Permanent Makeup FAQs — Brows, Lips & Eyeliner
Have a question about comfort, healing, longevity, or techniques? You’re in the right place. Prefer to chat? Call/text 707-536-1070 to book a consultation or schedule an appointment here.
General PMU
What is permanent makeup (PMU)?
PMU is cosmetic tattooing that places pigment into the upper layers of the skin to softly enhance brows, eyes, or lips. The goal is natural-looking definition, not the harsh look of traditional body tattoos.
How long does PMU last?
Most brows, eyeliner, and lip blush last 1–3 years before a refresh. Longevity depends on skin type, aftercare, and lifestyle (sun exposure, exfoliants/retinoids).
Does PMU hurt?
Discomfort is usually minimal. We use premium topical numbing and gentle techniques; most clients describe a light scratching or tingling sensation while others fall asleep during the procedure.
What should I expect before, during, and after my appointment?
Before: Complete required forms; avoid sunburn; no alcohol, caffeine or blood thinners 24 hours before; follow any service-specific prep.
During: We review forms/photos, cleanse, map for symmetry/shape, numb (about 20 minutes), then begin. Plan on about 3 hours for brows; other services vary.
After: Expect light flaking for up to 10 days post procedure. Don’t pick. A perfecting session is typically 4–10 weeks later depending on service.
Brows (Microblading • Powder/Ombre • Combo • Nano)
Microblading vs. Powder/Ombre vs. Combo vs. Nano — what’s the difference?
Microblading: Manual hair-like strokes for a very natural look; best on normal-to-dry skin. Only suitable for clients with a good amount of natural brow hair.
Powder/Ombre: Machine shading for a soft “makeup” tint; great for all skin types, especially oily or mature. Most versatile of all the styles.
Combo Brows: A blend of strokes + shading for realistic texture with fullness.
Nano Brows: Hair strokes created by machine with ultra-fine needles—best for oily or delicate skin.
How do I choose the best brow style for my face and skin?
At your consult, we assess skin type, hair pattern, and goals. We map to your features and co-design your shape and technique.
Can you fix or correct previous brow tattooing?
Yes. See Brow Corrections below—options include color correction, shape refinement, and (when needed) saline lightening or laser removal before new brows.
Brow Corrections
Can you fix or correct previous brow tattooing?
Yes. As long as the previous shape/color is light/thin enough to cover. We offer:
- Color correction: Neutralizing cool/ashy or warm/orange tones.
- Shape correction: Improving symmetry, arch, tail, or thickness.
- Lightening first: If existing pigment is too dark/dense or outside the ideal shape, we may recommend saline lightening (done in studio) before new brows or refer out of studio for laser removal.
How do I know if I need removal first vs. direct correction?
If old pigment is very dark, saturated, or poorly placed, removal/lightening first leads to better long-term results. If old work is faded and well-positioned, we can often correct color/shape in fewer sessions.
Will corrections take more than one session?
Yes. Previous work and skin history vary. We’ll outline a realistic plan during your consultation.
Saline Lightening / Removal
What is saline lightening?
Saline lightening is a gentle, non-laser method to lighten or remove unwanted permanent makeup or small tattoos. A hypertonic saline solution is implanted to help draw pigment particles toward the surface as the area heals and scabs.
Ideal for:
- Correcting old or uneven PMU
- Lightening pigment before a cover-up
- Safely fading small tattoos (up to 4×4 inches per session)
Best candidates are in good overall health and have realistic expectations for a gradual, multi-session process.
Why choose saline over laser removal?
- Works on more pigments: Laser primarily targets dark inks; saline can also lighten lighter pigments commonly used in PMU.
- Removes vs. redistributes: Saline helps lift pigment out with the scab; laser fragments pigment that may be stored in lymph nodes.
- Delicate areas: Especially appropriate around brows, lips, and eyes.
Be patient: Sessions needed depend on saturation, depth, and how much must be removed to reach your goal.
How many sessions will I need?
Most people need 2–4 sessions spaced 6–8+ weeks apart. Dark/heavily saturated pigments may require more. We’ll customize your plan after assessment.
What is healing like?
Controlled scabbing is expected. Keep the area clean and dry and do not pick—the scab binds with pigment and lifts it as it naturally falls. Avoid sun exposure to reduce risks of scarring or hypo/hyperpigmentation. Surface healing is ~7–10 days; deeper repair continues for weeks.
When can I get new brows after lightening?
Typically 6–10 weeks after the last lightening session, once the skin is fully healed and stable.
Who should not get saline lightening (contraindications)?
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- History of keloids/hypertrophic scarring
- Sunburned or active skin irritation (rash, open cuts, psoriasis) in the area
- Accutane use within the past 12 months
- Botox within 2 weeks or chemical peel within 1 month
- Viral/bacterial infection; recent surgery within 30 days
- Undergoing chemotherapy or taking immunosuppressants
- Serious medical conditions (e.g., epilepsy, uncontrolled diabetes, hemophilia, hypertension), pacemaker/heart issues, or a history of organ transplant
We review your health history to confirm candidacy and safety.
Lips (Lip Blush + Lip Corrections)
What is Lip Blushing?
A semi-permanent tint that enhances your natural lip color and symmetry for a “your lips but better” result. It heals soft and natural—not like lipstick.
Will lip blush make my lips look bigger?
We tattoo within your natural vermillion border. The refined edges and color boost create the appearance of more volume without overlining.
Can I get Lip Blushing if I have fillers or Botox?
Yes. Schedule fillers/Botox 4–6 weeks before lip blushing so tissue is settled and symmetrical.
Do you do lip color corrections?
Yes. If previous lip PMU healed too cool/warm or uneven, we can neutralize unwanted tones and refine borders. Multiple sessions may be needed based on starting color and skin response.
What is healing like?
Expect mild swelling the first day and light scabbing/peeling for 5–7 days. Color softens and settles over 4–6 weeks.
Eyes (Eyeliner & Lash Line Enhancement)
What’s the difference between eyeliner tattoo and lash line enhancement?
Eyeliner: Visible definition (soft to bold). Lash Line Enhancement: Pigment between lashes for a naturally fuller-lash look without a visible “liner.”
Is eyeliner tattoo safe?
We use sterile, single-use needles and protective protocols throughout your appointment.
Safety, Healing & Touch-ups
Is PMU safe?
Yes. We’re a licensed, inspected studio that follows health-department standards. All needles are sterile and single-use. All pigments are made in the USA, not tested on animals & vegan.
Will my PMU fade or change color?
All pigments soften over time due to skin turnover and lifestyle. Maintenance every 1–3 years keeps results fresh and natural.
Why is a perfecting session recommended?
Your first session lays the foundation; healing can lighten certain areas. The 4–10 week perfecting session refines color, detail, and balance.
Pricing & Booking
Why is permanent makeup an investment?
Quality PMU requires advanced training, premium pigments, sterile supplies, and wearable artistry—saving you time daily and boosting confidence for years.
How do I book?
Book online or call/text 707-536-1070. We’ll help you choose the right service and artist. We can’t wait to work with you!









































