Frequently Asked Questions
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1. VIRTUAL CHAT WILL HELP ANSWER MANY OF YOUR QUESTIONS!
This 24/7 service is designed with your convenience in mind. It will help in a pinch when we are busy or working with other clients. This service is NOT monitored by a live person.
If you don't get your answers here. Try entering specific key words in step 2 below.
For more information, text us @ 713-443-8999
KNOWLEDGE ISN'T POWER!
APPLIED KNOWLEDGE IS...
SO PLAN WELL!
2. USE THE KEY WORD SEARCH BELOW. . .
You may search for words such as the following:
Type: FDA
to find out if our pigments are regulated by the FDA.
Type: RED CROSS
If you donate blood regularly.
Type: BOOK
To find out how to book and manage your own appointment schedule..
Type: CANCEL
to find out why our cancellation policy requires a week's notice.
Type: BOTOX
to find out when it's safe to schedule your Botox Appt.

CLICK ON THE SEARCH SYMBOL to find information on topics like: PLANNING, CANCELATIONS, BOTOX, FDA, RED CROSS, BOOKING, ETC > > >
PLANNING
What is Permanent Makeup? Is Microblading a Tattoo?
Permanent Makeup, is cosmetic tattooing. Plain and simple. There are so many LABELS that all describe the same thing, that it all gets very confusing. I think everyone would agree that we all want natural looking permanent enhancements. If one person calls it MicroBLADING, another may prefer to call is MicroSTROKING. Powderfill brows are now called Ombre brows. But Ombre has a unique design, in that it's not an all one color saturated opaque look. It has more of an airbrush look to it... So don't be confused. Just bring in a photo of what your preference is or describe it to us verbally, and we'll do our very best to accomodate your requests... Now the big difference between COSMETIC tattooing and TRADITIONAL tattooing is the depth of placement of the color. And color choices are generally much softer. Cosmetic tattooing is also done more superficially, in order to only last a few years - as opposed to a lifetime. We want it to fade OFF before it can fade to UGLY! Wouldn't you agree? Many people don't realize how many benefits there are with permanent makeup. It can be beneficial to a wide spectrum of people, including both men and woman who are at least 18 years of age. Permanent cosmetic applications can also help to conceal scars on almost any part of the body.
What is Arnica Montana? When should I take it?
DOSAGE: 4-5 pills (NOT CREAM)
How should I plan for a procedure?
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BOOK ONE NOW, IF YOU WANT ONE! You can either attend one of the monthly orientations to find out more about permanent makeup and get your test. If you elect to not take the test, you will need to sign a waiver.
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These occur once a month and its a nice opportunity to come talk about permanent makeup and what it can and cannot do for you. Most all information is on this website, but it's fun to meet up.
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Orientations are not mandatory. So if you want an Allergy Skin Test, but do not have any interest in the orientation, you can book a quick 10 minute test - free of charge
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Extra VITAMIN C -
Pineapple (fresh, not canned) -
Bromelain -
LOTS OF GREEN LEAFY VEGETABLES. Do this for at least a week or 2, prior to and after your procedure(s) to help prepare your skin for better results.
PAYMENT OF SERVICES:
SAFETY:
START OF PROCEDURE:
PAIN, ANXIETY AND OTHER MEDICATIONS:
Is Allergy Testing Mandatory?
No. In fact, in 15 years, I have never had anyone present an allergic reaction to any pigment that I have implanted. I have witnessed two tests however, that were highly suspicious, so the clients declined service at my suggestion. Better safe than sorry!
How old do I have to be to get cosmetic tattooing?
You have to be 18 years of age to get cosmetic tattooing. According to Texas Law, the only way to legally have it done is to cover gang tattoos.
I have old permanent makeup tattoos on my brows. Can I still get microblading?
Yes, but each case is different. We do reserve the right to turn down a case if we feel that you are not a good candidate. In some cases, previous work may be too dark, dense, discolored or simply too scarred to be able to hold color well. In most of these cases, the stokes will not stay crisply defined.
Can I bring my child to the appointment?
We understand that life happens, and if your child is well behaved, then it's usually not a problem. However, we would prefer that you make other arrangements for your children.
EXPECTATIONS
Why does permanent makeup fade faster than body tattoos?
