Question 1

Who would benefit from permanent makeup?

Accepted Answer

Almost anyone over 18. It’s especially ideal for those who:
Want to wake up to professionally applied makeup without the daily application of cosmetics.
Have poor vision, dexterity or difficulty applying makeup.
Have experienced partial or complete loss of eyebrow hair or lip pigment.
Want to achieve improved facial symmetry through precise placement of brows and lip color
Are managing medical conditions such as alopecia or hair loss following chemotherapy, where micropigmentation can provide restorative and confidence-building results.

Question 2

Who should wait before getting a cosmetic tattoo?

Accepted Answer

For safety reasons, cosmetic tattoo procedures are not recommended for clients who:
Are under 18 years of age
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Are currently undergoing chemotherapy
Have used Accutane within the past 6 months
Plan to donate blood within 3 months of the procedure
Have active skin conditions at the treatment site (eczema, psoriasis, cold sores, rashes, infections)
Cannot lay flat on their back for long periods of time.

Question 3

How many treatments are needed? Can I still book if I have a previous brow or lip tattoo from another clinic?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, two treatment sessions are required. The second session serves to refine pigment color and shape once initial healing has occurred. It also allows for adjustments in depth, saturation, or intensity if desired. For safest results, the first session is kept more conservative in color depth with refinements added at the touch-up. 'Its easier to add, than to take away'.

There may be cases where additional treatments are required in more complicated circumstances (at an additional cost). For example, a tattoo cover up may require multiple sessions for adequate color correction and coverup . You MUST notify me and provide photos via email for assessment of any previous tattoos to cover up. In some cases - such as over saturated pigment or misshapen brows - coverage may not be possible, and laser removal may be recommended first.

Question 4

Is it safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We follow strict infection-control protocols:
Procedures are performed in a sterile, professional clinic environment.
Single-use, pre-packaged sterile needles are opened at the start of each treatment and disposed of immediately in approved sharps containers.
Single-use disposables (bed, tray, and equipment covers) are used whenever possible. All treatment surfaces are thoroughly disinfected between clients.
Brows by Anne is fully insured, and the premises are registered and approved by the Vancouver Island Health Authority for cosmetic tattooing.

Question 5

How long does it last?

Accepted Answer

Results gradually lighten as the skin renews. Most clients opt for a colour boost every 1-3 years to keep results fresh. Longevity varies with skin type, rate of cell turnover, overall health, implantation technique, aftercare, sun exposure, and lifestyle.

How to prolong results:
Avoid applying retinoids, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or other exfoliants directly over the treated area.
Limit direct sun/UV exposure; use SPF on and around the area.
Lips: Keep lips moisturized to reduce flaking; use a non-medicated SPF lip balm to support pigment retention.

See Aftercare detailed, pigment-prolonging guidance.

Question 6

How long does it take to heal?

Accepted Answer

You can expect 3-5 days of visible healing for lips and 7-10 days for brows, where it the color will look more bold, the area will feel dry and potentially flake during the first week. A touch up session can be booked as early as 4 weeks for brows, and 6 weeks for lips.

Please refer to the Aftercare page for more detailed information on what to expect during healing and how to properly care for your new permanent makeup.

Question 7

What is microblading? And how is it different than Nano Brows?

Accepted Answer

Microblading
 A manual cosmetic tattoo technique that uses a handheld tool with fine blades to create hair-like strokes. Pigment is deposited into the upper dermis to mimic natural brow hairs.

Nano Brows (Machine Hairstrokes)
 A cosmetic tattoo performed with a digital machine and an ultra-fine needle (“nano”) to create precise hair-like strokes, with the option to blend soft shading for density.

Key differences
Tool & technique: Microblading = manual blade; Nano = digital machine with a single fine needle.
Skin suitability: Microblading suits normal–dry skin; Nano often performs better on oily, mature, or sensitive skin.
Tissue impact: Nano is typically lower-trauma, with reduced risk of scarring and blurring.
Aesthetic control: Nano can blend subtle shading for density; microblading yields a more solid stroke.
Longevity: Both fade gradually and usually need a 12–24 month colour boost.

Recommendation
 I offer both methods; however will always recommend the Nano Brow approach for its versatility and decreased risk of creating scar tissue.

Question 8

What is a powder brow or combination brow?

