Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between each brow service?
The Powder Brow technique is more of a soft, airy, and shaded-in look. It is done with a gentle, digital tattoo machine which means less trauma. Boldness and definition can be completely customizable to the desires of the client.
The Microblading technique is done by placing fine "hair" strokes using a very small configuration of needles, which models a blade. This style is the least visible change once healed and will lighten/fade the quickest. (See “Am I a good microblading candidate?”)
The Combo Brow technique is a combination of both powder shading and “hair” strokes (“hair” strokes can be created with either microblading or by creating machine strokes with a gentle, digital tattoo machine. Style of strokes is determined after seeing the client’s skin in person.) This procedure can be very customizable (as far as the ratio of powder shading to strokes) to the desires of the client. Each brow procedure lasts 1-3 years before you’ll want a color boost.
The Color Boost
This is a refresh session, specifically and only for clients whose original procedure was performed by Laura. It is typically needed around 18 months to 2 years after your initial appointment, and is intended to 1.) restore lightened and/or ashy pigment back to the perfect color and 2.) define/restore the overall brow shape.
Is this REALLY permanent?
Permanent makeup has come a very long way in the last decade. The pigments, machines, and needles used are specific to permanent makeup (and not the same as traditional body tattooing techniques). They result in what is usually considered semi-permanent, which means it should lighten, fade, and possibly ash over time. For most brow procedures, optimal results will last anywhere from 1 to 3 years, depending on lifestyle, sun exposure, skin type, and colors used. After the 1-3 year mark, it is best to come in for a color boost, where the main objective is to restore exceptional color and definition. Eyelid procedures should last anywhere from 2 to 5 years before you’ll need a color boost or refresher. Lip Blush will last anywhere from 2 to 5 years, and tends to lighten/fade fastest in the middle areas where lip skin sloughs the most. Each procedure’s results will continue looking their best when color boosts, or refreshers, are kept up with.
** Please note, for certain skin types, permanent makeup may not ever completely disappear.
How long does each procedure take?
The average appointment lasts 2.5 to 3 hours. This includes a consult, which combines a pre-draw and an explanation of the techniques offered/recommended for you. During the pre-draw, Laura will use regular makeup to give you a preview of her recommendation. This is always completely individualized to each client, and an enhancement of your natural brow bone, shape, and where they currently have brow hair. She will explain what will work and look best for years to come- for you as the client, and also for her style as an artist. Consent forms are completed, numbing is applied beforehand, completing the procedure, and going over aftercare in depth.
Is it painful?
Most people experience very minimal to no discomfort during brow procedures. Lips and eyelid procedures can be a bit spicier, but completely doable- and worth it! Throughout each procedure, various topical anesthetics are applied which are specifically formulated for this industry.
What is a touch-up and do I need one?
The touch-up is performed 6-12 weeks after the day of the procedure and is considered a perfecting session. You are not required to do a touch-up, as it’s not always needed. Typically, if you’d like to go darker, or you have any areas that heal a bit patchy, you should come in for a touch up. This includes developing color, improving pigment retention, adjusting the shape, and/or adding in any detail work. (Touch up is an additional $125)
Am I a good microblading candidate?
If you are prone to Eczema, Psoriasis, Keratosis Pilaris, chronic acne, have very oily skin or Rosacea microblading is probably not for you. Age and skin type can also determine whether this procedure is right for you and is generally discussed and decided at the beginning of your appointment. If you have had previous microblading, Laura prefers to go over those strokes by doing machine strokes or covering with a powder brow.
How much do the services cost?