FAQ Powder Eyebrow Tattoo

What are powder brows?

A powder eyebrow tattoo or ‘powder brows” is a type of permanent make up tattooing. It is done by superficially implanting pigment into the upper layer of the dermis with a needle and a machine. The pigment is implanted with a pixelated effect which makes it look soft and “powdery” much like makeup would. It can be done very soft for a more natural look or bolder for a more dramatic look.

Does it hurt?

Because we use topical numbing both before and during the treatment, most find the treatment almost pain free.

Will my eyebrow tattoo change colour?

We use high quality pigments that are known for being stable in the skin and are specifically designed for these procedures, so colour change is highly unlikely. However, we can never guarantee this as there are many uncontrollable variables for us that can affect the colour retention such as hormones, medications, sun damage, skin care products etc. However, in the rare case that your eyebrow pigment is going an undesirable shade (too warm or too ashy/grey) then it is most likely time for your refresh appointment where we can tone it back to your target colour.

How do you pick the colour and shape?

This is a very interactive process where we will consider your natural brow hairs, brow colour, skin undertone and discuss your preferences. We will discuss the shade and draw the eyebrow shape on prior to starting the procedure for your approval to ensure you are satisfied with the outcome. We still want you to leave feeling like yourself, just with a better version of your eyebrows!

Will it damage my eyebrow hairs?

Since we are staying superficial in the skin, and using appropriate techniques, damaging the hair follicle is extremely unlikely. In fact, many clients have reported brow hair growth due to the procedure stimulating the hair follicles.

What can I expect immediately after the treatment?

Although some fall in love with their new eyebrows immediately, others find them to be a bit intimidating due to temporary redness of the skin enhancing the warmth and boldness of the shape and the pigment oxidizing which enhances the intensity of the colour. This is only temporary and calms down in 1-3 days. Those that are accustomed to drawing their eyebrows in often find the first few day’s post-procedure to be less intimidating. In addition to being warmer and bolder than the final result, the eyebrows will also have a shine to them from the ointment that we apply and have you continue to apply for 1 week post-procedure. Some experience mild flaking and peeling around days 4-6 which can make the brows look a bit patchy. By day 7, the surface of the brows will be mostly healed, but due to inflammation below the skin the colour may appear lighter than the result. If needed, you may apply brow powder or pencil until you come back for your touch-up or “perfecting session” which is done 4-12 weeks later.

Does everyone need a touch-up?

Not necessarily, but most do as we take a more conservative approach at our clinic. We like to er on the side of caution since everyone will heal slightly different. It’s always easier to add (go darker/bigger) than it is to remove.

What if I don’t want them after a few years?

While this is highly unlikely (most are hooked for life!), if someone decides they don’t want to keep up with refreshing their pigment every 1-2 years then the pigment will gradually fade over time, being almost nonexistent within 3-4 years.

What do I need to do to prepare for my eyebrow tattoo?

We ask that you refrain from taking blood thinners such as alcohol, aspirin, or Ibuprofen for at least 24 hours prior to your procedure. It’s best to stop using retinol or skin care with active ingredients for at least 1 week before and after. We also recommend avoiding working out, pre-work out supplements and excessive caffeine the morning of your appointment. Skin should be in good condition with no excessive sun exposure, open wounds, or active blemishes in the area to be tattooed.  You may come with or without makeup on the area as we will clean and disinfect the area to be treated regardless of makeup being present.

What is the aftercare?

We will give you detailed instructions to take home and a small kit with the items you will need to take care of your new eyebrows. The aftercare instructions include the following directions:

·       Blot the treated are with a clean, dry, cotton round every hour for the first day of your treatment. After you blot, reapply a thin layer of your ointment.

·       Do not submerse or saturate the area with water for 7 days after treatment.

·       It is recommended that you avoid working out for the next week, but if you choose to work out, try to keep sweat off the treated area as sweat will contribute to fading and be careful of touching the tattooed area as gyms carry a lot of bacteria and this will increase your risk of infection.

·       Apply your aftercare ointment with a Q-tip 3-4 x day (do not let the area dry out completely)

·       Do not pick or peel off scabs if any. This can pull out pigment and potentially scar you.

·       Avoid hot baths (warm is ok), hot tubs/Jacuzzis, hot yoga, saunas, steam showers etc. for 1 week.

·       Avoid sunbathing/using tanning beds and apply spf once healed.

·       Do not wax, tint, tweeze or thread the brow area for 7 days.

·       No eyebrow powder/pencils may be applied in the treated area until the area is healed.

·       If applying foundation during healing, apply ointment afterwards to clear the eyebrow of any makeup that accidentally might have gotten into the brow area.

Do I need to wax or thread my eyebrows prior to my appointment?

No, in fact we prefer you come with as much of your natural eyebrow hair as possible so that we can see your natural shape. Any hairs outside of the agreed-on brow shape will be removed with an eyebrow razor before we get to work tattooing. If you would prefer to come with your eyebrows pre-shaped, then waxing or any hair removal should be done at least 24 hours prior to your treatment.

Should I tint my eyebrows?

Only tint your eyebrows if you plan on continuing to tint them after your procedure. Tinting should be done at least 24 hours prior to your appointment.

Can’t find the answer to your question here? Call us at (587)432 3030 or schedule a free consultation with one of our permanent makeup specialists today!