Frequenty asked questions
NANO BROWS FAQ
What are Nano Brows?
Nano Brows are the newest technique to hit the permanent makeup industry. This advanced technique involves creating hair-like strokes using a machine. The result is incredibly natural, hyper-realistic eyebrows. Hair strokes created by machine allow for much more versatility than those created by the Microblading technique.
What is Nano Shading?
Nano Shading is when shading is added to the nano hair strokes to create even more fullness and density. For a visual aid regarding the different techniques offered, please visit the Brow Techniques page.
Why would someone choose Nano Brows over Microbladed Brows?
Microblading is best suited for normal to dry skin types with small pores, for clients who already have a decent amount of eyebrow hair, and for clients under the age of 50. Nano Brows can be done on clients with all skin types, including those with more oily skin, all ethnicities, and all ages. Nano Brow hairs can cross and blend into other nano hairs, whereas Microblading hair strokes cannot be implanted too close together, leaving more negative space between each stroke.
What is the cost of the Nano Brow technique?
Nano Brows are $750. This price includes 2 sessions: an initial appointment and a touch-up done between 8-12 weeks after the initial session. There is a $100 nonrefundable booking fee due at the time of scheduling to reserve the appointment. The remaining $650 is due on the day of the initial appointment. If the touch-up session is done more than 16 weeks after the initial session, additional fees may apply. In the event that a client is a no-show, is more than 15 minutes late, or cancels with less than 48 hours' notice, the booking fee will be forfeited, and a new booking fee must be paid before a new appointment will be scheduled.
How long do Nano Brows last?
Nano Brows can last for many years. Typically, clients notice fading between 2-3 years, but the rate of fading will vary based on the client’s lifestyle, skin type, skincare routine, sun exposure, etc. Color boosts are recommended around 24-36 months to refresh the color and keep the shape nice. It is important to understand that cosmetic tattooing is still considered tattooing, and pigment will likely remain in the skin for a very long time.
How long does it take to heal?
Nano Brows typically heal in around 7 days. This is a shorter healing time than Microblading, Microshading, and Ombre Powder.
Things to avoid during your healing process:
Do not pick, peel, or scratch the healing area. Absolutely no friction of any kind.
Do not apply any makeup or products to the brow area.
Avoid sleeping on your face.
Avoid direct sun exposure.
Avoid working out to prevent sweating.
Avoid water on the eyebrows in the shower for at least 7 days or until brows are fully healed.
Avoid facial massage, facial steaming, sauna, hot tubs, long hot showers, long hot baths, ANYTHING that can make you sweat and open pores.
What to expect after the procedure:
Day 1: Dark and swollen.
Day 2-4: Extra dark, swelling may be less than on day 1.
Day 4-6: Flaking; not to be confused with scabbing. Following proper aftercare on day 1 will prevent scabbing. Do not pick or pull at any flaking.
After the flaking phase is the ‘light phase’. The top layer of skin is healed, but the bottom layers are not.
Day 30-35: Fully healed
MICROBLADING FAQ
What is Microblading?
Microblading, also known as eyebrow embroidery, feather strokes, or 3D brows, is a procedure categorized under permanent makeup. Unlike traditional tattooing, it is sometimes marketed as semi-permanent, but this does not mean temporary. This means that the pigment will gradually lighten and fade over time, and touch-ups (color boosts) are recommended to keep the brows looking their best. The procedure is done using a hand tool with ultra-fine needles, and each ‘hair’ is gently etched into the skin, giving an incredibly natural and realistic look. For a visual aid regarding the different techniques offered, please visit the Brow Techniques page.
Who is suitable for Microblading?
Clients with normal to dry skin types, no visible pores and a decent amount of light/fine natural brow hair can be considered for the microblading technique. Clients aged 50+ need to be aware that, depending on their skin density/texture, they may only be suited for nano brows or ombre powder brows. Typically, microblading is not suitable for those aged 50 and up. Oily-skinned clients tend to heal with a more powdery makeup finish rather than crisp hair-like strokes, so other techniques (nano brows or ombre powder brows) are more suitable for clients with this skin type.
Who is not suitable for Microblading?
