FAQ

Is permanent makeup/cosmetic tattoo, a tattoo?

Yes, permanent makeup/cosmetic tattoo is tattooed to the dermis.

What if I have a previous cosmetic tattoo in the area?

If you are interested in a cosmetic tattoo with HL Studio but you already have a previous one, please send clear, well-lit photos of the area to 808-517-2553. Please use the back side of your camera, not the selfie side. For eyebrows, take one of your left brow, one of your right brow and one straight on. Lips will also require different angles. Please do so in front of a window, during the day and with no makeup on the desired area. *If you book an appointment without disclosing your previous cosmetic tattoo, even if it’s light in color, your deposit will be forfeited if we cannot move forward with the appointment.

What is the difference between Microblading and Luxury Nano Brows?

Microblading creates hair-like strokes using a manual hand tool of 12-14 tiny needles in a row, creating little cuts in the skin and placing pigment inside. Luxury Nano Brows creates hair-like strokes using a single-needle inserted into the skin, depositing pigment with a machine. Since Luxury Nano is machine work, we can criss-cross hairs when creating the design to appear more hyperrealistic. Nano Brows can produce less trauma to the skin, encouraging a quicker heal time and longer pigment retention.

What do I need to avoid prior to my cosmetic tattoo appointment?

60-days prior: chemical peels, laser treatments | 30-days prior: Botox + fillers | 14- days prior: brow lamination (for brows) | 72 hours prior: direct sunlight, AHA's + BHA's | 48 hours prior: aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E, melatonin, CBD | 24 hours prior: work outs, caffeine, alcohol

Does cosmetic tattooing hurt?

The first ‘pass’ can be slightly uncomfortable, but tolerable having only numbed once at that point. During the second ‘pass’, clients often fall asleep, after the second numbing. *You will be more sensitive if you are on your menstrual cycle.

How many sessions will I need?

Brow procedures will require two sessions within 8-12 weeks of one another and upkeep is anywhere from 9-24 months for a refresh, if you wish to continue. Lip blush sessions are determined by the hue of your natural lip tone. They can vary between 1 and 3 sessions and then again, 9-24 months, if you wish to continue.

Will permanent makeup eventually fade completely?

The quick answer is, no. Everyones skin accepts pigment differently and holds onto it differently. Lip Blush, Powder Brows and Luxury Nano Brows can last an average of 1-3 years, however it can also last longer depending on how well your skin accepts and holds pigment. It is never guaranteed that it will fade completely.

How long does permanent makeup last?

Cosmetic tattoo longevity is 1-3 years based on age, skin type, environment and lifestyle. Annual sessions are recommended every 1-2 years to refresh your color.

How long does it take to heal?

The ‘scabbing’ process can be anywhere from 10-14 days for brows and 6-8 days for lips. The true color (maximum color), will not show until week-8.

What are the main things I need to avoid while healing?

Direct sunlight (beach, hikes), water/moisture (saunas, pools, beach), excess sweating (working out/accelerated heart rate), makeup/cleansers/oils directly on them, AHA’s + BHA’s, sleeping face down, prematurely picking scabs.

Can I get an infection?

Though it's rare, infections can happen. At the beginning of your appointment, you’re given the best tools and know-how in keeping your brows clean to encourage healthy healing. However, if an infection occurs, please contact HL Studio immediately.

What determines the shape, design and color of my brows?

The shape and color of your brows is determined by six factors: your preference, bone structure, brow hair growth direction and colorings as well as your natural hair color and skin undertone. We map your brows together while creating the best shape possible for you. Please leave your hair either, fully grown out, or book a wax with Heidi (3-7 days prior), so we can take a look.

Is a license required to perform cosmetic or body tattooing?

In the State of Hawaiʻi, the requirement is to have a tattoo license. However, certifications are highly recommended. Aside from a tattoo license, Heidi is eight-times certified in cosmetic tattoo while refreshing courses annually. She also holds an Esthetician Hawaiʻi + California State License.