PERMANENT MAKEUP & LASH EXTENSIONS FAQ

WHAT IF I HAVE HAD MICROBLADING/EYEBROW TATTOOING/PERMANENT MAKEUP BEFORE?

If you have had your eyebrows, eyeliner or lips done before, please contact us to set up a consultation. We want to see you in person and see if we can work with the existing pigment. Please don't forget your face is our business card, if we can not make the brows to our liking, we will not perform the procedure and will refer you out for laser removal. If you schedule an appointment without booking a consultation first, you will forfeit your deposit.

AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE?

Unfortunately, you are not a candidate for permanent cosmetics if any of the following apply to you:

- Under 18 years of age

- Pregnant or nursing (we recommend waiting three months after nursing due to hormonal changes for optimal healed results)

- Previous permanent makeup (brows, lips, eyeliner) By Approval Only

- History of keloids or hypertrophic scarring

- History of Epilepsy, MRSA, or Lupus

- Undergoing chemotherapy/radiation (at least a year out and requires doctor's clearance)

- Non-steroidal aromatase inhibitors, Letrozole etc. (chemotherapy)

- Type I Diabetic (requires doctor's clearance)

- Using Accutane (must be off for one full year)

- Currently taking Spironolactone (must be off of medication 4 weeks prior & 4 weeks after)

- Organ transplant

- Pacemaker or major heart problems

- Uncontrolled high blood pressure

- Currently taking oral or topical antibiotics (must be off for at least 30 days prior to appointment)

- Currently taking/using topical or oral steroids, prednisone etc. (must be off for at least 60 days prior to appointment)

- Currently treating any fungal or bacterial infections of the skin (must be off treatment for 4 weeks )

- Viral infections or diseases (cold/flu/eye infections)

- Those with transmittable blood conditions like HIV or Hepatitis

- Hemophilia, bleeding disorders

- Problematic Skin (Acne or bumps covering the Forehead or Brow Area)

- Skin irritations or psoriasis near the treated area (rashes, sunburn, acne, etc.)

- Chemical peels or PRP facial (at least 60 days prior)

- Facial laser treatment, IPL (at least 60 days prior)

- Had Botox in the last two weeks

- Poor general health

- Allergy to epinephrine, dermacaine, benzyl alcohol, lidocaine, or tetracaine

- Active cold sores (for lip blush)

- Hooded eyelids (for eyeliner)

- Currently have lash extensions (for eyeliner)

- Surgery 30 days before and/or after treatment

- Currently using or have used lash or brow serums in the past 8 weeks; avoid serum on area to be treated for a minimum of 8 weeks

- Using any skin care products that contain any retinol, glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxyls

HOW CAN I BOOK AN APPOINTMENT?

Prior to booking an appointment, please ensure you have reviewed our process, policies and FAQs on our website to ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure. To book an appointment, please follow the booking link.

WHY DO I NEED TO STOP ALL OF MY SKIN CARE PRODUCTS?

The end goal with these procedures is a beautiful, natural healed result. When anti-aging, lightening, brightening, smoothing, tightening, acne, color correcting, etc. skin care products are used, the skin thickness is altered and the end result is not the same.You are paying a lot of money for this service, we have been doing this for over 5 years, these products have a HUGE impact on the healed brows. If these products are used 4 weeks prior or 4 weeks after the appointment, the brows will heal very patchy, completely faded, dark, or very unnatural in color, we have seen blue, and even purple/pink eyebrows. We have FAQs on our website for a reason, we want the best results for our clients, as your face is our business card and you represent our brand. *THIS APPLIES TO AVOIDING THESE PRODUCTS ON THE WHOLE FACE AND NECK*. You can resume your products 4 weeks after the touch up when your eyebrows have fully healed. For best results, we only recommend using the basic daily cleanser and daily moisturizer from Cetaphil to prepare the skin for the procedure. If you have questions about this policy, please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have.

WHAT ARE OMBRE POWDER BROWS?

