FAQs
You may have some questions about your microblading or permanent make up treatment. We have attempted to collate the most popular questions and answer them here. But if you have a question that is not answered here. Please feel free to use the ‘Contact me’ to ask. We will come back to you as soon as possible.
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General
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Q. I’m an older lady with really sparse, fair brows how can I have a brow treatment, but keep them looking natural?
We really recommend microblading or permanent make up for mature clients. As we get older, our hair starts to 'thin out' naturally. Microblading is a good way to simulate and create hair strokes where you don't have any. We would recommend that you opt for a colour that matches well with your own hair and skin tone. At Liarna Jessica London, we have pigments to match every skin tone and hair colour. We have pigments to match the fairest blondes, red heads, brunettes and even black hair. We'll create a bespoke pigment blend during your consultation.
Q. I don’t want huge, block, dark brows. How can I avoid this?
At Liarna Jessica London, we offer our clients a fully comprehensive consultation, which includes a discussion about your preferences for the shape, style, thickness and colour of the brows. We can even have a look at examples of existing microblading work, to get an idea of what you like and dislike. This really helps if you're not too sure what look you want to go for. We also draw a set of brows on the client (using a brow pencil), so that they can really see what they are going to get before we even start the procedure.
Q. How long does microblading last?
Our pigments are created to heal soft and fade over time for a natural look. Once you have had your initial treatment and a complementary top up, your brows should last up to 18 months before they start to fade, but this period of time is approximate and varies from person to person, depending on your skin type/characteristics, you lifestyle and any products that you are using on the skin. Your practitioner should be able to discuss aftercare with you to help you get the best out of your new brows.
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Q. How is microshading different from microblading? Does it hurt?
Both techniques are forms of 'cosmetic tattooing', in which a small handheld tool made up of several needles is used to implant pigment into the skin to create brows for clients that would like their own brows to appear fuller. Microblading is typically used to create superfine 'natural-looking' hair strokes. microshading, on the other hand, is used to create a soft dusting of colour over the brows. The intention is to create a brow that still looks natural but defined. They look a lot like your own brows after you have dusted some brow powder through them or had an eyebrow tint. The degree of shading can be as soft, or as defined as you like. You also have the option to combine hair strokes and shading for defined, yet natural looking brow. Here at Liarna Jessica London, we use the latest nano blades to create the most ultra-fine natural looking hair strokes and/or shading using the finest needles. If you are worried about the procedure being painful, fear not. We encourage our clients to use topical numbing cream before the procedure to minimise any discomfort. Many of our clients don't experience any pain at all.
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Q. What is the recovery process like?
The good thing about this procedure is; there is no 'downtime'. You can go straight back to work after having your brows done. You will need to avoid washing the brows for a few days after your treatment and you will need to follow the aftercare advice of your practitioner to keep the brows clean and lightly moisturised. Immediately after the treatment, the brows are a little bit darker than what they will be once healed. You may also experience some dry and flaky skin in the treated area for up to 10 days after the initial procedure, this is normal. You will need to wait approximately 4- 6 weeks after the initial procedure to see the true final healed colour. If the final colour is a little bit patchy, you will need to have a top up.
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Q. What are the benefits of choosing microshading over microblading?
Both methods will give you a great look, whatever you choose. Many of our clients here at Liarna Jessica London, are opting for a combination of both methods at once. They are finding microshading gives them just that extra bit of definition, even if it's only subtle. They also find that the brows are lasting longer before fading.
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Pre-treatment
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Q. What is ‘microblading’? Is it painful?
Microblading is a form of cosmetic tattooing, in which a small handheld tool made up of several needles is used to implant pigment into the skin to simulate hair strokes and brows for clients that would like their brows to appear fuller. Here at Liarna Jessica London, we use the latest nano blade technology to create the most ultra-fine natural looking brow hair strokes using the finest blades. If you are worried about the procedure being painful, fear not. We encourage our client to use topical numbing cream before the procedure to minimise any discomfort. Many of our clients don't experience any pain at all.
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Q. What is ‘permanent makeup’ and how is it performed?
Permanent makeup is just another term that is used to describe cosmetic tattooing. It’s a generic term that refers to cosmetic tattooing of the brows, eyes or lips, using any method of cosmetic tattooing (including microblading). Other terms include but is not limited to; ‘micropigmentation’ ‘digital microblading’ and ‘brow, eyes or lips tattooing’. It can be performed using various devices; such as a hand-held microblading tool (a microblade), or a digital machine that uses nanoneedles. Depending on skin type and desired results, the chosen device implants pigment into the upper and dermal layers of the skin.
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Q. Do you offer consultations?
Yes. You have two options:
Option 1) A FREE 15-minute consultation. During the consultation we will discuss what you would like to achieve from your treatment, and you can ask questions that you may have. We will perform a skin analysis, which will help determine what shape, techniques and colours are best suited to you, designing a bespoke treatment plan. We will also conduct a skin sensitivity patch test.
