About Permanent Cosmetics
What licensing requirements should I look for when choosing an artist?
In the state of Virginia both the artist and their business location needs to be licensed by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulations (DPOR) specifically for the art of tattooing.
An individual with a license to perform cosmetology, esthetics, or nails can ONLY perform microblading and cosmetic tattoo services if they have obtained a ‘Permanent Cosmetic Tattooer’ in addition. Having proper licensure not only guarantees that your artist has successfully completed adequate training at a state approved school, but that that they have passed a written theory examination, and are certified in Blood Borne Pathogens as well as First Aid and CPR.
What do I need to bring to my consultation?
Please come to your consultation with your makeup as you usually wear it so we have a better idea of what you’re used to seeing. Photographs of yourself or others is another great way to visually illustrate your desired look. Additionally, we will have our full portfolio available to help showcase your options.
Please bring the following:
- Your ID or a drivers license (a photocopy is required for the Virginia DPOR required paperwork)
- A full list of your current medications/ supplements
- Glasses; especially if you need them to see clearly. We will be discussing design and color options
At your consultation we will go over all necessary paperwork to determine that you are medically a good candidate as well as solidify design and color options for the procedure date.
Who is NOT a good candidate for PMU?
- Women who are pregnant or breast feeding
- Individuals who are on prescription blood thinners, aspirin, cortisone, or steroids
- Anyone who has been on Accutane in the last year
- Individuals who have used Retin-A, Renova, or chemical exfoliants in the last 30 days
- Anyone with eczema, psoriasis, sunburn, rosacea, or a rash on their face
- Those undergoing chemotherapy
- Anyone under 18 years of age
- Individuals with uncontrolled blood pressure or hemophilia
- Anyone prone to keloids or hypertrophic scarring
What Do I Need To Know Before My Procedure?
• All clients should avoid alcohol and caffeine 24 hrs before any procedure.
• Having the procedure during your menstrual cycle may make you more sensitive to discomfort.
• All clients should avoid blood thinning supplements and medications (always consult with your doctor before discontinuing any prescribed medication) I.e.: Coumadin, Aspirin, Vitamin E, Fish oil, Niacin, St. Johns Wart, and Gingko Biloba.
• All clients should avoid sweating for at least 3 days following any procedure. Sweat contains salt, which interferes with healing.
• It is imperative that you avoid sun exposure prior to your appointment. If you arrive with a sunburn, you will be asked to reschedule. As your skin exfoliates from sunburn, it will take the pigment with it.
• If you arrive for your procedure with any abrasion, skin irritation, bruising, scabbing, skin rash, or blemish in the procedure area I will not be able to perform the procedure. No exceptions.
• If you have ever taken ACCUTANE, you must be off of it for ONE YEAR prior to your procedure.• I am NOT able to tattoo women who are pregnant or nursing, those with diabetes who are insulin dependent, or those who are on prescription blood thinners.
• If you wear eyelash extensions please have them professionally removed prior to any eyeliner procedure.
What Do I Need To Know After My Procedure?
• Post procedure, avoid touching the area with your hands and always use a clean cotton swab to apply your aftercare ointment.
• DO NOT RUB, PICK OR SCRATCH THE AREA FOR ANY REASON!
• The pigment color may fade 10–60% before your first touch up appointment.
• Your follow up procedure should be performed 4-8 weeks following your initial appointment. A follow up is necessary to achieve the best possible final result and gain the longevity you want from your permanent makeup procedure. Touch-up visits that are booked longer than 8 weeks from the initial procedure date will be subject to additional fees.
• Avoid dirt and sweat for the first few days post procedure. And swimming in pools or open bodies of water for 2-3 weeks.
• You will need to keep the area dry from water for the first 24 hours post procedure. Please plan your showers accordingly.
• Post Procedure and Long Term Care: the use of Retin A, Retinols, Glycolic acids (or any type of acids meant to resurface your skin), lightening products, and treatments such as Fraxel, Hydroquinone, Chemical Peels or Spa facials, Microdermabrasion, Laser treatments on the face, Photo Facials (IPL’S) etc. will all contribute to premature fading of your pigment. Please have your technician avoid areas where you have permanent makeup. Additionally it is recommended that you use sunscreen SPF 30 or higher with zinc as the sun is the number one factor in tattoo fading.
