What Is Cosmetic Tattooing?

Cosmetic tattooing is the process of implanting coloured pigment into the dermis layer of the skin by means of tiny, sterile, disposable needles. This produces the appearance of hair strokes, makeup, or to enhance the natural features of the face.

What is the difference between cosmetic tattooing and standard body tattooing?

The purpose of cosmetic tattooing is to enhance the natural features of a client. Cosmetic tattooing is softer and more subtle than standard body tattooing – it is meant to be a natural-looking enhancement. Body tattoos use ink while cosmetic tattoo procedures involve pigments. These pigments are designed to gently fade over time. Fading is desired as it allows the artist to make changes to colour and shape over the years as client’s natural coloration and facial changes occur.

How long does cosmetic tattooing last?

Cosmetic tattoo treatments will not wash off; however, they will fade over time and may need to be refreshed every 1-2 years. The frequency of sessions depends on a number of factors including: the pigment colour used (lighter colours fade faster), lifestyle (sun exposure, tobacco use, medical conditions), and if any chemical peels and regenerative anti-aging creams come into contact with treated areas. Please note that final results CANNOT be guaranteed as each unique skin type will hold pigments differently and break down at different rates. We will re-evaluate how your skin has received the pigment at your second session and make any changes necessary. Multiple sessions are normal for cosmetic tattoo procedures, with each new procedure requiring a minimum of 2 visits (first session and a touch-up session). Your touch-up can be booked no sooner than 4 weeks after the initial appointment.

Does cosmetic tattooing hurt?

A highly-effective, topical anaesthetic cream and gel are used for numbing before and during your procedure. Pain threshold levels vary from person to person and every effort is made to ensure you remain comfortable. On a scale of 1-10, most people report 1 or 2 while others have fallen asleep during the procedure. Having this service performed during your menstrual cycle may increase discomfort. If you are a frequent smoker, the topical anaesthetics used during the treatment will not last as long. Frequently, Tylenol is used to address any discomfort.

How long does it take to heal?

The rate of healing varies, however, the average time is 7-10 days. You’ll need to avoid getting them too wet (in the shower), working out (sweating) or wearing brow makeup.

What factors will affect my cosmetic tattoo?

Sun exposure: The sun will fade the appearance of your tattoo and cause the colour to turn ashy, so sunblock should be used (once healed) to prolong your enhancement.

The regeneration of skin cells: The longer the regeneration takes, the longer the pigment holds.

The speed at which the skin absorbs the pigment: The slower the absorption, the longer the pigment will hold.

The choice of colour: Some colours fade quicker than others, e.g. a blonde colour will fade quicker than a dark brown colour. 

The area of treatment: Enhancements to the face fade more quickly due to constant exposure.

Bleeding during the procedure: Any bleeding during the tattooing procedure will reduce the amount of pigment absorption. Alcohol and certain medications act as blood-thinners and should not be taken prior to and following your appointment.

Aftercare: Failure to follow the aftercare diligently during the first two weeks of healing can contribute to less than desired results. For example, sweating during healing can affect the appearance of the hair strokes when fully healed and could result in an infection.

How long is the procedure?

The procedure is done in two sessions. The first takes up to three hours. In the first session, the brow is shaped and styled to the client’s preference, and pigment is applied. Four to six weeks later, the client returns for the second session for a touch up. A touch up can take anywhere up to two hours.

Why is it necessary to have a touch-up?

A touch-up is necessary because everyone heals differently and therefore results vary. With most procedures, the colour looks dramatically lighter after the first week. Some clients prefer this, while others opt for a bolder look. At the second session, we will assess the colour retention and make adjustments as necessary. If your cosmetic tattoo does not heal perfectly after the first session, do not worry! We can always go darker and add more density at your next appointment.

Am I a good candidate for microblading?

Microblading is not recommended for those with oily skin, large pores, and thin, sensitive or mature skin. If that’s you, you may want Microshading or an Ombre Powder Brow technique instead. There are also certain skin and medical conditions that may cause poor results during or following the procedure.

Are the studio and equipment safe?

Absolutely! The clinic workspace is thoroughly disinfected before opening and in between each procedure throughout the day according to the Health and Safety standards. We only work with single use, disposable needles and supplies. This means each cosmetic tattoo set-up for a client is safely discarded afterwards.

Prices

INITIAL PROCEDURE
We will start with an initial consultation, which will take approximately 20 minutes.

EYEBROWS
$450 – Microblading (3hrs)
$450 – Microshading (3 hrs)
$500 – Ombre Powder Brows (3 hrs)

$150 – Touchup on 8th week

EYELINERS
$450 – Top and Bottom (2.5 hrs)
$250 – Top (1.5 hrs)
$250 – Bottom (1.5 hrs)

$150 – Touchup on 8th week

LIPS
$600 – Lips (2.5 hrs)
$150 – Dark Lips Additional Cost. Dark lips require an initial 2 hr appointment.

$150 – Touchup on 8th week

COMBO PROCEDURES
$500 – MicroCombo (Microblading and Machine Shading)
$450 – Combo (Microblading with Microshading)
$850 – Eyebrows & Eyeliners Combo (4.5 hrs)
$950 – Eyebrows & Lips Combo (5 hrs)

$300 – Touchup for combos on 8th week

CORRECTION SERVICES
Pricing varies, as determined by consultation.

All prices on the website are subject to change without notice.

All rates are subject to change at any time.