Accepted Answer

What is a Powder Brow?
 A machine-shaded technique that layers tiny pigment droplets to create a soft, “misty” finish, similar to brow pencil or powder. Coverage is buildable and can be customize based on preference (light to ombré).
Best for: Most skin types; especially oily, and textured skin, where hair strokes may blur. Its generally the best option for mature skin/skin that has lost laxity. 
Finish: Softly filled, makeup-like; density can be customized.

What is a Combination (Combo) Brow?
 A hybrid approach that blends a Nano and Powder Brow for added depth and dimension.
Best for: Clients with sparse natural hair, gaps, or those seeking a fuller look while keeping hair-stroke texture.
Finish: Defined yet natural; more structure and adds more dimension than hair strokes alone.

Both are forms of cosmetic tattooing. During consultation, we’ll determine the safest, most suitable option for your skin and goals.

Question 9

How can I prepare for my brow appointment?

Accepted Answer

Appointment length: The first brow treatment typically takes 2–2.5 hours, depending on technique.
Sun/Travel: If you’re planning a sun-destination vacation, schedule your procedure at least 3 weeks before or after your trip.
Botox/neuromodulators: Book your brow procedure more than 2 weeks after Botox so it has time to take effect. Brows may be done any time before a Botox session.
Skincare actives: Avoid applying retinol (and similar exfoliating actives) over the brow area for 2 weeks prior.
Alcohol: Avoid alcohol for 24 hours prior, as it dehydrates the skin, can increase bleeding and reduce pigment retention.
Hydration: Arrive well-hydrated; healthy, hydrated skin heals more predictably.
Grooming: Do not thread or wax within 48 hours of your visit. Avoid brow tinting for 4 weeks prior; it’s best to arrive with your natural brow colour.

Question 10

What is "Lip Blush"? Will it look like lipstick?

Accepted Answer

No. Lip Blush is a semi-permanent, soft tint - not a bold, opaque lipstick. It softly enhances your natural lip colour, evens tone, improves the look of symmetry, and can create the appearance of fuller lips by refining the border. It’s ideal for an everyday, effortless look (gym-friendly and work-appropriate).

Question 11

Am I a candidate for lip blush?

Accepted Answer

Lip filler: Yes. Lip Blush is compatible with filler. Schedule your appointment at least 4 weeks after your most recent filler session.
Dark or cool-toned lips: Deep purple/hyperpigmented lips may require a colour-correction session to neutralize cool tones before depositing your target shade. This can mean an additional touch-up depending on the level of neutralizing needed.
Lip lines/creases: If you have pronounced vertical lines or creasing along the lip border, please email/text a clear photo before booking so we can confirm candidacy and set realistic expectations.
Cold-sores: If you have a history of cold sores (HSV-1), oral Valtrex medication must be taken prior to the procedure.

Question 12

Can I get lip blush if I'm prone to cold sores?

Accepted Answer

Yes, however, the procedure will almost always trigger an outbreak in anyone with a history of cold sores (HSV-1), which may blister, scar and delay healing and reduce pigment retention.

Valtrex is a MUST for anyone who has ever had a coldsore.  Follow the dosing directions provided, often starting two days before, the day of, and the day after the procedure.
Active cold sores: Please reschedule; treatment can only be performed once the area is fully healed.
Topicals (e.g., Abreva/docosanol): These are not a substitute for oral antivirals and can over-dry the lips; avoid during immediate healing unless directed by your clinician.

Question 13

How can I prepare for my first lip blush appointment?

Accepted Answer

How can I prepare for my first Lip Blush appointment?
Cold sore prevention: If you’ve ever had a cold sore, consult your physician about a short course of oral antivirals (e.g., valacyclovir) starting the day before, the day of, and the day after your appointment.
Hydrate: Well-hydrated skin heals best. Drink water and keep lips moisturized. Avoid for at least alcohol 24 hours before. 
One week prior: Apply a non-medicated lip balm or petrolatum several times daily to keep lips soft and supple.
24 hours prior: Gently exfoliate with a soft washcloth or mild lip scrub. Skip exfoliation if lips are irritated or cracked.
Day of: Arrive with clean, bare lips (no makeup).

Tip: Bringing your favourite lipstick can help with shade references.

Question 14

How do I book? What are the methods of payment?

Accepted Answer

Booking: All appointments are scheduled through the online calendar. 
Accepted payments: Cash, Interac, e-Transfer, debit, and credit cards.
Cash discount: Save 5% when paying in cash, as card processing fees are avoided.

Frequently asked questions