Question 1

What is permanent makeup? Do I qualify?

Accepted Answer

Permanent makeup, also referred to as cosmetic tattooing, is a non-surgical procedure that uses the process of implanting pigments into the dermis (lower layer of skin) to enhance the natural color and beauty. Any pigments inserted to the skin that lasts over 6 weeks is considered "permanent". The pigments we use is specifically designed to fade over-time.
 
I currently offer Ombre Powder Brows and Lip Blush.

Permanent makeup is beneficial for those who has:
- Light, sparse or no eyebrows
- Dark or uneven lips
- Busy people like new moms or hospital workers
- Unsteady hand while applying makeup
 
Please see the DISQUALIFICATION LIST.

Question 2

Ombre Brows versus Microblading

Accepted Answer

We only offer ombre powder brows. What is the difference between ombre powder brows and microblading?
 
Credit: Katie Dang
 
ses a more traditional tattooing method, with longer lasting results, and works with most skin types, including oily or combination skin. Ombre brows look fuller and more defined but can look natural and soft. Many people are fearful of this method looking unnatural, because it does create a more defined, solid look than microblading alone. But today's ombre fill permanent brows are waaaaaaay more natural looking than their 1985 predecessors. In fact, ombre fill brows can be made to look very natural, by not saturating the desired brow shape 100% with pigment and allowing for a defined yet soft/non solid look. No more of the 90's tattoo brow look!
BEST FOR: Combination/oily skin types. Less brow hair.
MICROBLADINGisa very natural looking brow that is achieved by using a hand-held tool, creating many hair-like impressions by implanting pigment strokes under the skin. Microblading is meant to replace individual hairs, not to fill your brows to look like they're filled in with pencil or shadow. Microblading is less effective on oily/combination skin types than other methods and require more frequent touchups. If done incorrectly, the strokes can get implanted too deep which results in blurring out overtime and looking like a blob.
BEST FOR: Dry skin. Wants a subtle shape enhancement. Doesn’t regularly fill in their brows.

Question 3

Can I get my eyebrows done if they were previously tattooed?

Accepted Answer

If your old brow tattoo is faded enough or you want a thicker shape, we can cover it up. If it is too deep or done with traditional tattoo ink, it is a bit difficult to correct the color. I suggest to look into laser removal (for fast removal) or saline removal.
 
You MUST send us a picture BEFORE booking an appointment for approval first. You can either message the picture on Instagram or text us!
 
Cover Ups or corrections can be very complicated, very time consuming and perfect results CANNOT be guaranteed. More than one session may be needed.

Question 4

How long does it last?

Accepted Answer

Permanent Makeup is permanent. Over time, the tattoo will fade lighter and shrink around the edges. How fast it fades depends on your skin type, lifestyle, age, and how often you go back for touch-ups.

For some people, it may completely fade away and for others, it can last years.

Question 5

What can I expect during my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please visit the PRE/AFTER care section to learn what to expect during your appointment.

Question 6

How long does the appointment take? What is the healing process?

Accepted Answer

The appointment can take anywhere between 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
Touchups usually take around 1-2 hours.
 
Please check our PRE/POST CARE section to learn more about the healing process.

Question 7

Will my brows be super dark?

Accepted Answer

Tattoos will heal up to 50% lighter.
 
At the end of your appointment, it may look a little bolder and darker than how you're used to. (But we never use black ink!) Your tattoo will be the darkest the few days after the procedure. Check out the PRE/POST CARE section to learn more about the healing phase.

Question 8

Is a touchup necessary? How frequently do I do touchups?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the first touchup is recommended to fix anything that did not retain during your healing or if you simply want to go darker. Your brows and lips will fade significantly and look softer over the course of a month.
If your permanent makeup healed fine or if you feel like you don't need a touchup, then there is no need to book your first touchup and you can push it off longer.
 
Overtime, your brows will start to fade. When it has faded significantly, you may do a touchup to boost the color.  This can be between 1-3 years depending on your skin. Please don't book a touchup for every little spot that fades since your skin gets compromised every time. The longer you push it off, the better for your skin long-term.

Question 9

How will you shape? Will my brows be symmetrical?

Accepted Answer

Brows are sisters, not twins! We recommend sticking with a shape that is within your natural brow flow/structure. You and your artist will work together to compromise the best shape for you.

Question 10

What happens if I am very indecisive, nervous or picky?

Accepted Answer

Please do your research and be fully committed to trusting your artist whether its at VIX Cosmetic Tattoo or another permanent makeup business.
 
If we cannot compromise a shape during your appointment, or if it takes longer than average due to frequent changes (more than 1 hour), the appointment will end there.
 
Being nervous is normal, but if the artist senses that you are NOT ready (panicking, highly anxious, tensed etc.), the appointment will also end. Please be 1000% sure you want to get permanent makeup and TRUST your artist.
 
We will not tattoo any shapes that we think would not suit you. We will give professional advice but you and the artist will work together to agree on a shape.

Question 11

Does it hurt? Will you be numbing the area?

Accepted Answer

Almost all of the clients do not feel pain or have described it as a tingling or pinching sensation. It is around a 2/10 on a pain scale. If have thin skin or low pain level, you may feel more pain.
 
The first layer is done without numbing. After, topical anesthetic will be applied and throughout the procedure.  
 
(Honestly, it is not as bad as you think and it is a pain that you can tolerate! )

Question 12

Will my brows turn a weird color? What pigments do you use?

Accepted Answer

Permanent makeup pigments are formulated to fade. We use a combination of organic and inorganic pigment brands. There are many factors to how your tattoo will fade overtime. Factors such as your age, lifestyle and health will factor in how your skin takes the pigment.
Usually, the brows can turn dull (gray) over time. A touchup between 1-3 years will fresh up the color.
 
We use Permablend, a top brand used by many tattoo artists and permanent makeup artists worldwide. They are vegan friendly.

Question 13

Are you licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we are licensed and inspected by the San Mateo county health department.

Single-use, sterile disposable needles are used for every client. All tables, pillows, equipment and anything that is touched during the procedure is protected with a plastic barrier and disinfected after each appointment.

Pre/Post care

frequently asked questions