Frequently Asked Questions

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Email: info@mblartistry.com | Phone Number: 604-284-5200

Eyelash extensions are where false eyelashes are glued to your real eyelashes, safely and properly to give you longer and thicker looking eyelashes. It is recommended to have them filled every 2-3 weeks for maintenance. We carry both Faux Mink and Silk Lashes with lengths from 8-16mm. All Eyelash Sets require a deposit of $52.50 at the time of booking to secure your appointment. Please see our policies page for more information.

Lash Extensions are amazing in that you can wake up ready. No need for mascara or makeup, but they do require a bit of maintenance. Here are some reasons they aren’t lasting:

1. Natural Lash shedding. It is normal for us to loose 3-5 natural lashes every single day.
2. Wearing mascara, waterproof makeup and gel eyeliners as it will break down the bonds of the adhesive.
3. Oily skin. Oily skin can break down the adhesive making it difficult for the Extensions to stick.
4. Technician error. If the artist did not apply enough glue or did not properly prep and clean your eyelashes beforehand.
5. Picking, rubbing or touching your eyelashes. This can loosen the adhesive and even cause your natural lashes to fall out.
6. Sleep style. Sleeping on your face or other weird positions can cause rubbing and the lashes may fall out.
7. Improper after care. Your Extensions will not stick to dirt, debris, oil and buildup and need to be cleansed with an eyelash cleanser daily if you wear makeup or a few times a week if you do not. We sell cleansers and brushes specifically formulated for eyelash extensions in store! Cleansing your lashes is extremely important to avoid infection and shedding. Brushing them with a lash brush is also important (not when they are wet) and keep the lash brush clean.
8. Using oily skin care products and oil based makeup removers. Like oily skin, these will break down the adhesive and cause the eyelash extensions to fall out.
9. Lash serums. These lash stimulators cause your lashes to grow out quicker and you will need to come for fills more frequently.
10. Medications such as thyroid and certain vitamins that change your lash environment and cause them not to stick.
11. Getting them wet within 24-48 hours. The glue hasn’t fully cured yet.

Whether you want to take a break from lash extensions or you want to enhance your natural eyelashes, Lash lifts are cost-effective and a great alternative to giving your natural lashes a longer looking appearance without any fills or after care. Great for those with naturally long lashes that just won't hold the curl.

This treatment is similar to the traditional lash perms and lasts 6-8 weeks (in some cases 12 depending on your natural lash cycle), even after showering or swimming! You can get them wet, rub your eyes, use mascara for a more dramatic look, put on falsies or extensions, options are endless!

We only use single-use products for each client. Each appointment includes collagen eye pads, and strengthening with Keratin.

Appointments also include after care instructions.

If you have the following, lash lifts are most likely not for you:

Allergies or sensitivities to instruments, fumes, tapes, cleaner, gel eye pads, adhesive and removers. History of recurrent eye or tear duct infections. History of dry eyes or Sjorgen’s Syndrome. Recent history of Chemotherapy.

Note: Please come with clean lashes. If you have thick and stubborn lashes, you can curl them beforehand. Remove your contact lenses so it is not uncomfortable during the lash lift application. How Will I Look Immediately After?

Your lashes will be instantly lifted with the appearance of longer lashes. Results of course will be more visible for those with longer natural lashes. There is no down time or after care other than no water, steam or oil based eye makeup on them for 24 hours after the treatment.

The Lashes have Changed Direction after Hours?
Aftercare has not been followed and your lashes may have been exposed to water, steam, shampoos, cleansers, eye creams, oil based eye products or serums within the first 24 hours.
If you see a change to your lashes after the first 24 hours this is no longer the product – this is your own natural lash regrowth cycle. We loose on average 3 natural lashes per day then after 14 days (two weeks) you will have lost 42 of your own natural lashes. You will see new lash growth coming through that was not lifted during the appointment and baby lashes that were lifted but now have a straight lash base and the ends are lifted or twisted as the lashes grow outward.

How Soon Can I Get Another Lash Lift?
4 weeks.

Can I wear Makeup or Mascara After?
Please do not apply anything on your lashes, including steam, water or any products for 24 hours after your lash lift. Is the Procedure Refundable? No. The results are not guaranteed and vary for each individual depending on your lashes. I use quality products and services for each and every client but do not guarantee how you will react to the treatment.

Can I have the Lash Lift or Tint if I’m Pregnant or Nursing?
Yes. However, please note there is always a chance of an allergic reaction and you will not be able to take any antihistamines for it. If you have any questions or concerns, please seek approval from your doctor prior to making an appointment.

