Frequently Asked Questions
Microblading
What is Microblading?
Microblading, also known as Eyebrow Embroidery is a procedure categorized under permanent makeup, but unlike traditional cosmetic tattooing, it is less invasive and is considered semi-permanent. Microblading typically lasts 1-3 years, depending on skin type and a variety of other factors. The procedure is done by using a hand tool with ultra fine needles and each 'hair' is gently drawn into the skin, giving a more natural appearance. Microblading can dramatically correct or fully reconstruct lost eyebrows, thinning brows from age or over tweezed brows. It is also excellent for those who are who have little to no eyebrows, or those with full brows with sparse areas. Also microblading is great for those wanting to just simply enhance their natural brows and wake up ready to go!
How long does the first appointment take?
For the first Microblading session, the entire procedure should take about 2 – 2 1/2 hours. During this session, your brow technician will shape, style and map the client’s brows for your approval. Nothing is done without you loving your shape and style of your eyebrows first! We then follow with a topical numbing cream for optimal comfort during your procedure!
The client is to come in for a follow up visit (aka as their touch up in order to have any minor necessary touch ups. The second Microblading session takes place after 4-6 weeks after the initial session. This session will take approximately 1-1.5 hours to complete.
Does Microblading hurt?
The pain level for the procedure is considered mild to none. Prior to the procedure your brow technician will apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area, and also reapplied during the procedure as needed. Everyone responds differently to anesthetic; depending on the client, the feeling of the procedure has been described as light scratches to not feeling anything. Topical anesthetics used may contain lidocaine, prilocaine, benzocaine, tetracaine and epinephrine.
After the procedure, redness and slight swelling in the area is normal. Clients describe the area feeling similar to a light sunburn. Clients can take Tylenol but not aspirin or ibuprofen.
Is the first touch up session necessary?
YES! We often say that this appointment is the most important appointment. A touch up session after 4-6 weeks is necessary as everyone heals differently and outcome will vary. Certain areas of the eyebrows may not take during first session and will need to be refilled. Pigment color may need to be adjusted, brow thickness and more strokes can be added. Individuals with oily skin often require a deeper shade during the touch up session as the oils tend to lighten the pigment. However, we can only depict how you heal after your first session and gives us the chance to build your eyebrows perfectly for you!
Can I get my touch up session sooner than 4 weeks?
Touch up sessions are not recommended to be done earlier than 4 weeks after initial microblading session. Your new eyebrows need to go through the entire healing process of 30 days. Before 4 weeks the pigment color has not fully settled and we can not adequately determine how your body fully healed the pigment until this point.. Most importantly, this is to prevent scar damage as the tissue requires time to completely heal before beginning your next procedure.
How long does microblading last?
Microblading typically lasts 1-3 years, however this is based on a variety of factors. Each person and body are unique to that person. Some factors include but not limited to skin type (normal, oily, dry), age (youthful/mature). Skincare routine, sun exposure, medications taken, all of which will affect the lasting effect of the pigment. Patients who use products with AHA or Glycolic Acid with fade faster as your skin will resurface faster. Any skincare that is made to lighten, brighten or cause your skin to exfoliate will also lighten and shorten the longevity. Each individual's color retention within the skin will vary. To maintain the brows looking fresh, a touch up is suggested every 10-18 months. Clients can let the microbladed area fade over time, but please note a slight shadow may remain in that area.
Who is not suitable for the procedure?
Microblading is not suitable for the following candidates:
· Under 18 years of age (CA state law, parental consent not allowed)
· Have heart conditions or using heart medications
· Have diabetes (will require a physician's note)
· Have skin disease or irritations
· Have had Botox in the last 2 weeks
· Have gotten a deep tan or chemical peels in the last 2 weeks
· Allergic to lidocaine, prilocaine, benzocaine, tetracaine or epinephrine
· Anyone who has any serious medical conditions may require a physician's note.
· Pregnant or nursing clients ( CA state law but not in all states)
· Using Accutane
· Currently taking antibiotics
* We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone who we deem not suitable for this procedure or for any other reason. Our brow technicians make the decision to microblade an individual based on their own discretion. *
Risks and complications?
We take all proper precautions for a safe session by using sterilized equipment that is of single use. Should clients follow our pre and post care instructions, there should be minimal risks or complications. Although allergic reactions to the pigments are rare, it could be possible for certain individuals. We suggest a pigment patch test for individuals who have high skin sensitivities or are sensitive to:
· Topical makeup products
· Gold, silver and nickel
· Hair dyes
Patch tests should be performed for 10-15 mins the day of your appointment day or prior.
What if I do not like it?
