Frequently Asked Questions

 

Lip Blush FAQ

 
  • Cilona Ink requires all clients to be fully vaccinated and boosted for Covid-19

    If you have had any allergic reactions to topical anesthetics, please let us know.

    We cannot tattoo you if you are or have:

    • Active cold sores on your lips*

    • Pregnant or nursing

    • Under 18 years old

    • In poor general health

    • Experiencing a compromised immune system for any reason

    • Currently having a cold, flu, Covid-19 or any other illness

    • Currently using Accutane or have used Accutane within the past year

    • A freshly tanned/sunburned face

    • On blood thinning medications

    • Consumed alcohol, ibuprofen, fish oil or vitamin E 24hrs prior to appointment. These substances thin the blood.

    • Allergies to pigments or makeup

    • Active skin diseases, such as eczema or psoriasis, on the area to be treated

    • Active skin cancer in the area to be treated

    • Experienced post inflammatory hyper-pigmentation

    • Undiagnosed rashes or blisters on the area to be treated

    • Transmittable blood conditions (Hepatitis, HIV, etc)

    • Had radiotherapy or chemotherapy within 42 days of treatment

    • History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring

    • Viral infections that may inhibit the healing process

    • Epilepsy

    • Pacemaker or heart conditions

    • Organ transplant

    • Uncontrolled high blood pressure

    • Diabetes (unless controlled, and with written permission from your doctor)

    *Please note: If you have a history of cold sores or herpes, the procedure could trigger an outbreak. Prescribed anti-viral medication should be taken 1 week prior and 1 week after the appointment as cold sores can affect the healed results of the lip blush. Cosmetic tattooing does not cause cold sores; however, if you carry the virus, it lays dormant in the nervous system and can be triggered by the procedure. Consult your doctor for more information.

  • Initial appointments take approximately 2.5-3 hours. This includes the designing process, numbing the area, and tattooing. Highly recommended, complimentary follow-up appointments take approximately 2 hours.

    It is important to avoid scheduling any tattooing services within a month of important life events such as a wedding or vacation.

    • When you arrive we will review your paperwork and aftercare.
    • Please bring in your favorite lip color or images for inspiration.
    • We will then begin a lip consultation to address size, symmetry and color.
    • I will draw the shape and together we will evaluate and edit as necessary.
    • Once a shape is determined and approved, a topical anesthetic is applied and we will begin tattooing.

    Anesthetics will be applied throughout the process to help keep you as comfortable as possible.

    Please note: If you have a history of cold sores or herpes, the procedure could trigger an outbreak. Prescribed anti-viral medication should be taken 1 week prior and 1 week after the appointment as cold sores can affect the healed results of the lip blush. Cosmetic tattooing does not cause cold sores; however, if you carry the virus, it lays dormant in the nervous system and can be triggered by the procedure. Consult your doctor for more information.

  • • Keep lips exfoliated and moisturized before your procedure.

    • No coffee or caffeine on the day of your treatment to minimize bleeding and swelling.

    • No alcohol 48-hours prior to your procedure to minimize bleeding and swelling.

    • Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water 1 week prior to your appointment.

    • No fillers or injections to the lips for at least 4 weeks prior to your appointment.

    • No waxing or shaving around the lips 2 weeks prior to your appointment.

    • If you are currently using retinol please discontinue 1 month prior to your appointment. AHA's (lactic glycol, citric, retinol and tartaric acids) or any OTC creams and lotions for tone correcting, anti-aging or exfoliating can discolor your permanent makeup.

    • If you have recently had Botox - please wait at least 2 weeks before booking an appointment

    • Delicate skin or sensitive areas may be swollen and red, so keep post-procedure social plans in mind for 24 to 48 hours.

    • Do not take any aspirin or anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, 48 hours prior to your appointment. Do not discontinue any medication before consulting with your doctor.

    • Do not have laser hair removal or electrolysis around the mouth for at least 2 weeks prior to your procedure.

  • • Smokers may notice that their tattoo will fade faster.

    • Anemia and iron deficiency: Your body will absorb these iron-based pigments more quickly.

    • Sun exposure: Increased exposure to the sun will cause premature fading. USE SPF DAILY for long term care of your tattoo.

    • Color of pigment: Lighter colors fade more quickly than darker colors.

