Permanent Makeup & Skincare

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions we hear most — from your first consultation through healing and beyond. Search below, or browse by category.

Consultation & Booking

Why do you require a consultation before scheduling permanent makeup?

Every client is unique, and permanent makeup is never a one-size-fits-all service. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your goals, evaluate your skin, review any previous permanent makeup, answer your questions, and determine which technique will provide the best long-term results for you.

Is the consultation complimentary?

Yes. We offer complimentary consultations so you can ask questions, learn about the procedures, and receive personalized recommendations before making any decisions.

Can I book my permanent makeup appointment without a consultation?

For most permanent makeup procedures, consultations are required. This ensures you’re scheduled for the procedure that’s best suited for your skin, facial features, and desired results—not simply the one that sounds familiar.

What happens during my consultation?

We’ll discuss your goals, medical history, previous permanent makeup, skin type, brow shape and facial symmetry, procedure recommendations, healing expectations, pricing, payment options, and answer your questions. There is never any pressure to book.

How long does the consultation take?

Most consultations take approximately 20–30 minutes.

Why can’t you tell me exactly which procedure I need over the phone?

Without evaluating your skin, facial structure, existing brow hair, and any previous permanent makeup, it would simply be guesswork. The consultation allows us to recommend the treatment that will provide the safest and most beautiful healed results.

Why don’t you give exact pricing before the consultation?

Every treatment is customized. Factors such as previous permanent makeup, skin condition, desired style, corrections, and complexity all influence the recommended procedure. Your consultation allows us to provide accurate pricing based on your individual needs.

What if I’ve had permanent makeup done by another artist?

Many clients come to us after having previous permanent makeup performed elsewhere. During your consultation we’ll evaluate your existing work and determine whether you’re a candidate for a color refresh, correction, modification, or another treatment option.

Do you accept walk-ins?

No. All services are performed by appointment only so every client receives dedicated, uninterrupted time and the highest level of personalized care.

I’m nervous. Is that normal?

Absolutely. Many clients tell us they were nervous before their appointment, especially if it’s their first permanent makeup procedure. Our goal is to educate you, answer every question honestly, and ensure you feel comfortable and confident before moving forward.

Permanent Makeup Basics

What is permanent makeup?

Permanent makeup is a cosmetic tattoo that enhances your natural features by adding soft, long-lasting color and definition to areas such as the brows, eyes, and lips. It can simplify your daily routine while creating natural-looking results.

Is permanent makeup actually permanent?

Permanent makeup gradually fades over time. Factors such as skin type, age, lifestyle, sun exposure, skincare products, medications, and overall health all influence how long your results last.

How long does permanent makeup last?

Most clients enjoy their results for several years before choosing a color refresh. Because everyone heals differently, longevity varies from person to person.

How many appointments will I need?

Permanent makeup is typically a two-session process. Your first appointment creates the foundation. After your skin has healed, your perfecting session allows us to evaluate retention and make any necessary adjustments. Some procedures, particularly Lip Blushing or corrective work, may occasionally require an additional session.

Why are two appointments necessary?

Permanent makeup is completed in stages because every person’s skin heals differently. Waiting for the skin to heal allows us to see how your body retained the pigment before making final refinements.

Does permanent makeup hurt?

Most clients describe the procedure as mild discomfort rather than pain. Topical anesthetics are used throughout the procedure to maximize comfort, and many clients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the experience is.

How long does an appointment usually take?

Most permanent makeup appointments take approximately 2½ to 3½ hours, depending on the procedure and the complexity of the work being performed.

Will my permanent makeup look natural?

Natural-looking results are one of our highest priorities. Every procedure is customized to complement your facial features, skin tone, and personal style rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

Why do healed results matter more than fresh results?

Fresh permanent makeup almost always appears darker, sharper, and more saturated immediately after treatment. Beautiful healed results demonstrate proper technique, pigment selection, and long-term planning rather than simply creating dramatic photos immediately after the procedure.

Am I a good candidate for permanent makeup?

Most healthy adults are candidates. However, certain medical conditions, medications, skin concerns, pregnancy, or previous permanent makeup may require additional evaluation. Your consultation allows us to determine whether permanent makeup is appropriate for you and recommend the safest treatment plan.

Brows

Which brow technique is right for me?

There isn’t one brow technique that’s best for everyone. The right choice depends on your skin type, age, existing brow hair, previous permanent makeup, lifestyle, and desired look. During your consultation, we’ll recommend the technique that will provide the most beautiful healed results for your individual needs.

What’s the difference between Microblading and Powder Brows?