A fully shaded technique using a tattoo machine/pen that replicates a makeup look is called Ombre Powder Brows. The intensity of this look can be modified based on the client’s personal preference, ranging from soft and airy to bold and dense. Ombre Powder Brows are best for clients who want a well-defined, filled in brow. It is good for all skin types, especially for clients with oily skin with large pores. A touch up every 24 months is recommended.

WILL YOU SHAVE OFF MY EYEBROWS?

No, we want to work with as much of the existing hair as possible. Once we finish drawing your brow shape using the golden ratio method, we will ask you for permission to remove (tweeze) any hair outside of the agreed shape.

WHAT IS LIP BLUSH?

Lip blushing is a cosmetic tattoo of the lips that enhances the beauty of the natural lip color, improving the shape of the lips, giving definition and the illusion of fullness. This treatment delivers very natural results, once healed. Filler may be great for creating volume in your lips, but lip blush delivers a more natural look and give the illusion of fuller lips and a defined vermillion border. Photo approval required prior to booking. A touch up is recommended every 2-3 years.

HOW LONG DOES MICROBLADING LAST?

Microbladed eyebrows typically last one to two years for most people before they need a touch up. Cosmetic tattoo treatments are considered permanent and will not wash off — however, they will fade over time and may need to be refreshed every 12 months to 18 months. Those who do not follow aftercare instructions properly may require more frequent microblading touch-ups.

DOES PERMANENT MAKEUP HURT?

At iBrows Studio in Saco, our licensed makeup tattoo artists use two different types of numbing to help alleviate any discomfort. Having this service performed during your menstrual cycle may increase discomfort during the microblading process.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR THE PERMANENT MAKEUP TO HEAL?

Approximately 14 days to heal. During that week, we encourage you to let it naturally exfoliate. This means keeping the permanent makeup out of water, sweat, steam, etc. Once the flaking period is complete, the result will appear lighter and the true color will come out after four weeks. As long as you’re good at following the aftercare instructions, there shouldn’t be a problem going to work or being out in public.

HOW LONG IS THE APPOINTMENT?

The appointment usually takes two to three hours, and most of the time is spent going over drawing the shape of your eyebrows and picking the right color in order to ensure that your eyebrow blading turns out perfect.

CAN I SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION?

The consultation and procedure are typically both done in the same day, unless you have existing permanent makeup. In this case, please book a consultation via website. The cost of the consultation is $50.

CAN YOU MICROBLADE YOUR OWN EYEBROWS?

Absolutely not. Performing such an invasive procedure on your own face can scar you for life — pun intended. In order to achieve ideal results with microblading eyebrows, proper stretching of the skin is extremely important, which works together with adequate pressure. Without proper stretching, you will harm your skin and most likely cut too deep and cause undesired scarring.

IS MICROBLADING PERMANENT?

Because the color is implanted into the upper dermal layer of the skin and cannot be washed off, microblading brows is considered permanent. However, the pigment is implanted more superficially than a traditional tattoo, making it fade over time and requiring future touch ups.

WILL YOU DRAW THE SHAPE ON FIRST?

Yes, we won’t start the process until you agree with the color selected and the shape.

CAN I WEAR MAKEUP AFTER MICROBLADING?

Do not wear makeup on the brows for at least two weeks after your procedure, but everywhere else is fine, being careful not to get it on the treated area(s).

IS THE SECOND APPOINTMENT NECESSARY?

Touch-ups are done no earlier than six weeks after your initial procedure and no later than twelve. If you do not schedule your eyebrow tattoo touch-up within twelve weeks, you will be required to pay the touch-up fee outlined in the touch-up schedule. At the touch-up, we assess the color retention and make adjustments as necessary. Everyone heals differently and at different rates. If your cosmetic tattoo does not heal perfectly the first time, do not worry! We can always go bolder and add more density as well as correct any irregularities in the microbladed hair strokes during the touch-up. Some clients do not need a touch up, we call this one and done, as these clients will not need to be seen until 12-24+ months for a color boost touch up.

