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  • What is Microblading?
    Microblading is a form of semi permanent tattoo. Tiny needles that make up a blade deposit pigment under the skin. The pigment's main ingredient is iron, which your body naturally produces and absorbs. Over time, your tattoo will fade and be absorbed, which is why it is not permanent.
  • Brow healing process
    Why do my brows look red? The red tone is caused from irritation and inflamation of the skin which can have lingering effects as a result of your service. My brows are scabbing, is this normal? Yes, scabbing is absolutely normal. Permanent Makeup services cause your body to go into protection mode (think about when you scrape your knee and your body goes into protection mode to begin the healing process; this is the same sort of reaction). It is also normal for your body to not scab. The results depend on your skin type and cycle and will contribute to the amount of scabbing, if any at all. My scabs fell off and my brows look red, why? The redeness is a result of inflammation and will pass as your body begins to fully heal. Why did my brows disappear? As the healing process continues, new skin forms over the wound. As the new skin forms it may appear as though your brows have disappeared, but really the pigment just needs time to resurface. Your brows will re-appear as you further along into the healing process. Is it normal for my brows to heal at different times? Your brows are not the same before the process. In most cases, we need to do completely different things to each brow in order to achieve symmetry. As a result, you will notice that your brows may heal independently and at a different rate. For example, if one tail requires more work than the other, you may notice that the one tail requiring more work has significantly more inflammation and irration in comparison to the other tail. Likewise, if one brow requires more work at the head than the other you can expect that brow to have more inflammation and irritation than the other.
  • Will my Permanent Makeup (PMU) service hurt?
    Brows: We use a topical numbing cream and continue to apply numbing cream throughout the procedure to make sure you're comfortable.
  • What do I need to know/how do I prepare for my appointment?
    No alcohol 48 HOURS prior to your procedure. ​ No caffeine the morning of your procedure. ​ No Botox TWO WEEKS prior to your procedure. ​ No fillers FOUR WEEKS prior to your procedure. ​ Avoid sun and tanning ONE WEEK prior to your procedure. ​ Do not take Aspirin, Niacin, Vitamin E or Advil/Ibuprofen 24 HOURS prior to your procedure. ​ Discontinue Glycolics, Chemical Peels and Retin-A FOUR WEEKS prior to your procedure. ​ Refrain from use of any Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) products close to the eyebrow area TWO WEEKS PRIOR to and TWO WEEKS AFTER your procedure. Check your moisturizer, facewash BB or CC creams and makeup primers for anything that says acid. ​ Discontinue use of Retinol products OR strong skin care products ONE WEEK prior to your procedure. ​ No brow waxing or tinting ONE WEEK prior to your procedure. ​ You must discontinue the use of any type of Accutane ONE YEAR prior to your procedure. ​ No LATISSE (lash hair growing serum). Discontinue use at least THREE WEEKS prior to your appointment. ​ Please note, you are more sensitive to PMU procedures during your menstrual cycle.
  • Who is NOT a good candidate for permanent makeup (PMU) services?​ ​
    A person who is on Accutane or has taken it within the last year. ​ A person who is pregnant or breastfeeding. ​ A person who is affected by AIDS, HIV or Hepatitis. ​ A person with a history of keloid scarring.
  • Booking and Cancellation Policy
    Deposit: A 50% deposit is required to reserve your appointment for each service. This deposit is non-refundable if the cancellation occurs within 72 hours prior to the scheduled appointment. All services and deposits can be paid by cash or e-transfer. If using e-transfer, please send funds to ciara.halsted@hotmail.com. The balance of your service can be paid by e-transfer or cash on or before the day of your appointment. Rescuedule due to COVID: credit Appointments that are required to be rescheduled as a result of COVID-19 closures will be handled on a first come first serve basis. We are happy to reschedule your appointment at the earliest available opportunity. Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time.
  • Do you offer Nanobrows?
    We offer nano microblading. Nanobrows are digital brows completed with a machine and we use a handheld tool.
  • What is a permanent makeup artist?
    A Perminate Makeup Artist is also known as a PMU Artist. These professionals specialize in the face, using electronic devices to deposit pigments under the skin for treatments such as eyebrow microblading, lip blushing, permanent eyeliner, and more.
  • How long does permanent makeup last?
    While most pigments are made up primarily of iron oxide, many are still carbon-based. As a result, the longevity of permanent makeup can not in good conscience be given a definitive time frame. It will fade over time, requiring annual maintenance. We can not say if or when it will fade out completely. Annual maintenance is very similar to maintaining your hair colour. When you get a refresh, it brightens your brows or lips, ensuring you have beautiful colour year after year. Annual maintenance is recommended.