Microblading (also known as micro-stroking, eyebrow embroidery, and feathered brows, fluffy brows) is a manual method of tattooing. It is done using a very fine blade to deposit pigment into the upper layers of the skin. Many clients are falsely under the impression that microblading is not a tattoo. Anytime pigment is implanted under the skin with any device, this is precisely the definition of a tattoo. Microblading is a great option for those who are seeking an ultra natural look, who want their PMU refreshed more often, or have any hesitation about the permanence factor. Because this is a manual technique, the color that is implanted is extremely superficial and the longevity of this technique lasts anywhere from 12-18 months before requiring a touchup or color boost.
What About Fading?
All tattoos will fade over time. Applying sunscreen to your treated areas and being mindful while having aggressive skin treatments will help preserve the vibrancy of your color. On average most clients have their permanent makeup touched up approximately every 3-5 years or so depending on their lifestyle.
As mentioned above, the use of Retin A, Retinols, Glycolic acids (or any type of acids meant to resurface or brighten your skin), lightening products, and treatments such as Fraxel, Hydroquinone, Chemical Peels or Spa facials, Microdermabrasion, laser treatments on the face, Photo Facials (IPL’S) etc. will all contribute to the premature fading of your pigment.
Permanent Eyeliner
The use of eye makeup such as mascara and eye shadow should be avoided for 7-10 days post procedure as the eyeliner heals.
• Contact lenses and eyelash extensions should NOT be worn during the procedure. Clients are advised to bring glasses, and plan to wear them for 72 hrs post procedure.
• The use of topical anesthetics is used before and during the procedure for optimal comfort.
• Clients will be able to keep their eyes closed for the duration of the procedure (yes, even for lower eyeliner)
• For best results the touch-up visit should be scheduled 6-8 weeks after the initial appointment.
• Please avoid strenuous activities that may cause you to sweat for at least 3 days post procedure. Sweat contains salt and salt can prematurely fade the treated area.
• Additionally you will need to keep the area dry from water for the first 24 hours post procedure. Please plan your showers accordingly.
• Please discontinue the use of lash growth serums for 1 month prior to the procedure, as they can thin the skin. Lash growth serums are not recommended following your permanent eyeliner procedure as some research has shown that it causes premature fading in PMU.
Eye Liner After Care
• Do not let your eyes get wet in the first 24 hours following the procedure. If you must wash your face or shower avoid getting the eye area wet. (Facial cleansing cloths and baths are recommended)
• Do not let the eyeliner become dry in the first 24 hours.
• Only use the after care ointment provided, for the first 3 days. Apply a few times each day, and always in the morning and at night. Use a fresh Q‐tip for every application.
• Keep the area clean and blot off any oozing.
• Itching is common. Eyes may be swollen and tender for a few days. This is normal and will dissipate after a few days. Swelling can be at its peak on the following morning (post procedure) sleeping with your head slightly elevated can help reduce any residual swelling of the eyes. Sleeping with a towel or t-shirt over your pillowcase is recommended for the first few nights as residual pigment may cause soiling. An ice pack protected with a barrier of film or a paper towel can be used for swelling. Icing is most effective during the first 24 hours. Please do not ice for more than 10 minutes at a time.
• In the morning, if your eyes are stuck together, use a clean wet Q-tip and gently separate. Do not rub, peel, or pick.
• Eyes heal very well, however, it is possible to be exposed to a secondary infection like conjunctivitis. Seek medical attention for an antibiotic steroid eye drops.
• Eyes are sensitive to pet dander, gardening, dust and dirty hands. Avoid environments that would cause exposure to these, dirt or germs while healing, (approximately 2 weeks).
• Avoid the sun and tanning beds pre and post procedure. UV protective sunglasses add wonderful protection from the sun.