HOW WILL MY EYEBROWS LOOK RIGHT AFTER THE MICROBLADING PROCEDURE? DO I NEED TO GO HOME AND HIDE FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS?

They will look great! They may be a little darker for a couple of days, but you shouldn't experience any bruising and will only have very minimal swelling. You can go out to dinner the same day — just don't drink alcohol because it makes you sweat, bleed (unlikely), bruise, and worse of all, it leads you to make questionable decisions like touching your eyebrows with dirty hands!

DOES PERMANEMT MAKEUP HURT AFTERWARD?

The tattooed area can be a little sore for the first few hours, and it is not uncommon for it to be tender for a few days.

CAN YOU MICROBLADE OVER AN EXISTING TATTOO?

Sometimes. However, the old tattoo must be significantly faded for the hair strokes to show through and look natural. If you do have an existing tattoo, you need to schedule a consultation prior to booking a new client appointment.

I HAD MY EYEBROWS MICROBLADED SOMEWHERE ELSE, CAN YOU DO A TOUCH UP?

If you have been microbladed elsewhere and need a touch-up, please contact us for a consultation first then we can discuss your options for scheduling a touch up. If you move forward with scheduling a new client appointment without informing us you have had your eyebrows done before, you may be turned away and will forfeit your nonrefundable deposit.

PRE-CARE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Properly preparing for all of your appointments is an essential part of optimal healing. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, please follow our recommended pre-care agenda.

60 DAYS PRIOR:

-NO Facials/PRP Facials

-NO Chemical Peels

-NO Microdermabrasion/Microneedling

-NO Eyelash serums (for eyeliner appointments only)

-NO Brow serums

4 WEEKS PRIOR:

-NO Laser Treatments

-NO Antibiotics

-NO Anti-aging products; any skin care products that contain any vitamin A, retinol, glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, niacinamide, rosehip seed oil or alpha hydroxyls etc* anywhere on the face

-NO Spironolactone 4 weeks prior, 4 weeks after

-NO Anti-acne products* anywhere on the face

-NO Surgery of anykind

-NO Tanning, avoid sun and tanning beds

-NO Lash extensions (must be removed prior to eyeliner/lash enhancement appointments only)

2 WEEKS PRIOR:

-NO Waxing

-NO Tinting of brow hair

-NO Botox, fillers

-NO Spray tanning

-NO Electrolysis

-NO Garlic, Turmeric, Fish Oil or Vitamin E supplements

72 HOURS PRIOR :

-NO blood thinning medications such as ibuprofen, NSAIDs, Aspirin, Motrin etc.

*See note at the end of this section about Lip Blush anti-viral pre-treatment

24 HOURS PRIOR:

-NO Working out

-NO Alcohol

DAY OF APPOINTMENT:

-NO Working out

-NO Caffeine** no coffee; decaf still has caffeine, no herbal teas,

-Come with your brows penciled in so we can see how you are used to having them. Please avoid forehead makeup as it is our working space and we want it as clean as possible

*(Lip blush only) If you have any history of cold sores, fever blisters, caused by the virus herpes simplex, you could contact your physician to obtain and take the proper prescription medication to prevent such outbreaks. Tattooing has the potential to trigger the virus and compromise color retention. You can still have lip tattooing done; however, tattooing has the potential to trigger the virus and compromise color retention.

You will need to take the cold sore medication for your touch-up just as you did for your initial procedure. If you have an active cold sore you need to reschedule your appointment and wait until it fully heals. Please consult with your doctor taking antiviral medications for a longer period of time. It is often recommended to take medicine for at least 3 days before and 3 days after the procedure. If you suffer cold sores more often you can consider longer treatment. Ensure you are very hydrated for this service and the lips have been exfoliated a few days prior.

**Caffeine and alcohol are blood thinners we want zero bleeding during the procedure for the best possible outcome. Bleeding pushes out the color and will also likely cause scabbing during the healing process. Everything is outlined for you to have the best results possible, you are paying a lot of money for these procedures, please follow the rules.

