Permanent Makeup FAQ

What if I have had microblading, eyebrow tattooing, or permanent makeup before?

If you have previously had microblading, eyebrow tattooing, or permanent makeup, please contact us to schedule a consultation. We need to assess the existing pigment in person to determine if we can work with it. Your face represents our work, and if we cannot achieve the desired results, we will not proceed with the procedure and may refer you for laser removal. Please note that scheduling an appointment without a prior consultation will result in forfeiture of your deposit.

How far are you booking out?

Bora Brow artists are in high demand and generally book appointments 1-2 months in advance. Please keep this in mind. Before scheduling your appointment, you must first fill out our microblading consent form.

Am I a good candidate?

Unfortunately, you are not a candidate for permanent cosmetics if any of the following apply to you:

  • Under 18 years of age
  • Pregnant or nursing (we recommend waiting three months after nursing due to hormonal changes for optimal healed results)
  • Previous permanent makeup by approval only
  • History of keloids or hypertrophic scarring
  • History of epilepsy, MRSA, or lupus
  • Undergoing chemotherapy/radiation (at least a year out and requires doctor's clearance)
  • Non-steroidal aromatase inhibitors, Letrozole, etc. (chemotherapy)
  • Type I diabetic (requires doctor's clearance)
  • Using Accutane (must be off for one full year)
  • Organ transplant
  • Pacemaker or major heart problems
  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • Currently taking oral or topical antibiotics (must be off for at least 30 days prior to appointment)
  • Currently taking/using topical or oral steroids, prednisone, etc. (must be off for at least 60 days prior to appointment)
  • Viral infections or diseases (cold/flu/eye infections)
  • Those with transmittable blood conditions like HIV or Hepatitis
  • Hemophilia or bleeding disorders
  • Problematic skin (acne or bumps covering the forehead or brow area)
  • Skin irritations or psoriasis near the treated area (rashes, sunburn, acne, etc.)
  • Chemical peels or PRP facial (at least 60 days prior)
  • Facial laser treatment, IPL (at least 60 days prior)
  • Had Botox in the last two weeks
  • Poor general health
  • Allergy to epinephrine, dermacaine, benzyl alcohol, lidocaine, or tetracaine
  • Surgery within 30 days of treatment
  • Using any skin care products that contain retinol, glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxyls

How can I book an appointment?

Before booking an appointment, please review our process, policies, and FAQs on our website to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. To book an appointment, please call or email us directly. If you proceed with booking and are found to be contraindicated for treatment on the day of your appointment, you will forfeit your deposit. Please note that appointments will not be booked via social media.

Why do I need to stop all of my skin care products?

The goal of these procedures is to achieve a beautiful, natural healed result. Using anti-aging, lightening, brightening, smoothing, tightening, acne, or color-correcting skin care products can alter the skin's thickness and negatively impact the final outcome. Given the investment in this service, it's crucial to follow these guidelines. With over five years of experience, we know that these products have a significant impact on the healed brows.

 

Using these products four weeks prior to or after the appointment can result in patchy, dark, and unnatural-looking brows. Our FAQs are designed to help you achieve the best results because your face represents our brand. This applies to avoiding these products on the entire face and neck. You can resume using your regular products four weeks after the touch-up, once your eyebrows have fully healed. We recommend mild products like CeraVe or Cetaphil. Since all eye serums should also be avoided, we recommend the Evan Healy Carrot Eye Balm Stick to keep the under-eye area moisturized.

What is microblading?

Microblading is an artistic technique using a manual method of permanent makeup to replicate the look of natural hair growth in the eyebrows. Individual hair strokes are placed in the same direction as the existing hair to create a seamless and natural appearance. The results can last anywhere from 12 to 24 months, depending on skin type and lifestyle. A touch-up every 18-24 months is recommended.

 

The ideal candidates for this technique have firm, normal to dry skin with small or invisible pores. Microblading is not suitable for very oily, mature, sun-damaged, or extremely sensitive skin. Eligibility for microblading is subject to approval by the artist.