• Avoid hot water, direct water pressure, pools, and other bodies of water until healed.
• Avoid all creams around the eye area, for approximately 2 weeks. If ointment causes irritation, please discontinue and contact your technician for an alternative crème.
• Always use a brand new tube of mascara after each eyeliner procedure.
1-2 Days: The color will begin to clarify to its final result
3-4 Days: Pigment begins to lift away with a tight peeling. Some itching is normal – do not pick at area (apply an ice pack for relief)
5-10 Days: The color will begin to clarify to its final result
$275 Upper Only
$275 Lower Only
$450 Both Upper & Lower
$450 Stardust Eyeliner
$550 Stardust + Lower Liner
Permanent Eyebrows
Please arrive to your appointment with your eyebrow makeup as you usually wear it. I will take into consideration your desired look but also need to consider a multitude of other factors such as face shape etc.
• Topical anesthetics are used before and during the procedure for optimal comfort.
• No two sides of the face are totally symmetrical. Every effort is made to perfect your eyebrow symmetry as it relates to your to your facial features.
• A common misconception is that existing brow hair must be removed before the procedure. I do NOT shave or remove existing brow hair. I am able to preserve existing hair growth and work around any/all eyebrow hair.
• Please note if you wax or thread your eyebrows, you should have this done 72 hours prior to your appointment. Please wait at least 21 days after your procedure for additional hair removal/ grooming.
• Your eyebrows will appear BOLDER immediately after the procedure. Hairstrokes appear crisp and tight until after the flaking stage (around day 6 or 7) when they soften.
• If you have extremely oily skin, the hairstroke technique may heal with a diffused, softer look. Your end result has the potential to look more powdered than one may expect. For this reason you may want to consider the powerfill technique.
• For optimal results the touch-up visit should be scheduled 4-8 weeks after the initial appointment.
• Please avoid strenuous activities that may cause you to sweat for at least 3 days post procedure. Sweat contains salt and salt can prematurely fade the treated area.
• Additionally you will need to keep the area dry from water for the first 24 hours post procedure. Please plan your showers accordingly.
Eyebrow After Care
• Do not let your eyebrows get wet in the first 24 hours. (Facial cleansing cloths are recommended)
• Your technician has applied a barrier cream to your brows which will last 3 days. It is waterproof but not scrub proof. After the 3rd day you can expect some flaking. It is not uncommon for the flakes to be the color of the ink we used. Your tattoo is not falling off.
• Let the brows flake naturally without exfoliating or sloughing them off.
• Avoid the sun and tanning beds post procedure.
• Avoid direct water pressure, pools, and other bodies of water until healed. (2 weeks)
• Do not pick or rub the area.
• Brows will oxidize and get darker before they soften after the flaking process. This is normal.
• After weeks 2 you may resume your normal cleansing routine without having to baby the area as much.
• The color often ‘blooms’ or flourishes during weeks 3-4 so if they seem too light post flaking, be patient.
1-2 Days: Color will be darker and bolder in width
4 Days: Exfoliation will begin causing the excess pigment surrounding the eyebrow procedure to flake away and the eyebrows will appear narrower
5 Days: Eyebrows may itch, this is normal – do not pick at the area (use an icepack for relief)
7-14 Days: Color finishes flaking off and the eyebrows may appear too soft in color.
15-30 Days: Color clarifies to final results.
$500 + Powderfill, Hairstrokes or Microblading
*Exact pricing is determined at the consultation depending on your existing brow hair and the look you’re trying to achieve.
$650+ – Corrective Color
Permanent Lips
What About Fading?
All tattoos will fade over time. Applying sunscreen to your treated areas and being mindful while having aggressive skin treatments will help preserve the vibrancy of your color. On average most clients have their permanent makeup touched up approximately every 3-5 years or so depending on their lifestyle.
As mentioned above, the use of Retin A, Retinols, Glycolic acids (or any type of acids meant to resurface or brighten your skin), lightening products, and treatments such as Fraxel, Hydroquinone, Chemical Peels or Spa facials, Microdermabrasion, laser treatments on the face, Photo Facials (IPL’S) etc. will all contribute to the premature fading of your pigment.