    • Bleeding during the procedure: Excessive bleeding during your procedure will greatly affect how your body retains pigment. While this is not entirely in our control, it is important that you follow the Pre-Care Advice instructions to help minimize bleeding. This includes avoiding alcohol and caffeine 24 to 48 hours before your procedure. Consult with your doctor before avoiding blood thinning medications before your appointment.

  • Once the appointment is completed, you may experience light to moderate swelling for 24 to 48 hours. It is normal for lips to feel dry, chapped, tight and tender to the touch directly after the procedure.

    Lips require special attention to avoid infection and discoloration. The area must be kept moist with balm and cleansed with gentle soap twice per day. Clients are to avoid eating highly pigmented food (like beets), spicy foods, wine, coffee and tea (unless through a straw). Avoid wearing make-up, kissing, etc. through the initial healing process of 5 to 7 days. Clients can use ice packs over clean paper towel to minimize swelling.

    Cilona Ink will provide you with aftercare products and instructions.

    Be aware that the color will significantly fade up to 50% within the first 5 to 7 days.

    As with all cosmetic tattooing, the results vary. Lifestyle considerations, such as smoking, sun exposure or the use of exfoliating products, can hasten the fading process. 

    Day 1 (Right after the procedure): Lips appear bolder and brighter than healed results. Lips will be slightly swollen and tender. Color will darken as the day goes on.

    Day 2: Lips are darker and may still be a little swollen. Lips are feeling tight and dry.

    Days 3-4: Skin is flaking and scabbing and the color is fading.

    Days 5-6: Lips start to feel normal and the flaking is gone.

    Day 7: Lips have completely healed and the color is 40-60% lighter and softer than directly after the procedure.

    Day 28-42 : The color is back! There may be some uneven spots or patchiness. Between 4 to 6 weeks is the perfect time for a Perfecting Session for a touchup.

  • Yearly touchup appointments are recommended to boost and maintain vibrancy of color. Fading greatly depends on your skin type, tone, lifestyle, sun exposure, pigment color used, and your overall health. We suggest that if you want to maintain your lips so that they always look their best plan on scheduling a touchup every 1-3 years.

    • If you are receiving an MRI, please inform the technician that you have had an iron oxide-containing cosmetic tattoo.

    • If you are planning to have laser treatments, you must cover your lip tattoo with 20% zinc oxide to avoid premature fading of your tattoo.

    • If you are applying acidic or brightening skincare (AHA’s, retinol, peels, glycolic, salicylic acid, etc.) please first cover your lip tattoo with barrier cream to avoid premature fading.

    • Some clients feel it's best not to make any social plans for a day or two following the procedure. It is important to avoid scheduling any tattooing services within a month of important life events such as a wedding or vacation.

    • Building a permanent makeup look is a process that is unique to each individual and requires time, patience, and attention to detail.

 

 

Lash Line FAQ

 
  • Cilona Ink requires all clients to be fully vaccinated and boosted for Covid-19

    If you have had any allergic reactions to topical anesthetics, please let us know.

    We cannot tattoo you if you are or have:

    • Pregnant or nursing

    • Under 18 years old

    • In poor general health

    • Experiencing a compromised immune system for any reason

    • A cold, flu, Covid-19 or any other illness

    • Conjunctivitis/pink eye

    • Glaucoma

    • Ocular Herpes

    • Using steroids such as cortisone, Accutane, Retin A or Renova or have used in the last year. The ongoing use of topical steroids can lead to the thinning of the skin and the acids, etc. can cause the pigment not to take or turn pink.

    • Have a freshly tanned/sunburned face

    • Are on blood-thinning medications

    • Have diabetes (Unless controlled, and with written permission from your doctor)

    • Have allergies to pigments or makeup

    • Any acute active skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis, rashes or blisters in the area

    • Active skin cancer in the area

    • Experienced post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation

    • Transmittable blood conditions (Hepatitis, HIV, etc)

    • Had radiotherapy or chemotherapy within 42 days of treatment

    • A history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring

    • Viral infections that may inhibit the healing process

    • Epilepsy

    • A pacemaker or heart conditions

    • Hand an organ transplant

    • Uncontrolled high blood pressure

    • If you are currently using retinol (please discontinue 1 month prior to your appointment), AHA's (lactic glycol, citric, retinol and tartaric acids) or any OTC creams and lotions for tone correcting, anti-aging, exfoliating can discolor your permanent makeup.