How long does microblading last?

Microbladed eyebrows typically last between one to two years for most individuals before requiring a touch-up. While cosmetic tattoo treatments are considered permanent and do not wash off, they will gradually fade over time. It's recommended to refresh the microblading every 12 to 18 months. Clients who do not follow proper aftercare instructions may need more frequent touch-ups.

Does permanent makeup hurt?

At Bora Brow, our licensed makeup tattoo artists at PhiAcademy use two types of numbing to help alleviate any discomfort during the procedure. It's important to note that undergoing this service during your menstrual cycle may increase sensitivity during the microblading process.

How long does it take for the permanent makeup to heal?

It typically takes approximately 14 days for permanent makeup to heal. During this time, we advise allowing it to naturally exfoliate. This involves keeping the permanent makeup dry, avoiding water, sweat, and steam. After the flaking period, the initial result may appear lighter, with the true color becoming more apparent after four weeks. As long as you follow the aftercare instructions diligently, there should be no issue with returning to work or being in public.

How long is the appointment?

The appointment typically lasts between two to three hours. Most of this time is dedicated to discussing and drawing the shape of your eyebrows, as well as selecting the right color to ensure your eyebrow microblading results are perfect.

Can I schedule a consultation?

Yes, you can schedule a consultation. Typically, the consultation and procedure are done on the same day, unless you already have existing permanent makeup. If you do have existing permanent makeup, please contact us beforehand to discuss your options. There is a consultation fee of $50.

"You're too expensive, I found someone cheaper."

Permanent makeup is an extremely meticulous permanent cosmetic procedure, and microblading costs vary from artist to artist. Remember, this is your face, and the procedure is permanent. Our artists have trained with some of the top permanent makeup artists in the world. When looking for a permanent makeup artist, do not nickel and dime your face. Microblading in Miami is not regulated, therefore anyone can do it. Please research local makeup tattoo artists, and most importantly, look at their healed work before you book an appointment. Paying less upfront might end up costing a lot more in the long run to fix.

Can you microblade your own eyebrows?

Absolutely not. Performing such an invasive procedure on your own face can lead to permanent scarring — pun intended. Achieving ideal results with microblading requires proper skin stretching and precise pressure, which are difficult to achieve without professional training and experience. Attempting to microblade your own eyebrows without proper technique can result in skin damage and unintended scarring.

Is microblading permanent?

Yes, microblading is considered a form of permanent makeup because the pigment is implanted into the upper dermal layer of the skin and cannot be washed off. However, the pigment is implanted more superficially compared to traditional tattoos, causing it to fade over time. Periodic touch-ups are necessary to maintain the desired look.

Will you draw the shape on first?

Yes, we will not begin the microblading process until you are satisfied with both the color selected and the shape drawn. Your approval is essential before proceeding with the procedure.

Can I wear makeup after microblading?

Avoid wearing makeup on the treated brows for at least two weeks after your procedure. Makeup can interfere with the healing process and affect the retention of the pigment. However, you can apply makeup to other areas of your face, ensuring that you do not get any on the treated brow area.

Is the second appointment necessary?

For permanent makeup, at least two appointments are initially required, spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart. Touch-ups should be scheduled no earlier than six weeks after your initial procedure and no later than twelve weeks. If you do not schedule your eyebrow tattoo touch-up within twelve weeks, you will be required to pay the touch-up fee outlined in our touch-up schedule. Completing the touch-up treatment is crucial for optimal results. During the touch-up session, we assess color retention and make any necessary adjustments. Healing varies among individuals, so if your cosmetic tattoo doesn't heal perfectly the first time, there's no need to worry. We can enhance color intensity, add more density, and correct any irregularities in the microbladed hair strokes during the touch-up session.

How will my eyebrows look right after the microblading procedure? Do I need to go home and hide for a couple of days?