As with all permanent cosmetic procedures, individuals should not make their choices lightly. We always recommend that our clients do their research, understand the procedure and compare different artists' work and portfolio when making their decisions. Our brow technicians will do their 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. Slight uneven appearance is normal after your first procedure, and we use all our efforts to correct any slight changes on your touch up. Pigment discoloration and color correction can also be adjusted as needed during the touch up session. Microbladed brows are suppose to and will eventually fade away if no additional touch ups are done.
What are your cancellation or missed appointment policies?
Clients are able to cancel or reschedule appointments at anytime with a minimum of 24 hours notice prior to the appointment time, otherwise a fee will be charged. No charges will be made at time of booking. For all microblading touch ups, if you no show or fail to cancel without a 24 hour notice, a $50 fee will be added to your complimentary touch up upon rescheduling. To cancel or reschedule, please email or call us. Confirmation of cancellation will be done by email or phone. We reserve the right to refuse service to clients who have cancellations or rescheduling of appointments 3 times in a row. Please note, we give a complementary touch up for first time microblading clients that are to be redeemed 30-60 days. If you exceed this time frame, another charge or full touch up price may be applied.
Eyelash Extensions
Q. What are eyelash extensions?
A. Eyelash extensions are a synthetic false lash attached to each individual natural lash used to enhance the length, curliness, fullness, and thickness of natural eyelashes. Lash extensions are a luxury service and should be cared for properly.
Q. Will eyelash extensions damage my natural lashes?
A. 80% of eyelash extension health is home-care. Following your lash artists recommended home care is key to keeping your natural lashes healthy and your extensions retaining. It is your lash artists job to correctly apply appropriate lash lengths and diameters to your natural lash so breakage and damage may not occur. Good quality eyelash extensions require time, precision, and a creditable lash artist. In the state of CA you must be a licensed Esthetician or cosmetologist in order to provide lashes as a service. All lash artists at Meraluma Beauty Co are CA state board licensed as well as received extensive education through board certified lash extension courses.
Q. What are “Fills” and how often do I need them?
A. Your natural lashes go through a three staged lash cycle before they shed and begin to regrow. When your natural lash starts to grow, your extensions grow with them causing outgrowth. At your fill appt it is required by your lash artist to remove the grown out extension and replace with a new one at its base to keep weight equally distributed and avoid damage. Once a natural lash has completed it’s lash cycle it will shed, causing your natural lash to fall out with the extension attached. (This is a natural process all lashes and hair go through, don’t be alarmed!) Adhesive over time may also break down due to natural oils in our skin causing lashes to naturally remove. It is important to come in for your lash fills every 2-3 weeks to maintain fullness. Anything over 3-4 weeks at the discretion of your lash artist will require a full set. Lashes are an investment and a luxury service and require excellent aftercare to maintain them.
Q. Do lash extension hurt?
A. No! Lash extensions should not hurt after they have been applied or as they are growing out. You may feel a pinching or irritation to the lash line when extensions are grown out due to twisting. If this happens, gently brush your lashes with your clean wand provided for you at each appt to help straighten your lashes out.
Q. How do I choose which style of Lash Extensions will look good with my eyes?
A. The answer depends on your eye shape and health of your natural lashes. “Classic” style lash extensions are a 1:1 ratio of extension per natural lash giving your lashes a more natural, mascara look. “Volume” style lashes are a 2D-6D fan applied to each individual natural lash giving your lash line a darker and whisper look. Generally spreading, it all depends on your natural lashes. Your lash artist can help you decide on what new lashes are best for you, and don’t worry! You can always make slight adjustments and changes during your touch up sessions! Lashes are custom to your eyes, each set is different.
Q. Can I swim in my lash extensions?
A. Absolutely! However, salt water, lake water and chlorine will slowly begin to break down the adhesive if left on too long. The best way to avoid this is to wash your lashes directly after swimming with your lash extension cleanser or lash bath.
Q. Can I wear makeup with my extensions?
A. Yes, you can wear regular eye makeup like eyeshadow and foundation. However be aware of liquid eyeliner for they contain oil which will not only be difficult remove, but may also completely remove your extensions. We recommend black eyeshadow and apply it with a fine tipped, slanted makeup brush. Do not put mascara on your extensions. Not only does mascara clump your extensions together, but the ingredients in mascara are not made for synthetic lash extensions. This is vital in your aftercare.
Q. I slept on my lashes now they are laying funny what can I do?
A. To avoid lashes clumping or twisting, cleanse them 1-2X daily with your lash cleanser or lash bath, brush through them with your clean wand provided for you at each appt, and try sleeping on your side rather than your stomach.
Q. How do I clean my extensions?
A. We highly recommend Lash Bath by Borboleta, or another accredited cleanser which your lash artist will be able to help you with. Lash extension cleansers are made for extensions. They are gentle, effective and help retain your new lash investment! The best way to cleanse is to use a fine tipped makeup brush and gently brush it through at the base of your lashes, rinse throughly, and brush them out.