frequently asked questions
what IS nano?
Nano is a form of micropigmentation/permanent makeup/cosmetic tattooing that uses a specialized machine, and a very fine “nano” single tapered needle, that inserts pigment into the skin by going in and out at a high rate of speed, producing micro connective dots that form a single hair stroke. Nano produces natural-looking hair strokes, which microblading also does.
Microblading = a shallow cut / Nano = micro dots
what is nano NOT ?
Nano is not a form of microblading. Nano is also not to be confused with “nanoblading,” which is actually a form of microblading, the blade is just comprised of smaller diameter “nano” needles. “Nanoblading” and microblading are the same method; the method being implanting pigment into the skin using a hand tool with a blade to scratch tiny hair stroke cuts. Nano machine hair strokes have nothing to do with a blade and should not be referred to as “nanoblading” or "microblading".
what's the difference between nano brows, powder brows, and combo brows?
Nano brows mimic natural hair strokes. Nano hair strokes give you the most realistic-looking brows.
Combo brows is a technique of nano hair strokes toward the front of the brows and shading towards the tail end of the brow for added dimension. Combo brows are for anyone looking for a natural yet defined hair brow.
Powder brows are extremely thin dots of pigment, creating a soft shaded brow pencil look. Powder brows give you a soft yet defined look.
NANO BROW
POWDER BROW
COMBO BROW
do I need a consultation?
If you’ve had previous work done by another artist: you can text or e-mail photos of previous work BEFORE you book your appointment. When taking your photos make sure you have no makeup on, no photo filters, and take them in good natural lighting (standing in front of a window works great). After I receive your photos we can discuss your goals and go over options.
You can reach out to me at love.jessie.pmu@gmail.com.
If you've never had any previous permanent makeup: you do not need a consultation. At your appointment, we will have a thorough consultation that includes; talking about your brow goals, color, and brow mapping. We will review the design together and make any necessary adjustments before any tattooing begins.
how will I look immediately after?
Brow procedures will look great, fresh and usually only appearing slightly darker. Most clients walk out with little to no irritation. Lash enhancements will also look great, however, the following day upper eyelids may swell a little, but this generally only lasts for a day. Lip procedures will swell and may remain swollen and chapped in appearance for several days.
is the 6 week touch-up appointment required?
All cosmetic procedures need a follow-up appointment to address a number of things: some spots may heal lighter, strokes can be added, minor touch-ups to strokes, symmetry, color and/or density. This is also an opportunity to go a little bolder once you feel more comfortable with the process and your healed tattoo.
how long does it last?
Cosmetic tattoos can typically last 1-5 years, depending on skin type, age, and lifestyle. Touch-up's are suggested every 12-24 months. Over the years you may find a touch-up is required with longer time in between appointments. Skincare and skin type will also impact the retention of the pigment: tanning, use of products with AHA, Glycolic Acid, Retinol, etc. will fade faster. Individuals with oilier skin types tend to lighten the pigment faster. If you feel that permanent cosmetics are not for you, you can let the pigment fade over time. Most of the pigment will deteriorate naturally and be digested by the body, but in a few cases, some faint color will remain.
are the results guaranteed?
Unfortunately, results cannot be guaranteed. Every client is unique and factors such as lifestyle choices and skin type/tone/texture will affect each client differently. Permanent makeup is a "low maintenance" service, not a "no maintenance" service. It's meant to improve and lessen your upkeep and/or daily makeup routine but rarely does it ever totally eliminate it. I will always strive for overall balance and improvement of your brows but will never guarantee absolute perfection. Our canvas is skin and skin is a living and unpredictable organ.
how often can I get a touch-up?
You will have an initial session and then a touch-up session 6-8 weeks later. After that, your tattoo needs to be faded at least 50% for another touch-up session. Even though Nano and Powder brows are relatively gentle on your skin, it is still opening the skin, and having multiple touchups without much time in between can compromise the integrity of your skin long-term. There is also the issue of pigment saturation in the skin, if the brows are already saturated, there is no "space" left in the skin for new pigment.
can I have Botox/fillers?
Yes, but it should be done in a certain way and order. You should get Botox AFTER getting your brows done. Botox affects the muscles and the skin in the area and thus changes facial features, so if you get your brows done and then get Botox, your brows could move from their natural position and the final shape of the arches could look off. Having your brow shape modified first allows the doctor injecting you with Botox to correctly assess where injections should go.
If you already have Botox, it is recommened to wait 3-4 weeks to get your brows done.
You can still get lip blush if you have lip filler, the filler doesn't interfere with the process of tattooing lips or the results. Lip filler and lip blush appointments MUST be at least 4 weeks apart from each other.
does it hurt?
I use topical numbing agents multiple times throughout the procedure to ensure it is as pain-free as possible. On a pain scale of 1-10, most clients will describe the pain level as 1-3. After the numbing is applied most clients have zero pain. Everyone responds differently to the anesthetics as well as to pain.
*Topical anesthetics used during the procedure may contain lidocaine, benzocaine, tetracaine, and epinephrine.