Question 1

What is permanent makeup?

Accepted Answer

Permanent makeup is a cosmetic tattooing technique that implants pigment into the upper layers of the skin to create long-lasting color that mimics the appearance of makeup. Common treatments include eyebrow microblading, lip blush, and permanent eyeliner. Unlike traditional tattoos, permanent makeup uses specialized pigments designed to fade naturally over 1 to 3 years.

Question 2

What is microblading?

Accepted Answer

Microblading is a semi-permanent eyebrow technique that uses a handheld tool with ultra-fine needles to create hair-like strokes in the skin. Pigment is deposited into the superficial dermis, resulting in natural-looking brows that mimic real hair.

Question 3

What is lip blush?

Accepted Answer

Lip blush is a semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo that enhances the natural color, shape, and definition of your lips. It deposits pigment into the lips to create a soft, just-bitten tint that corrects uneven color, defines the lip border, and gives the appearance of fuller lips.

Question 4

What is permanent eyeliner?

Accepted Answer

Permanent eyeliner is a cosmetic tattooing technique that places pigment along the lash line to define the eyes and create the appearance of thicker, fuller lashes. It eliminates the daily hassle of applying eyeliner and is waterproof and smudge-proof.

Question 5

Which brow technique is best for me?

Accepted Answer

Microblading is ideal for dry to normal skin types who want the most natural, hair-stroke appearance. Combo brows suit those who want natural strokes at the front with a softly filled look through the arch and tail. Ombre powder brows are the most universal option and work especially well on oily skin. At your consultation, Dasha evaluates your skin type and recommends the right technique.

Question 6

I have oily skin — can I still get microblading?

Accepted Answer

Microblading on oily skin can be challenging because excess oil production can cause hair strokes to blur, spread, and fade faster. If you have oily skin, combo brows or ombre powder brows are generally better choices — the shading technique holds up much better.

Question 7

Which technique lasts the longest?

Accepted Answer

Ombre powder brows typically last the longest: 2 to 3 years with proper care. Combo brows last 1.5 to 2.5 years. Microblading lasts 12 to 18 months. Longevity also depends on skin type, lifestyle, and skincare.

Question 8

Can I switch from microblading to ombre powder?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many clients make this switch because ombre powder brows last longer and offer a more defined, polished look. The powder technique can be applied over previously microbladed brows once they have faded sufficiently.

Question 9

How should I prepare for my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Avoid alcohol and caffeine for 24 hours before your session. Stop blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E for at least 7 days prior. Do not wax, tint, or thread your brows for at least one week before. Avoid retinol and chemical exfoliants on the brow area for 2 weeks. Arrive with a clean face and no makeup on the brow area.

Question 10

What medications should I avoid?

Accepted Answer

Avoid blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, fish oil) for at least 7 days before your appointment. Also avoid vitamin E supplements and any prescription blood-thinning medications (consult your doctor before stopping prescriptions). Retinol, retinoids, and Accutane must be discontinued well in advance — Accutane requires at least a 12-month wait.

Question 11

Who should not get permanent makeup?

Accepted Answer

Permanent makeup is not recommended for individuals who are pregnant or nursing, have uncontrolled diabetes, are on blood thinners that cannot be paused, have active eczema or psoriasis in the treatment area, are undergoing chemotherapy, have a history of keloid scarring, or have taken Accutane within the past 12 months.

Question 12

Should I shape my brows before the appointment?

Accepted Answer

No — do not shape, wax, thread, or tint your brows for at least one week before your appointment. Dasha needs to see your natural brow growth pattern to design the most flattering shape.

Question 13

Should I bring reference photos?

Accepted Answer

Yes, reference photos are encouraged. Bring 2 to 3 photos of brow styles you love so Dasha understands your aesthetic preferences. Keep in mind that every face is unique, so your final design will be customized to complement your individual features. The shape is drawn for your approval before any pigment is applied.

Question 14

Does it hurt?

Accepted Answer

Most clients describe microblading as mild discomfort rather than pain — comparing it to light scratching or tweezing. A topical numbing cream is applied before and during the procedure. Most clients at Brow Lounge by Dasha rate the experience between a 2 and 4 out of 10 on the pain scale.

Question 15

How long does an appointment take?

Accepted Answer

A full microblading appointment takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. This includes consultation and brow mapping (30 to 45 minutes), numbing time (15 to 20 minutes), and the procedure itself (60 to 90 minutes). Touch-up appointments are shorter — typically 1 to 1.5 hours.

Question 16

What numbing is used?

Accepted Answer

A professional-grade topical anesthetic containing lidocaine is applied before and throughout the procedure to ensure your comfort. The primary cream is applied about 20 minutes before the procedure begins, and a secondary numbing agent is used during the process to maintain comfort.

Question 17

What does the appointment actually look like?

Accepted Answer

Your appointment begins with a consultation where Dasha discusses your goals, assesses your skin type, and selects the ideal pigment. Next comes brow mapping — precise measurements are used to draw your custom shape for your approval. Once you love the shape, numbing cream is applied. The procedure itself implants pigment using either a handheld microblading tool or a machine. After, you receive detailed aftercare instructions and your touch-up is scheduled.

