FAQ

*Please read our Studio Policy info before booking*

What is Cosmetic Tattooing?

Cosmetic Tattooing is the process of implanting pigment beneath the surface of the skin using a sterile tattoo needle to add color, shape, symmetry and enhance facial features. Cosmetic Tattooing can be used for eyebrows, eyeliner, freckles, lips, and more! Cosmetic Tattooing is not a substitute for makeup, rather a way to enhance your natural features and cut down your beauty routine.

What is the difference between Cosmetic Tattooing and Traditional Tattooing?

Cosmetic Tattooing is softer and more subtle than traditional body tattooing and is used to enhance the natural features of the face.

What is Nano Brows?

Nano Brows is the most modern technique for eyebrow tattoos. A single needle tattoo machine is used to delicately implant ink following the natural flow of hair strokes. This technique is very gentle on the skin, causes little trauma, and heals much quicker than traditional brow methods. Nano is the best option for clients with little-no brow hair, as we can create very realistic results in fewer sessions. Nano is also great for clients with mature or sensitive skin.

What is Microblading?

Microblading is a form of Cosmetic Tattooing that uses a small configuration of needles resembling a blade to manually create hair-like strokes. Microblading is best suited for younger clients with healthy skin and fuller brow hair.

What is Lip Blush?

Lip Blush tattooing adds definition and a soft flush of color to your lips. Pigment colors are custom mixed for your skin tone to give you a naturally enhanced look. Think of it as your own lips, but better!

Can I get Lip Blush if I have dark lips?

Lip Blush results can be achieved on clients with melanin-rich lips, but multiple sessions may be needed to reach the desired results. Clients with very darkly pigmented lips or those with very cool/blue undertones may not be the best candidates for lip blush. If you would like to know if you’re a good candidate for Lip Blush, please email a clear photo of your lips to info@noragracetattoo.com for approval before booking.

Does it hurt?

The short answer is, it can! At the end of the day, this is a tattoo and some mild pain/sensations can be expected. Pain tolerance varies greatly from person to person, but every effort will be made to ensure that you remain comfortable during your procedure. I use multiple numbing agents for certain procedures, and most clients find the appointment to be very relaxing.

How will you determine the shape to be tattooed? Will I have input?

I will create the shape of your brows (or lips) based on measurements taken from your own face, never stencils. I also ask for client's to arrive at their appointment with their brows filled in the way they prefer (if you usually wear makeup,) so that I can get a better idea of the shape & size you are comfortable with. You will have input every step of the way, and we will not begin tattooing until you have approved the shape of your new brows. 

How long does Cosmetic Tattooing last? How many treatments are needed?

Cosmetic Tattoos can fade over time and require a touch up every 1-3 years. Frequency of touchups depends on the client's skin, pigments used (lighter colors fade faster,) and other factors such as sun exposure, chemical peels & skin treatments etc. Lip Blush tattoos tend to last longer than brows, and can last 2-5 years before needing a touch up.

Touch-ups are normal for cosmetic tattoo procedures, with each new procedure requiring 2 visits. The initial procedure followed by a touch-up procedure about 2 months later. Previously tattooed eyebrows may require one or two additional appointments and will require a consultation prior to first appointment. 

**Please note that final results can not be guaranteed as each client's skin is unique; pigments can hold up or break down differently on every skin type. Your skin will be evaluated at the touchup appointment and any changes to pigment color can be made at this time. 

Once pigment is implanted into skin, there is no guarantee that it will fade.

What is the healing process?

The tattooed area will appear thicker and darker than expected for the first few day after the procedure. This will gradually lighten while the tattoo goes through the complete healing process. You can expect some dry skin and flakiness while your new cosmetic tattoo heals. If you are familiar with healing traditional tattoos, you will find that healing cosmetic tattoos is very similar.

Brows & Freckles tend to heal in 7-10 days, while Lips heal in about 4-7 days.  Clients will receive detailed aftercare instructions during their procedure. 

Can I wear makeup while my brows are healing?

You will need to remain makeup free for at least 10-14 days after the procedure. Any cosmetics (foundation, powders, moisturizer, primer, etc) on the treatment area can effect the way that the pigment heals in your skin. 

How old do I have to be to get a Cosmetic Tattoo procedure?

You must be 18 years or older in the state of California to receive a tattoo.

Can I get Cosmetic Tattoos if I've had Botox?

Absolutely! We do recommend a 4 week resting period between Botox and any cosmetic tattooing procedure. This will ensure that the injectables have settled, and you will get the best eyebrow shape possible. 

Can I get Lip Blush if I’ve had Juvederm/filler?

Yes! The same rules apply for filler as for Botox, you’ll want to wait 4 weeks before or after filler to get your lips tattooed.

Can I get Lip Blush if I have a history of Cold Sores?

While Lip Blush procedures are as gentle as possible, they can cause a cold sore outbreak in clients with a history of sores. If you’ve had any cold sores in the past, please consult with your doctor before getting tattooed. Taking an antiviral medication or supplement prior to appointment is highly recommended.

Can I get Cosmetic Tattooing if I’ve had a Surgical cosmetic procedure?

Absolutely! BUT, please make sure that you are AT LEAST 2-4 MONTHS HEALED from surgery before scheduling a tattoo appointment. Swelling can remain present for a few months after rhinoplasty, liposuction, face lifts, eyelid procedures etc, which can make it difficult for us to determine the proper design for your tattoo. Bruising and sensitivity while healing from surgical procedures can also make the tattoo process more painful for the client. Your appointment will need to be rescheduled if you are still healing from a surgery.

What Cosmetic Tattoo services do you offer?

I offer Nano Brows, Microblading, Lip Blush, Lash Enhancement, & Freckle tattooing services. Check the Services page for pricing.

What Restorative Tattoo services do you offer?

I offer 3D Areola tattooing and Nipple Blush services. Please email info@noragracetattoo.com to discuss all available options and pricing.

Can I bring my child with me to my tattoo appointment?

Unfortunately, no one under the age of 18 is permitted in the studio. This is due to Health Department laws that we must abide. We love kids, but please find a sitter for your child during your tattoo appointment! If you arrive to the studio with someone under the age of 18, we may have to reschedule your appointment.

Please email info@noragracetattoo.com with any additional questions.