First of all, Permanent cosmetics are a form of cosmetic tattooing and should be thought of as being a permanent tattoo. They are just a little bit different than traditional tattoos on the body. All colors will fade overtime, however, body art generally fades at a slower rate than cosmetic tattooing. For one, most body tattoos are protected from UV rays from the sun by clothing. Also, body tattoos are applied much deeper into the skin and with heavier saturation than with permanent cosmetics. Cosmetic tattoos on the face, may fade faster because the application is lighter and there may be more sun exposure. Also, facial skin, which is much thinner, may influence the degree of color retention as well.
What if makeup styles change or totally go out of style?
NATURAL IS THE PERMETIKA WAY! And as long as we aim for a natural classic shape, you will be safe from the fads that come and go. With the eyeliner or lash enhancement procedure, your natural lash line is enhanced for a fuller, beautiful and natural result. My preference leans toward a more conservative, clean and natural look. Your specific look will be determined with a combination of your personal preference, my suggestions, along with a mathematical equation based on your own facial features.
Which methods are used at Permetika?
The methods used, will depend on the clients skin. If your skin is oily or very pourous, the (new) machine method is usally the best. But it doesn't look like overly saturated in color. It has more of an airbrushed effect to it. Fine hairline strokes are acheivable due to the machine's fine precision. But in certain cases, I also use a stippling technique as well as Microblading on those with fine, normal to dry skin.
What can go wrong with Permanent Makeup?
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Your PMU fades to the point that the patterns are too light to follow -
Your PMU has shifted to an unnatural looking color, it probably didn't happen overnight. TO HELP YOU UNDERSTAND WHY the color may fade into an unnatural looking color as time passes, is this...
What is Migration?
Migration is the occurence of pigment moving under the skin to an unintended area. This does not happen often, but it can occur in the corners of the lips and eyes if not extremely careful.
I like my eyebrows the way they were when I first had them done. Can you make them stay that way?
No. The reason is a large percentage of the color sloughs off during the healing process and what's left behind is now covered by a layer of skin. This skin causes them to take on a cloudy appearance for a few weeks, then as the skin normalizes, the color will appear brighter, but will never look like it did when it was sitting ON TOP of your skin.
What factors affect my cosmetic tattoos?
The number one enemy is direct sun exposure. Sun block is recommended to prevent premature fading. Cell regeneration also is a factor. If you use products that are designed to exfoliate skin in order to turn over new cell growth, your tattoo will fade faster too if you don't avoid the areas when using those products.
When can I throw my eyebrow pencil away?
Never... brow work is not intended to 100% replace traditional makeup. It is intended to be an enhancement. It helps you look BETTER without makeup, when done properly. But when you add a full face of makeup, you will want to add a little bit more on your brows as well.
ADMINISTRATIVE
Can I reset or cancel my appointment myself?
You may reset your appointment from the link provided in your CONFIRMATION EMAIL. This link will give you the opportunity to select a more convenient date.
What is the cancellation policy?
All of us at PERMÉTIKA want to make sure that you understand what it takes, and all that it means when you book an appointment with us.
* A NON-REFUNDABLE BOOKING FEE of 25% is built into your procedure price.
How do I set an appointment?
For your convenience, our booking system is open to you 24/7, even on Weekends and Holidays! This saves us both a tremendous amount of time going back and forth, comparing calendars.
What is the best way to reach someone at Permetika?
We are often busy with clients in the office when calls come in... For the fastest response, send a text to (713) 443-8999. Please allow 24-48 hours for a reply to voice and email messages.
How far apart are appointments spaced?
We like to allow your skin to fully heal to the deepest layers for at least 12 weeks before working in the skin again. In some circumstances, 8-10 weeks might work in a pinch.
Can I schedule all multiple appointments at one time?
Yes, we prefer that you do. This prevents having to wait too long for your next session. If you wait until you NEED it, there will more than likely be a wait.
CANDIDATES
Who is NOT a candidate for Permanent Makeup?
YOU ARE NOT A GOOD CANDIDATE IF YOU ARE...
than average. Otherwise, if you are Type 2 and your doctor feels your condition is under control, ask your doctor to provide a clearance letter stating that you are able to undergo cosmetic tattooing. Special care should should still be taken to prevent infection.
application of eyeliner.
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You will most likely lose pigment in the areas where the blister(s) or sore(s) occur.