  • Is the procedure covered by insurance?
    No, it is considered a cosmetic procedure so it is not covered by regular insurance. However, a lot of personal spending benefits cover it and I can issue receipts if that’s the case for you. Be sure to ask your provider to confirm what is and isn't covered under your specific plan.
  • Do you do men’s permanent makeup?
    No. Men can absolutely get permanent makeup, but you’ll want to go to someone who is trained and experienced in this area. If you look at a PMU artist’s portfolio and there isn’t anyone who looks like you, you’ll want to look for someone with more experience in men’s cosmetics as it’s an entirely different training program.
  • Is there an age minimum or maximum for permanent makeup?
    Insurance won’t permit procedures on anyone under the age of 18. There is no age maximum. We are pleased to welcome anyone over the age of 18, however, as we age and the skin matures, service options can differ. It’s our job to provide the safest service for the client and that will be determined at your appointment.
  • Can permanent makeup be removed or fixed?
    Yes, permanent makeup can be removed, just as normal tattoos can. Though it is not easy and it can be very uncomfortable and costly. So, you’ll want to be sure before doing the service. There are tons of corrective procedures that can be done to alter the appearance of your permanent makeup, but as the name suggests, it is permanent.
  • Who is NOT a good candidate for permanent makeup?
    A person who is on Accutane or has taken it within the last year. A person who is pregnant. A person who is undergoing chemo or radiation. A person who is affected by AIDS or Hepatitis. A person with a history of keloid scarring. NOTE: Many other medical reasons can prevent you from getting pmu in that moment but this is decided case but case as your medical is reviewed.
  • Are their risks involved with permanent makeup?
    There are always risks involved with procedures that penetrate the skin. Risks include swelling, peeling, blistering, and other such reactions. There is also the risk of infection. That said, we maintain best-in-class health and safety protocols and we ensure we only accept clients who can safely undergo the procedures. If you’re not sure if the service is right for you, consider checking in with your doctor.
  • What is microblading?
    Microblading is a form of semi permanent tattoo. Tiny needles that make up a blade deposit pigment under the skin. The pigment's main ingredient is iron, which your body naturally produces and absorbs. Over time, your tattoo will fade and be absorbed, which is why we recommend annual maintenance.
  • How long does eyebrow microblading take?
    The time frame of the appointment is going to depend on the level of experience of your artist and the technique they are using. Our initial sessions take 1.5 hours and our touch ups are one hour. This is a result of honing in on both our skill set and efficiency. Moving all your paperwork online frees up a lot of studio time allowing you to come and go without timing stresses.
  • What is the Difference Between Seamless Powder & Hybrid Brows?
    Seamless powder is a pixelated dusting technique that leaves the brows looking borderless. Seamless powder brows give a soft makeup look. Hybrid is the most natural, a mix of Microblading and shading. It’s neither powder or seamless. For a hybrid brow, microblading strokes are perfectly placed within our approved drawing and light shading is done to make the brow appear light and fluffy. You can choose to get a seamless brow, bold powder brow, and a hybrid which blends the two. You have the options to choose anything from a light, seamless brow to a heavy hybrid or bold powder brow or anywhere in between. The possibilities are endless. Powder brows offer more of a makeup look whereas hybrid brows look more natural.
  • The Difference between powder brows and microblading?
    Microblading: Microblading is a form of semi-permanent tattoo. Tiny pins that make up a blade deposit pigment under the skin to create hair-like strokes throughout the brow. From there, a machine is used to do a light dusting of colour throughout to create density. The hybrid brow is the most natural look. Powder: A powder brow is considered to be slightly bolder and more of a makeup look. It is more saturated and structured. The density gives off the illusion of a makeup-filled brow.
  • What are powder brows?
    Powder brows is a cosmetic semi-permanent makeup technique designed to create eyebrows with a soft powder effect, very similar to powder makeup. This is a result of machine work only that will make your eyebrows look as if you’re wearing your everyday eyebrow makeup without having to reapply it daily.
  • What is the powder brow process?
    We start any service with a consult, to discuss the best options for you, once we have a clear understanding of the design you’re after. We take before photos to ensure we can track your progress. We then clean the skin, and start our brow map. The brow map is based off of your bone structure and facial symmetry, which is why two sets of brows on our page, never look the same. When you have approved the design, we put you in a topical numbing, as you’re resting in that we set up our single use tools, show you the lot number and expiry on any cartridges or blades we are using to ensure safety and begin mixing a colour. When colour is approved, we moved forward with the layering process of the brows. As we work we add more numbing to ensure you are comfortable, this is when we find most clients have a brow nap:) after your service is complete you will be sent have with after care instructions even though it will also be thoroughly covered in service. You will then reference for your 4-6 week touch up.
