Frequently Asked Questions

Permanent makeup (PMU) is a cosmetic technique that uses specialised tools to deposit pigment into the skin's dermal layer, creating long-lasting enhancements that mimic the appearance of makeup. It's also called semi-permanent makeup, cosmetic tattooing, or micropigmentation. Results typically last 1-5 years depending on the treatment type. Learn more in our Complete PMU Guide.

Most clients describe the sensation as mild discomfort rather than pain. A topical numbing cream is applied before and during the procedure to minimise discomfort. Pain levels vary by treatment area—brows are generally very tolerable, while lips may be slightly more sensitive. The vast majority of clients find all treatments manageable and many even find them relaxing!

Results vary by treatment: Microblading typically lasts 12-18 months, lip colour lasts 2-5 years, and beauty marks last 2-5 years. Factors affecting longevity include skin type (oily skin fades faster), sun exposure, skincare routine, and individual metabolism. Regular touch-ups help maintain optimal results.

While both involve depositing pigment into the skin, there are key differences. PMU uses different equipment, techniques, and pigments specifically designed for facial cosmetic application. PMU pigments are formulated to fade gradually (semi-permanent), while tattoo ink is designed to be permanent. PMU is also deposited more superficially in the skin compared to body tattoos.

Absolutely! During your consultation, we discuss your preferences and use brow mapping techniques to design a shape that complements your facial features. We consider your natural brow growth, bone structure, and personal style. You'll have the opportunity to approve the shape before any pigment is applied—we won't proceed until you're completely happy. Learn more about microblading.

We offer a wide range from natural nude and soft pink tones to deeper berry, coral, and mauve shades. During consultation, we help you select a colour that complements your skin tone and desired look. Custom mixing is available to create your perfect shade. We always recommend starting natural—you can go bolder during touch-ups. See our Lip Colour Treatment page.

Lash lift works with your natural lashes, lifting and curling them from the root for a more open-eyed look. It's low maintenance with no infills needed. Extensions add synthetic lashes for more dramatic volume and length but require regular infills every 2-3 weeks. Lash lift is ideal if you want a natural, effortless enhancement. Learn more about Lash Lift.

Popular placements include above the lip (Monroe style), on the cheekbone, near the eye, on the chin, and on the neck or collarbone. During consultation, we discuss the best placement for your face shape and style, using temporary markers to preview different positions. See all options on our Beauty Mark page.

Yes! Many clients combine treatments for convenience. Popular combinations include brows + beauty mark, brows + lash lift, or a complete makeover with brows + lips. We allocate appropriate time for combined treatments and can discuss packages during your consultation. Just let us know your interests when booking.

24-48 hours before: Avoid alcohol and caffeine (they thin blood). Don't take aspirin or ibuprofen. 1 week before: Avoid retinol and exfoliating products near the treatment area. Day of: Come with clean skin—no makeup on treatment area. Bring reference photos if desired. For lips, discuss cold sore prevention with your doctor if you have a history of outbreaks.

Our free consultation typically takes 20-30 minutes. We discuss your goals and preferences, assess your skin and features, explain the procedure in detail, answer all your questions, conduct health screening for suitability, and provide pricing information. There's no obligation—it's an opportunity for us to meet and ensure PMU is right for you.

PMU may not be suitable for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding (as a precaution), have active skin conditions in the treatment area, are undergoing chemotherapy, have bleeding disorders or take blood thinners, have a history of keloid scarring, have had recent Botox/fillers in the treatment area (wait 2-4 weeks), or have very oily skin (for microblading—powder brows may be recommended instead). We conduct thorough screening during consultation.

Appointment times vary by treatment: Microblading: 2-2.5 hours, Lip colour: 2-3 hours, Lash lift: 45-60 minutes, Beauty mark: 15-30 minutes. These times include consultation, design/mapping, numbing, the procedure itself, and aftercare instructions. Touch-up appointments are typically 30-60 minutes shorter.

Initial healing (scabbing/flaking) takes 7-14 days. Full healing and true colour emergence takes 4-6 weeks. A touch-up appointment is scheduled 6-8 weeks after your initial treatment to perfect the results. Lash lift heals within 24-48 hours. For detailed day-by-day information, see our Healing & Aftercare Guide.

Key aftercare rules: Keep the area clean and dry, apply provided healing balm as instructed, don't pick or scratch scabs, avoid sun exposure, skip makeup on the treated area until healed, and avoid swimming/saunas for 2 weeks. You'll receive detailed personalised instructions at your appointment. Full guide available on our Aftercare page.

Yes, completely normal! Immediately after treatment, colour appears 30-50% darker than the final result. During healing (days 5-14), colour will appear very light or even seem to disappear—this is called the "ghosting phase." The true healed colour emerges around weeks 3-6. Trust the process and wait for full healing before judging results!

The touch-up appointment (included in your treatment) is essential because during initial healing, some pigment is naturally lost through the skin's regeneration process. The touch-up allows us to fill any gaps where pigment didn't retain, adjust colour intensity if desired, perfect shape and symmetry, and ensure long-lasting results. It's scheduled 6-8 weeks after your initial session.

Avoid heavy exercise for 48-72 hours (sweating can affect pigment retention). No swimming, saunas, or steam rooms for 2 weeks. Light activities are fine after the first few days. For lash lift specifically, keep lashes dry for just 24-48 hours, then normal activities can resume.

Yes, when performed by a trained, licensed professional using sterile equipment and quality pigments. At Art of Aesthetics, Dr Abi's medical background as a dental surgeon (BDS) ensures the highest safety standards. We use single-use sterile needles, medical-grade pigments, thoroughly sanitised treatment rooms, and follow strict hygiene protocols. Learn more about Dr Abi.

Allergic reactions to quality PMU pigments are rare but possible. We use hypoallergenic, medical-grade pigments that are extensively tested. If you have known allergies or sensitive skin, we can perform a patch test before your treatment. Please disclose any allergies during consultation.

We take extensive care during the design phase to ensure you love your results—you approve everything before permanent work begins. PMU is semi-permanent, so it naturally fades over time if you choose not to maintain it. The touch-up appointment allows for adjustments to colour and shape. In rare cases requiring major correction, laser removal or colour correction options exist.

Yes, modern cosmetic pigments are generally MRI-safe. However, you should always inform the MRI technician about any permanent makeup before your scan. In rare cases, you may feel slight warmth or tingling in the treated area during the scan—this is not harmful but should be reported.

Pricing varies by treatment type and includes your initial session plus a touch-up appointment. We recommend booking a free consultation to discuss your specific needs and receive accurate pricing. Quality PMU is an investment—very low prices often indicate inexperience or poor-quality products. Contact us for current pricing.

You can book through our online booking form, via WhatsApp, or by calling us directly. We recommend starting with a free consultation to discuss your goals and ensure PMU is right for you. Treatment appointments can often be scheduled for the same day as consultation if you're ready to proceed.

A deposit is required to secure your treatment appointment. We understand life happens—please give us at least 48 hours notice if you need to reschedule. Cancellations with less than 48 hours notice may forfeit the deposit. Consultations can be rescheduled more flexibly. Contact us as soon as possible if your plans change.

Art of Aesthetics is located in [City]. Our exact address and directions are available on our Contact page. We're open Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM. Parking information and public transport options are also provided when you book.