Permanent Makeup

• Stop all retinoids and vitamin A derivatives (retinol, Retin-A, tretinoin) on or near the treatment area — these thin the skin, reduce pigment retention, and increase scarring risk
• No chemical peels, laser treatments, or microneedling in the treatment area for at least 4 weeks prior
• No lip fillers within 4 weeks before a lip procedure; no Botox or injectables near the treatment area within 3 weeks
• Stop eyebrow tinting at least 2 weeks before a brow appointment
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds — sunburned skin cannot be treated
• No self-tanner or spray tan on the treatment area

Accutane (isotretinoin): You must be off Accutane for a minimum of 12 months before any permanent makeup procedure. It permanently alters skin healing and pigment retention.

• Stop blood-thinning supplements: fish oil, vitamin E, krill oil, turmeric/curcumin, ginkgo biloba, and niacin — these increase bleeding and dramatically reduce pigment retention
• Stop OTC blood thinners: aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin). If you need pain relief, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is acceptable
• Prescription blood thinners (Warfarin, Xarelto, Eliquis, Plavix): consult your physician before discontinuing — do not stop prescription medications without medical clearance
• Lash extensions (eyeliner appointments): remove eyelash extensions at least 5–7 days before your appointment
• Latisse / lash serums (eyeliner appointments): stop all prostaglandin-based lash or brow serums at least 4 weeks before — these can cause pigment migration
• Lip prep (lip appointments): begin exfoliating lips gently 2–3 times per week with a lip scrub, then apply a rich lip balm. Hydrated lips retain pigment significantly better

• No caffeine on the day of your appointment — coffee, energy drinks, and caffeine-containing products thin the blood and dilute pigment implantation
• No alcohol for at least 48 hours before (ideally 72 hours) — alcohol significantly increases bleeding and swelling
• No exercise the morning of your appointment — elevated heart rate and blood pressure increase bleeding
• Come with clean skin — do not apply makeup to the treatment area
• Eyebrows: have your brows shaped to your preferred shape at least 3 days before (not same day)
• Eyeliner: do not wear contact lenses — bring glasses. You will not be able to insert contacts for at least 48–72 hours post-procedure
• Eat a full meal before your appointment — low blood sugar increases sensitivity and discomfort

This section applies to all lip permanent makeup appointments.

• If you have ANY history of cold sores, fever blisters, or oral herpes (HSV-1) — even years ago — you must disclose this before booking
• Lip PMU can trigger herpes reactivation in up to 90% of people with prior HSV-1 exposure. Antiviral medication is required, not optional
• Request a prescription from your physician: Valacyclovir (Valtrex) 500mg or Acyclovir 400mg, starting 2 days before your procedure and continuing for 7 days after
• If you have an active cold sore at the time of your appointment, it must be rescheduled — we cannot treat active lesions

Appointment Duration

• Eyebrows: 2–3 hours (consultation + mapping + procedure)
• Lips: 2–3 hours
• Eyeliner: 1.5–2.5 hours
• Touch-up session (6–8 weeks later): 1–1.5 hours

Comfort

• A topical numbing cream (lidocaine-based) is applied before and during the procedure
• You will feel mild to moderate pressure and vibration — this is normal
• Eyeliner may cause watery eyes; this does not affect the outcome
• Lips are the most sensitive area — numbing significantly reduces discomfort but may not eliminate all sensation

Healing Timeline

• Days 1–3: Color appears bold and dark; mild swelling and redness are normal
• Days 4–7: Flaking and peeling begins — do not pick
• Days 7–14: Color fades dramatically (“ghosting phase”) — this is completely normal
• Weeks 3–6: True color gradually resurfaces as new skin settles
• 6–8 weeks: Final color stabilized; touch-up session scheduled

Permanent makeup is a two-session process. The first session establishes shape and base color; the touch-up at 6–8 weeks refines color and fills any gaps.

Please notify us before your appointment if any of the following apply:

Cannot Treat

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Active cancer treatment (chemotherapy or radiation)
• Hemophilia or uncontrolled bleeding disorders
• Active skin infection, open wounds, or rash in the treatment area
• Active acne, eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis in the treatment area
• Epilepsy
• Known allergy to lidocaine, topical anesthetics, or cosmetic pigments
• Glaucoma eye drops (eyeliner procedures only)

Require Medical Clearance

• Accutane within the past 12 months
• Diabetes (Type 1 or uncontrolled Type 2)
• Autoimmune conditions (lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis)
• History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
• Prescription blood thinners
• Immunosuppressive medications or organ transplant
• Recent facial surgery (must be fully healed, minimum 6–12 months)