  • What are hybrid brows?
    A hybrid brows combines hair strokes, created with a Microblade to mimic your natural hairs and it’s then built up to a density and fullness you desire by adding soft shading, done with a machine, between your strokes. This allows for a more structured, defined brow while still looking so natural people wonder if they are yours or not.
  • Can you do blonde eyebrows?
    Yes! I specialize in blonde and red-toned brows. We work with you to pick the perfect tone, shade, and density. Whether you want to accentuate your natural colour or go for a darker colour, we will find the ideal shade for you.
  • Can you do red-head eyebrows?
    Yes! I specialize in blonde and red-toned brows. We work with you to pick the perfect tone, shade, and density. Whether you want to accentuate your natural colour or go for a darker colour, we will find the ideal shade for you.
  • Can you make eyebrows lighter?
    No, I’m not changing the colour of your hair, I’m changing the colour of your skin under your hair. I can always go darker, but I cannot lighten your natural eyebrow hair. If you want to change your eyebrow hair colour, you have to dye the hair.
  • Do you do colours other than natural hair colours?
    It’s not recommended. I offer natural hair colour services, if you’re looking for something more artistic, there are specialists that do this. My specialty is to enhance your natural beauty.
  • Does microblading hurt?
    Microblading isn't known to be overly painful, though some clients note a bit of discomfort or sensation. The numbing cream helps a lot with pain, though some people do note that it causes a bit of dull pain. You can expect a strange sensation, a bit of pressure, and some discomfort. Though, anyone who's done waxing or got tattoos in the past shouldn't worry.
  • How much does microblading cost?
    Pricing will always range based on experience, the more experienced artist and their location will dictate their pricing. Our prices are by services which can be found in the pricing category.
  • Why do my brows look red?
    The red tone is caused by irritation and inflammation of the skin, which can have lingering effects as a result of your service. This will dissipate over a short period of time.
  • My brows are scabbing. Is this normal?
    Yes, scabbing is absolutely normal. Permanent Makeup services cause your body to go into protection mode (think about when you scrape your knee, and your body goes into protection mode to begin the healing process; this is the same sort of reaction). It is also normal for your body to not scab. The results depend on your skin type and cycle and will contribute to the amount of scabbing if any at all.
  • My scabs fell off, and my brows look red, why?
    The redness is a result of inflammation and will pass as your body begins to heal fully.
  • Why did my brows disappear?
    As the healing process continues, new skin forms over the wound. As the new skin forms, it may appear as though your brows have disappeared, but really the pigment just needs time to resurface. Your brows will re-appear as you further along into the healing process. We do expect a fade up to 50% after your initial service which is why you have your follow up appointment.
  • Is it normal for my brows to heal at different times?
    Your brows are not the same before the process. In most cases, we must do completely different things to each brow to achieve symmetry. As a result, you will notice that your brows may heal independently and at a different rate. For example, if one tail requires more work than the other, you may notice that the one tail requiring more work has significantly more inflammation and irritation than the other. Likewise, if one brow requires more work at the head than the other, you can expect that brow to have more inflammation and irritation than the other.
  • What is lip blushing?
    Lip blushing is a semi-permanent procedure that adds a colour tint to your lips, like a permanent lip tint. Once healed, you will have a lovely, understated look that is less bold than regular lipstick but more apparent than a natural lip. Some colours and densities are able to achieve a bolder look if that’s what you’re hoping for.
  • What colours can I choose for lip blushing?
    I have a wide variety of colours and I will work with you to decide the best for you. We will consider your natural lip colour, the type of lip colours you usually like to wear, and what you’d like your final result to look like.
  • Is lip blush filler?
    Lip blush is NOT filler. This is often misunderstood because there is a temporary swelling after the service. This will eventually subside and your lips will return to their normal size.
  • Will lip blush make my lips bigger?
    While it won’t actually make your lips bigger, it can make them appear bigger. You can get a fuller-looking lip from lip blushing because it will be outlined and it may look larger for that reason. I can correct symmetry issues, but we don’t tattoo outside of your natural lip’s border.
  • Can lip blushing correct scars?
    I can work with scars and sometimes help reduce the appearance of lip scars, though this is always case by case.
  • Does lip blushing hurt?
    Though this service sees more discomfort than other PMU services, it’s very manageable with the use of medical-grade numbing which we provide to all clients.
  • What is healing like from lip blushing?