Option 2) A fully comprehensive consultation. This includes everything in the free consultation and a discussion about your preferences for the shape, style, thickness and colour. We can even have a look at examples of existing microblading, or other micropigmentation work, to get an idea of what you like and dislike. This really helps if you're not too sure what look you want to go for. If you’re having your eyebrows done, we also draw a set of brows on you (using a brow pencil), so that you can really see what you’re going to get before we even start the procedure. You will have this consultation on the day of your treatment. If you prefer to have a comprehensive consultation on a separate day, that if fine. But you be charged a non-refundable deposit, that can be redeemed against the cost of your treatment if you decide to go ahead.
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Q. What is a ‘sensitivity patch test’ and do I need one?
It is always recommended that a sensitivity patch test is carried out. It’s very quick and simple to do and it confirms if you have any sensitivity to the main products that we use during the treatments. Your patch test will usually be sent out to you in the post, alternatively you can have your test done at your consultation. During the consultation, we will apply a small amount of pigment and topical anaesthetic usually behind each ear or inner forearms. A small plaster can be applied to stop the products from rubbing off. It is left on for a minimum period of 24 hours to see if any irritation or allergic reaction occurs. Thankfully, reactions are VERY rare, but it is important for your health and safety to carry out a patch test. If we want a faster result, we may occasionally perform a ‘scratch sensitivity patch test’ and the procedure is the same as the above, but we gently scratch the skin before applying the products to the skin. If you have any questions about patch testing, please don’t hesitate to ask.
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Q. When will I receive the forms that I need to complete before the treatment?
We can send the forms to you by post or email in advance of your treatment. Or they can be filled out during the consultation or on the day of your treatment. You will need to complete a medical health form and a consent form.
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Q. Can I have permanent makeup if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Permanent makeup is a safe procedure, it cannot be performed on someone who is pregnant or breastfeeding. We cannot make any exceptions to this rule because the products that we use have not been tested on pregnant women or babies, so we cannot guarantee that the procedure would be safe at that time. As soon as you finish breastfeeding, we would love to have you, it will be worth the wait!
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Q. Why do I need to pay a deposit, and when does it need to be paid?
We kindly ask for a deposit in order to secure your booking. It must be paid before the treatment. There are no exceptions to this rule. If we have not received your deposit, your appointment is not confirmed. It is your responsibility to contact us to either; pay your deposit over the phone or follow the instructions on your invoice (if you have been emailed one). Please check your spam or junk mail if you cannot find it. Please note that all deposits are non-refundable, but they are redeemable against the treatment. We are happy for you to move the date or time of your appointment, if you give us 48-hours' notice before your scheduled appointment time.
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Q. Should I send a photo of my face or images of treatment results that I like?
Yes of course you can, but there is no obligation to! We always carry out a face-to-face consultation to assess skin type and face shape, as these are important factors when choosing the right technique and colours. This can’t always be done from a photo. Feel free to bring along images of treatment results you wish to achieve, and your practitioner will be able to advise if this is possible.
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Q. I had my eyebrows (or other treatment) done elsewhere and I’m not happy, can you correct them, or remove the colour?
Yes! We specialise in the correction and removal of faded or poorly administered permanent makeup/micropigmentation. A patch test and consultation will be required, please contact us to arrange this. A bespoke treatment plan will be made on how to best correct or remove the permanent makeup.
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Q. I had my brows done recently; can you just top them up?
If your permanent makeup has been done elsewhere, we would normally charge you for a new treatment, but this depends on how much colour you have left and if we can work with the existing work. A consultation is needed to assess skin type, shape and colour retention from your recent treatment and to see if we can provide a top-up service. A top-up can be done 4-6 weeks after the first treatment. Please contact us to discuss your options.
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Q. When can I have Botox before or after the treatment?
We advise that you have Botox at least 2 weeks prior to your treatment or 2 weeks post treatment. Because Botox can temporarily alter the eyebrow positioning, it is recommended to wait to have any procedure until the effects of the Botox have subsided.
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Q. How do I book an appointment or consultation?
The quickest way to book an appointment or consultation, please text the team on 07900432565. Alternatively, please fill in an online booking request, found on the website or via Instagram. Or email info@liarnajessica.london. A member of the team will be in touch to schedule an appointment.
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Q. Can I have an alcoholic drink the night before my treatment?
We would strongly advise that you do not drink alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to treatment. This is because alcohol can affect the retention of the pigment long term and promote bleeding during the treatment.
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Q. I have been taking paracetamol regularly for the last week, can I still have my treatment?
We would advise that medication such as paracetamol, aspirin, ibuprofen, cold and flu medication are not taken for at least 24 hours before treatment. These medications can thin the blood and promote bleeding.
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Q. Can I have my brows threaded or waxed before having treatment?
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It is not necessary to do anything before your appointment. We will always pluck and thread the brows during your treatment. But if you want to, we advise that any threading or waxing should be carried out at least 7 days before the treatment.
