Cosmetic Tattooing FAQ’s
Can we do a consult and first session in the same visit?
Unfortunately not. Every client needs to have a patch test done at least 12hrs prior to their first appointment. For clients travelling from outside of Auckland, please give us a call to discuss alternative patch test options for you.
What happens in a consult and why do I need it?
We believe consults are crucial to any cosmetic tattoo procedure. Let's be honest, it's a semi permanent procedure ON YOUR FACE, you want to know what's going to happen, have a chance to ask any questions, and feel comfortable that your technician understands what you are hoping to achieve. At each consult we go through a medical check to make sure it's an appropriate procedure for you, and if needed make recommendations to implement prior to your first appointment. We also do a brow shaping, a mock brow/lip design so you have an idea of what is a realistic goal, and patch test. You will leave feeling excited and confident for your upcoming session!
How long does it last, and what is the maintenance?
You can expect your Brow Feathering to last at it's best on average between 12-18 months. We recommend you have your annual colour boost within 12 months, or 18-24 months for Ombre´ Brows and Lip Blushing, as it's easier and more cost effective if you maintain your feathering, vs having to start over each time. Typically if done within the recommended time period, only one session is needed. Avoiding the use of active skin care in the brow area and using sunscreen can also help protect the longevity of your cosmetic tattooing.
How many appointments are needed?
After the initial consult, you will need to come back for two sessions 6 weeks apart. Approx 10% of clients need to come back for a third perfecting session, but for the average client it would be excessive to their needs, and in our opinion risking a higher chance overworking of the skin.
Do you pre-numb?
We do not pre-numb! There are several reasons we choose not to numb prior to starting your cosmetic tattoo. Numbing cream contains water, and when that's left on the skin for 20, 40, 60 mins, that water is absorbed leaving skin with a "squishy" texture. This makes it very difficult to find the proper depth or "sweet spot" in which to implant the pigment. That over saturated skin also tries to push the pigment out, which means colour may not hold as well. Lastly, pre-numbing has usually already started to wear off by the time your shape is drawn up, and clients who have had both pre-numbing and no pre-numbing say they don't really notice a difference. So instead we choose to have the first thing that hits the skin be the pigment, at the correct depth, resulting in beautifully healed results! Being prepared and feeling comfortable with your treatment, and what the process is, all helps to make clients feel relaxed about the procedure - also reducing the need to numb. The benefits to not numbing in advance certainly make it worthwhile! But we do use a quick pass of a numbing gel halfway through if needed, at which point it acts almost instantly with none of the above concerns.
Does it hurt?
Cosmetic Tattooing is a tattoo, so the skin is broken in the process to allow the pigment to be implanted. There will always be a slight discomfort when that happens, but if done correctly it should be more of a scratchy/stinging sensation vs. painful. Everyone has a different pain tolerance, but we find if you can relax into the process it goes much smoother. Following proper pre-treatment instructions such as no caffeine or alcohol 24hr prior to your appointment also makes a huge difference. While we always have relaxing music for you to enjoy, you are welcome to bring along some headphones if you feel that may help.
Do you reuse your tools?
No! All our needles are sterile packed and disposable. Anything that is reused such as callipers for measuring, are thoroughly cleaned and sanitised before each client.
I have mature or oily skin, can I have brow feathering?
If you have mature or oily skin, Brow Feathering may not be the best treatment for you, as the individual strokes can loose their definition. But that doesn't mean we can't do anything! It's likely that you'd be better suited to Micro Pigmentation (Ombre´ Brow) which can still look quite soft and natural once healed. All of which can be discussed at your consult.
Deposits
After your consult, if you decide to go forward with making a booking we do take a $100 deposit. Given the length of the appointment time needed (2.5hrs for the first and 1.5hrs for the second) deposits for these appointments are not refunded if cancelled or changed less than 72 hours in advance.