6 months. I only do the procedure on clients that are more than 1 YEAR from the surgery. Failure to follow this rule could result in the breakdown of healing skin. Which will make you more prone to infection, create MORE scar tissue, which will make future procedures even less effective. No exceptions on this one.
YOU MUST WAIT IF YOU'VE RECENTLY HAD:
your eyes.
POTENTIAL RISKS & CONTRAINDICATIONS TO COSMETIC TATTOOING:
If you have ANY medical issues that you feel MIGHT be would be a contraindication, then I suggested you get clearance from your doctor. Patients who have epilepsy, diabetes, hemophilia or a heart disease of any kind should have a physicians approval prior to any cosmetic tattooing procedure.
Who is a candidate for permanent makeup?
* Would you like to carve off a few minutes from your hectic daily routine?
* Do you have sparse or non existent brows or lashes?
* Do you spend hundreds of dollars on products annually?
* Would you prefer to not be seen without makeup?
* Does your lipstick creep up your lips onto your face throughout the day?
* Do you have vision impairment that makes applying your makeup difficult?
* Do you have trouble applying your own makeup regularily?
* Are you starting to experience severe balding or a receiding hairline?
* Want your makeup to stay put if sweating at the gym or swimming at the beach?
* Does your lipstick vanish after a meal?
* Have you undergone an areola reconstruction?
* Do you hate having to fuss with it yout makeup throughout the day?
* Do you have vitiligo that has been stable for at least 7 years?
* Do you have a brow scar that you'd like to be less noticable?
* Do you have sparse eyebrows or even no eyebrows at all?
* Would just like for your features to be slightly enhanced without looking made up?
* Are you allergic to traditional cosmetics? If so, we can test you for a reaction to our pigments.
* Is it difficult to apply makeup due to Arthritis, Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, etc...?
* Would you like to redefine your facial features?
* Are your areolas too light?
* Have you lost hair due to alopecia or cancer treatments?
Can I get a tattoo if I am pregnant or nursing my baby?
This is a firm no. But we do look forward to helping you when you are no longer pregnant or nursing! (REFER TO: WHO IS NOT A GOOD CANDIDATE SECTION FOR DETAILS).
COST/TIME
How long does a procedure take?
The initial procedure will generally take approximately 2 hours. Touch up procedures usually do not require as much time.
How much does it cost?
Just as in many other industries, higher cost often equals higher quality! A Permanent Makeup Artist who recognized their value, is probably one who is also using proper sterilization and sanitation procedures, good equipment, and has a professional facility. All of these factors incur considerable costs, per procedure. Please refer to the PRICING tab to get specific cost on each procedure. Depending on where you go, the average price range falls between $750-$1500 per procedure, for an experienced artist.
Advanced work in scar camouflage or hair simulation may start with a base fee and additional hours are normally charged at $150-$250 per hour since it may be difficult to predict the time needed to complete the service.
How long should I wait between sessions?
We prefer to wait at least full 8-12 weeks before breaking the skin again.
OUTER HEALING: The outer layer of the skin is considered to be completely healed within about 7-10 days, or when the area has stopped peeling, and has returned to normal.
How long does Cosmetic Tattooing last?
Can I expect my appointment to run on time?
Morning appointments are almost always on time, unless we encounter unforeseen circumstances. However, if your appointment is set in the afternoon, it would be best to view your appointment time - as a TARGET time.
SAFETY
What are your Sterlization & Sanitation Practices like?
THIS IS PROBABLY ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT QUESTIONS ONE CAN ASK!
* The entire work space including my chairs, floors, trays, all equipment, pigment topical and anesthetic bottles with disinfectant wipes that are designed to kill bacteria, tuberculosis, HIV & Hepatitis.
* I don't make my clients ASK, I always show that I am about to install a brand new, sterile needle, fresh from the sealed packaging BEFORE starting thier procedure.
* Supplies that come in contact with your skin are also strictly disposable in nature.
* I use sterile, surgical gloves throughout the procedure and get fresh ones if I have to remove them during the procedure.
* I methodically tape off any surface that I might need to touch during a session. This includes buttons on the chair, drawer handles, phone, switches, dials, to prevent cross-contamination
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* My machine is also wrapped to prevent cross contamination.
* At the end of the procedure, I re-wipe all surfaces with the cold sterilization wipes or fluids.
Is this considered a safe process?