Clients over the age of 50 (this may vary), those with large pores and oily skin, heart conditions, diabetes, skin diseases or irritation, a history of keloid scarring, have had Botox or fillers in the last 2 weeks, a tan or chemical peel in the last 2 weeks, are pregnant, or are allergic to lidocaine, prilocaine, benzocaine, tetracaine, or epinephrine are not suitable for the microblading procedure and may require a doctor’s release before services can be performed. You must have been off of any and all Accutane treatments for at least one full calendar year before you are able to have any of the permanent makeup procedures done. You must be able to lay completely flat for at least two hours for this procedure to be performed.
How much does it cost?
Microblading is $600, which includes 2 sessions. Session 2 is done 8-12 weeks after the initial appointment. There is a NON-REFUNDABLE $100 booking fee due at the time of booking to reserve the appointment day and time. This booking fee goes toward the total cost of the microblading procedure. In the event of a no-show or a cancellation with less than 48 hours' notice, the booking fee will be forfeited, and a new booking fee must be paid before a new appointment will be booked.
How long does the procedure take?
Approximately 2 hours.
How long does Microblading last?
Microblading lasts 1-3 years depending on the skin type and skincare routine of the client. A color boost is recommended 12-18 months after the initial appointment to keep the brows looking fresh. It is important to understand that microblading and any type of permanent makeup is a tattoo, and pigment will remain in the skin for a very long time. A color boost will not be done any sooner than 12 months since the client’s last session.
How much is a color boost?
As long as hair strokes from the first session are still visible, the procedure is considered a color boost, and the price is $350. Color Boost touch-ups do not apply to those who have previous work done by another artist. All new clients are booked as new clients, not as a touch-up. NO EXCEPTIONS.
What to expect after the procedure:
Mild swelling, redness, itching, light flaking, and dry tightness.
Too dark or slightly uneven appearance. After 2-7 days the darkness will fade and once swelling dissipates unevenness usually disappears. Any unevenness or pigment loss/issues can be addressed and corrected at the touch up appointment.
Color change or color loss. As the procedure area heals, the color will lighten and sometimes seem to disappear. Pigment typically resurfaces within a few days. Any pigment that doesn’t resurface can be addressed during the touch up appointment.
The procedure area has completely healed before we can address any concerns.
This is a two-step process. You will not see the final result until after your brows have healed from the touch up session (done 8-12 weeks after the initial). Please be patient and trust the process!
Failure to follow aftercare instructions may result in infections, pigment loss, or discoloration.
MICROSHADING & POWDER BROW FAQ
What is the difference between microblading, microshading, and the powder brow technique?
Microblading is done using a handheld tool with ultra-fine needles to create hair-like strokes in the upper layers of the skin. Ombre powder brows are created using a rotary machine with typically 1-5 needles to create a more filled-in, powdery effect. Microblading looks more like hair, while ombre powder brows look more like makeup has been applied to the brows (without all the hassle of actually having to do it!). Microshading is a combination of microblading and machine shading.
Why would someone choose ombre powder brows or microshading over microblading?
Ombre powder brows and microshading give more fullness to the brows. Clients wanting a more filled-in effect typically choose one of these techniques over microblading. Additionally, microblading alone doesn’t always blend well enough with the client’s natural hair, so shading may need to be added to create a more natural appearance. While microblading can provide beautiful results for some, it isn’t always the best option for many clients. Clients with oily skin and large pores often find that the microblading strokes heal to look more blurry compared to those who have normal/dry skin and smaller pores. Oily-skinned clients also don’t retain the pigment as long with the microblading technique versus the ombre powder brow or microshading technique.
What is an ombre powder brow and what is microshading?
Ombre powder brows are done with the rotary machine by creating a very full look at the tail (the end of the brow closest to the temple) and as we reach the head (toward the middle of the forehead) we fade the pigment lighter and lighter until it fades out into the skin, creating an ombre (gradient) effect. Ombre powder brows have more crisp, defined edges. A soft powder brow is a more subdued version of the ombre powder brow. For a visual aid regarding the different techniques offered, please visit the Brow Techniques page.
Microshading is the same technique as a powder brow only we pair it with microblading strokes, typically in the head of the brow.
What is the cost of the ombre powder brow and microshading technique?
