Frequently Asked Questions

Microblading uses a hand tool to cut fine hair-stroke lines into the skin. The technique that I use for powder brows uses a tattoo machine, specially made for the delicate skin of the face, that deposits pigment in soft dots rather than cuts. This technique heals more predictably on all skin types and gives a soft, makeup-like finish rather than individual hair strokes, which tend to spread out over time, losing their crisp hair-like look.

Most clients will be able to go 1.5–3 years before a color refresh is needed, though this is a general range, not a guarantee. I’d recommend confirming what to expect for your specific skin at your appointment. Skin type (oilier skin tends to fade faster), sun and UV exposure, use of retinoids or other exfoliating skincare, how well aftercare instructions are followed, and individual metabolism all play a role.

A topical numbing agent is applied during the session to keep you comfortable, though everyone’s experience can be different. For example, my eyebrows just don’t get very numb so I experienced a bit more discomfort than most people do during my procedure, but my eyeliner procedure was completely painless. I’m always happy to apply more numbing if you’re feeling uncomfortable, and there’s always session number two to continue if you just have had enough for one day.

Powder Brows, Lash Enhancement Liner, and Lip Coloring are all a two-session process: an initial session plus one touch-up 6–8 weeks later. Lip Blushing for deeper skin tones usually requires three sessions, since a color neutralization session is needed before the lip coloring session, in addition to the touch-up. Scar camouflage and areola restoration are quoted case-by-case, since every scar and every client’s needs are different.

Certain medical conditions, medications, pregnancy/breastfeeding, and recent cosmetic procedures can affect candidacy. Please disclose all medications and health history during booking on your intake form so I can advise you accurately before your appointment.

Heck yeah! See my Gender-Affirming PMU page for details and examples. I am thrilled to be able to support you through your journey whether you’re looking for a more feminine, masculine, or androgynous look.

I do! Whether it’s thinning eyebrows or just preferring a fuller, bushier looking eyebrow, I can work with you to achieve the look you want. Lips are also something that men may want, maybe to restore lost color, or create a more even appearance.

Never. Mature skin is thinner, but it tends to retain pigment well. When working on mature skin, I adjust the needle size and speed of the machine to decrease the likelihood of too much saturation or trauma. Considerations need to be made when choosing colors as well since mature skin can tend to heal cooler or hold onto the white pigment that’s added to many lip inks. It’s more likely that medications like blood thinners could disqualify you from PMU rather than simply your age.

Yes, though depending on the state of the pigment in the skin, the process can be really easy, or pretty complex. First, saturation needs to be evaluated. If there’s too much pigment in the skin, then there won’t be enough room to deposit the new ink over the top. In this case, laser removal or chemical extraction is necessary before new pigment can be applied, and this can take several sessions and months to accomplish, but it is usually well worth the effort.

If saturation isn’t an issue, then I’ll go in with a complementary color to neutralize the existing pigment. Often it will be brows that have faded to a grey/blue or reddish color over time. To create a neutral canvas for the new target brown shade, I’ll go in first with orange or green (complementary colors to blue and red on the color wheel).

Both are in active development. Lip Blushing (for Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin tones) and my Paramedical Tattoo services (scar camouflage and areola restoration) are marked “Coming Soon.” Check back soon for updates.