Scientifically proven to penetrate and permanently thicken the natural hair by 24%

Influences hair growth by improving hair structure

Nourishes and thickens damaged, thin, and weak eyelashes

Gives a long-lasting lifting effect to natural eyelashes

Great alternative to eyelash extensions

No mascara needed!

WHO IS THIS TREATMENT FOR?    

Lifting eyelashes that grow straight or downwards

Disordered or criss-cross natural lashes

Dry and brittle natural eyelashes that need nourishing

Thin eyelashes to improve thickness

Long and ridged eyelashes to become more manageable and soft

Alternative to eyelash extensions

What is Microblading?

Microblading is a manual process (using a microblading pen. No buzzing tattoo sound) of implanting colour pigment into the upper epidermis layer of skin by means of tiny sterile needles to produce the appearance of natural looking hair strokes. This procedure lasts anywhere from 8 months to 2 years depending on your skin, lifestyle and how you care for them.

What is Powder Brows?

Powder Ombre Brows is a form of artistry thats uses a machine process of shading pigment into the epidermis (outer layer of your skin), which guarantees a soft, natural look that mimics your eyebrow makeup. This is more suitable for tattoo cover ups or for those who prefer the makeup look versus the natural hair strokes.

Numbing cream is used throughout to ensure you are comfortable. A 1 year colour boost is normal with this type of procedure. However, they can last up to 3 years as it is implanted below the epidermis, into the top dermis layer of your skin.

Permanent makeup is no joke. It is considered a high risk procedure and it takes proper insurance, sterile environment, disposable tools, continued training and experience to be able to perform.

Our prices include after care instructions, the highest quality pigments, and healing balm. If you consider the amount of time and money spent on makeup products in a year, its absolutely worth it.

Please never choose an artist based on price, but on experience and a style that suits your needs. Experience comes with quality products and training, which in turn will cost more than intro rates. Cheaper or more expensive isn’t always better! It's more work and stress to correct than to get it right the first time.

Our tattoo specialist has over 18 years of experience in the beauty industry and will ensure you receive professional service. Artists working under her are also fully trained and certified. Our main focus is providing the best results possible. We put the extra time and attention into each and every client to ensure their needs are met. We take as much time as needed to perfect your eyebrows before starting or finishing the procedure.

Does Microblading Hurt? How Long Does it Take?

Everyone has different pain tolerances. Most of our clients barely feel a thing and some even fall asleep! They describe the feeling as similar to tweezing.
We do not pre-numb for microblading. It is proven to be more effective to numb after the skin has been broken. The highly effective topical anesthetic numbing cream is safe for use and broken and and is used throughout your procedure to ensure you remain as comfortable as possible.
**However, if you are nervous about the pain, you are welcome to apply your own numbing cream 30-45 minutes prior to the procedure. You can purchase 5% lidocaine numbing cream at your local pharmacy. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Medical Conditions?

Please note that if you have a medical condition and/or taking medication that may interact with the lidocaine concentrate in the numbing cream, please consult with your doctor prior to making an appointment.

NOTE:
Further note that if you are on your cycle or if you have had alcoholic beverages, coffee, or energizing drinks the day of and/or the night before, you may be more sensitive to the procedure.

The appointment is typically 2 hours (sometimes 2.5) depending on how long it takes for your approval of the drawing. Measuring and drawing can take up to 1 hour. Microblading itself will take 30-45 minutes.

**What Should I Do Before My Eyebrow Procedure? What If I am Planning a Vacation?
If you have an ideal shape, bring a few reference photos with you to your appointment. If you are particular with your shape, you may fill in your eyebrow as you normally would so we can take into consideration the shape you desire.

Avoid any blood thinning medication for a minimum of 72 hours prior to the appointment. This includes Vitamin E, Aspirin, Niacin, Fish oil supplements and ibuprofen as they are natural blood thinners. Do not drink any alcohol 24 hours before and and limit the amount of caffeine you consume. This will affect the colour deposit and may make you more sensitive/more bleeding.
If you have been on Accutane in the past, you must wait at least one year before considering this procedure.
It is highly recommended that you avoid intense sun exposure and tanning bed exposure 20 days before and after your procedure. If you show up to your appointment with a new tan or sunburn, you will need to reschedule.
Avoid waxing the procedure area 2-3 days prior. Avoid getting any type of facial peel at least one week prior. You may want to shower ahead of time because you will need to avoid getting them wet and over hydrated for the next few days until it heals.
If you are nervous about the pain, you may use your own numbing cream up to 30-45 minutes prior to your appointment. 5% lidocaine numbing creams (Emla or Dr. Numb) can be purchased at your local pharmacy.
If you have plans to go on vacation, it is recommended to plan your trip a minimum of 14 days before or after the procedure.