Both techniques are $700. This includes a NON-REFUNDABLE booking fee of $100 due at the time of booking to reserve the appointment. The remaining $600 is to be paid on the day of the appointment. This price includes a complimentary touch-up done 8-12 weeks after the initial appointment. If the touch-up appointment is done more than 16 weeks past the initial appointment, additional fees may apply. In the event that a client is a no-show, is more than 15 minutes late, or cancels with less than 48 hours' notice, the booking fee will be forfeited and a new booking fee must be paid before a new appointment will be scheduled.
How long does it last?
Ombre powder brows and microshading can last for many years. Typically, clients notice fading between 2-3 years, but this will vary for each client. Color boosts are recommended around 24-36 months to boost the color and keep the brow shape looking fresh. It is important to understand that cosmetic tattooing is still considered tattooing, and pigment will remain in the skin for a very long time.
How much is a color boost?
A color boost for ombre powder brows or microshading is $350. As long as the brow shape is still visible and hasn't faded completely, it is considered a color boost. A color boost includes ONE session. Color boost pricing DOES NOT apply to those who have had previous work done by another artist.
How long does it take to heal?
Typically, healing will take between 1-2 weeks but can vary.
EYELINER FAQS
What is Permanent Eyeliner?
Permanent eyeliner is an alternative to drawing on your eyeliner each day before leaving your house, which can be a tedious and time-consuming process.
How is Permanent Eyeliner performed?
Before tattooing starts, you and your artist will discuss your eyeliner goals and sketch out an idea of what the final product will look like. This will be based on your anatomy, personal style, and lifestyle.
How long does Permanent Eyeliner last?
Permanent eyeliner is indeed permanent, but you will likely need a touch-up every 4-5 years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and UV exposure. These factors can affect the longevity of your liner.
How much does it cost?
* For just top eyeliner, the total price is $400. For top and bottom eyeliner, the price is $550. This includes a NON-REFUNDABLE booking fee of $50 due at the time of booking to reserve the appointment. This includes the original service and 1 touch-up which would take place 6-8 weeks after original appointment.
How long does the procedure take?
Approximately 2 hours.
What styles of Permanent Eyeliner can I get?
Currently, there are 3 different styles to choose from:
Lash enhancement, which is just in the lash line. This technique focuses on darkening the lash line for either top or bottom (or both) to add more depth to the eyes.
Dusty eyeliner, which is more of a smoky look, often has a very subtle wing or flick to enhance the eye shape..
Saturated crisp liner that mimics the appearance of liquid eyeliner.
What should I do when preparing for Permanent Eyeliner?
Clients MUST BE off all lash growth serums for a minimum of 12 weeks, as these increase blood flow to the eyelids and the risk of blowouts and pigment migration due to the veins being more visible and prominent.
No contact lenses can be worn at the time of the appointment. Contact lenses cannot be worn for 72 hours following the eyeliner procedure.
No eye surgeries (cosmetic or corrective) for at least 6 weeks prior to the eyeliner appointment.
No lash extensions or lift & tints until the eyeliner is fully healed. Lash extensions cannot be on during the eyeliner appointment.
Avoid alcohol, aspirin/ibuprofen, and any vitamins (fish oil) that may thin your blood for 72 hours.
Discontinue use of ALL anti-aging creams/serums from the eyes up for at least 2 weeks prior to your scheduled appointment. The use of these chemicals can result in redness, bruising, and/or ultra-sensitivity. The most common anti-aging products are Retinol, Retin-A, Alpha-hydroxy acids, and glycolic acids.
Avoid tanning so we can assess your natural skin tone. DO NOT COME IN WITH A SUNBURN ON YOUR FACE, or the procedure will not be done and your booking fee will be forfeited.
No face scrubs, Botox, fillers, or chemical peels at least 2 weeks prior.
Please arrive to your eyeliner appointment with no eye makeup on. This includes mascara and eyeshadow.
What to expect during the healing process:
Scabs and flakes will take about 7-10 days to peel off. Do not pick at the scabs or peel them off prematurely.
Swelling and redness are normal for the first few days. Exercising the eyes can help reduce swelling and puffiness. Try blinking actively for 2 minutes in the morning.
A slight stinging sensation for the first few days is also normal.
