FAQ: Permanent Makeup in Costa Mesa
1. Does permanent makeup hurt?
Most clients describe it as light pressure or scratching, not pain. I start with a numbing cream on clean skin, and during the procedure I add a second numbing layer. If you feel anything, just tell me and I apply more right away. You never have to tough it out.
2. How long does permanent makeup last?
It depends on your skin, lifestyle and sun exposure. On average: natural microblading brows last 1.5-2 years, lip blush 1.5-3 years, and a permanent eyeliner lash line 2-3 years. Many women in Orange County spend a lot of time outdoors, at the beach, the gym or in the sun, and sun fades pigment faster, so daily SPF on the area makes your result last longer. A color refresh every year or two keeps it looking fresh.
3. How does healing work, and when do I see the final color?
Visible healing is quick. Lips peel for about 3 days. Brows take about a week of light flaking, and the color looks pale right after it comes off. The lash line takes about a week, and some clients get light crusts, many do not. The color keeps settling under the skin for the whole month. You do not see it happening, but it is there. Brows, lips and lash line reach their final color around 4 weeks after the procedure, so please do not judge the result before that. I send aftercare instructions by text after your visit, and I am one message away if you have a question.
4. Do I need a touch-up?
Yes, one correction is part of the process. Skin heals differently on everyone, so I even out color and shape after the first healing. A touch-up is done at least 4 weeks after the procedure and within 3 months. Touch-Up is $150. Later, a Color Refresh keeps the result fresh.
5. Will it look natural?
Yes, and nothing happens without your approval. Shape, color and technique are all discussed before the procedure. I draw the shape on your face, you see it and change it, and only after you say yes do we start. If you are not sure, we do not start. Whether you want soft everyday brows or a more defined look, we choose it together.
6. How do I book, and why is there a deposit?
You book online in a minute with the Book Now button. A deposit holds your time: $50 for permanent makeup, $20 for lash lift and lightening. It is applied to your service, so you pay nothing extra. Why a deposit? In Orange County, too many appointments are booked and then missed without a word. I value my time and the time of my clients, and many women who want to come in cannot get a spot because of no-shows. The deposit is a necessary measure that keeps the calendar fair for everyone who truly wants to be here. One reschedule is allowed. Changes within 48 hours are non-refundable, because that time was held only for you.
7. What is the free consultation?
A 30-minute visit where we talk about your goals, check your skin, pick the color, and I draw the shape. A $50 refundable deposit holds your time and is refunded at your visit or applied to your procedure.
8. Who should not get permanent makeup?
Please postpone or skip it if you have: active acne, skin irritation or infection in the area; cold sores (for lip procedures); fresh scars or cuts, or sunburn; a severe eczema or psoriasis flare-up; uncontrolled diabetes; blood clotting disorders; pregnancy or breastfeeding; a tendency to keloid scarring; Botox or fillers in the area within 2 weeks before or after; or if you are under 18. Please tell me before your visit if you take any strong skin medication (for example acne treatments like isotretinoin), or have any allergies. If you are allergic to lidocaine, I use a numbing product without it. All the pigments I use are hypoallergenic. Healthy, calm skin heals better and gives the most beautiful result. If you are unsure, send me a message before booking.
9. Where are you located?
I work in Costa Mesa, on South Coast Dr in Sola Salons, near South Coast Plaza. Clients also come from Newport Beach, Irvine, Santa Ana and across Orange County.