How Will I Look Immediately After? What Is The Healing Process? Is there any Down Time?
After the session you will be provided with a high quality aftercare product as well as aftercare instructions. These must be used and followed to ensure the procedure area heals properly.
There is no down time. However, please note that your semi-permanent makeup will appear darker and more intense than expected for the first few days (30-40% darker) following the procedure as it oxidizes. They may also look thicker in shape (10-15%). This is completely normal as the excess pigment is sitting on top of your skin. This will gradually fade during the healing process. Redness and swelling is minimal.
It will typically take 7-14 days for the brows to peel. They may appear very light underneath after they peel due to the tissue still healing from the inside out, even though the surface has healed. Your skin heals over top of the strokes and will take up to two weeks to naturally exfoliate itself. The true colour will reveal itself once fully healed after touch up. Again, this all depends your skin. High quality pigments and equipment are used to ensure the best results but do not guarantee how your skin will react to the procedure.

Layers of skin: Younger and Older Skin
The procedure deposits pigment within the epidermis layer between 1.5mm to 2mm below the surface of the skin. If deposited deeper, the pigment will be deposited into the dermis layer, leaving the procedure permanent. Scarring may also occur if done too deep and too frequently.
Older skin does not regenerate as quickly and typically holds pigment more easily than younger skin.

Is Microblading / Powder Brows For Me? **
If you have any of the following, Microblading will most likely not be the solution for you:
Excessive sebum (oily skin) Overly sensitive skin Seborrheic dermatitis (red, itchy, flaky, rash) Allergies to organic plant essence Allergies to topical anesthetics Severe Acne Moles in the procedure area Kerotosis Keloid scarring Facial prsoriasis or eczema Overly dry skin Iron deficiency Pregnancy Previous tattoo that has not faded & incorrect shape Any medical conditions that may affect the procedure (must consult with doctor) Not able to maintain proper after care.

What if I have Scars/Moles? One of the most common issues faced by Microblading are scars. If you have or are prone to developing raised scars (keloid) in the procedure area, you will be at risk of keloid formation from a tattoo. They form anytime you injure or traumatize your skin. In this case, Microblading is not appropriate and will not be performed.
If a scar is at the same level as the skin, the procedure may be performed. Please consult with me beforehand.
Like scars, moles cannot be tattooed, however, we can go around it.
Do you use Sterilized Needles?
Microblading / Powder Brows is considered a body modification procedure and falls in the same category as tattoo shops. All needles are in individually sterilized packaging and disposed into a sharps box along with all disposable items such as the needles, Pen, gloves, cotton, q-tips, ink rings, etc. used during the procedure. It is extremely important to understand blood borne pathogens and the proper steps to reduce the risk. It is not recommended to have someone in the room with you while you are having your procedure done. However, you may choose to at your own consent but please advise me when booking.

How Many Sessions Are Needed?
Generally, two treatments are needed within a 6-8week period, as a second touch-up session is usually needed after your brows have healed. Some require more than one touchup (i.e. tattoo cover up, iron deficiency, active lifestyle, excessive sun exposure, oily/acne prone skin, etc) and some none at all.

Do I have to Attend my Touch Up Appointment?
It is strongly recommended unless you are satisfied with your brows after your initial appointment. Touch up appointments are important to achieve an excellent result. Some may be discouraged with the results after the first procedure is healing. The touch up allows the opportunity to adjust colour, shape and fill in gaps in areas that did not pick up pigment, or fell off during the healing process. Everyone heals differently. Some require more touch up than one touch up appointment based on their skin type, how they heal, their skin’s undertones, etc. This is not always because of the technician.
A touch up is recommended to be performed between 6-8 weeks after the initial appointment. Touchups have been split from the initial cost to lower the payments for the procedure.
Although some heal quicker than others, the skin is typically still healing below the surface up to the 5-6 week mark. Performing a touch up before 5-6 weeks risks the results of the first application and the overall procedure.

Diabetes and Cancer Patients
The procedure can only be performed with a note from your doctor.

