Frequently Asked Questions
Skinvae Ink FAQs
What is feathering?
This method is the most natural looking form of eyebrow tattooing. Super fine ‘hair like’ strokes are tattooed into the skin behind existing brow hair to create density, definition and to help fill in gaps for the perfect brow. With results lasting up to 12-18months, keep your brows updated with current trends without having to commit to a ‘traditional’ brow tattoo.
What is the difference between powder/ombre brow and hair-strokes or feathering for eyebrow tattoo?
Powder/ombre gives a more defined, solid appearance, and is usually a longer-lasting option, whereas hair stroke, as the name suggests, involves cosmetic tattooing on tiny lines/strokes in a design that gives the appearance of hair. Hair-strokes alone, with no background, do require more re-touching than other methods. A good, longer lasting option can be a combination of these, where a lighter powder-fill will be done at the first appointment, then hair-strokes over the top, to give texture and a realistic, hair like appearance. We can discuss these options and what would give you the best result at your consultation. Both techniques are the same price.
Will you touch up someone else’s Brow Tattoo work?
No. Our touch up service is only for our existing clients. If you have had your brows done elsewhere, we do not go over them until they have completely faded. Once your brows are ready to be re-done, full prices apply.
What if you have existing brow tattoo?
If you have had your brows done previously, please send through a photo in natural lighting without any make up on. We will determine whether we can cover them or if you need to book in for removal first. We offer laser-free tattoo removal.
How long does it take for the tattooing to heal?
Your skin will take a total of six weeks to completely heal and show true results.
Is it painful?
Pain threshold levels differ amongst individuals. Some clients may experience slight discomfort and a stinging sensation. Be mentally prepared as it is cosmetic tattooing, it is not pain-free.
How long does it last?
Pigments are not implanted into the skin as deep as traditional tattoos, the area will naturally fade over time. Skincare routine will also alter the lasting effect of the pigment: patients who tan, uses products with AHA or Glycolic Acid will fade faster as your skin will resurface faster. Each individual’s colour retention within the skin will vary. To maintain the brows looking fresh, a touch up is suggested every 12 months.
Who is NOT suitable for the procedure?
Please disclose any medically conditions when making a booking. We may require you to bring additional information from your GP to your consultation. Oily skin does not hold pigment as well as other skin types. Strokes may not heal as crisp and clients may experience less pigment retention. An additional session may also be required to perfect it. Ombré Brows & Powdered Brows may be a better option for you
- Women who are pregnant or breast feeding
- Under the age of 18
- Undergoing or have undergone chemo recently
- Using Accutane
- Have a heart condition or using heart medications
- Those with Diabetes (will require a physician’s note)
- Have Skin Disease or irritations
- Have had botox in the last 2 weeks
- Dark tan or chemical peels in the last 3 weeks
Lastly, those who are allergic to lidocaine, prilocaine, benzocaine, tetracaine or epinephrine, or anyone who has any serious medical conditions may require a physician’s note.
Can I get my touch up session sooner than four weeks?
No, you must allow a minimum of six weeks for the skin to fully heal.
How are the colours chosen?
Your artist will help you choose a colour that is best suited to your brow hair in order to get a more natural and blended result.
Can I wear makeup around them?
It is not recommended to use any kind of foundation around your brows, the skin should be kept clean until the scabbing/flaking has finished. This can take up to two-three weeks.
Will I be able to return back to work the next day?
Yes, swelling and redness will subside within 24 hours. The colour of your brows will be dark for the first few days but will soften as the healing process starts.
Does it hurt afterwards?
The area can be a little sore for the first few hours and tender to touch for a couple days.
Is there a risk of infection?
There is minimal risk of infection as strict hygiene standards are maintained.
Is it the tattoo permanent?
Technically, semi-permanent micro-pigmentation is considered permanent because the colour is implanted into the upper dermal layer of the skin and cannot be washed off. However, the pigment is implanted more superficially than a traditional tattoo, so it naturally fades over time.
Hair Removal FAQs
What is IPL?
IPL (Intense Pulse Light) uses a broad spectrum of white light and filters to narrow the spectrum to target specific chromophores and structures. Our SHR technology was a first in NZ and is having a sweeping success. The working theory is heating the dermis to a target temperature gradually. At that target temperature, it damages the hair follicles and prevents re-growth effectively. Meanwhile avoiding injury to the surrounding tissue. A high repetition rate of single pulses are delivered deep into the dermis, achieving high power and therapeutically effective heat build-up, without the risk of injury and virtually no pain.
How many treatments do I need?
For best results, we recommend 10-12 treatments, with each treatment performed around four weeks apart.
You should start to see results after your second or third treatment – but it's important to note that the way the human body has been designed means it's impossible to remove 100% of unwanted hair.
We guarantee 80% hair reduction within the recommended treatment allocation. However, this is dependent on age, hair type, hormone levels, any existing medical conditions and other factors.
Does it hurt?
No, it doesn’t. Our IPL machine is top of the line offering the new SHR system which makes the treatment pain free.
Who is it suitable for?
The light works by targeting colour in the hair shaft and follicle – so we see the best results with darker hair. For that reason, blonde, red and grey hairs can be more difficult to remove.
Some underlying medical conditions may exclude you from the treatment, as they make the results harder to predict. We recommend coming in for a consultation where we can assess your suitability.