Your eyebrows will look great immediately after the procedure! They may appear slightly darker for a few days, but you should not experience bruising, and any swelling will be minimal. You can confidently go about your day, including going out to dinner the same day. However, avoid alcohol as it can increase the risk of sweating, bleeding (unlikely), bruising, and making unwise decisions such as touching your eyebrows with dirty hands!

Does permanent makeup hurt afterward?

The tattooed area may be a little sore for the first few hours after the procedure, and it is normal for it to feel tender for a few days afterward.

Can you microblade over an existing tattoo?

Sometimes, but the old tattoo must be significantly faded for the hair strokes to show through and appear natural. If you have an existing tattoo, you must schedule a consultation before booking a new client appointment to assess whether microblading is feasible and appropriate.

I had my eyebrows microbladed somewhere else. Can you do a touch-up?

If you have previously been microbladed elsewhere and are seeking a touch-up, please contact us for a consultation first. During the consultation, we will assess your eyebrows and discuss your options for scheduling a touch-up appointment. If you proceed to schedule a new client appointment without informing us that you have had your eyebrows done before, you may be turned away, and your non-refundable deposit will be forfeited. This is because a 3-hour slot is booked out for new clients.

Pre-care responsibilities

Properly preparing for your appointments is crucial for optimal healing and a positive experience. To ensure both safety and satisfaction, please follow our recommended pre-care agenda:

60 days prior:

  • Avoid facials and PRP facials.
  • Avoid chemical peels.
  • Avoid microdermabrasion and micro-needling treatments.
  • Avoid brow serums.

4 weeks prior:

  • Avoid laser treatments.
  • Do not take antibiotics.
  • Avoid anti-aging products and any skincare products containing vitamin A, retinol, glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxyls, etc., anywhere on the face.
  • Avoid anti-acne products anywhere on the face.
  • Refrain from any surgical procedures.
  • Avoid tanning, including exposure to the sun and tanning beds.

2 weeks prior:

  • Avoid waxing of any kind.
  • Refrain from tinting your brow hair.
  • Avoid Botox and fillers.
  • Avoid spray tanning.
  • Do not consume garlic, turmeric, fish oil, or Vitamin E supplements.

72 hours prior:

  • Avoid blood-thinning medications such as ibuprofen, NSAIDs, aspirin, Motrin, etc.

24 hours prior:

  • Refrain from working out.
  • Avoid consuming alcohol.

Day of appointment

On the day of your appointment, here's what you need to know to ensure a successful session:

Day of appointment responsibilities

  • No working out.
  • No caffeine (including coffee, decaf coffee, and herbal teas).

Preparation:

  • Come with your brows penciled in so we can see how you typically style them.
  • Avoid applying makeup to your forehead, as it is our working area and should be as clean as possible.

Additional Notes:

  • Skincare products: Avoid any products aimed at youth, repair, anti-aging, wrinkles, acne, tone correcting, brightening, etc., as they likely contain ingredients that should not be used anywhere on the face 4 weeks prior to the procedure.

Why avoid caffeine and alcohol:

  • Both caffeine and alcohol are blood thinners, which can cause bleeding during the procedure. Bleeding pushes out the color and can lead to scabbing during the healing process. Following these guidelines will help achieve the best results.

After-care responsibilities

Proper after-care is crucial for achieving the best results and ensuring proper healing. Please follow these after-care instructions carefully:

Avoid for the next 2 weeks:

  • Getting eyebrows wet in the shower (wash from neck down or use dry shampoo).
  • Wash your face carefully around the eyebrows without getting water on the treated area.
  • Keep hair out of the eyebrows, as it contains oils and bacteria.
  • Working out, playing sports, yoga, sweating, etc., as increased heart rate and sweating can prematurely fade the treated area.
  • Hot saunas, hot baths, or Jacuzzis; use lukewarm water in the shower.
  • Picking, peeling, touching, or scratching the micropigmented area to avoid scarring or removal of the pigment, except when rinsing and applying post-care ointment with a cotton swab.
  • Performing tasks related to gardening or heavy household cleaning, such as garage or basement cleaning, where there is a lot of airborne dust and debris.
  • Drinking alcohol in excess, as it may slow the healing of wounds; drink lots of water instead.
  • Driving in open-air vehicles such as convertibles, boats, bicycles, or motorcycles.
  • Botox or fillers.
  • Makeup directly on the eyebrows.
  • Sleeping on your stomach or sides while healing.