Normally, yes. But only if conducted by a trained professional that is educated and and has the work ethic to follow the proper sanitation and sterilization guidelines.
What about side effects?
During the procedure there may be some bleeding and/or bruising. There is usually some tenderness for a few days. Bruising and swelling may last approximately 72 hours following the procedure.
What medical problems can arise after a procedure?
Slim to none, providing precise methods of sanitation and sterilization were followed carefully - and you requested an allergy test prior to the procedure! Now, IF a technician is NOT careful, it is possible to transmit diseases and infection.
Are your pigments FDA approved?
According to the FDA website, it states the following concerning tattoo and permanent makeup inks: "The FDA considers the inks used in intradermal tattoos, including permanent makeup, to be cosmetics.... The pigments used in the inks are color additives, which are subject to premarket approval under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. However...the FDA traditionally has not exercised regulatory authority for color additives on the pigments used in tattoo inks. The actual practice of tattooing is regulated by local jurisdictions."
Are your pigments Vegan Friendly?
None of our pigments contain ingredients derived from animals or animal byproducts.
What are pigments made from?
Pigments or tattoo inks come in a varienty of color that ar formulated from iron oxides, and are known to be safe for use in the skin. It may SOUND good to use "organic" pigments, but we feel there is an elevated chance of them carrying bacteria, therefore we stick to the tried and true.
What kind of sunscreen is recommended for use after tattoos have healed?
Use a broad spectrum sun block or sunscree. Nutrogena Sunscreen with Helioplex is a good one.
I DONATE BLOOD REGULARLY - What should I know?
AMERICAN RED CROSS GUIDELINES STATE... that you cannot donate blood for one year after receiving any tattoo work.
DO'S & DONT'S
What should I NOT DO after a procedure?
DO NOT over-expose the treated area to sunlight during the healing process, UV Rays can alter the pigment of your tattoo. Walking to and from your car - is ok!
ARTISTS
Which Artist or Technician should I use?
Choose a technician carefully. Consider their training, years of experience and thier portfolio. It is important to remember that the color, shape and proper placement of the procedure are all very important. The desired look is obtained during the course of consultation, initial procedure and follow up procedures. Establishing a good rapport between you and your technician or artist, as I prefer to be called, should be of utmost importance.
BOTOX & FILLERS
What about BOTOX and DERMAL FILLERS?
BROWS ONLY: We prefer to work on brows when the muscles of the face are completely active. So if possible, do not use Botox (or like product) within a month of ANY brow procedure. The closer to the appointment, the more problematic. Especially... don't try to save time by piggy backing your botox appointment on the same day as a brow proceduare. The two don't mix well.
AFTERCARE
What can I expect immediately after the procedure?
FOR STARTERS... Each person's procedure behaves differently after its application from any other person's. So you can't compare your experience to even your sister's.
TOUCH UP:
LONG TERM CARE:
What should I NOT DO after a procedure?
DO NOT over-expose the treated area to sunlight during the healing process, UV Rays can alter the pigment of your tattoo. Walking to and from your car - is ok!
MAINTENANCE
What if I don't like the design or color after the procedure?
NO ONE LIKES THE COLOR OR DESIGN ON DAYS 2-7. Please refer to the emoji roller coaster on the HEALING page. But just know, that if you were happy right after the procedure, we think you will love it once it heals.
Why are multiple sessions necessary?
Every face is different. Each skin type is different. Some skin types accept the pigment better than other types and more pigment may be retained in one session with one person over another. Also, fine details, additional color, depth or design adjustments are more easily made after the initial healing is complete. A follow-up visit is always considered vital - if only to meet to discuss healed outcome of the procedure, take your after picture, and agree that no further work is necessary. Typically it takes a total of at least 2, possibly 3 applications, 4-8 weeks apart to achieve the desired outcome.
Future appointments are necessary because everything fades. The number 1 culprit is sun exposure! Also, changing health conditions, smoking, medications, anti-aging products, and hormonal changes all can have an effect on your pigment retention.
What can affect the outcome of my procedure?
WE WILL DO THE BEST JOB WE CAN POSSIBLY DO, IN APPLYING THE ARTWORK... BUT IN THE END, ALL OF THE FOLLOWING TOPICS CAN HAVE AN AFFECT ON YOUR OUTCOME!
YOUR METABOLISM:
Your overall health, and age can affect the outcome. For example, a younger person generally will heal faster than an older person. This means that an older person may loose more color, since the skin stay open longer.