    Lip blushing is a more gentle healing process than other PMU services, the healing feels like having dry lips. The swelling you see in an after photo is a direct result of trauma brought on by the implantation of pigment in a sensitive area. Inflammation and irritation are a direct result of service and will not stay. Your lips will return to regular size with the new definition within 24 to 48 hours, sometimes less.
  • My lips are swollen, is this normal?
    Lips are very prone to swelling as the skin is so thin. Most people experience a lot of swelling after a lip blushing treatment, this is really common and you don't need to worry. Lip swelling will subside in the days following your treatment, typically really quickly.
  • Why do my lips look really red?
    The red tone is caused by irritation and inflammation of the skin, which can have lingering effects as a result of your service. This should subside in a day or two.
  • My lips are scabbing. Is this normal?
    Yes, scabbing is absolutely normal. Permanent Makeup services cause your body to go into protection mode (think about when you scrape your knee, and your body goes into protection mode to begin the healing process; this is the same sort of reaction). It is also normal for your body not to scab. The results depend on your skin type and cycle and will contribute to the amount of scabbing if any at all.
  • Is it normal for my lips to heal at different times?
    Your lips are not the same before the process. In most cases, we need to do completely different things to each lip. As a result, you will notice that they may heal independently and at a different rate.
  • What is a lash enhancement?
    Lash enhancement aids in giving the appearance of thicker lashes and brighter, better-defined eyes. This service is completed by adding colouring in between the lashes and leaves your eyes looking defined. Your lashes appear denser and darker after the initial service is complete. Lash Enhancement is unique in that it is not a “liner” look, but rather, adds depth to the lash line and makes the eyes pop. The thickness of the line is customized to client preference. Lash enhancement is simply a thin, feminine line through the lashes that gives the illusion of a fuller lash line. This is NOT permanent eyeliner, that is a completely different service.
  • Lash Enhancement Healing Questions
    My eyes are swollen, is this normal? Eyes are very prone to swelling as the skin is so thin. Most people experience a lot of swelling after an eyelash enhancement treatment, this is really common and you don't need to worry. Swelling will subside in the days following your treatment, typically really quickly. Why do my eyelids look red? The red tone is caused by irritation and inflammation of the skin, which can have lingering effects as a result of your service. My lids are scabbing. Is this normal? Yes, scabbing is absolutely normal. Permanent Makeup services cause your body to go into protection mode (think about when you scrape your knee, and your body goes into protection mode to begin the healing process; this is the same sort of reaction). It is also normal for your body not to scab. The results depend on your skin type and cycle and will contribute to the amount of scabbing if any at all. Is it normal for my lids to heal at different times? Your lids are not the same before the process. In most cases, we need to do completely different things to each lip. As a result, you will notice that they may heal independently and at a different rate.
  • What is the booking process?
    You can book your appointment via my online booking platform. During this process, you will complete the necessary paperwork. If you’re not sure what procedure you’re after, don’t panic. The brow services are all in the same timeframe, so we can decide the best service for you when you arrive. When you book, you will pay a deposit to hold your appointment.
  • What is the touch-up process?
    The touch-up process mirrors your initial session. We do the whole process again, as if we were doing it from scratch. You will have the base pigmentation so the process will be much quicker.
  • Do I need the touch-up appointment?
    Yes. Without a touch-up, you will not have the perfect look or longevity that you’re after. In the healing process from the first session, you can lose a bit of pigmentation, this is what we build off of to ensure it is perfect. In some cases, more than one touch-up session is required, though that isn’t common.
  • Do I need follow-up appointments annually?
    Absolutely recommended. The goal when deciding if you need an annual appointment isn’t to wait until a point where you're no longer happy with your PMU's look. You want to be proactive. The look will dull over the year due to things such as sun exposure, medications, and skincare products, to name a few. We like to give the analogy: if you dyed your hair, and waited a year to do it again, would you still have hair dye in? Yes. Would it looks the same as when you left the salon? No. Vibrancy and pigmentation fade and your permeate makeup can become dull looking. Annual appointments keep them looking their best.
  • The consultation process
    Your initial consultation will take place at the beginning of your first-ever appointment. The reason I don’t do them prior is I find after we have taken the time together to assess and choose the perfect procedure for you and I have you all mapped out and ready to go, you want to do exactly that! When it’s just a consultation we don’t have the time to move forward and I have to send you on your way until a later date, which is always disappointing after you’re all excited to get started. If by chance you were not comfortable moving forward after the consult I would without hesitation refund your deposit.
  • What do I need to know/do before my appointment?
