Microblading is not the only option to Permanent Makeup.

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Before and After Permanent Makeup Eyebrows

Microblading, Nano Blading, Ombre, Softap and Rotary machines.

Permanent Makeup — short guide to the benefits, the concerns, and the right questions to ask an Cosmetic Tattoo Artist.

Permanent makeup (eyebrows, eyeliner, lip blushing) can save time, restore symmetry, and subtly refresh your face — when it’s done well it looks like you, not like a mask. Several tattooing modalities exist (microblading, nano blading, Softap, ombre, and rotary-machine cosmetic tattooing). All can produce natural results; the difference often comes down to the artist’s skill, color choice, and technique — not just the tool.

Common fears and concerns:

  • “Will it look fake or too harsh?”
    Choose an artist whose portfolio shows the natural style you want. Ask about color theory and how they match pigments to your skin tone.

  • “Does it hurt?”
    Most clients report mild discomfort; topical numbing prior and during the procedure is standard. Expect mild tenderness and scabbing during healing.

  • “Is it dangerous or unsanitary?”
    Confirm the studio follows single-use needles, medical-grade pigments, and proper sterilization. Ask to see licenses/ health services inspection docs.  All artists must annually register with their county Health Services Department and follow their state OSHA guidelines.

  • “What if I want changes?”
    Good artists design in stages (consultation → shape mapping → initial session → touch-up session). Modifications can be made to the shape and color during the touch up session, usually 4 weeks after the initial session.

  • “Will it last forever?”
    Pigments fade over time (typically 1–2+ years depending on pigment, skin type, sun exposure, and modality). Re Fresh sessions keep results fresh.

  • “Will it trigger allergies or interfere with MRI?”
    True allergic reactions are rare but possible —very few, if any, experience sensitivity to the aftercare ointment, rather than the permanent makeup pigment.  If that is the case, just wash the tattooed area with soap and water, then leave the permanent makeup dry while healing.  It will not interfere with MRI.  Be sure to communicate to medical professionals that you have permanent makeup so that they understand what they are seeing on the scan.

  • “Can previous bad tattoos be fixed?”
    Many artists can soften the shape or correct colors from older work, but results will vary. Correction often requires multiple sessions and realistic expectations.

Permanent Makeup Before and After

Must ask list:

  • How long have you been a permanent makeup artist?

  • Is Permanent makeup the only service that you provide?  Be weary of service providers that claim to do nails, hair, facials and permanent makeup.

  • Where were you trained and who mentored you? (look for reputable schools and ongoing continuing education)

  • Can I see your before-and-after photos and healed results? (healed photos are critical — immediate photos can be misleading).  Most artist will not have healed photos.  Most clients will not come back for photo op after all is healed.

  • What is your style/philosophy on makeup? Natural/enhancing or bold/dramatic? Do they tailor to clients or use a one-style-fits-all approach?  Talk about Day Ware/ Natural Look vs.  Evening/Glam Makeup Look

  • Which modality do you use for brows/liner/lips and why? (microblading, Softap, ombre, rotary machine — ask pros/cons for your skin type)

  • Can you improve or remove previous permanent makeup tattoos? Be specific about the old work and request realistic expectations.  Most design/shape and color can be modified, however, it may take several sessions.

  • Who are your typical clients (age range)? This gives a sense of experience with different skin types and concerns.

  • Do you perform patch tests or allergy checks?

  • What are your sanitation practices and licenses/insurance? Ask to see them.

  • What does the full price include? (consultation, initial session, scheduled touch-up)

  • What is the aftercare and healing timeline? (downtime, restrictions, expected color changes)

  • What are the risks and how do you handle complications? (infection, pigment migration, asymmetry)

Quick practical tips

  • Fresh permanent makeup procedures always appear dark for about 7 days.  Then the tattooed area peels for about another 7 days.  The tattoo may appear very light after the peel, but it will get slightly darker as the skin continues to heal.

  • Expect a planned touch-up 4–6 weeks after the initial session — that’s part of the process.

  • Avoid heavy sun, swimming, and certain skincare actives (like retinoids or acids) during healing.

  • If you have autoimmune issues, active skin conditions, are pregnant/breastfeeding, or on certain medications, talk to your doctor and the artist first.

Final note

Permanent makeup is an investment in time and confidence. The biggest determinant of a great result is the artist’s taste, training, portfolio, and communication — not the device they use. Do your homework, bring photos of the look you like, ask the questions above, and prioritize safety. Beautiful, natural, and enhancing is absolutely achievable when an experienced, thoughtful artist designs for you.


Pretty Please Studio

San Ramon, CA

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