CONDITION OF YOUR SKIN:
The elasticity of the skin, excessive oil/dryness, uneven textures, scar tissue, can all cause different outcomes of different people. People with excessively oily skin may not hold brow strokes as well as someone with dry skin. Think of a wet sponge vs a dry one. Which one blurs more when marked on? The skin acts the same way.
MEDICATION & SUPPLEMENTS:
Over the counter and prescribed medication may have a negative or postive effect on the healed result, depending on the product. Like ARNICA MONTANA is good. It helps the skin respond better to trauma. But FISH OILS cause you to bleed more. Think about what you're taking and what it does to your body. That will help you determine if you need to restrict taking it - or not.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS:
Temporary and chronic medical conditions can cause a loss of color if your body is focusing on healing another part.... Just be aware of this and expect to have a follow up session or two. Remember, the higher your expectations, the more follow up sessions are required..
CHEMICAL EXFOLIANTS:
Such as alpha hydroxy, glycolic or phenol acids, Retin-A, Retinol, fruit peels and bleaching creams should NEVER be applied around the tattooed area, as it will cause premature fading.
MECHANICAL EXFOLIANTS:
Such as DermaPlaning and Microdermabrasion. These services do not typically come in contact with tattooed areas, but if they do, could cause premature fading as well. If you shave your brows, premature fading will occur.
COSMETIC PROCEDURES:
Botox, dermal fillers, facial surgery, facial implants, fat transfers will most likely alter the appearance of tattooed areas, requiring corrective measures. NEVER get your brows tattooed following botox injections. You should wait 4-6 months for the effects to wear off. Brows should be tattooed in their natural state.
YOUR LIFESTYLE:
If you live for the sun, smoke like a train & drink like a fish, your results will not be optimal!
So stop smoking for a couple of weeks, prior to your procedure(s) and for a couple of weeks following the session. Or for your as long as you can possibly hold out.... because the carbon monoxide in your cigarette has been proven to impede the healing process, as it restricts the oxygen content in your blood, Of course, you will still heal if you continue to smoke... it will just take longer, which will allow more pigment to release, rather than heal in. You will also require more visits to complete the process...
What will my tattoo look like in the future?
During your appointment, we will determine your skin's undertones and use modifying colors in addition to your target color. This measure should help prevent odd colors from forming. Then at your followup visit, we will evaluate how well the mix held. If necessary, more or less of the modifying or target colors will be used. The goal is to help the color fade true, and not shift into an unnatural color. Although, occasionally, it does and more followup sessions will be required.
PAIN CONTROL
Does it hurt?
A few people can handle the procedure with no numbing at all. Most people feel almost no pain at all because we are patient and will work with you according to your pain threshold. Some people experience some discomfort at first, then becomes much more tolerable.
A HOT LITTLE TIP!
EYELINER & LIPS: We will apply a topical cream prior to the procedure and a gel anesthetic throughout, which normally provides almost total numbing. The "feeling" typically associated with the procedures can be described as a mild stinging, plucking or tickling sensation, which subsides as soon as the procedure is over. Any discomfort after the procedure is usually very minimal.
There may be some mild swelling and redness associated with your procedure. Your skin should return to normal relatively quickly. Allergic reactions to permanent cosmetics are quite rare. We strongly suggest a skin sensitivity test at the initial consultation at least 1 week prior to the procedure. This is done on an invisible area beforehand to see how your skin responds. You have the right to decline this test. Needles inserted too deeply in the skin can cause bleeding, spreading of pigments, and damage to hair follicles. Scarring is very rare, and usually because of an error by the practitioner performing the treatment. If proper hygiene and sterilization guidelines are followed, micropigmentation should be very safe with few risks. It is advisable not to pick or rub the treated areas to minimize the risk of causing uneven results or possible infection.
I really want to do this, but I'm afraid!
If you choose PERMETIKA, you should not be afraid.. We have a great reputation for consistently turning out great work. But just know that Permanent Makeup is a multi-session process, so we take baby steps. And that should calm your fears!
How long do you numb prior to the appointment?
We typically allow numbing to penetrate the skin for 20-45 minutes, depending on each person's pain threshhold. Unfortunately, Texas State Law prohibits us from using numbing agents stronger than 4% Lidocaine.