Microblading creates fine hair-like strokes that mimic natural brow hairs. Powder Brows create a soft, shaded appearance similar to the look of brow makeup. Both techniques are beautiful when performed on the right candidate.

What are Combo Brows?

Combo Brows combine hair strokes with soft shading, creating both definition and dimension. This technique can be an excellent option for clients who want a natural appearance with slightly more fullness.

What are Nano Brows?

Nano Brows use an ultra-fine machine needle to create delicate hair-like strokes rather than a handheld blade. Depending on your skin type and desired results, Nano Brows may be recommended over traditional Microblading.

Which brow technique lasts the longest?

Longevity depends more on your skin type, lifestyle, sun exposure, skincare products, and healing than the technique itself. We’ll recommend the procedure most likely to heal beautifully for your skin.

I’m not sure which brow procedure to choose. Is that okay?

Absolutely. Most clients don’t know which procedure they need—and they don’t have to. We’ll explain the differences and recommend what’s best for you.

Can I choose a very natural look?

Absolutely. Many clients request soft, natural-looking enhancements. Our goal is to enhance your existing features rather than create brows that look overly dramatic.

Can I have bold, defined brows?

Yes. Every treatment is customized to your personal style while maintaining facial harmony.

Will my brows look too dark at first?

Immediately after your procedure, your brows will appear darker and more defined than the final healed result. As healing progresses, the color softens considerably.

Will my permanent brows fade?

Yes. Permanent makeup is designed to fade gradually over time, allowing your color and shape to be refreshed as your skin changes naturally.

I have very little brow hair. Am I still a candidate?

Yes. Many clients with sparse or over-plucked brows are excellent candidates for permanent makeup.

I’m older. Am I too old for permanent brows?

Not at all. Many mature clients are excellent candidates. Techniques are adjusted to create soft, flattering enhancements.

I have oily skin. Can I still have permanent brows?

In many cases, yes. Oily skin often requires different techniques than dry skin. Your consultation helps determine the best option.

I have dry skin. Does that matter?

Yes. Dry skin heals differently than oily skin, which helps guide our recommendation for the best technique.

Can permanent makeup cover scars in my brows?

In many cases, yes. Scar tissue heals differently, so every case must be evaluated individually.

Can you fix permanent makeup done by another artist?

Many correction cases can be improved. We’ll evaluate whether a color correction, shape correction, refresh, or another approach is appropriate.

My old brows have turned gray, blue, red, or orange. Can they be corrected?

Often, yes. Color correction is one of the more specialized areas of permanent makeup, and we’ll determine the safest treatment plan during your consultation.

Will you make my brows exactly like someone else’s?

No. Every face is unique. We’ll design brows that complement your facial structure and natural proportions.

How do you decide what shape my brows should be?

We consider facial symmetry, bone structure, muscle movement, existing brow hair, eye placement, and your personal preferences.

What if I don’t like the shape that’s drawn on before we begin?

Nothing is tattooed until you’re comfortable with the design. We’ll make adjustments together until you’re happy.

Permanent Eyeliner

What is permanent eyeliner?

Permanent eyeliner is a cosmetic tattoo designed to enhance the eyes by creating the appearance of fuller lashes and more defined eyes. It can be customized from a very soft, natural lash enhancement to a more defined eyeliner look.

Who is a good candidate for permanent eyeliner?

Permanent eyeliner is an excellent option for anyone who wants to simplify their daily makeup routine, define their eyes, has difficulty applying eyeliner, or wants to wake up with beautifully enhanced eyes every day.

Can I choose just top eyeliner?

Absolutely. You may choose upper eyeliner, lower eyeliner, or both, depending on your goals and what best complements your eyes.

Can I choose a soft eyeliner or a bolder look?

Yes. Every eyeliner procedure is customized to your preferences, from a subtle enhancement to a more defined eyeliner appearance.

Will permanent eyeliner damage my eyelashes?

No. When performed properly, permanent eyeliner should not damage your natural eyelashes or affect future lash growth.

Can I wear contact lenses?

Yes. You’ll remove your contact lenses before your procedure and follow the recommended aftercare before wearing them again.

Will my eyes be swollen afterward?

Some swelling is completely normal and usually improves significantly within the first 24 to 48 hours.

Does permanent eyeliner hurt?

Most clients describe the procedure as much more comfortable than they expected. Topical anesthetics are used throughout the procedure to maximize comfort.

How long does permanent eyeliner last?

Longevity varies depending on your skin, lifestyle, and overall health, but most clients enjoy their eyeliner for several years before choosing a color refresh.

Will my eyeliner be too thick or dramatic?

No. Every eyeliner procedure is customized to your eye shape, facial features, and personal style to complement—not overwhelm—your features.

