ABOUT ME
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are powder brows?
It is a cosmetic tattoo technique done by machine to create the look of filled-in powdered brows, going from lighter at the front to darker towards the tail. It heals soft and natural and is ideal for clients who wear makeup daily, or those that want more fullness and definition to their brows. It is suitable for all skin types including oily skin, and is the best technique for course brow texture or little to no brow hairs.
What is the difference between powder brows and microblading?
Microblading uses a hand tool to create hair-like strokes on the skin, imitating brow hairs, and best for normal-dry skin. Powder brows create more of a soft filled-in look that mimics powder makeup, the result is a full and defined shape while looking natural. Often times microblading is not enough and clients still find themselves filling in their brows, and it can fade fast with oily skin and often ages into blurry stokes. On the other hand, powder brows age well, is perfect for all skin types, and looks great regardless if you have full brows or no brows. This is why it is my favourite technique.
How long does it last?
This varies from person to person, everyone’s results last a different amount of time. Generally it can last up to 1-3 years depending on the pigment used, your skin type, lifestyle and aftercare. Annual touchups are recommended every 1-2 years to maintain the colour.
Does it hurt?
A topical anesthetic gel is used throughout the procedure to numb and ease discomfort. Pain levels vary from person to person, but most clients rate the pain level from 1-3 out of 10. Please note it is a good idea to book your appointment around your menstrual cycle, as you can be more sensitive during this time.
How long is the appointment? What is the process?
The first session is booked for up to 3 hours. During your appointment we have a consultation, discussing your brow goals and the appropriate shape and colour for you. Next step is brow mapping and shaping, we won't start unless I have your approval and we both agree on the shape. Lastly we begin with the tattoo outline, numbing and shading.
Can I get tattooed while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Although it is a low-risk procedure, as a precaution I do not perform cosmetic tattooing on pregnant or breastfeeding women. I recommend to wait atleast 60 days after you are done breastfeeding.
Who is NOT a candidate for cometic tattooing?
Anyone pregnant or breastfeeding, under the age of 18, prone to keloid scarring, have sun-damaged skin, have eyebrow hair transplants, have been on Accutane in the past year, have problematic skin around the brow area, have previous brow tattoo without getting approval first, or have a serious medical condition (doctors note with approval is needed).
What if I already have cosmetic tattooing from another artist?
Please send clear photos of your brows PRIOR to booking your appointment to beautybystarrly@gmail.com. If the previous work is too dark, uneven or misshaped, laser removal is recommended to be done first, to help achieve the best possible results. Coverup/corrective work may take multiple sessions and touchups will be charged accordingly.
What is the healing process like?
The healing process takes on average 1-2 weeks. Immediately after the procedure your brows will appear dark, possibly swollen and/or red, and feel tender to the touch. Day 2 your brows will appear even more bold, and around day 6-10 your brows will get flaky and thin scabs will peel off. This is completely normal. Once healed, your brows will appear much more soft and natural, and the true colour will show through at the 4-6 week mark. Please remember not to pick or scratch your brows, get them wet, or sweat during the healing process. Aftercare is a major factor in great results! Full instructions will be given the day of your appointment.
Are touchups necessary?
I highly suggest a touchup 8-12 weeks after your first appointment. It is always a 2 step process to get to your desired brows. The first session creates the shape and builds the colour, and the touchup acts as the 'perfecting session' filling in and fine-tuning where needed. Annual touchups are required every 1-2 years to maintain your brows, this will boost the colour and re-define the shape.
Is there anything I should do to prepare for my appointment?
For 24 hours before your appointment it is important to NOT drink alcohol or caffeine, as well as take blood thinning medications including aspirin, ibuprofen and vitamin E for 72 hours before. This can cause excess bleeding and the pigment may not retain. Avoid excessive sun exposure for atleast 2 weeks before the procedure, your face must not be tanned or sunburned, this is considered damaged skin. Discontinue exfoliating products/facials around your brows (including retinol, vitamin A, glycolic acid, or acne creams) for atleast 2 weeks before the procedure. No botox on the forehead/temple areas atleast 2 weeks before. And lastly, I recommend no waxing, threading or tinting for atleast 1 week before your appointment, the more natural hair growth I can see the better. Feel free to bring reference photos and your fav brow products!
Where are you located? How do I book an appointment?
I'm based in Los Angeles, California at GBY Beauty in Silverlake - click here to book online!
I also travel frequently to Alberta, Canada based out of Brownude in Edmonton - click here to join my waitlist and we'll reach out when bookings open. Thank you for your support and patience!