Treatments
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Q. Will you draw on the shape before the treatment?
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Yes, most definitely before your first treatment. This is a vital part of planning your bespoke treatment. During the consultation process we will discuss what shape you would like and what best suits your face shape. On the day of treatment, your practitioner will meticulously measure and draw on the shape before the treatment is carried out. You get to view and approve the shape before we even start, so there are no surprises at the end.
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Q. How long is the appointment for my first microblading or permanent make up procedure?
Treatment times vary from person to person. For new procedures it usually takes around 2-3 hours from start to finish. For top-up procedures, please allow 1-2 hours.
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Q. I’m having a colour removal treatment, how many sessions will I need to have?
The amount of sessions required will be discussed at your consultations. The amount of sessions that you will need is dependent on the following factors (it includes, but is not limited to); how much pigment is in the skin, how old the tattoo is, the depth of the tattoo and your skin type. The average removal sessions take between 2-3 sessions to see visible results.
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Q. Will the treated area bleed, during the procedure?
We are breaking the skin to implant colour, so bleeding is normal. But if you have followed the pre-treatment advice correctly any bleeding should be very minimal and sometimes there is no bleeding at all.
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Q. Is the treatment painful?
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Most clients do not find the treatment painful but may experience some discomfort. Any discomfort will vary according to an individual’s pain threshold. However, to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible, before the treatment begins topical anaesthetic is applied to the area. During the treatment we will re-apply topical anaesthetic to ensure your comfort.
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Post-treatment
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Q. How long will my colour last after a microblading/permanent make up treatment?
Results can last up to 12 to 18 months before starting to fade, but your colour could be visible in the skin for up to 5 years depending on after care, skin type, environmental factors and genetics. To prolong results, we advise you to follow the Aftercare Advice that you are given after your treatment, paying particular attention to apply SPF 30+ cream daily, avoid sun exposure as this will significantly reduce your ability to retain pigment of your treatment. We strongly recommend that clients book annual top-ups, but these can be carried out as early as 6 months post treatment, if needed. The more colour you have in the skin the longer it lasts.
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Q. What is the healing time for the brows?
The healing time is approximately 4-6 weeks for most clients. Some clients with medical conditions may take up to 12 weeks to fully heal. This period includes a period of 10 days, immediately after the treatment where you have quite dry flaky skin. Refer to your Aftercare Advice for more information.
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Q. Why are they so dark immediately after the treatment?
The colour will appear darker immediately after the procedure, because it has been freshly implanted into the skin and is still quite vibrant. This is a normal part of the healing process. Once the skin has healed the colour will soften and appear 30-40% lighter.
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Aftercare
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Q. What can I put on the treated area?
After your treatment we will discuss appropriate aftercare and you will receive Aftercare Advice to take home with you. Depending on your skin type, you may be advised to ‘dry heal’ or to apply sparingly, a special formulated healing balm, which will be given to you at the end of your treatment.
Q. How do I shower or wash my hair, if I can’t get the area wet?
It is important not to get the area wet for at least 5-7 days when showering or cleansing your face. We would advise you to wash your hair the night before your treatment, or on the morning of the treatment and avoid washing your hair for the subsequent week. If you need to wash your hair, your advised to ‘backwash’ your hair in the shower or go to the hairdressers, so that the treated area does not get wet. If they do get wet immediately gently pat dry the treated area if it gets wet. Do not rub.
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Q. Can I work out or go to the gym?
We ask you to avoid any activities that will cause you to sweat excessively for at least 7 days after your treatment. Sweat will moisten the area and introduce bacteria which can lead to an infection. The aim is to keep the area clean and dry for 5-7 days. Do a very light work if you need to.
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Q. The treated area is swollen or feeling a bit sore, can I take anything?
Please follow your Aftercare Advice. You may take over the counter painkillers after treatment. You can apply a cold compress but avoid getting the area wet.
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Future bookings
Q. What is a ‘complimentary top-up'? And when do I need to have it if at all?
Permanent makeup is a two-part treatment. After your first treatment, a second treatment, known as a ‘complimentary top-up', is usually required. It’s ‘complimentary’ because the top up is included in the price of a new treatment paid at the full price (if you have received a discount on your treatment a ‘top up’ is not usually included). This can be performed 4-6 weeks after your first treatment. After the first treatment, during the healing period, the colour will lighten slightly, and some parts may heal more vibrant than others. This is perfectly normal and is corrected during the ‘top-up’ treatment.
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Q. After the ‘complimentary top up’, when should I book my next treatment?
We advise our clients to have an annual colour boost which helps maintain the results from their previous procedure. Depending on skin type and environmental factors, some clients may need a colour boost at 6 months and some at 18 months- it really depends on the individual. If you decide to wait longer than 18 months to have an annual colour boost, then you will have to pay the price of a new treatment.
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Other Questions
If there are any questions that have not answered here, we would be happy to help you! Please use the Contact Us form.
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