frequently asked questions
HOW TO BOOK WITH A PREVIOUS COSMETIC TATTOO?
If you have had your eyebrows/lips/liner previously tattooed and are interested in a correction/cover up/rework, you MUST email us clear photos BEFORE booking your appointment for approval. You are also welcome to schedule a complimentary in-person consultation where we can assess your previous tattoo and approve you for booking. (I don't care if it was 20 years or 2 months ago, or if you can "barely see it", or if you've gone through laser or saline removal. If you'd had it done, please be honest and let ME know!) IF YOUR PREVIOUS COSMETIC TATTOO IS NOT APPROVED BEFORE BOOKING A NEW SERVICE- YOUR APPOINTMENT WILL BE CANCELED AND YOU WILL FORFEIT YOUR DEPOSIT.
ARE THERE ANY CONTRAINDICATIONS WITH COSMETIC TATTOOS?
-Epilepsy
-Diabetes
-Current or completed chemotherapy treatments (within the last year)
-Artificial heart valves
-Allergies to pigments and/or numbing agents
-Acutane usage within the last year
-Current antibiotic use
-Keloid scaring
-Pregnancy and/or breastfeeding
-Any issue that prevents your blood from clotting properly
IS IT REALLY PERMANENT?
Cosmetic tattooing or PMU is sometimes described as "semi-permanent". I disagree. Understandably, this can cause a lot of confusion! It's permanent in the sense that it can't be washed or exfoliated away. Anytime pigment is placed under the skin, it's considered a tattoo. While your PMU will fade gradually over time and need some refreshing because it is placed shallow into the skin, it will not disappear. At Electrik Enigma Artistry, I want my clients to see my services as lifelong commitments.
HOW DO I KNOW WHAT SERVICE/TECHNIQUE IS BEST FOR ME?
I'm here to help you with that! Not only is it hard to be subjective about your own brows/lips/eyes, it's even harder to envision different looks on yourself! As an artist, I'm able to determine the best shape, size, colors, and method that's best for your unique self, and satisfy your personal preferences. Leave the hard work to me, I got you!
DOES IT HURT?
While this is a tattoo, I just barely touch the second layer of the skin. On top of that I use numbing agents throughout your service to make you as comfortable as possible. While there are some mild discomfort here and there, it's no more painful that some slight stinging and scratching sensations. Keep in mind that everyone has a different pain tolerance, and avoid booking your appointment around your monthly cycle, as your body will be significantly more sensitive.
IS IT SAFE?
Yes! Tattooing of any kind is safe so long as it's preformed in a licensed facility by a licensed/insured artist, who is following proper BBP procedures and using sterile, one time use needles.
IS IT NORMAL TO BE NERVOUS?
Totally normal! I've found that most people are nervous about two things: the pain, and making sure the end result will look natural. When you trust the process and your artist. you'll be 100% ready for your appointment. Booking a complementary consultation with me is ALWAYS recommended to talk more in depth and go over any questions you have before booking.
SHOULD I COME IN WEARING MAKEUP?
While I understand that some folks may not be comfortable traveling to the studio without makeup, I ask you to keep it to the bare minimum. Avoid heavy foundations. If you are coming in for an eyeliner appointment, please do not wear any eye makeup.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I NEVER COME BACK FOR AN ANNUAL REVISIT?
All tattoos lighten and shift to a cooler color over time. This is completely normal! When you start to see a significant shape or pigment change, that's when most folks want to come back. But, if you'd like to let your cosmetic tattoo go, you'd just let the shape and color change continue. Most can see their PMU fade significantly around 5 years, although there are so many factors to contribute how your work will age.
I TAN A LOT, WILL THAT EFFECT MY RESULTS?
In short, yes. Tanning regularly will cause your tattoo to cool into a gray color extremely quick. I highly recommend a daily SPF to protect your skin, lips, and face.
WILL I STILL HAVE TO MAINTAIN MY BROWS AFTER I HAVE THEM DONE?
Yes, you will still need to groom your brows post treatment. Depending how you you prefer to have your brows, you can selectively tweeze, or continue your waxing or threading services. I also recommend investing in a brow gel to keep your natural hairs neat and in place. (Need product suggestions? Just ask me!)
WHY CAN'T I USE RETINOLS/ACIDS/EXFOLIATORS ON MY HEALED PMU?
This will fade your tattoo much faster, and may cause it to cool in color. Remember to keep those products at least 0.5-1" away from your cosmetic tattoos at all times.
DO TATTOOS CAUSE SCARRING?
Scarring can occur one of two ways: during your appointment, or after. When your'e working with a skilled and properly trained artist who's using the appropriate technique for your skin, the risk of scarring is extremely low. However, scarring can easily occur during the healing process if proper aftercare is not followed.
CAN YOU TATTOO BLUSH, FOUNDATION, OR UNDER-EYE CONCEALER?
I absolutely do not recommend these high-risk services. The main ingredients in these pigments are prone to aging poorly and are incredibly hard to remove.