    No alcohol 48 HOURS prior to your procedure. ​No caffeine the morning of your procedure. No Botox TWO WEEKS prior to your procedure. No fillers FOUR WEEKS prior to your procedure. ​Avoid sun and tanning ONE WEEK prior to your procedure. Do not take Aspirin, Niacin, Vitamin E or Advil/Ibuprofen 24 HOURS prior to your procedure. Discontinue Glycolics, Chemical Peels and Retin-A FOUR WEEKS prior to your procedure. Refrain from use of any Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) products close to the eyebrow area TWO WEEKS PRIOR to and TWO WEEKS AFTER your procedure. Check your moisturizer, facewash BB or CC creams and makeup primers for anything that says acid. Discontinue use of Retinol products OR strong skin care products ONE WEEK prior to your procedure. No brow waxing or tinting ONE WEEK prior to your procedure. You must discontinue the use of any type of Accutane ONE YEAR prior to your procedure. No LATISSE (lash hair growing serum). Discontinue use at least THREE WEEKS prior to your appointment. Please note, you are more sensitive to PMU procedures during your menstrual cycle.
  • What type of aftercare should I do?
    Gently blot the treated area with a clean and dry cotton round for the first 24 hours.​ For the first 5 days following your appointment wipe the treated area with a damp cotton round. Discontinue this process after the fifth day or you will risk removing scabs prematurely which may affect colour retention.​ Do not pick scabs; the scabbing process is to be expected and is a common part of the healing process. ​Avoid excessive sweating, long hot showers, swimming, or anything that may add moisture to the area for the first 14 days. Do not apply makeup or additional products in the treated area until the scabs have healed.
  • Booking & Cancellation Policy
    A 50% deposit is required to reserve your appointment for each service. This deposit is non-refundable if the cancellation occurs within 72 hours prior to the scheduled appointment. All services and deposits can be paid by credit or e-transfer. If using an e-transfer, please send funds to ciara.halsted@hotmail.com. The balance of your service can be paid by credit, e-transfer, or cash on or before the day of your appointment.
  • Reschedule due to COVID
    Appointments that are required to be rescheduled as a result of COVID-19 closures will be handled on a first come first serve basis. We are happy to reschedule your appointment at the earliest available opportunity. Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time.
  • My face is red and itchy- is this normal?
    After you have a laser facial or tattoo removal the area can become itchy and irritated. This is triggered by the laser and will subside in most cases subside quickly. You are welcome to cleanse the area gently with a mild cleanser and if the irritation persists an antihistamine should help provide more comfort.
  • Why is my face is red and splotchy?
    When we use a laser to treat our skin it’s goal is to seek out pigmentation and tackle it which can cause areas with more pigmentation to have a deeper response. Fine lines and wrinkles were likely worked on more intensely than areas without any visible concerns which will cause a more dramatic response.
  • Why does my skin feel rough and bumpy a few days post procedure?
    When we use a laser to target imperfections its job is to attack them, break them up and bring them to the surface so our body can naturally slough them off. The laser penetrates into the skin, basically searching for those imperfections and shatters them up into tiny pieces - from there they rise to the surface so the body can shed them, leaving behind smooth and radiant skin.
  • I went to have my sun spots treated and now they are darker than when I started, why?
    With any laser treatment the area will get slightly worse before it gets better. Don’t panic! It’s very temporary, and the results are worth it. This happens because the pigment is deeply rooted and the laser shoots to that root and loosens it up- causing it to rise to the surface. When this happens it will appear much darker than when you started- but this is a good thing! Every time it sloughs off it will be lighter. Some people experience this is one treatment and others need more. It’s completely dependent on the client, skin type and density of the discolouration.
  • My face feels like I have sunburn, is this normal?
    It’s very normal to feel like you have a sunburn after treatment, especially if numbing cream was applied. This should be very temporary, as the redness goes down so will that feeling.
  • How does tattoo removal work?
    Tattoos are no longer permanent, all thanks to the power of lasers. Lasers now work at a frequency that can avoid your top layer of skin and hit these large particles of ink directly. When it hits them, it breaks them into smaller pieces. When you’ve broken them into small enough pieces, your body can flush them away naturally and the tattoo is gone. That’s why it can take a few sessions, we say anywhere between 8 and 12, to remove a tattoo completely. It’s your body working in tandem with the laser to get rid of the ink. Each time a layer of ink is removed, the tattoo gets lighter. This process does not destroy any of the normal surrounding skin tissue. Your tattoo is harmlessly dissolved over time. The following process outlines how laser tattoo removal works. Lasers shoot high-intensity light through your top layer of skin, directly hitting the larger pigments of tattoo ink. The tattoo ink absorbs this energy, shattering it into smaller pieces. These smaller pieces are taken away by your immune system over time.

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