Frequently Asked Questions
COSMETIC TATTOOING FAQs
With the various cosmetic tattooing services we offer, these faqs will help you find answers to frequently asked questions. Simply click on a topic below to go to that section's faqs pertaining to that service.
COMMON PMU QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Permanent makeup is a cosmetic tattooing technique that produces designs that resemble makeup. These tattoos also use a special pigment that’s specifically made for use on sensitive areas like the face, breast, etc. Additionally, special tools are also used.
Yes, including your chest, areola, scalp, or face. But for the design to appear natural, each area of the body may require different types of pigment. We even use permanent makeup to cover scars!
No, PMU is not permanent. Instead, most of the services last at least 2 years before they start fading. For this reason, getting a touchup every few years to keep the makeup looking fresh is recommended.
MICROBLADING FAQ
Microblading is a semi-permanent brow tattoo procedure that uses a small handheld tool made up of tiny needles. Pigment is added to the skin while creating individual hair-like strokes.
The duration of our microblading service is 2 hours.
All microblading services can last 1-3 years after touch-up and depending on skin type and lifestyle
Most clients report little to no pain, and would compare it to a tweezing or threading. Topical lidocaine is applied prior and during the procedure so the client can feel at ease while receiving the treatment.
Also, avoid PMU service during your period. This will make you more sensitive than normal and bleed more.
Avoiding caffeine and alcohol is also recommended as they can intensify pain more than usual.
After initial touch-up at the 6-10 week mark, highly recommended to wait at least 12 months or more. Too frequent touch ups can cause too much scar tissues.
Touch up after initial is more of a tune-up in color or shape that is based on client desire.
Individuals with the following conditions are not good candidates for microblading:
- Pregnant or nursing: Cannot have microblading service done.
- Brow service done by another artist (please send us photos of your brows before booking).
- Glaucoma, skin diseases such as Shingles, psoriasis or eczema on the treatment area.
- Keloid disorder, HIV/Hepatitis, Skin cancer, Hemophilia, Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Rosacea, Seborrheic dermatitis.
- Cancer/Taking blood thinners : Doctor’s clearance required.
- Thyroid: May can proceed with brow service, but you should know retention may not be great. May also require an extra follow-up appointment and more frequent follow-up visits.
- Vitiligo: Can perform brow service but results are never guaranteed
- Retinoid/Accutane: Must wait 6 months after taking treatment. Doctor’s clearance is required after that.
It is recommended to schedule microblading before appointment for Botox injections. Botox can be done 48 hours AFTER microblading but Must Wait minimum of 2 weeks after Botox.
FAQ LIP BLUSH
Lip blushing is a semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo service done on lips that provides a light tint of color. And the end result looks very natural, yet bolder than not wearing lipstick at all. Your cosmetic tattoo artist Breanna Joy even customizes each color just for you! In addition to being smudge-proof, lip blushing also camouflages lip pigmentation. It also provides long-lasting, beautiful color.
Everyone client responds to pain and topical lidocaine differently. Think about when you’re at the dentist and they have to numb you a few times. If your tolerance for pain is low, then you’ll feel more sensation than someone who has a high tolerance for pain. Most of my clients say there are spots that are more sensitive, but overall, it’s “tolerable”.
In either case, during your sessions we do use topical anesthetics throughout to minimize the pain. Your pre/post care is super important and must be followed.
- Undergoing chemotherapy.
- Hepatitis, HIV or any infections or viral diseases.
- Cannot tolerate any pain and as a result you will flinch.
- Anyone under the age of 18.
- If you’re nursing or pregnant.
- Epileptic.
- On Accutane with the past year.
If your lips are asymmetry, lip blushing can soften the appearance to fix it. However, if the degree of unevenness is severe, we would suggest fillers. Your cosmetic tattoo artist will consult with you on what is realistic to achieve.
Lip fillers complement lip blush service since it can help perfect the overall shape. If you’ve already gotten lip fillers, you must wait 4 weeks before lip blushing service. On the other hand, if you’re considering lip fillers, then book at least 2 weeks after your initial lip blush session.
