Semi-Permanent Makeup FAQ
Check out our FAQ’s for semi-permanent makeup below. Or check out our blog posts here for more.
Does it hurt?
I apply a topical numbing cream prior to treatment and topical numbing gel during to ensure it’s as comfortable as possible. Everybody reacts differently to anaesthetic, but people generally describe the treatment as painless. Post-treatment, redness and a tight feeling is normal but shouldn’t last longer than a day or two. Check out my blog post for more info on the pain.
How long does it last?
Microblading or SPMU deposits pigment into the first layer of the skin only, unlike tattoos which go deeper. This means that the treatment can last a year or two, depending on your skin type and lifestyle. People usually come for an annual top up to keep their brows looking fresh.
How long does the appointment take?
Your appointment will take around 2 hours, including time to let the anaesthetic cream work it’s magic.
Is the 6 week top-up necessary?
A top-up session after 6 weeks is usually necessary as everyone heals differently, the nature of the process means it’s likely that your brows won’t heal totally perfectly after one session. Certain areas may not pick up during your first session and will need to be refilled. If you have oily skin, a deeper shade is often required as the oils in your skin tend to lighten the pigment slightly.
How long does it take to heal?
It usually takes 7-14 days for your brows to completely heal.
I’m in my healing stage, my brows are so dark, is this normal?!
Yes!! Your brows will appear darker and thicker while they’re healing - this is totally normal as they have formed a sort-of scab over the area - it’s so important that you don’t pick them as this will pull the pigment out of your skin prematurely and there will be no pigment left! Be patient and you will see the healed shade once the full healing time is over.
What aftercare is involved?
During the healing process:
Washing once every few hours on day 1 and 2 with cool water and unscented soap, then on a morning and night until healed
Healing cream (supplied) to be applied gently after washing - use a very small amount (size of a grain of rice) on your finger tip and dab on the treated area
Always avoid unnecessary touching, scratching or picking of the treated area (unless you have small oil spots - gently dab these away with a cotton pad)
Sleep on your back (a good tip – use a flight pillow to avoid rolling over whilst you sleep)
Do not drink excessively, alcohol thins your blood which means there’s more chance of your brows fading
Do not sweat excessively (no heavy exercise/very hot baths or showers) as sweat can also cause your eyebrows to fade
Swimming, sunbeds and sun-bathing should be avoided
Do not use any type of skin products, creams, washes or make-up on the treated area (it’s best to use face wipes to clean your face around the treated area)
Your brows will seem like they’re flaking off - this is normal healing! Allow your brows to do this in their own time (I repeat - do not pick them!)
Once your brows are fully healed, it’s best to protect them from sun exposure as this makes the colour fade faster - use a high SPF to protect them (lip balms with UVA and UVB protection are perfect for your brows). Products with AHA or Glycolic Acid will also make your brows fade faster.
Is there anything I should do prior to treatment?
If you use retinol, this thins your skin so please cease use for a week prior to your treatment. Also avoid aspirin for 48 hours prior to treatment as the blood will be thinner therefore bleeding is more likely.
Also, if you get Botox, please wait at least three weeks before booking your appointment. Please note, that if you cease using Botox - your brows may not settle where you want them to as I will have based your brow placement on your Botoxed features.
Is anybody not suitable for the treatment?
The treatment is not suitable if you are any of the following:
Pregnant/breast- feeding
Undergoing radiation therapy/chemotherapy
Taking blood thinners/anti-coagulants/steroids
Or if you have any of the following conditions: cancer, hyper pigmentation, Lupus Skin Disorder, HIV positive, mitral valve prolapse, haemophilia, venereal Disease, hepatitis, epilepsy, infectious diseases, respiratory problems, fainting attacks, high blood pressure, excessive sebum.