Avoid for the next 4 weeks:

  • Any laser or chemical treatments or peels, and/or any creams containing Retin-A or Glycolic acid on the face or neck, as this can cause premature exfoliation of the implanted pigment.
  • Sun tanning or salon tanning; UV/UVA rays or chemicals can cause a shift in color and premature fading. Wear a hat or visor if outside to keep the brows protected.
  • Any skincare products for youth, repair, anti-aging, wrinkles, acne, tone correcting, brightening, etc., are likely to have these ingredients. Do not use them anywhere on the face 4 weeks prior to the procedure and 4 weeks after the procedure. This applies to all appointments, including touch-ups.

What to expect during healing

The entire healing process will take from 4-6 weeks depending on your body’s regeneration and age. Your new eyebrows will go through several phases during the healing cycle. Itching and flaking may appear during the first 7 days post-microblading procedure. However, experience has shown that by strictly following these after-care instructions, these symptoms may quickly disappear.

 

Immediately after the procedure, the pigment will appear very sharp and dark. This is because the pigment is still sitting on top of your skin and has not yet settled in completely. The color of the pigment will soften gradually. Do not be alarmed if you see some pigment on the cotton pad/swab, as this is excess pigment and/or body fluid that is naturally exiting your skin.

 

As the healing of the skin starts taking place, it will look like dandruff flakes or dry skin. However, this is just superficial color and dry skin being naturally exfoliated from your eyebrows. The final look of your eyebrows will be apparent approximately 30 days after your procedure.

 

Note that because of natural skin regeneration, after the recovery period (peeling), brows might appear lighter than the original color. This might give you the impression that the color is fading too quickly. Often, even with proper care, clients may lose original hair strokes which make brows look uneven. This is normal. That is the reason why most customers need a touch-up after 6-8 weeks. Never rub the treated area as it will disturb the skin from natural healing.

After your permanent makeup has healed

Protect your investment! Permanent cosmetics will require consistent care once healed to ensure a lasting and natural result.

  • Permanent makeup can last anywhere from one to 2+ years depending on the client's lifestyle, skin type, and aftercare.
  • Exposure to the sun and tanning beds can cause fading and discoloration of the pigment.
  • When you are outdoors, always apply sunscreen to the treated area once completely healed to avoid excess fading or discoloration of the pigment.
  • Maintain removal of unwanted brow hair outside of your microbladed shape by tweezing, waxing, threading, or razoring.
  • Laser procedures such as hair removal or resurfacing will alter the pigment. Please inform your technician of any permanent cosmetics on your face.
  • Additional makeup application may still be required post-procedure to achieve your desired look.
  • For further sun protection, wear hats and sunglasses.
  • Avoid anti-aging and exfoliating products such as retinols, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, etc. This will cause premature fading over time.
  • Moisturized skin retains better! Keep yourself hydrated and always apply a daily moisturizer to your permanent makeup.
  • Touch-ups are recommended every 18-36 months to maintain your results.

Please note: The results are natural, fuller-looking eyebrows. Initially, the brows may appear darker but fade significantly over the first two weeks. Although our cosmetic tattoo artists use PhiBrows premium products and provide exceptional service, all clients heal differently, and many factors lead to varied results. It is crucial to have a microblading touch-up done, as it is very difficult to predict how well your skin will retain the pigment. Due to this and other varying factors, we cannot guarantee your results.