tissue in that area from those treatments. Otherwise, your results might be altered from having complications from Botox or fillers which will leave you unhappy with your results. The 2 weeks period is the time that it takes for the Botox or fillers to reach it's full effect on the facial muscles. So it's best to play it safe and check with your provider before hand if you get these injections done regularly. 

Can I get Botox or filler done after getting microblading/powder brows done?

  • If you are planning on getting one or both of those treatments done, ideally you will want to wait a minimum of two weeks after getting your permanent make up done as those procedures would need to fully heal with some extra buffer time to ensure that your Botox or filler will not affect the results of your permanent makeup. Again, it's best to be safe and consult with your provider and make sure that they are aware that you had permanent makeup done recently to see if you are safe to proceed with getting Botox or filler. 

Can I get a facials before my permanent makeup? 

  • Yes and no. With that I mean, you can get facials or exfoliations done before your appointment but, what is important is when you get them done. You should avoid facials, such as exfoliations especially chemical exfoliation, laser treatments and micro-needling done a minimum of two weeks before your appointment. That is because getting it done before your permanent makeup appointment; those treatments could leave your skin irritated and at times leaves your skin stripped and vulnerable. Applying permanent makeup to such vulnerable skin can result in unexpected and uneven results or can even risk getting infected later. To be safe, no chemical exfoliations, laser treatments, micro-needling, or any facials that can strip your skin barrier at least 2 weeks before your appointment. Better safe than sorry!

Can I get facials after my permanent makeup?

  • Yes and no. The reasoning is different from getting facials and certain facial treatments before getting permanent makeup. Once you've got your permanent makeup; the area of treatment is considered an open skin and getting a facial or facial treatments when it has not healed, can cause significant irritation and even an allergic reaction to the ingredients in the products used. Another reason is, when you get a facial/treatment done, the technician doing your treatment may not understand how to care for permanent makeup and in turn can affect your results. Facials, chemical exfoliations, chemical peels, any products with acidic ingredients and other treatments work to promote skin cell turn over. That can cause your permanent makeup results to fade! Even when your permanent makeup has completely healed; it is still very important for you to tell the technicians performing facials and treatments to avoid the areas with permanent makeup so that they don't cause any premature fading. They can do that by avoiding the area completely or by applying a barrier creams such as Vaseline on the areas. It's better to be safe than sorry!

Are any of these procedures covered by insurance?

  • Unfortunately, permanent makeup is not covered by health insurances. But depending on your health plan, some procedures are reimbursable i.e., if a scar is the result of an accident or cancer treatment. In that case, it is seen as a "restorative procedure" and it could be possible that the health insurance could reimburse you. But this is not guaranteed! You'd have to contact your health insurance provider and specifically inquire about this and find out what needs to be done to receive reimbursement.

What if I don't like my permanent makeup!

  • Although the procedure is considered permanent, these procedures do have flexibility in changing color and shape to some extent. It takes time to become acclimated to a new look, this often applies most to individuals which naturally have sparse brows and/or unnoticeable before the permanent makeup procedure. After the procedure has healed, and you are able to make an informed decision about the healed results; and you are genuinely unhappy with your results. It is most likely that the artist that did your permanent makeup did not work with your preferences and ignored your input. And this can happen if you go to a PMU Artist that was not properly trained. But how does this even happen? 

  1. If you cannot communicate with your technician, it is possible your desires will not be realized.

  2. If you go to a PMU Artist that was properly trained or is a self proclaimed PMU Artist possibly without the licensing required. 

  3. If your technician recognizes your requests, but does not take your desires for color or design into account, you should not agree to  proceed with the procedure and leave. Getting something you do not want is not worth it. 

  4. Don’t request eyebrow color based on your hair if it's been colored. That is subject to change and it may affect how you then feel about the color of your permanent cosmetic eyebrows.  Eyebrow color should be selected based on your skin undertone and the color of your eyebrow hair (if any) so the results are more flattering.

  5. Conversely, most well-trained technicians will not perform a procedure if the design and/or color requested by the client is unreasonable.  If your requests are turned down by one or more technicians, re-think what you are asking for.

  6. Permanent cosmetics are not easily removed.  Make good decisions up front and don't agree to start the procedure if you are not completely satisfied with the pre-drawn outline and color that has been discussed. You can enjoy the freedom permanent makeup provides when you do your research and choose a qualified professional that you work well with.

Is an allergic reaction to the pigments possible?

  • It is highly unlikely for a client to develop an allergic reaction to the pigments. People can develop an allergy to anything, anytime; however, pigment allergies are considered rare. Some doctors recommend that people with environmental allergies or allergies to conventional makeup have permanent cosmetic procedures because they can replace cosmetic products that people are sensitive to. If preferred, a patch test can definitely be done. It could be done before your procedure, and that would need to be discussed prior and scheduled accordingly. 

Is it safe for me to get an MRI with permanent makeup?

  • Yes, numerous studies have shown that even for people who have large body tattoos there is little to no potential for irritation resulting from an MRI. According to the FDA, in the rare instance where discomfort resulted, it was localized and very temporary. It seems that if it does occur, it's mainly with a person who has permanent eyeliner. With that said, it is better to let your MRI technician know that you have permanent makeup. 

 

If by chance I have not covered a question or concern that you may have, please do email me at natasha@brows-enpointe.com and I will do my very best to address any questions or concerns that you have to ensure you feel fully informed before making a decision to have permanent make up completed at my office. 

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