  • The Lash Line procedure typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours.

    The healing process tends to be low maintenance, with minimal redness and swelling. Some clients feel it's best not to make any social plans for a day or two following the procedure. It’s important to avoid scheduling any tattooing services within a month of important life events such as a wedding or vacation.

    All permanent makeup procedures are a building process and the initial color and intensity of fresh work is significantly sharper, brighter or darker than healed results. For best results it is important to return for a minimum of one Perfecting Session within 4 to 6 weeks before the work is considered complete.

    Additionally the color and shape of your cosmetic tattoos are in constant evolution, the semi permanent micro-pigments soften over time and the color can vary based on lifestyle, depending on exposure to cold, heat, sun, chemical exfoliators, and changes in color of the skin (tan, sunburn, circulatory problems). A maintenance session every 12-18 months is ideal to maintain the vibrancy of the color.

    • Eyelash extensions must be removed prior to the appointment.

    • Lash serums should be avoided for 1 week prior to 2 weeks post any Lash Line enhancement.

    • Brow/lash tints or lash lift services should be avoided 48 hours prior to and two weeks post any brow or eye enhancement procedures.

    • Please do not wear mascara or eyeliner to an eye enhancement session.

    • Contacts should be removed beforehand and not worn again for 3 days post-procedure. Please bring your glasses!

    • The better condition your skin is in, the better the final results will be. Excessively oily, dry or sun-damaged skin can be very difficult to achieve consistent results.

    • Mature clients may need an additional 1-2 weeks of healing before final results appear.

    • The better you take care of your skin and protect it from uv rays, the better the outcome and lifespan of your tattoo. Use SPF daily.

    • Avoid the use of aspirin, ibuprofen or other blood thinning medications 7 days prior to appointment and 2 days post procedure. Consult with your doctor before discontinuing any prescribed medication.

    • Please avoid any use of judgment-altering drugs 24 hours pre-procedure.

    • Please no coffee or alcohol 24 hours prior to your procedure.

  • • Keeping the area moist during the first 5 to 7 days will help the tattooed area hold color and heal evenly. Expect pigment to fade 30 to 50% within the first 2 weeks

    • Use a fresh Q-tip to apply a light coat of aftercare balm and clean with a gentle cleanser twice a day. Cilona Ink will provide your aftercare kit.

    • Do not touch the tattooed area with your fingers as it increases the risk of infection. Do not rub or scratch the eyelid.

    • Do not scrub or pick the tattooed area as the pigment underneath could be pulled out. Allow the area to flake off naturally.

    • An ice-pack may be applied using a thin protective barrier such as a clean paper towel if swelling is present and bothersome in the first 24 hours. Using a clean pillowcase and sleeping slightly elevated can reduce any residual swelling.

    • Do not apply make-up or mascara in or near the tattooed area for 7 days.

    • Wash with tepid water only and do not use makeup remover, creams, soaps, or washcloths.

    • Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and swimming

    • Sunglasses are recommended to protect the eyes when outside

    • Please notify us and your doctor immediately should you experience redness in and around the eye, matting or drainage, pain becomes worse, difficulty keeping your eyes open, and sensitivity to light.

 

 

Brows FAQ

 
  • Cilona Ink requires all clients to be fully vaccinated and boosted for Covid-19.

    If you have or had any allergic reactions to topical anesthetics, please let us know.

    We cannot tattoo you if you are or have:

    • Pregnant or nursing

    • Under 18 years old

    • In poor general health

    • Experiencing a compromised immune system for any reason

    • A cold, flu, Covid-19 or any other illness

    • Conjunctivitis/pink eye

    • Glaucoma

    • Ocular Herpes

    • Using steroids such as Cortisone, Accutane, Retin A or Renova or have used in the last year. The ongoing use of topical steroids can lead to the thinning of the skin and the acids, etc. can cause the pigment not to take or turn pink.