During your consultation, you’ll try on your favorite pigments with our smudge-proof lip blushing stains before committing. Color choices will be discussed that best suit your lip tone and skin. We’ll also discuss whether color correction is needed.
Your lips will take approximately 7 days to heal. During this time you’ll notice varying degrees of tenderness and color.
ENHANCING EYELINER FAQ
Our lash enhancing eyeliner entails tattooing an ultra-thin pigment along the base of the lash. This semi-permanent makeup procedure is available in two styles: soft stardust liner or delicate liner. And each style is for top eyeliner ONLY.
Tattoo eyeliner procedure time is 1 hour 30 minutes.
Healing takes approximately 5-7 days. Light swelling may occur immediately after the procedure. But this will subside within a few hours. Overall, most clients go about their day after their appointment.
The degree of pain you feel depends on your tolerance level for pain. Nonetheless, we apply a topical anesthesia before and during the tattoo eyeliner procedure. This helps to alleviate any minor discomfort you may experience during the procedure.
No, please do not wear any eye makeup while your eyeliner is in the healing stages. In fact, discontinue use of mascara at least 7 days prior to your eyeliner procedure. When allowed to resume, use a brand new mascara to prevent any possible cross-contamination. Wearing mascara during healing process can interfere with color retention. Not only that, but also can cause infection.
- Accutane/Retin-A: Must wait at least 6 months before tattooing the skin.
- Retinol & Vitamin A: Must discontinue use and wait one month prior to their procedure.
- Latisse or any eyelash growth serum: Discontinue for 3-6 months prior to the eyeliner procedure. Skin is hypersensitive and will bleed easily.
- Pregnant.
- Heart condition or hemophilia.
- High blood pressure are prone to more bleeding and may result in poor color retention.
- Diabetic do not heal as well.
- Allergic to lidocaine.
- Viral infections and or diseases.
- Epilepsy.
- Had an organ transplant.
- Blood borne conditions such as HIV or Hepatitis.
- Skin cancer.
- Breast feeding.
- If getting cosmetic surgery you must wait approximately 6 months depending on what the doctor has advised.
FAQ BRO BROWS
At Black Bloom Studio, male microblading is known as ‘bro brow’.
Yes, it uses the same technique as our microblading service which includes microblading, machine shading or nano hair strokes. However, shape and hair stroke patterns are geared towards a more manly look. Hair stroke patterns are matched up with pre-existing hairs. Structured but still leaving you with a natural, fuller brow.
Men get eyebrow microblading to create fuller, more distinct brows.
BROW COVER-UP FAQ
Brow cover-up is for people needing corrective eyebrow work. If you’re unhappy with brows done by another artist, we can correct the color and shape.
Before booking, you need to email Breanna Joy a clear photo of your brows with description of desired results.
Sometimes, eyebrow removal and correction require laser treatments before corrective work can start. In this case, after reviewing your photo, we will refer you to the best place for brow laser treatment.
Depending on the extent of color and shape, a third tattooing session may be needed. But our brow packages are for two sessions only. We will follow-up with you regarding sessions after reviewing your previous work photo.
FAQ 3D AREOLA & NIPPLE
For clients who have had breast reconstruction, our 3D areola & nipple tattoo service is usually the final step. Because this type of cosmetic tattoo layers custom mixed pigments, it recreates a natural areola and nipple that matches client’s breast.
Areola and nipple tattoo can usually be done 3-6 months after the date of your final reconstruction procedure. However, there are a few steps before the actual procedure. You must complete our Areola Waiver prior to booking. When you book, your first appointment will consist of a 45 minute pre-treatment consultation with tattoo artist Breanna Joy. Together you will discuss your vision for a beautiful end result. Tattoo session is scheduled after consultation is complete.
At your 45-minute consultation, we will discuss all aspects of your procedure.
Typically, it takes 7-10 days for your 3D areola and nipple tattoo to heal. It’s normal to experience slight flaking and scabbing. So, feel free to apply a thin coat of ointment as needed during the healing process.