FAQs

What exactly is permanent make-up?

Permanent make-up has come a long way since your Grandma tattooed her brows on!

Yes it is a cosmetic tattoo technique which employs needles to penetrate the upper dermis of the skin and deposit ink pigments within. However the needles are not inserted as deeply as a normal tattoo and the inks are designed to fade slowly over time. For this reason it is technically called ‘semi-permanent makeup’. For this reason it is not technically a tattoo.

FAQ

  • How long will it last?

    Semi-permanent makeup will last from 18-30months as long as it is maintained. It gradually fades over time so touch up appointments every 6-12 weeks are recommended. The duration varies according to an individual’s lifestyle, exposure to UV rays etc. Residual areas of pigment may take longer to fade. It is also possible to remove with laser - consultations required to discuss specific cases.

  • Does it hurt?

    Topical numbing cream is used for minimal discomfort. With the exception of Microblading and eye treatments, the initial pass of shading for Powder Brow, Combi Brow and lip treatments are completed without numbing cream. Once complete the remainder of the procedure can be done with numbing cream.

  • How will it look afterwards?

    Immediately after the treatment the colour will look slightly darker initially but will soften and lighten within 5-7 days. It is possible to return to work or resume daily activities afterwards (excl. gym or anything that gets the area wet). For lip treatments swelling often occurs, the extent varies per person but it will reduce within 48hrs.

  • I have a cold sore?

    We can postpone your appointment for 14 days until it is completely healed. If you have had one in the past, the procedure can sometimes awaken the virus which lies dormant. To avoid this it is recommended that you apply an antiviral cream such as Zovirax 5 days prior to and 5 days after treatment. Where possible get a prescribed cream from your Doctor.

  • I have had filler/ botox?

    That’s absolutely no problem. Just ensure you leave at least a 14-day gap between your appointments. For lips it’s best to get lip tattoo first as there’s a small chance of your fillers migrating due to the trauma of tattooing.

  • How long does it take?

    It varies slightly according to the area you are having done, but most areas will require 2-3 hours per session and a total of 2 sessions. You must leave 6 weeks between sessions to allow the body to complete the healing process and avoid deep tissue scarring.

  • Is this the same as tattooing?

    The process is the same however semi-permanent make-up uses different ink pigments that the body will break down and cause to fade away over 1-5years. The ink pigment is also not deposited as deeply into the skin.

  • Do I need touch-ups?

    For most permanent makeup procedures it is a 2-step process, at least. Depending on whether you have previous work, skin type and desired final result. An estimation of the required sessions will be indicated to you during your Consultation prior to commencing the procedure. During the healing process of each procedure, the body rejects a bit of pigment, and it needs to be replenished. Everyone’s body heals differently, according to health and lifestyle factors, some people need more sessions than others. Ella will recommended a healing process of 4-8weeks between sessions.

  • What are the risks?

    Although side effects are discussed and pre-empted as part of your consultation, there is always a risk. The general risks are: skin reactions such as swelling, cracking, peeling or blistering or bleeding. A skin infection. Granulomas – tiny lumps that form under the skin around the pigment. Scarring, or overgrowths of scar tissue. An allergic reaction to the pigment – but this is rare, as a patch test will usually show this beforehand. Some people get swelling or burning in the tattooed area if they have an MRI scan, but this is rare. You must always inform Physicians that you have permanent makeup in advance of an MRI scan. For more information please book a Consultation with Ella.

Who is not eligable for Permanent Make-up?

Permanent makeup is not recommended for individuals in the below circumstances:

  • Pregnancy and/or Breastfeeding,

  • Active Cancer and undergoing Chemotherapy,

  • Individuals who are allergic to latex, metal or ink pigments,

  • Individuals with a history of Keloid scarring.

  • Individuals with any kind of skin condition on or near the treatment area,

  • Individuals with Pacemaker or major heart problems,

  • Individuals with Lupus,

  • Individuals who have undergone Organ Transplant,

  • Individuals under the age of 18.

  • Individuals perceived to struggle to comprehend or retain information pertaining to the procedure.

Conditional eligabillity

  • Individuals with dark pre-existing permanent makeup

    The tattoo or permanent makeup must be light enough to cover. Anyone with existing permanent makeup must inform Ella in advance of booking the appointment for her evaluation.

  • Individuals with Diabetes

    It is important that your condition is stable and under control. Please consult your physician and provide a doctor's note for Ella’s review.

  • Individuals with oily skin

    Very oily skin although great for looking eternally young unfortunately swallows the pigment and causes Microblading to fade extremely quickly. Powder brows are recommended for this skin type. Those with less oily or combination skin, may consider a combination of Microblading and Powder Brows, known as Combi brows. Ella will ultimately decide whether she can perform or continue to perform Microblading on your skin.

  • Individuals who are allergic to lidocaine or epinephrine

    Our most used anaesthetic is lidocaine and epinephrine so if you are allergic to it, Ella will not be able to use it during the procedure. However, you will still have an option to proceed but without a numbing agent. (People do it!) The man procedure that requires numbing cream is Microblading, Saline Brow Removal, Lip and Eye treatments

  • Individuals undergoing chemotherapy

    Once you're cleared by your Oncologist Ella can book your appointment. Please provide a doctor’s note .Permanent makeup is a wonderful option for cancer survivors.

  • Individuals with Thyroid Condition

    The colour of your brows can fade faster when taken with certain thyroid medications.

  • Individuals with Glaucoma

    The risk of developing an eye infection is higher.

  • Individuals with High Blood Pressure

    Your blood pressure has to be at a stable condition. You may have slightly greater bleeding than the norm. Excessive bleeding during the procedure can dilute and expel the pigment colour leading to poor results.

  • Individuals with a dark lips or prone to hyperpigmentation

    Anyone prone to hyperpigmentation will be required to send Ella a picture of their bare lips and the surrounding area around the mouth with no makeup on, so she can evaluate.

Questions about Brow Removal?

For Frequently Asked Questions related to Saline Brow Removal click the link below:

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