Lip Liner and Full Lip After Care
• Do not wash your lips for the first 24 hours. If you must wash your face use a facial cleansing cloth.
• Lips may feel swollen and very dry after your procedure. Apply the provided ointment liberally throughout the day. This should be done for at least 14 days post treatment. Do not allow lips to become dry. This may interfere with healed color.
• It is best to avoid spicy, salty, acidic foods, and alcohol for at least the first 3 days.
• Please avoid any friction to lip area such as kissing for at least 2 days post procedure.
• Avoid whitening toothpaste for 2 full weeks.
• After the lips are no longer tender to the touch they may become flaky. This is normal and is expected. Please do not pick or bite them.
• Avoid the sun and tanning beds pre and post procedure. Be sure to the use a lip balm with SPF 30 once lips are healed, approximately two weeks.
• Do not use any Glycolic, Hydroxy, or products with fruit acids near the lips.
• Avoid hot water, direct water pressure, pools, and other bodies of water until healed.
• You can resume wearing lipstick once lips are healed, approximately two weeks.
• Lips are a muscle and will need 2 to 3 sessions to complete this procedure. Lips are unpredictable. Some clients will yield very strong lip color. Others will only heal with slight color uptake. This will vary on an individual basis. Clients with sun damage, scar tissue (from injury or fever blisters) and smokers may not have strong results.
• If you have ever had a cold sore or fever blisters it is required that you take an antiviral medication for 3 days prior, the day of your procedure, and for 4 days following.
• A touchup must be scheduled to help with color retention.
• Lips heal in three stages: too dark – too light – just right.
Day 1-2: Lips will appear bold in color and swollen when first done. Keep area moist with provided ointment.
Day 2-3: Exfoliation will begin and lips may appear chapped. Do not rub, pick , or bite your lips.
Day 3-6: Continue to apply provided ointment.
Day 7: Lips will be fully exfoliated. Color may look like it is totally gone, do not be concerned this is all part of the process
Day 15-21: Color begins to bloom – lips may remain dry. Use a good lip balm with SPF 30 to help.
$350 Lip Liner
$450 Liner + Shading
$500 Full Lip
Medical Tattooing
Areola Replication
Beyond The Surface offers restorative tattooing for breast reconstruction patients and those who may require areola pigment or asymmetry correction. The tattooing of the areola is the finishing touch to what can be a long and tedious journey.
Jennifer is trained in the art of 3D areola replication, creating the most realistic, natural areolas. She is honored and humbled to be a part of each woman’s journey to regain her femininity and restore confidence after enduring so much and beating breast cancer.
When should I schedule my breast tattoo?
Scheduling should be after you are completely healed from any surgery or invasive procedure. Usually 6 months to a 1 year. This allows for adequate healing, scars to mature, and settling of the breasts. The tattoo should be the LAST step of your breast reconstruction. My full portfolio will be available for viewing at your consultation. If you’d like to bring any pre-mastectomy photos of yourself for reference, they can be very helpful in the design process.
Is Areola Replication Covered by Health Insurance?
I recommend checking with your provider beforehand regarding specific coverages. I am happy to provide the client with the necessary paperwork required to submit their claim.
Are You a Candidate for Skin Color Repigmentation?
Even if you have a scar or skin abnormality, you may not be candidate for skin repigmentation. You might be a candidate if you meet the criteria below.
Your scar should be:
• Healed and no longer pink or changing color: Your scar should be at least 9 to 12 months old with stable color. If it is red or pink or still changing color, the tissue may still be healing.
• Smooth and relatively flat: Camouflage tattooing cannot disguise or correct extreme changes in skin texture. If your scar or skin area is bumpy or raised, the process may not be effective.
• Without dark edges: Dark edges or borders around a scar indicate Post Inflammatory Hyper-pigmentation (PIHP) from the initial trauma or surgery. It is possible that the camouflage tattooing process may increase the hyper-pigmentation and create a wider, darker border.
