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SEMI PERMANENT MAKEUP

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will my semi permanent make up last?
This can be different from person to person; there are so many factors which affect the results. Peoples skin type, what medications they take, diet, sun beds, sun exposure, swimming in chlorinated water, colour of pigment chosen, products used on the face, how much exercise the person takes part in etc. They can stay visible in the skin between 2 - 5 years gradually fading more and more over time. 

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Can I choose the shape?
Absolutely! The client is in control every step of the way from desired shape to colour selection. The shape is drawn on in pencil before the procedure starts to give you an idea of the style and positioning.

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Is Semi Permanent Makeup painful?
We can honestly say 95% of people do not find it painful and many clients have even fallen asleep. We use numbing creams to make the procedure as comfortable as possible, a lot of people say tweezing hurts a lot more.

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What happens at the appointment?

Every appointment begins with a thorough consultation, and completion of a medical questionnaire. We will answer any questions you may have, and we fully inform you of any potential risks and complications. We discuss realistic expectations so both parties are satisfied with the outcome. We use this opportunity to discuss your desired shape, style and colour. Once you have made an informed decision, you will sign a consent form and photographs will be taken as part of the medical record. 

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How long will I need to allow for my treatment?
The first session you will need to allow 2.5 hours. This will include numbing, completing consultation and medical form, colour testing and drawing on the brows, and the tattoo procedure itself. 
For a top up or colour boost treatment, please allow 1-1.5 hours.

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What is a top up appointment?
This is a second session performed 6-12 weeks after the initial treatment. Touch ups are recommended for everybody. On touch up sessions, we can alter the shape and colour of your tattoo, go bolder or fill in spots that didn't retain pigment as well as others during healing. Touch ups will also add longevity to the life of your tattoo. It is not mandatory, but strongly advised for the perfect finish!

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How long is the healing process and what to expect?
The colour will appear much darker and more intense. This will subside after the first 2-4 days. The initial heal is typically 5-7 days, after which you can resume normal makeup and skincare routines. Complete healing can take up to six weeks for the pigment to mature in the skin and the true colour to emerge. 

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What aftercare is involved?
Your practitioner will provide you with an extensive treatment specific aftercare procedure. Adherence to these guidelines is essential for best results.

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What can I do to keep the colour for longer?
Once your SPMU is fully healed, it’s best to protect it from sun exposure as this makes the colour fade faster - use a high SPF to protect them. Products with AHA or Glycolic Acid will also make your brows fade faster. Lighter colours fade faster than darker colours and all colours will change with time. 


How often will I need my SPMU topped up (colour boosts)?
Every client is different, but as a general guideline, we typically advise a colour boost once the treatment has faded by 50%. This is usually around 1-2 years. Many clients opt for an annual colour boost. 

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Whats the difference between microblading and ombre powder brows (micropigmentation)?
Microblading is the technique of implanting pigment using a hand tool to mimic hairstrokes. Micropigmentation is a semi-permanent make up method which disperses fine airbrush like dots to mimic a powdered finish, and is done with a digital machine, rather than a fine hand-held blade.


Whilst both are wonderful methods to achieve beautiful results, we have found in practice that microblading does not age as well and as such we do not offer microblading. In addition micropigmentation can be undertaken on any skin type whereas microblading cannot be done on oily skin. Overall, in our opinion, micropigmentation yields better, longer lasting results.

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Can I get lip blush if I have lip fillers?
Yes, you can have lip blush if you have lip filler. Lip filler does not interfere with the process of tattooing lips or the results in any way. Note that lip filler and lip blush appointments must be at least 4 weeks apart from each other.

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Is anybody not suitable for this treatment?
Certain medical conditions and medications can prohibit you from having this treatment. Please contact us to discuss any concerns you may have. The treatment is not suitable if you are pregnant/breast- feeding.


If you are prone to cold sores, it is advised you undertake a course of antiviral tablets prior to any lip needling treatments as it can trigger an outbreak.

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So, is it semi permanent or permanent?
It is common to find the treatment referred to as both terms. Semi permanent makeup is generally referred to as such because, unlike body tattooing, results don't last forever. Treatments will, after a period of time (9 months to 2 years) fade, lose colour intensity, and will need a colour boost session to refresh them, redefine the shape and generally give them a boost so they look fresh and crisp again.

The reason they're often called permanent cosmetics is that, although in time your brows, liner or lips will fade and lighten up if you don't have them retouched, they don't always completely disappear completely on their own. It's normal, even after several years still have some residual colour in your skin.

FAQ SPMU: About
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