For lip appointments, 2.5-3 hours will be booked out, this includes a consultation process, mapping/predraw, the treatment and aftercare. 4-6 weeks later around 1.5 hours will be booked for the top up.

It is important to remember that though permanent cosmetics is low maintenance, it is not no maintenance. The first treatment is conducted and then a touch up will be performed 4-6 weeks later to reinforce any pigment that may have not retained during the healing process, this is an entirely normal part of the healing process and varies from person to person. Top ups can be done every 12-18 months to refresh the colour.

• Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen or coumadin for two days before and two days after the treatment. If these are prescription, please do not discontinue before consulting your doctor.
• Avoid alcohol 24 hours prior to the treatment.
• Refrain from using sunbeds and avoid natural sun exposure for 2 weeks before.
• Avoid waxing and bleaching for 2 weeks.
• If you have history of cold sores, (herpes simplex) contact your doctor who can prescribe medication to minimise such outbreaks. Alternatively, herpes medication such as Zovirax from your local chemist can be used as directed by chemist or doctor. Permanent cosmetics do not cause cold sores, however if you carry the virus, it lays dormant and can be triggered by this procedure.

Surface healing time is usually around 7-14 days however this is dependent on the individual. If your immune system is compromised in any way (such as feeling under the weather) then healing may take slightly longer, aftercare advice includes:

• Clean over the treatment area with cool boiled water on a cotton disc morning and night. Gently blot away any accumulated lymphatic through the day and keep them clean after eating food or if anything comes into contact with your lips. I recommend a ‘press and roll’ technique rather than swiping.
• The treatment area must be kept as dry as possible in between cleaning. If the area gets wet, pat dry- do not rub.
• Apply a thin layer of healing ointment which will be provided to you in your aftercare bag as frequently as the lips need it to stay hydrated at all times. Do not use Vaseline or petroleum based products.
• Do not expose the treatment area to extreme heat, cold, or moisture for 2 weeks following the treatment. This includes the sun, tanning beds, Jacuzzis, saunas, salt water, chlorinated pools, direct shower spray, hot water, skin creams or ointments other than those provided.
• Do not pick, peel, or scratch the area, this may result in the colour healing unevenly and you could also risk scarring and infection.
• Do not apply make-up on the lips until healed.
• Do not take in any strenuous activity which could result in perspiration, this is because the treatment area can get irritated and the pigment retention may be affected.
• Avoid spicy and salty foods, and drink liquids through a straw.
• Ice packs covered with a cloth may be used to reduce swelling

The treatment overall is not a painful treatment and is applied very delicately to ensure minimal discomfort. The pigment isn’t applied deep into the skin and it’s extremely rare for us to encounter any bleeding, the most you’ll feel is a slight scratch, it’s overall a very tolerable treatment.

Permanent makeup is a procedure where pigment is implanted into the upper dermal layer of the skin using a needle cartridge and specialist device designed for even and safe pigment implantation with minimal trauma to the skin tissues. It is like a tattoo- but a much gentler version. Once deposited, the pigments I have chosen to work with have been formulated to fade over time to a lighter version of the original healed colour and retain beautifully.