    • A freshly tanned/sunburned face

    • On blood-thinning medications

    • Diabetes (unless controlled, and with written permission from your doctor)

    • Allergies to pigments or makeup

    • Any acute active skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis, rashes or blisters in the area

    • Active skin cancer in the area

    • Experiencing post inflammatory hyper-pigmentation

    • Transmittable blood conditions (Hepatitis, HIV, etc)

    • Had radiotherapy or chemotherapy within 42 days of treatment

    • A history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring

    • Viral infections that may inhibit the healing process

    • Epilepsy

    • Pacemaker or Heart conditions

    • Organ transplant

    • Uncontrolled high blood pressure

    • If you are currently using Retinol (please discontinue 1 month prior to your appointment); AHA's (lactic glycol, citric, retinol and tartaric acids); or any OTC creams and lotions for tone correcting, anti-aging, exfoliating can discolor your permanent makeup

  • Many clients that are drawn to cosmetic tattoo love Fillers, Botox, Latisse, etc. We require that clients wait a certain amount of time to heal before and after they resume the use of these treatments.

    • Fillers - 3 weeks pre/post

    • Botox or Disport - 3 weeks pre/post

    • Lasik or Cataract Surgery - 1 month pre/3 months post

    • Latisse - 3 weeks pre/post

    • Fat Transfer (Lips) 1 month

    • Accutane - 1 year

    • Tanned Skin - 1 month

    • Retinol, Glycolic, Vit C Peels - 1 month

    • Lasers - 8 weeks

    • IPL - 1 week

    • Shingles shot - 1 month

    • Laser Tattoo Removal - 8 weeks

  • MICROBLADING

    Microblading is a semi-permanent tattoo technique used to create the illusion of fuller brows. A manual tool is used to implant medical-grade pigment in the dermis layer of skin. Results last 1-3 years and will gradually fade. To maintain best results it is recommended to schedule a touch-up every 12-18 months

    IMPORTANT: This technique will not look as realistic or 3 dimensional if you are bald or have very little brow hair. it will still look two dimensional, without the texture of real hair to add that layer of dimension. It is still a nice soft alternative to makeup or solid block tattooing.

    POWDER BROW

    Powder Brow uses an ultra-fine tattoo micro- needle and a cosmetic tattoo machine to deliver pigment to the skin. Powder Brows are sometimes also called “Ombre Brows.” This technique helps clients achieve more of a misty, powdery or ombre look instead of individual hair strokes. Powdered brows have a soft makeup look and works great for all skin types, Results can be made to look as soft or as dramatic as desired.

    HYBRID BROW

    Soft machine shading complemented with manual microblade hair strokes. The ultimate texture and great for all skin types and the best choice for those with asymmetrical brows, or complete reconstruction.

    This technique is best for oily or mature skin and extremely active lifestyles.

  • Each brow technique is customized to the clients specific needs and lifestyle by utilizing different manual and machine tattooing techniques. The treatment begins with developing the desired brow shape. Custom color choice is client-specific and is mixed using vegan semi-permanent micro-pigments to compliment hair color and skin tone.

    A brow procedure is about 2.5 to 3 hours depending on the client's needs. Color will last about 1 to 3 years, gradually fading out. Yearly touch ups are recommended to maintain the vibrancy of the color.

    Brow constructs consist of at least 2 appointments. It is highly recommended that you return for a Perfecting Session within 4-6 weeks to ensure best results.

  • • All permanent makeup procedures are a multi-session journey.

    • For best results it is important to return for a minimum of one Perfecting session before the work is considered complete.

    • Keep in mind that the initial color and intensity of fresh work are significantly sharper, brighter, or darker than healed results.

    • The color and shape of your cosmetic tattoos are in consent evolution, the semi-permanent micro-pigments soften over time.

    • The color can vary based on lifestyle, exposure to elements, chemical exfoliators, and changes in the color of the dermis (tan, sunburn, circulatory problems). Maintenance every 12-18 months is ideal to maintain the highest quality results.

    • The healing process tends to be low maintenance, with minimal redness and swelling. Some clients feel it's best not to make any social plans for a day or two following the procedure. It is important to avoid scheduling any tattooing services within a month of important life events such as a wedding or vacation.

    • You may not see your best results until after 2 or more sessions.

    • These techniques look best when layered with the texture of your own hair. If you would like us to use as much hair as possible you may let your eyebrows grow until your appointment. We will remove any stray hairs that fall outside of the desired shape of your brows.

  • Important: To ensure the best possible results it is important to take good care post-procedure. Be aware that in many cases some inconsistencies in color retention are to be expected. The purpose of the Perfecting Session is to correct, build and develop over healed work.