Can I Have the Procedure Done if I have Botox? or other Treatments?
Your botox treatment should be at least 3-4 weeks old so that the botox is not bothered during the procedure. All other abrasive treatments such as laser should be avoided as well.

Can I have Microblading done when I’m Pregnant or Nursing?
As a precaution, we do not perform Microblading on pregnant women. If you are nursing, we cannot use any anesthetics.

Will They Look Fake?
NO! These techniques are a unique artistry that guarantees soft, natural looking eyebrows. With semi-permanent makeup, you can change your look as the trends change and as your skin ages and each set of brows are customized to your facial features.

Can you Cover up Permanent Makeup Done by another Artist?
Results are not guaranteed if you have an existing tattoo. Please send photos beforehand to see if your tattoo can be covered. Again, results will vary. Achieving the highest degree of quality will be much more difficult and it may require more than one touch up to achieve the desired results.

Is the Procedure Refundable?
No. The results are not guaranteed and vary for each individual depending on your skin type and how it heals. We use quality products for each and every client but do not guarantee how your skin will react to the procedure. Please review the Consent Form and FAQ in detail prior to booking an appointment. We try our best to obtain perfect symmetry but it is NOT guaranteed.

What is a fine line tattoo?

Using smaller needles to create thin and delicate designs. Because the lines are thinner, they tend to heal quicker with less scabbing.

How long do they last?

Just like any tattoo, they will all fade overtime. Everybody's body breaks down the ink differently and also depends on several factors such as aftercare and lifestyle.

How old do I need to be?

At least 18 years of age.

Who is not suitable for tattoos?

Pregnant or nursing.

Diabetes.

Psoriasis/eczema in the area.

Blood disorders.

Blood thinning medications.

How much do you charge?

We charge depending on size, detail of the design and how long it takes. They start at $120.

Does it hurt?

Depends on your pain tolerance. Most people are totally fine with it because the needle size is much smaller than traditional tattoo styles. We don't recommend numbing beforehand unless you cannot tolerate the pain. Use only numbing designed for body tattoos 45 mins prior to appointment. Keep in mind it may affect the healing.

Pre appointment instructions?

Make sure you have eaten before and stay hydrated. Avoid drinking alcohol the night before or day of as well as caffeine. They are blood thinners and can increase bleeding. Clean and shave the area prior and wear loose clothing.

What is the healing time and aftercare?

Everyone heals differently but typically it will take 2-3 weeks for the outside to heal and up to 6 months to fully heal from the inside out. Continue to moisturize everyday and apply sunscreen. You will need to avoid the sun, swimming, saunas, hot tubs etc. for at least two weeks after. Avoid working out for at least 4 days. Full aftercare instructions are given at the appointment and is extremely importan to follow so your tattoo can last.

Will I need a touchup?

Depending on the area, some high fade spots such as hands, feet, neck etc. may need a touchup within 6-8 weeks. There will be a charge of $50 to touch up.

Can I someone with me to the appointment?

We do not allow extra bodies/ spectators in the studio if they do not have an appointment. We keep high standards of hygiene and space for the artists to work.

What's the cancellation/reschedule policy?

See our policies page. A credit card is required to book and at least 24-48 hours notice if you need to make changes or reschedule. If you fail to give proper notice, a charge of 50% of the service will be applied.

****MICROBLADING AND POWDER OMBRE BROWS AFTER CARE****


It is very important to follow after care instructions carefully and ONLY use the after care recommended to you at your appointment. Colour retention and proper healing depends on your skin but most importantly your home care regime. Failure to follow after care instructions will not give you proper healed results. 30-50% of the work is done by the artist and the other 50-70% is up to your skin and your after care. Please treat them as you would with an open wound. The final result will not be obtained for at least one month after the initial session.

Day 1 only:

Make sure to gently dab the lymph fluid from your brows prior to applying the after care with a clean Q-tip. Keeping the area clean will prevent scabbing of the lymph, which will remove the pigment. Repeat the process every few hours making sure the eyebrows are clean before applying after care. Set an alarm so you don’t forget! After the next day it will be dry healing. For oily skin, only apply the ointment 1-2 times a day.

Wait 24-48 hours before showering if possible so your tattoo has time to build a protective layer over it.

When you do shower, try to your limit your time in there and avoid hot water as it creates too much steam for your freshly tattooed eyebrows. Water and steam opens up your pores and can result in loss of pigment and patchiness. Steam and hot baths can also draw out impurities from your skin, including tattoo ink! Avoid getting the water directly onto the tattoo. Your tattoo will heal better if it is not exposed to any soap, steam and water.