Lip Blushing

What is Lip Blushing?

Lip Blushing is a cosmetic tattoo that enhances your natural lip color, improves definition, and creates a healthier, more youthful appearance while maintaining a soft, natural look.

Can Lip Blushing make my lips look bigger?

Lip Blushing does not physically increase lip size like filler. However, restoring color and definition can create the appearance of fuller, healthier-looking lips.

Will my lips be bright forever?

No. Immediately after your procedure, the color appears much brighter than the final healed result. As healing progresses, the color softens into a more natural appearance.

How many Lip Blushing sessions will I need?

Most clients require two sessions. Depending on your goals and healing, some clients may benefit from an additional session.

How long does Lip Blushing last?

Results vary, but most clients enjoy their color for several years before choosing a refresh appointment.

Can Lip Blushing correct uneven lip color?

In many cases, yes. Lip Blushing can often improve uneven pigmentation while creating a more balanced appearance.

I have naturally pale lips. Am I a good candidate?

Absolutely. Many clients choose Lip Blushing to restore natural-looking color and definition.

Can Lip Blushing replace lipstick?

Lip Blushing enhances your natural lip color but does not completely replace lipstick. Many clients find they wear much less lipstick afterward.

Will my lips peel during healing?

Yes. Light peeling and dryness are normal. Follow your aftercare instructions carefully and avoid picking or peeling the skin.

Can I choose my lip color?

Yes. We’ll help you choose a color that complements your skin tone, natural lip color, and desired outcome.

Healing

How long does permanent makeup take to heal?

The initial healing period is generally 7–10 days. However, the pigment continues to soften and fully settle over the next 4–6 weeks before your final healed result is visible.

Why do my brows look so dark immediately after my appointment?

Fresh permanent makeup almost always appears darker and more defined immediately after treatment. As your skin heals, the color gradually softens into a much more natural appearance.

Why did my permanent makeup almost disappear during healing?

This is a completely normal stage of the healing process. As your skin renews itself, the color may appear much lighter before gradually returning as healing is completed.

Is flaking or peeling normal?

Yes. Light flaking or peeling is a normal part of healing. It’s important to allow the skin to heal naturally and avoid picking, scratching, or removing the flakes.

When can I wash my face normally again?

You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions specific to your procedure. During the initial healing period, it’s important to avoid excessive moisture on the treated area and follow your personalized aftercare recommendations.

When can I wear makeup again?

Avoid applying makeup directly over the treated area until it has completely healed. Once healing is complete, you may resume your normal makeup routine.

Can I exercise after my appointment?

It’s best to avoid activities that cause excessive sweating during the initial healing period, as sweat may interfere with proper healing.

Can I swim after permanent makeup?

Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, oceans, and prolonged soaking until the treated area has fully healed.

Can I be in the sun?

Fresh permanent makeup should be protected from direct sun exposure during healing. Even after healing, daily sunscreen helps preserve your results and slow fading.

What if my permanent makeup heals unevenly?

This is one of the reasons a perfecting session is part of the process. Every person’s skin heals differently, and your follow-up appointment allows us to evaluate your healed results and make any necessary refinements.

Touch-Ups & Maintenance

Why do I need a perfecting session?

The first appointment creates the foundation. The second appointment allows us to evaluate how your skin retained the pigment and make any adjustments needed for the most balanced, long-lasting result.

When should I schedule my perfecting session?

Your perfecting session is typically scheduled after your skin has had sufficient time to heal, generally around 6–8 weeks after your initial procedure.

Will I ever need another touch-up?

Yes. Permanent makeup gradually fades over time. Most clients choose periodic color refresh appointments to keep their results looking soft and vibrant.

How often should I have a color refresh?

There is no set schedule because everyone heals differently. Factors such as skin type, sun exposure, skincare products, and lifestyle all affect how quickly permanent makeup fades.

Can I wait too long for my perfecting session?

Yes. Following the recommended timeline helps achieve the best results. Waiting significantly longer may require additional work or different pricing, depending on how much fading has occurred.

Aftercare

Why is aftercare so important?

Your procedure doesn’t end when you leave the studio. Proper aftercare plays a significant role in how your permanent makeup heals and how well the pigment is retained.

What happens if I don’t follow the aftercare instructions?

Improper aftercare can affect healing, pigment retention, and your final results. Following the instructions carefully gives your skin the best opportunity to heal properly.

Will I receive written aftercare instructions?

Yes. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions specific to your procedure so you’ll know exactly how to care for your permanent makeup throughout the healing process.

What should I do if I have questions during healing?