AFTER-CARE RESPONSIBILITIES:

AVOID FOR NEXT 2 WEEKS:

- Getting eyebrows wet in the shower (wash from neck down or utilize dry shampoo)

- Please wash your face carefully around the eyebrows without getting water on the treated area

- Keep hair out of the eyebrows; it has a lot of oils and bacteria

- Working out, playing sports, yoga, sweating etc. increased heart rate and sweating can prematurely fade the treated area

- Hot sauna, hot bath or Jacuzzi; use lukewarm water in the shower

- Picking, peeling, touching or scratching of the micropigmented area to avoid scarring of the area or removal of the pigment, except for when rinsing and applying the post-care ointment with a cotton swab

- Performing tasks related to gardening or heavy household cleaning such as garage or basement cleaning where there is a lot of airborne dust/ debris

- Drinking alcohol in excess, as it may lead to slow healing of wounds; drink lots of water

- Driving in open air vehicles such as convertibles, boats, bicycles or motorcycles

- No Botox/fillers

- No makeup directly on the eyebrows

- Avoid sleeping on your stomach or sides while healing.

AVOID FOR NEXT 4 WEEKS:

- Any laser or chemical treatments or peels, and/or any creams containing Retin-A or Glycolic acid etc. on the face or neck; this can cause premature exfoliation of the implanted pigment.

- Sun tanning or salon tanning; UV/UVA Rays or chemicals as they have been known to cause a shift in color and premature fading; wear a hat or visor if outside to keep the brows protected

*Any skincare products for youth, repair, anti-aging, wrinkles, acne, tone correcting, brightening, etc. are likely to have these ingredients, do not use them anywhere on the face 4 weeks prior to procedure and 4 weeks after the procedure. This applies to all appointments at the studio, touch ups included.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING HEALING

The entire healing process will take from 4-6 weeks depending on your body regeneration and age. Your new eyebrows will go through several phases during the healing cycle. Itching and flaking may appear during the first 7 days post-microblading procedure. However, experience has shown that by strictly following these after-care instructions, these symptoms may quickly disappear.

The pigment will appear very sharp and dark immediately after the procedure. This is because the pigment is still sitting on top of your skin and has not yet settled in completely. The color of the pigment will soften gradually. Do not be alarmed if you see some pigment on the cotton pad/swab, as this is excess pigment and/or body fluid that is naturally exiting your skin.

Once the healing of the skin starts taking place, it will look like dandruff flakes or dry skin. However, this is just superficial color and dry skin being naturally exfoliated from your eyebrows. The final look of your eyebrows will be apparent approximately 30 days after your procedure.

Note that because of natural skin regeneration, after recovery period (peeling), brows might appear lighter than original. This might give you the impression that color is fading too quickly. Often even with proper care, clients may lose original hair strokes which make brows look uneven. This is normal. That is the reason why most customers need a touchup after 6-8 weeks. Never rub the treated area as it will disturb the skin from natural healing.

AFTER YOUR PERMANENT MAKEUP HAS HEALED

Protect your investment! Permanent cosmetics will require consistent care once healed to ensure a lasting and natural result.

- Permanent makeup can last anywhere from one to 2+ years depending on the client's lifestyle, skin type, and aftercare.

- Exposure to the sun and tanning beds can cause fading and discoloration of the pigment.

- When you are outdoors, always apply sunscreen to the treated area once completely healed to avoid excess fading or discoloration of the pigment.

- Maintain removal of unwanted brow hair outside of your microbladed shape by tweezing, waxing, threading, or razoring.

- Laser procedures such as hair removal or resurfacing will alter the pigment. Please inform your technician of any permanent cosmetics on your face.

- Additional makeup application may still be required post-procedure to achieve your desired look.

- For further sun protection, wear hats and sunglasses.

- Avoid anti-aging and exfoliating products such as retinols, glycolic, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, etc. This will cause premature fading over time.

- Moisturized skin retains better! Keep yourself hydrated and always apply a daily moisturizer to your permanent makeup.

- Touch-ups are recommended every 18-36 months to maintain your results.