Day 2-14:

Using a clean Q-tip, lightly dab a light coat over the area several times a day as needed at a minimum of 2 times (do not over apply and do not use any aggressive movements when applying). If the area is not lightly moisturized your tattoo will dry out, crack and really itch (some itchiness is normal and is a common part of the healing process). If you have oily skin, only apply 1-2 times a day.

Avoid any and all products on the tattooed area as it may cause an infection, this includes makeup on the eyebrows!

Wash around them and avoid scrubbing the area. Please do not touch the area with your hands and make sure to keep your hair away from the area until it has completely healed.

Avoid any over hydration of the eyebrows (i.e. working out, swimming, etc.) until the tattooed area has healed and completely peeled/flaked off. This includes limiting your shower as it creates steam. Avoid spring cleaning and outdoor activities that may have dust or debris. Also avoid drinking excess alcohol, eating spicy food, smoking etc. as it will slow down the healing of the wounds. If the aforementioned is not reduced the hygiene risks increase.

You will be provided with the complete after care instructions with your appointment containing what to avoid, what not to do, and what to note. The after care ointment and instructions must be used and followed to ensure the procedure area heals properly.

*** PLEASE NOTE**

Your semi-permanent makeup will appear darker and more intense than expected for the first few days (30-40% darker) following the procedure as it oxidizes. They may also look thicker in shape (10-15%). This is completely NORMAL as the excess pigment is sitting on top of your skin. This will gradually fade during the healing process. Redness and swelling is minimal.

It will typically take 7-14 days for the brows to peel. They may appear very light underneath after they peel due to the tissue still healing from the inside out, even though the surface has healed. Your skin heals over top of the strokes and will take a few weeks to regenerate and naturally exfoliate itself. The true colour will reveal itself once fully healed after touch up. Again, this all depends on your skin, your lifestyle and how you care for them. Patience and care is key to long lasting results. Waking up with perfect eyebrows everyday will save you both time and money so after care is crucial!


****EYELASH EXTENSIONS AFTER CARE****

· Be gentle with your lashes; no rubbing, picking, scratching or playing/petting them.

· Keep your lashes dry for the first 24-48 hours. This includes steam, showers, rain, crying, hot yoga, sauna, spray tans, facials, sweating, etc.

· Clean your lashes with a lash cleanser (we sell cleansers and brushes in store) to keep dust, debris and oils off to increase its retention but not within the first 48 hours of getting them.

· Do not brush wet lashes and avoid overbrushing.

· Avoid all oil + glycols as they remove the glue’s bond and causes premature shedding. Keep all products away from your lashes and lash line.

· Avoid sleeping on your face as it will cause the lashes to turn in different directions and fall off.

· Avoid using mascara on the extensions.

· Fills are recommended with 2-3 weeks to keep them full. You must have 40% of your lashes still in tact or they will be considered a new set.

· Note that eyelash extensions will not cause your natural lashes to fall out. Your lashes have its own growth cycle and any premature shedding is not the fault of your technician. It could be due to oily skin, your natural lash growth cycle, or your after care. Use only oil free products and take good care of them!


****KERATIN LASH LIFT AFTER CARE***


The Lash Lift is a very low maintenance procedure compared to eyelash extension; however, there is little extra care required over the first 24-48 hours whilst the lift is still setting into place and a few tips to help you get the longest results.

Aftercare instructions:

· Be gentle with your lashes; no rubbing

· Do not get your lashes wet for the first 24 hours

· Do not use harsh products on your eyes/ lashes

· Use of Sauna/Steam is possible after 24 hour but may weaken the effect of the lift

· No eye make up for 24 hours

· Avoid waterproof mascara’s

· Swimming should be avoided for at least 24 hours

· No other facial beauty treatments for 24 hours

· Remember, the lash lift procedure is similar to hair perm and as such the hair must be kept well nourished and treated delicately to avoid breakage/ weakening

Recommended:

· Using gentle soap free products around the eyes (the simple range is suitable and inexpensive)

· Pat gently to dry

Be aware that swimming can weaken the lift quicker
****LIP BLUSH AFTER CARE****
You will receive after care sheets for each PMU appointment. If misplaced, kindly email us at info@mblartistry.com for an electronic version.

Please see the appropriate tabs under services.

We can fit 3-4 people at the same time. Please email us at info@mblartistry.com with details of services, dates and times you wish to book and we will do our best to accomodate.