The color will fade approximately 30-50% lighter when the scabs fall off. This is completely normal. Do not feel discouraged if the fading is more than you expected.
To achieve the perfect eyeliner, we need to see how your skin accepts the initial application. The touch-up appointment is where we will perfect the shape and color.
Day 1-3: Swollen and red.
Day 4-5: Dry and flaky.
Day 6-10: Healed or almost healed.
FOR ALL PERMANENT MAKEUP PROCEDURES:
Prior to your procedure, clients are advised of the following:
AVOID alcohol, aspirin or ibuprofen, or any vitamins that may thin your blood (fish oil) for 72 hours before the procedure. **Clients prescribed blood-thinning medications will need to check with their physician to see if it is safe to stop taking them prior to treatment.**
AVOID tanning so we can assess the natural skin tone. DO NOT COME IN WITH A SUNBURN ON YOUR FACE or the procedure will not be done.
NO face scrubs, Botox, fillers, or chemical peels at least 2 weeks prior.
If the skin in the brow area is not in good health (e.g., blemishes, rashes, irritations, abrasions of any kind, etc.), the procedure will not be completed. Please let your artist know of any potential skin issues PRIOR to coming in to your scheduled appointment.
Discontinue the use of ALL anti-aging creams/serums for no less than 2 weeks before your scheduled appointment. Use of Retinol/Retin-A, Alpha-hydroxy acids, glycolic acids, etc. can result in ultra skin sensitivity, redness, and bruising.
Feel free to come in with your brow makeup on so we can see the everyday look you’re used to. This is not a requirement.
Reference pictures of shapes and colors are always welcome, but to find the perfect shape for each client’s face, measurements will be taken. We will then work together to create the perfect brows!
Who is not suitable for permanent makeup procedures?
Those with heart conditions, diabetes, skin conditions or irritated skin, those who have had Botox in the last 2 weeks, a tan or chemical peel in the last 2 weeks, are pregnant, or allergic to lidocaine, benzocaine, prilocaine, or epinephrine are not suitable for permanent makeup procedures and may require a doctor’s release for services to be performed. You must have been off of any and all Accutane treatments for at least one full calendar year before you can have any of the permanent makeup procedures done. You must be able to lay completely flat for at least two hours for this procedure to be performed. No exceptions. The technician reserves the right to refuse service to any client she deems not suitable for the procedure.
Is it painful?
Pain is considered mild by most. Topical anesthetic numbing cream is used during the procedure to try and manage any client discomfort. As with all forms of tattooing, there may be some discomfort associated with permanent makeup procedures. This depends on the client’s personal pain threshold.
What if I’m allergic to the pigment?
At the client’s request, a patch test can be done prior to the appointment to ensure no allergies are present. All patch tests must be completed no sooner than 48 hours before the scheduled appointment.
Will I sign a release form or waiver?
Yes, prior to all permanent makeup procedures, medical release forms and waivers will be filled out and signed by the client. Before and after pictures will be taken of every client.
What if I don’t like it?
As with all cosmetic procedures, individuals should not make their choices lightly. We recommend clients do their own research, fully understand the procedure, and compare different artists’ work when making their decision.
Melissa will do her utmost to shape and style the eyebrows to the client’s satisfaction prior to the procedure. Every effort will be made to achieve an even appearance, but please realize our faces are never perfectly symmetrical, so an absolutely perfect result isn't to be expected. “Eyebrows are sisters, not twins.”
Cancellation or missed appointment policy
In the event of a cancellation with less than 48 hours' notice given, a no-show, or if the client is more than 15 minutes late to the scheduled appointment, the booking fee will be forfeited and a new booking fee must be paid in order to book a new appointment. All booking fees are NON-REFUNDABLE. NO EXCEPTIONS.
Risks and complications
We take all proper precautions for a safe session by using sterilized equipment, new needles, and maintaining a clean environment. Our technician and the establishment hold all the required licensing by the Florida Department of Health.
Should clients follow our pre- and post-care instructions, there should be minimal risks or complications.
Results are never guaranteed. All results will vary per client depending on their skin type, blood type, lifestyle choices, any prescriptions taken, skincare routine, and aftercare.
For any further questions, please email info@pensacolapmu.com