FAQ

What is PMU?

Permanent Make Up! Often also called semi-permanent makeup. By using a micro blade or PMU tattoo machine, it is the process of implanting tiny micro pigments into the skin.

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What is Microblading?

Microblading is a semi-permanent procedure completed by using a small hand-held tool with a tiny blade that implants pigment into the upper dermis layer of the skin. Hair-like strokes, powdery shading, or a combination of both may be done to create a fuller and more defined looking brow (hybrid/combo brow). Microblading is considered a tattoo process.

 

What is the difference between microblading and traditional Tattoo?

Though both are done using the same general process, a tattoo is designed to be permanent, while microblading in general is not. The service, many times is also referred to as “micropigmentation”, because the molecules of the pigments created for use in microblading are micro-sized. Tattoo ink, in general, has a larger molecule size which helps lock the color in place in the dermis better, PMU pigments are implanted into the upper dermis, just below the basal membrane. Tattoo ink is implanted into the deeper layers of the dermis. 

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How long will it last?

There are many factors and everyone is different however it could last anywhere from 1-3 years. Micropigmentation is designed to fade much more quickly than a traditional tattoo, which allows us to change the look of the brow as years pass, adjusting to accommodate changing styles, aging skin, and changing personal preference. It also means that a client who no longer wants the look of a microbladed brow may, for the most part, may simply let it fade away over time, though this depends on the color chosen, the composition of the pigment used, and the way it was implanted. Pre and Post care also play an extremely important role. 

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Does it hurt? 

Microblading creates a small cut or scratch in the skin whereas a PMU machine  makes small pinholes in the skin. There may be some minor discomfort  however with the use of 2 stage topical numbing it's usually very well tolerated.  I want to ensure your session is as comfortable as possible!

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What are the aftercare requirements?

- Avoid excessive sweating, long hot showers, swimming, or anything that may add moisture to the area for the first 14 days. ​

- Gently blot treated area with a clean and dry cotton round for the first 24 HOURS.​​

​- For the first FIVE DAYS following your appointment wipe the treated area with a damp cotton round. Discontinue this process after the fifth day or you will risk removing scabs prematurely which may affect color retention.​

​-If necessary, apply a rice size amount of ointment in the evening.​

​- Do not pick scabs; the scabbing process is to be expected and is a common part of the healing process.​

​​- ​Do not apply makeup or additional products in the treated area until the scabs have healed. 

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How long does it take to heal?

You will not fully know how the pigments truly perform, until a minimum of four weeks, and up to a year. The current standard healing time in clients who are under 45 is about four weeks, over 45 is about six weeks. Over 65 is about eight weeks. Add two weeks for diabetics or smokers, just to be on the safe side because they have slower tissue healing in general.

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When can I get my touchup?

Remember that PMU is a process, not a one time service. The touch up can also be known as the “perfecting” appointment. Everyone's skin is different so times may vary however the 1st touch up will either be at 4, 6 or 8 weeks. A yearly Brow touch up is also recommended to keep the brows looking fresh. 

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Will my brows turn red or gray over time?

There are a combination of factors that go into choosing proper pigments to avoid color changes, however sometimes change is unavoidable. For example: Unforeseen chemical changes, some medications like codeine, thyroid or blood pressure meds, anti-aging creams, aha or retinol, and those with hormonal issues can end up with unexpected color changes. Time, over time pigments will fade.

Paying close attention to skin tones, undertones and choosing the correct colors to create balances between warm and cool along with using high quality pigments can usually avoid any color changes, however there is no true guarantee.

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What if I have BOTOX?

Wait two weeks after injections for the muscles of the face to settle into the new expression. Although many clients with Botox have successful  treatments, there is a chance of symmetry changes as the Botox wears off, or if a new doctor injects differently, etc.

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Can anyone get PMU procedures done?

When in doubt always seek the advice of your doctor.  There are a number of cautionary and contraindications that are in the medical consent form prior to the procedure. If you have any specific questions please reach out.

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Some of the more common ones are listed below:

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-Cold Sores - Clients who have had a cold sore in the treatment area will always need to be on an antiviral medication prescribed by their doctor for a few days before and a week after their treatment to prevent a breakout and possible spreading of the virus to previously unaffected areas of the skin. 

-Pregnant/breastfeeding

-ACCUTANE -Clients must have been off Accutane, an aggressive antibiotic acne medication, for at least one year before microblading.

-Those on prescription blood thinners like Coumadin or Warfarin or who have a clotting disorder like Hemophilia.

-Diabetes

-Blood Thinners

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