PLEASE NOTE: The results are natural, fuller looking eyebrows. Initially, the brows may appear darker but fade significantly over the first two weeks. Although our cosmetic tattoo artists use premium products and provide exceptional service, all clients heal differently, and many factors lead to varied results. It is crucial to have a microblading touch-up done, as it is very difficult to predict how well your skin will retain the pigment. Due to this and other varying factors, we cannot guarantee your results.

FAQ LASH EXTENSIONS

1. Can we chat while getting lashes done?

The answer is YES and NO, depending on your facial muscular structure. Chatting can be devastating during your lash appointment, and your lash Technitian might not be able to attach lashes correctly. Worst, your under-eye pads and tape may slip out and that will cause your bottom lashes to pop out and get glued to your upper lashes.

When lashes are not attached correctly, retention might struggle. When bottom lashes are glued to the top, that could be painful to get them unstuck. Bottom lashes CAN definitely pop out even when you are sleeping, but that happens rarely. Lastly, when eyes move, they can open up a little bit and that can result in your eyes to be red or you feeling glue burn.

Everyone's facial muscle structure is very different. For example, some have strong frontalis muscles lines between brows, while others have stronger vertical lines. Same goes to your eye-mouth connection. Wearing masks and talking will 100% make this movement stronger. As much as I love chatting and catching up, my goal is to give you the best value for your moneys- which is a great set that last well 2-3 weeks. And 99% of lash artists will not tell you this in person because we don't want to be rude or make you feel uncomfortable. Thats why we always nicely suggest to take a nap and we make our rooms as comfortable as possible because we NEED no eye movement to do our best work.

Now, yes! There are some lucky ladies who can chat and they eyes do not move at all. If you are not sure if your eyes move, please do not hesitate to ask me. My goal is to be as transparent with you as possible :).

2. Can I wear eyeliner and eye makeup?

You can wear eyeliner and eye makeup, although lash artists do not suggest doing so- we do not mind if you do. The key is to not touch lash extensions with eyeliner and not to clean it off with q-tip, cotton pads, or wipes. Best to ALWAYS use eyelash shampoo with a clean eyeshadow brush.

3. How often do I clean/brush lashes?

Best to do it at least once a day, however if you do not have oily skin or wear eye makeup, you can do it every 2-3 days. You can brush lashes 2 times a day, but do not over brush as this can create premature shedding. Be careful with shampoo/conditioner running into eyes and avoid any oil based products around eyes (that even includes sunscreen, setting sprays, and hair sprays, please always cover your lashes or avoid area). I do sell lash shampoo set for $10, or you can get one on Amazon.

4. Why lashes turn after a couple of weeks?

Everyone's natural lashes shed and grow. Normal lash cycle is about 4 weeks. During this cycle, long lashes will shed while new lashes will grow. We do not notice this cycle when we do not have lash extensions. Just like your hair, it sheds and grows. When your lashes grow, lash extensions will grow with them and start to turn. This is why we recommend 2-3 weeks refills. By week 4 most of the lashes will have to be removed. During your 2-3 weeks refill, overgrow lashes removed and new lashes placed. In general, you need to have 40% lashes left for it to be a refill. However, if you book up to 21 days after your previous appointment, I will work on your lashes and will make them as full as possible in 1 hour. Please do not expect full set in 1 hour. You can always wait a cycle and just do a new full set later on.

5. I need to cancel or reschedule. What is the policy?

Please contact me at least 24 hours in advance to transfer your deposit. Deposits are non refundable. Our income depends on appointments and short notice or no shows her our businesses. Many places have emplimented storing cards on file and charging half or full amount for no shows/short notices. Some ask for full payment in advance. My booking server doesn't allow card information storage, that is why non refundable deposits have been set for every booking. I do understand that sometimes there are emergencies, however I would not be in business if I was refunding deposits for every emergency and was left with empty appointment slots. I will not be able to refund deposit under any conditions.When you book your appointment, you agree to by booking policy that is set for viewing right before you book. Please be sure 100% when booking that you will be able to make your appointment. If something come up, please message me as soon as possible. You can always book in the future with a new deposit. Even if you contact me 24 hours in advance, please do not make this a habit. Constantly rescheduling ahead can hurt our income too, please be aware and try to make your scheduled appointment.