• I am NOT able to work on the following: Port wine birthmarks; spider veins; freckles; age spots; under eye circles; hyper-pigmentation; or vitiligo. These may be improved with treatments such as lasers, sclerotherapy, or chemical peels. Please consult with a physician regarding the best course of treatment for these conditions.
You should:
• Have realistic expectations: Camouflage tattooing will not completely restore skin to the way it looked before it was injured. The process will not “erase” a scar or skin abnormality so it appears completely gone and the area looks “perfect” again. It improves color differences to help disguise the scar or anomaly and make it less noticeable to other people.
• Do not spend time tanning: A scar camouflage tattoo will not be a “perfect” match to the surrounding skin color. This is due to the constant changes in skin tones from blood flow, body temperature, and tanning. The pigment in the tattoo will not darken if it is exposed to sunlight or tanning booths, so the tattoo may appear lighter if the surrounding skin tans. When the tattoo color matches tanned skin, it may appear darker once the surrounding tanned skin fades. Therefore, if you spend time outdoors, you will need to adjust your lifestyle or decide to match the tattoo to “winter” or “summer” skin and live with the changes in between.
• Not expect results in one session: Camouflage repigmentation is a process, not a one-time “cure”. It is performed on “unhealthy” skin that has been damaged or altered. Its response cannot be predicted—a scar or graft may have areas that absorb pigment, reject it, or both. The area will look dark and red immediately after a tattooing session, and then it takes several weeks to show the healed color (or not). This requires time and patience.
$150 Unilateral
$300 Bilateral
Insurance will often reimburse these costs, so please ask for the appropriate forms to submit to your insurance provider.
Care Instructions
Facts About The Permanent Makeup Procedure
• Permanent makeup for eyeliner, eyebrows and lips requires a consultation prior to the procedure
• Topical anesthetics are used before and during the procedure so discomfort is minimal
• The duration for all procedures is 2 hours
• Permanent cosmetics, while permanent, will need to be touched up approximately every 2-5 years as fading will occur. The frequency of touchups depends on lifestyle, sun exposure, and body chemistry to name a few.
Precare Instructions:
30 days prior to all procedures:
• Clients must be off Accutane for one year, prior to all procedures.
• All clients must be off Retin A, Renova or any products with hydroxy acids.
• Permanent Eyeliner – No lash perms or tinting should be done within 3 days of this procedure and 30 days post procedure. If you wear fake eyelashes you cannot wear them before, during, or until healing is complete post procedure. Please stop using Latisse and other lash growth serums for 1 month prior to any eyeliner procedure.
• Permanent Lips – If a client has ever had (even years ago) a fever blister, cold sore, or shingles it is necessary that you obtain a prescribed anti viral medication from your doctor or dentist; this should be taken 3 days prior, the day of your appointment and for 4 days following. Please avoid any depilatory or bleaching agents on your lip area 3 days before any lip procedure and 30 days post procedure.
1 week prior to all procedures:
• Stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, or other blood thinning medications (if prescribed, always consult with your doctor)
• Stop taking niacin and vitamin E
• Stop taking gingko biloba, fish oils, omega 3’s, flax seed St. Johns Wart, and any “fat burners”
• Avoid sun exposure and do not tan your face
• Permanent Eyebrows – No tweezing, waxing, or tinting of eyebrow hairs should be done within 3 days of this procedure.
24 hours prior to all procedures:
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine
Aftercare instructions for all procedures
• Do not get your tattoo wet in the first 24 hours following the procedure. After 24 hours, let warm soapy water run over the area. Avoid hot water and direct water pressure while healing, approximately 2 weeks.
• Avoid strenuous activity for 3 days following procedure. (I.e. Sweating)
• Do not compress your face in a pillow while sleeping, especially during the first few days.
• Do not swim in fresh, salt, or chlorinated water for 2-3 weeks. Avoid environments that would cause dirt or germs to come in contact with the area while healing.
• Avoid the sun and tanning beds pre and post procedure. Sun will lighten the color.
• Do not apply topical cosmetics over area during the healing process, approximately 2 weeks.