    All permanent makeup procedures are a multi-session journey. For best results, it is important to return for a minimum of one Perfecting Session before the work is considered complete.

    • Wash hands before touching or caring for the treated area. Keep the treated area clean and dry. Exposing treated areas to unsanitary conditions can lead to infection and a less than desirable healed product.

    • Sleeping slightly elevated the night of the procedure helps alleviate and reduce swelling.

    • Some itching and slight discomfort are normal post-procedure.

    • No sun exposure of treated area for a minimum of 2 weeks post-procedure

    • Avoid touching the treated area. Do not pick or scratch at dry skin or flakiness; once the flakes have naturally exfoliated, a shiny layer of healing skin will cover the tattoo. It may appear as if the tattoo has disappeared, this is just new skin forming. Within 1-2 weeks the color will reappear as your skin regenerates.The consequences of picking or scratching may result in pigment loss and uneven results and risk of infection and/or scaring.

    • It is important to keep the treated area dry, protected & from harsh conditions for the first 72 hours post-procedure. Avoid getting wet. This includes shower mist, pools, saunas, hot tubs/hot baths, ocean and freshwater.

    • Do not soak the treated area underwater or allow the shower to spray directly in your face for a minimum of 2 weeks post-procedure. Shower facing away from the shower head and from the neck down.

    • Avoid getting any harsh soaps, shampoos, or water on the treated area. This can be detrimental to the bonding process that must take place for the pigment to stabilize.

    • It is a good idea to avoid vigorous physical activity 10 days post-procedure. Excessive sweating during the healing process will cause detail to be lost.

    • Do not apply makeup to the treated area for 10 days post-procedure. Cosmetics of any kind may interfere with the healing & color of the tattoo.

    • Do not use skin creams, ointments, or lotions other than what you have been instructed to use on the treated area, for at a minimum of 3 days post-procedure.

  • Immediately following your procedure, the tattooed area will appear to be darker and bolder in color, sharply defined, or even have a more filled-in appearance. This can last up to a week after the treatment while the initial healing process takes place. The treated area may feel a bit like sunburn but there should be minimal discomfort and minimal redness. Contact me immediately if you have an adverse reaction or redness/swelling.

    During the initial healing period, there may be minimal scabbing or flaking of the skin. If there is some scabbing or flaking, do not pick, and allow the scab or dry skin to come off on its own. This is very important! If scabs come off prematurely, the pigment will come out with it!

    The complete healing process takes about 4-6 weeks, at which time the true color of the tattoo is evident. During this process, your tattoo will soften and lighten. Be patient, even if you think too much color has been lost, as your skin is still regenerating and naturally exfoliating.

  • • Anti-acne products (benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, Proactive, etc.)
    • Lightening/bleaching creams such as hydroquinone
    • Skincare products containing alpha-hydroxy acids (aha), salicylic, lactic and glycolic acids or Retin-A
    • Petroleum based products like vaseline & Neosporin
    • Thread, wax or other hair removal products

  • • Day 1/2 – the initial look may be 20-60% darker, bolder and more solid than what your healed results will be. There may be minimal swelling and redness

    • Day 3 - eyebrows may begin to itch and the pigment may appear somewhat raised. Do not pick, scratch or rub.

    • Day 4-6 - the treated area is now rapidly exfoliating, and if left alone, will shed evenly. The pigment in the skin will appear lighter until the dermis is fully healed and becomes more transparent.

    • Day 30-40 - eyebrows have had a full cycle of cellular regeneration and the tattoo has now settled into the dermis. This is the time to evaluate your results.

    Please schedule your complimentary Perfecting Session within 4-6 weeks post procedure.

  • Use a good SPF sunscreen daily - sun exposure will fade your permanent cosmetics and may cause irritation even years later. Wear large sunglasses and a hat for further protection. Rinse and dry the area thoroughly when in contact with chlorine.

    Glycolic acid, microdermabrasion, chemical face peel products and laser treatments must be kept away from tattooed areas as continued use can influence the color and retention of the pigments.

    When planning chemical exfoliation or other medical procedures, such as laser resurfacing or laser hair removal please inform your service provider of your cosmetic tattoo as the laser procedures may darken, lighten, or discolor the tattooed area.

    Be sure to schedule a maintenance session every 1 to 3 years or as needed to ensure consistent quality of work.

You’re ready for a natural-looking, cosmetic tattoo.