FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is it painful?
Most people experience minimal to no discomfort although this will vary according to each individual’s pain threshold. Various topical anesthetics are used before and during the procedure that will help keep you as comfortable as possible. Feel free to bring your own ear phones and music to relax and distract you.
Will cosmetic tattooing completely replace my regular makeup?
Hopefully- but in some cases, no. This completely depends on the individual. Cosmetic tattooing should be an enhancement, not a complete replacement for topical makeup. Healed pigment IN the skin will never fully replicate the vibrancy of color that topical makeup produces ON the skin. Many women are accustomed to bolder looks with makeup that cannot be successfully achieved without risking undesirable results. LESS IS MORE! The more your skin is packed with pigment particles, the less control you have over the color as your procedure ages with time. Soft and natural will always win!
What is the difference between Powdered/Ombre Eyebrows and Microblading/Hairstrokes?
The Powder/Ombre Brow technique creates a beautiful, soft shaded eyebrow that is suitable for all skin types. Depending on the clients desired results, this advanced technique can offer both a very soft/natural powdered look to a beautiful defined powdered look. This technique is my personal favorite because the healed results are natural and soft, yet still clean and defined... everything I think beautiful brows should be!
Microblading, or the hair stroke eyebrow technique is the process where pigment is implanted into the skin to simulate actual hair. Depending on skin types, some clients may have crisp healed results while others may have a more powdery healed result. This technique often needs more maintenance, and as time goes on and more maintenance retouches are performed, the hair strokes will likely age to more of a powdery look in the skin.
Do you offer Microblading/Hairstrokes?
No. I am no longer offering microblading or any hair stroke technique whatsoever. Throughout my experience as a permanent makeup artist and offering both powder and hair stroke style eyebrows, I have grown to favor the Powder Brow technique and have decided to stick to what I believe is the best for my clients... now as well as long term.
Do you take a client with existing cosmetic tattooing/microblading from another artist?
Yes, but only on a case by case basis. Please email info@mariannescarola.com clear photos of your existing work before booking.
Do I have to schedule an in-person consultation prior to my procedure?
No. There is a consultation form you will fill out when scheduling your appointment. Photos (one with daily makeup and one without) will also be required and are easily uploaded in the consultation form. Please keep in mind that these photos are private and will not be viewed by anybody but Marianne Scarola. This step is taken to make sure I can meet your expectation. If there is anything submitted in your consultation form that needs further discussion I will contact you via email. If we decide you are not a good candidate for any reason after you have scheduled your appointment, your deposit will be refunded immediately. All appointments include a consultation before proceeding with your service.
Will I need more than one session?
Most likely. Everybody heals differently and results vary depending on skin type, skin health, lifestyle, general health, medications and skin care products used. If you have oily skin, textured skin (large pores, wrinkles, ect.) little to no brow hair or mature skin (40+) please schedule your Retouch Appointment when scheduling your new procedure. Retouches are scheduled anytime between 6 weeks- 6 months post procedure.
How often do I need a maintenance color refresh?
This varies per person however on average, most clients refresh color every 1-3 years to maintain color.
How long does it last?
Color longevity will vary on your skin type and how well your skin retains pigment, color choice, time in the sun and daily skin routines (more exfoliating products, faster the fade). With facial skin, there tends to be more fluid circulation (oil, lymph, blood) than other parts of the body. Your face is also exposed to a range of elements daily—exposure to the sun, facial products used—the list goes on and on. All of these things cause ink to fade, hence the need to refresh color every 1-3 years.
How long does it take to heal?
Healing time varies from individual to individual. Usually, it takes about 7- 10 days for the exfoliation phase to finish and slough off. Your skin will appear to be healed after exfoliation but please take note that pigment takes some time to settle into the skin. Final color will be revealed between 4-6 weeks. You will usually know around the 2 week mark if an additional session is needed.
What can I expect to avoid after the procedure?
Heavy exercise for 5 days
Direct sun exposure for 4 weeks. Hats and sunglasses are your best friend!
Swimming in chlorinated pools, lakes, ponds, saunas for 10-14 days
Direct shower spray on procedure for 1 week
Pets near your tattoo, gardening or anything that creates dust or dander for 7 days
Topical makeup directly ON the procedure until exfoliation/flaking phase has finished (around 5-10 days)
Facials or skin care treatments for 3 weeks
How will you choose my brow color?
Color is chosen based on your skin tone and your natural brow hair. Also, please come with your daily brow makeup applied so I can see what color and level of saturation you are accustomed to.
Do you have to shave off my own eyebrows?
No! Every attempt is made to retain all natural hair and integrate it into the design of the permanent eyebrows. In some cases, where shaping of the natural brow is required, a few hairs here and there may need to be removed to create a clean and aesthetically pleasing result.
Can you guarantee your work?
Unfortunately, no. How the skin will react is different for everyone and many factors have to be taken into consideration. Skin type, age, lifestyle, general health, skin care products used, etc. all play a key role in your results, which is why it is important to know that more than one session may be required. Everyone heals and accepts the pigment differently. I provide the same service for every client but retention is dependent on your skin and lifestyle.
Please know your face is just as important to me as it is to you and I will act in accordance with my experience and expertise to give you my absolute best. Having said that, there are no guarantees in any body modification. Please be 100% sure before modifying your face as this is an elective procedure.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
When you leave the studio your brow tattoos are intact. There ARE NO GUARANTEES made as to how your body will heal them. If they fade or do not take well- that is the result of YOUR skin, general health, your lifestyle, ect. This is not a result of the technique or the technician. NO one knows how the clients skin will heal. This is a potential risk all clients take when consenting to a cosmetic tattoo procedure.
Permanent Makeup is an art, NOT a science. Clients results will vary and using a pencil or powder will/may still be needed.
If you are out in the sun a lot, have oily skin, use anti-aging creams, retin-A/retinol products, acidic cleansers, have professional skin care treatments, regular chemical peels, or exercise frequently, your permanent makeup WILL fade prematurely. The better you take care of the treated area and follow the provided aftercare, the longer it will last.
Nobody’s face is symmetrical and being realistic with your expectations is key. Cosmetic tattoo design and placement will always slightly differ from one side of the face to the other. Facial bone structure always has a dominant/protruding side or be bit little higher. Hair growth patterns and density rarely match. Please know that every action is taken to ensure the best possible outcome.