Question 18

How do I take care of my brows after the procedure?

Accepted Answer

For the first 10 days, keep your brows dry and avoid getting them wet (except for gentle cleaning as instructed). Apply the recommended aftercare ointment in a thin layer 2 to 3 times daily. Do not touch, pick, or scratch the treated area. Avoid sweating, swimming, saunas, and direct sun exposure for at least 2 weeks. Sleep on your back. Detailed instructions are provided at the end of every appointment.

Question 19

Why do my brows look so dark right after?

Accepted Answer

It is completely normal for your brows to look dramatically darker and bolder immediately after microblading. The pigment is sitting on top of the skin and has oxidized from air exposure. As the skin heals over 2 to 4 weeks, the color softens significantly — typically fading 30 to 40% from the initial appearance. Trust the healing process.

Question 20

Can I wash my face after the procedure?

Accepted Answer

Avoid getting your brows wet for the first 24 hours. After that, you can gently wash your face while carefully avoiding the brow area for the first 10 days. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser with damp cotton pads, lightly patting (never rubbing) the area.

Question 21

What should I avoid during healing?

Accepted Answer

For 10 to 14 days after your procedure, avoid swimming, hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms; intense exercise or heavy sweating; direct sun exposure and tanning beds; picking, scratching, or peeling scabs; and applying makeup on or near the treated area. Also avoid skincare with retinol, glycolic acid, or AHA/BHA near the brows, and avoid sleeping face-down.

Question 22

How long does the healing process take?

Accepted Answer

The surface of the skin heals within 10 to 14 days, but complete healing beneath the skin takes 6 to 8 weeks. During this time, the color goes through several stages — appearing dark, then fading significantly, then settling into the true final shade at your touch-up.

Question 23

How often will I need a touch-up?

Accepted Answer

Your first touch-up (perfecting session) is scheduled 6 to 8 weeks after your initial appointment. After that, maintenance touch-ups are recommended every 12 to 18 months for microblading, or every 18 to 24 months for powder or combo brows.

Question 24

Why is my permanent makeup fading quickly?

Accepted Answer

Rapid fading can be caused by oily skin pushing pigment out faster, excessive sun exposure without SPF, using retinol or acids near the brows, poor aftercare, lower-quality pigments, or very active lifestyles with frequent sweating.

Question 25

How do I keep it looking fresh?

Accepted Answer

Apply SPF 30 or higher to your brows daily to prevent UV fading. Avoid retinol, chemical peels, and AHA/BHA directly on the brow area. Keep the area moisturized. Schedule regular touch-ups every 12 to 18 months for microblading or every 18 to 24 months for powder brows.

Question 26

How much does permanent makeup cost?

Accepted Answer

At Brow Lounge by Dasha: microblading $500, combo brows $500, ombre powder brows $500. Lip blush, permanent eyeliner, cover-ups, and PMU removal are priced after a brief consultation — please inquire. Pricing reflects professional certification, ongoing education, high-quality pigments, single-use sterile supplies, and the 2.5 to 3 hour time investment per session.

Question 27

Is permanent makeup worth it?

Accepted Answer

For most clients, absolutely. The average person spends 10 to 15 minutes daily on brow makeup — over 60 hours per year. Permanent makeup eliminates that routine and looks polished through workouts, swimming, and sleep. The convenience and confidence typically pay for themselves within the first year.

Question 28

Is the perfecting touch-up included?

Accepted Answer

The initial service price covers your first full session including consultation and brow mapping. The perfecting touch-up at 6 to 8 weeks is a separate, flat $50 appointment, scheduled at your first visit.

Question 29

Is microblading safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when performed by a certified, licensed, and experienced professional in a clean studio. At Brow Lounge, strict sanitation protocols are followed: single-use sterile needles and tools, medical-grade disinfection, and high-quality hypoallergenic pigments. Dasha is licensed by the state of California.

Question 30

Can I have an allergic reaction?

Accepted Answer

Allergic reactions are rare but possible. High-quality cosmetic pigments are formulated to be hypoallergenic, but those with very sensitive skin or a history of allergic reactions can request a patch test — a small amount of pigment is applied to a discreet area and monitored for 24 to 48 hours. Disclose any known allergies during your consultation.

Question 31

What if I don't like my results?

Accepted Answer

First, give the healing process time — brows change dramatically during the 6 to 8 week healing period. Your touch-up is specifically designed to address concerns with shape, color, or density. In rare cases where a client is still unsatisfied, saline removal or laser removal can lighten or remove pigment.

Question 32

Can permanent makeup be removed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Saline removal draws pigment out of the skin using a specialized solution and typically requires multiple sessions. Laser tattoo removal breaks down pigment particles so the body can absorb them. Both methods require patience and multiple treatments.

Answers, without
the fine print.

Understanding Permanent Makeup

Choosing the Right Technique

Preparing for Your Appointment

The Appointment Itself

Healing & Aftercare

Longevity & Touch-Ups

Cost & Value

Safety & Concerns

Still have questions?

Answers, withoutthe fine print.