PRE-PROCEDURE INSTRUCTIONS
On the day of your procedure expect to spend approximately 2 to 2 ½ hours at your appointment. During this time your records will be established and photographs will be taken. We will also review the design process and most importantly, discuss your aftercare instructions. *Follow up and color refresher (touch-up) procedures usually do not require the same amount of time.*
You can come with or without makeup. Bring your lip and brow pencils with you so you can show me our personal makeup design. If you wear contact lenses, bring your glasses so you may drive home if you are having an eyeliner procedure done. If you are having more than one procedure, you may want to have someone drive you home.
It is very important to note the following before booking any procedure. Please read the instructions below carefully.
AVOID BLOOD THINNERS!
Vitamin K may be used before your procedure in order to help "clot" your blood. In my experience, thin blood has been known to cause-bruising, swelling, discomfort and an overall poor result. It is best to avoid anything that may thin your blood if you would like to have the best outcome possible for any permanent cosmetic procedure.
Abstain from all blood thinners at least 7 days before your procedure.
Examples of blood thinners include:
Advil, Ibuprofen, Excedrin, Aspirin, Coumadin, Warfarin, Fish Oil, Vitamin E Oil, Primrose Oil,
Magnesium and of course Alcohol! I know this makes us sad too...
HAVE YOU EVER EXPERIENCED A COLD SORE?
For those with a prior history of cold sores, fever blisters or herpes simplex we strongly advise you to obtain a prescription from your doctor to take before, during and after your procedure. This will help to ensure that you do not have a breakout immediately following a lip procedure. Lysine and Oil of Oregano are also helpful. You can expect a painful breakout of cold sores or fever blisters if you do not obtain a prescription or did not take your medication as directed by your physician. (If you have ever had a breakout of cold sores in your life, this WILL happen!)
WHAT ELSE SHOULD I AVOID?
It's best to avoid all lotions or oils containing mineral oil 2 days before and the day of your procedure. We strongly recommend you avoid the use of glycolics including: Retin A, Renova, Accutane, or any alpha-hydroxy products 1 week before and at least 2 weeks after your procedure.
Tweezing or waxing should be done at least 2 days before your procedure and ectrolysis or laser should be done at least 5 days before. Try not to book a procedure during your menstrual cycle, as you will be far more sensitive! Eyelash tinting and eyelash perming should be done at least 2 days before an eyelash enhancement or eyeliner procedure.
HEALING AIDS
Using Arnica will aid in the healing process (to prevent bruising and swelling) before and after your procedure. Many of my clients also consult their primary doctor regarding the medications they are taking and to determine if they are a good candidate for a permanent cosmetic procedure. I highly recommend doing this as well. You may be taking a medication that thins your blood or interferes with the numbing anesthetic used during your procedure and not know it. Additional healing aids include, Aquafor, Oil of Oregano and Lysine.
DAY OF PROCEDURE
On the day of your procedure you can come with or without makeup. Bring your lip and brow pencils with you so you can show me our personal makeup design. If you wear contact lenses, bring your glasses so you may drive home if you are having an eyeliner procedure done. If you are having more than one procedure, you may want to have someone drive you home.
TIPS & BEST PRACTICES
For a successful permanent cosmetic procedure please follow these pre and post-procedure instructions
POST PROCEDURE EXPECTATIONS
Immediately after your procedure the color will temporarily look too dark. Don't panic! This is completely normal and is to be expected. The pigment implanted into your skin is fresh and will fade about 40-50% within the next few weeks. Do not try to lighten or remove the pigment in anyway as this may cause irritation and possibly infection. Swelling is expected and is temporary and may cause the design to look uneven. As the area heals the swelling will go down. A light scab will form and slough off over the next 7 days. As part of the healing process your skin will produce a thin scab that looks like tiny color specs that may fall off. This is normal and will be filled in at your touch-up appointment. I recommend that you apply Aquaphor healing ointment with a Q-tip (not your finger) to the affected area as it is very important not to dry out.
EYEBROWS
Please know that your color will lighten! You will experience tenderness, redness, drying, itching and flaking. Some of the color may be on your pillowcase in the morning.
EYELINER
Some eyeliner fades dramatically, almost disappearing after the first application. Expect tenderness, swelling, redness and slight bruising for 2-3 days. Eyelashes may stick together after the first few mornings. Sometimes eyeliner is tricky and will disappear. This is due to a number of reasons and will often times reappear.
LIPS
Expect dryness, tightness and scabbing as well as disappearing lips. After your lips exfoliate they will look as though there is nothing there. Don't panic! After 10 days you will see the color rise again to the surface. Lip procedures always need a 2nd and possibly 3rd application for good color saturation.