We’re here to help. If you have questions or concerns during your healing process, please contact us so we can guide you appropriately.

When will I see my final healed results?

While the initial healing period is about 7–10 days, the pigment continues to soften and mature over approximately 4–6 weeks. Your final healed result is best evaluated after this complete healing period.

Advanced Skin Care

What skin care treatment is right for me?

Every client’s skin is unique. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your skin type, concerns, lifestyle, and goals before recommending the treatment that will provide the best results.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a collagen-induction treatment that creates controlled microchannels in the skin to stimulate your body’s natural healing response. It can improve the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, enlarged pores, uneven texture, and overall skin quality.

How many Microneedling treatments will I need?

While you’ll often notice improvement after one treatment, most clients achieve the best results with a series of at least four treatments followed by maintenance treatments every few months.

Does Microneedling hurt?

Most clients tolerate Microneedling very well. A topical numbing cream is applied before treatment to maximize comfort.

What is Hydrodermabrasion?

Hydrodermabrasion is a non-invasive treatment that deeply cleanses, exfoliates, hydrates, and nourishes the skin while removing dead skin cells and impurities.

Can Hydrodermabrasion help with rosacea?

Many clients with mild rosacea appreciate Hydrodermabrasion because it gently exfoliates while helping calm and hydrate the skin. Every case is different, so we’ll evaluate your skin before recommending treatment.

What is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a gentle exfoliation treatment that removes dead skin cells and fine facial hair, leaving the skin smoother and allowing skincare products and makeup to apply more evenly.

What chemical peels do you offer?

Chemical peels are selected based on your skin type and concerns. During your consultation, we’ll recommend the peel that best addresses your goals while promoting healthy skin.

Will my skin peel after a chemical peel?

Not always. Some peels cause visible peeling while others produce little to no peeling. The amount of peeling depends on the type and strength of the peel and your individual skin.

Can I combine skin care treatments?

In many cases, yes. Some treatments complement one another beautifully, while others should be spaced apart. We’ll recommend the safest and most effective treatment plan for your skin.

Lash Lift & Tint

What is a Lash Lift & Tint?

A Lash Lift enhances your natural lashes by lifting and curling them, while a tint darkens the lashes to create a fuller, more defined appearance without extensions.

How long does a Lash Lift & Tint last?

Most clients enjoy their results for approximately 6–8 weeks, depending on their natural lash growth cycle.

Waxing

What waxing services do you offer?

We offer professional facial and body waxing services, including brow shaping and maintenance, lip, chin, underarm, bikini, Brazilian, and additional waxing services designed to leave your skin smooth and well-groomed.

How long should my hair be before waxing?

For best results, hair should generally be about ¼ inch long—approximately the length of a grain of rice. This allows the wax to grip the hair effectively for a cleaner removal.

Our Approach & Studio

What makes your approach different from other permanent makeup artists?

Every procedure is customized specifically for you. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, we consider your facial features, skin type, age, lifestyle, previous permanent makeup, and personal goals before recommending a treatment plan. Our focus is creating timeless, natural-looking results that complement your features—not simply following trends.

Why do your healed results look so natural?

Beautiful permanent makeup isn’t judged by how it looks immediately after the procedure—it’s judged by how it heals. We carefully select techniques, pigments, placement, and depth based on your individual skin and desired outcome. This thoughtful approach helps create soft, balanced, healed results that continue to look beautiful over time.

What if permanent makeup isn’t the right choice for me?

Your best interest always comes first. If we believe another procedure—or even no procedure at all—is the better option, we’ll tell you honestly. Our goal is to recommend what’s best for you, not simply perform a service.

How should I prepare for my consultation?

Come prepared with any questions you may have, information about previous permanent makeup or cosmetic procedures, and photos of looks you like if you’d like to share them. Most importantly, arrive with an open mind. We’ll evaluate your unique features and recommend what we believe will provide the most beautiful, long-lasting results for you.

I still have questions. What’s the next step?

We understand that choosing permanent makeup or advanced skin care is an important decision, and we’re here to help. If your questions weren’t answered on this page, we invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation. Together, we’ll discuss your goals, answer your questions, and determine the treatment plan that’s right for you—without pressure and with your best interests in mind.

Why do clients choose Alyce Leonard Permanent Makeup & Advanced Skin Care?

Clients choose our studio because we believe beautiful results begin with education, honest recommendations, personalized treatment plans, and attention to detail. Every procedure is customized, every consultation is informative, and our goal is to help you feel confident—not pressured.

Still Have Questions?

If your question wasn’t answered here, a complimentary consultation is always the best next step — no pressure, just honest guidance.

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