6. Is there a DIY lash extensions removal?

Due to legal purposes, I will not be able to suggest any DIY removals. However, you can search online and see available information on what lash technicians do/use or for other removal options. Pulling lashes is never a good idea as it can create permanent damage and weaken natural lashes.

7. My lashes all fall out after 2-3 weeks. Why?

This is a very broad and tricky question. There are many, many things that can happen after you have left your appointment. In general, if your previous sets have been consistent and good, but suddenly they are falling out fast- this could mean that your lash PH levels have changed (PH levels change with age, diet, medication, seasons and so on; some lashes are actually not good candidates for extensions due to PH level because glue doesn't stick well), your sleeping patterns have changed or other things like season change, product change and much more. Considering, of course, your lash tech did not change glue or lashes, and your eyes weren't moving to be able to apply lashes correctly. If you got a fuller set this time and previous lighter set lasted longer- that possibly means your lashes are too weak to handle a heavier set. Go back to a lighter set to extend lash wearing. You can always ask me and I will suggest you the best weight/length/thickness for your lashes.

8. My set doesn't look exactly as a picture I showed you. Why?

Each person is unique. Unless you are showing me a photo of an eye of your identical twin, the set will most likely look different on you. We all have different eye shapes, sizes and the amount of lashes is different on each person. When you are picking a set, you are picking a style and each style (just like clothing and hair) will look somewhat different on your eyes that the photo. Lash technitians also have individual styles, it is always best to look through photos of your lash tech and show them what you liked. If you show a random photo you found online, often times that look will not be the same. We can try our best to match someone else's style, but we are not magicians. My job is to enhance the beauty of your eye shape, and I will try to do my absolute best to give you a set you will be happy with. However, my style is not for everyone and that is completely understandable.

Contra-Indications to Waxing

Contra-Indications

If you are taking anti-biotics or acne medication.
Use of skin peeling, skin thinning preparations.
Varicose Veins.
Underarms: Mastitis.
Skin disorders or diseases, such as bruising or recent haemorrhage, Scar tissue (especially recent).
Warts, Moles and skin tabs (area can be avoided).
Fractures or Sprains.
Bruising.
Diabetes - some people with diabetes have skin that is very slow to heal. The skin will be watched closely to make sure it does not over react to treatments.
Sensitivity test may be conducted.
Sunburn.
Use of sunbeds 24 hours prior to waxing.
If you are receiving cancer therapy (chemotherapy or radiation).

Other Considerations

Menstruation does not prevent you from waxing, however, your skin may be more sensitive.
If you are pregnant, using oral contraceptives or hormone replacement your skin may be more sensitive to waxing, so it's best to have a patch test (like a small area on your arm) and see how your skin reacts for 24 hours before getting an entire eyebrow or leg wax.
If you smoke or have Rosacea waxing can irritate dilated capillaries (weak or broken blood vessels) which are commonly found on people with Rosacea and smokers. If the capillaries are very red, stay away from waxing in that area.
Stimulants such as caffeine or alcohol in your system can cause skin to be extra sensitive to waxing, meaning you could get more red or inflamed than usual. Give yourself a couple hours after drinking coffee or alcohol before getting waxed.
You might be affected if you use powerful exfoliators on your skin. Salicylic acid (found in some toners or skin clarifyers), alpha-hydroxy acid, white willow bark, white willow bark extract and enzymes all strip cells from the skin. It's all too much exfoliation combined with waxing, and could make skin red, bleed or even scab over. So stop using these products in the area getting waxed for at least three days before, and three to four days after waxing. (Depending on the strength of the product and the type of skin you have the safe wax wait time may be much longer before and after. If the alpha-hydroxy is over 8% then you may have to wait months before safely getting waxed.)

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