Frequently Asked Questions

Permanent makeup, including microblading, is considered a form of body art. Body art is regulated by each county within the United States by the county's Health Department. Body art in Massachusetts are not allowed to be performed in a cosmetology salons (including spa, hair, and nail salon) except medical spa with a physician's license. If you're still unsure, ask your provider for a copy of the Health Department certificate or call the Health Department in that county to verify.​

Permanent makeup is suitable for many individuals, but it's essential to consider certain factors. Ideal candidates are those who want to enhance their natural features, have sparse or uneven eyebrows, or desire long-lasting makeup. However, individuals with certain medical conditions, skin sensitivities, or those who are pregnant or nursing should consult with a professional before proceeding.

There are several contraindications for microblading and permanent makeup, including but not limited to below. It's crucial to have a thorough consultation with a certified professional to determine if you are a suitable candidate.

You are under 18

You have uncontrolled diabetes

You are pregnant or breastfeeding

You have glaucoma or taking blood thinning medicines (e.g., aspirin, warfarin)

You have skin diseases such as psoriasis or eczema

You have hemophilia

You have healing disorders or uncontrolled high blood pressure

You are on any skin medication such as Accutane or steroids

You have active skin cancer

You are undergoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy (consult your doctor)

You have epilepsy

You have a pacemaker or major heart problem

At Golden Compass, we offer a variety of permanent makeup services tailored to meet your unique aesthetic needs, including microblading, powder brows, and nano brows. Here's a brief explanation of each to help you choose the right one:

- Microblading: This is a semi-permanent technique that uses a manual handheld tool with fine needles to create hair-like strokes. It's ideal for those with thin or sparse eyebrows looking for a natural appearance, as it mimics the look of real hair.

- Powder Brows: Unlike microblading, powder brows create a soft, shaded, and powdered effect, almost like using makeup powder. This method is done using a machine and is perfect for individuals seeking a more defined or "filled-in" look.

- Nano Brows: Similar to microblading, nano brows also focus on creating hair-like strokes but use a digital machine with ultra-fine needles. This method offers more precision and can be more suitable for people with oily skin or those wanting a longer-lasting solution. Each technique has its own set of benefits, and our expert team at Golden Compass can help you decide which one aligns best with your desired look and skin type. Contact us for a consultation to find your perfect brow solution.

Microblading and permanent makeup typically last between 1 to 3 years, depending on various factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and aftercare. Oily skin types may experience faster fading, while dry skin types may retain the pigment longer. Regular touch-ups are recommended to maintain the desired look.

The level of discomfort experienced during microblading or permanent makeup procedures varies from person to person. Most clients report feeling minimal pain, often described as a slight scratching sensation. Topical anesthetics are applied before and during the procedure to ensure maximum comfort. If you have concerns about pain, discuss them with your technician beforehand.

Yes, you can get microblading or permanent makeup during menopause. However, hormonal changes during menopause can affect your skin's sensitivity and healing process. It's important to discuss any concerns with your technician and ensure you follow proper aftercare instructions to achieve the best results.

If you have high blood pressure, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before getting microblading or permanent makeup. While high blood pressure itself may not be a direct contraindication, certain medications used to manage the condition, such as blood thinners, can affect the procedure and healing process. Always inform your technician about your medical history and any medications you are taking.

If you are not satisfied with your microblading or permanent makeup, there are several options available. First, communicate your concerns with your technician, as they may be able to make adjustments during a follow-up appointment. If further correction is needed, techniques such as color correction or removal procedures can be considered. It's important to choose a qualified and experienced technician to minimize the risk of dissatisfaction.

While microblading and permanent makeup are generally safe procedures, some side effects may occur during or after the procedure. Common side effects include redness, swelling, and minor discomfort in the treated area. These symptoms typically subside within a few days. In rare cases, infection or allergic reactions may occur. It's important to follow aftercare instructions provided by your technician to minimize the risk of complications.

While allergic reactions to pigments used in microblading and permanent makeup are rare, they can occur. It's important to inform your technician of any known allergies or sensitivities before the procedure. A patch test can be performed to check for any adverse reactions to the pigments. Always choose a qualified and experienced technician who uses high-quality, hypoallergenic pigments to minimize the risk of allergies.

While microblading and permanent makeup are generally safe procedures, there is a possibility for medical problems, especially if proper aftercare is not followed. Potential issues include infection, allergic reactions, and scarring. It's crucial to choose a qualified and experienced technician and to follow all aftercare instructions to minimize these risks. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, consult with your healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure.

A touch-up is a follow-up appointment typically scheduled 4-6 weeks after your initial microblading or permanent makeup procedure. During this session, your technician will assess the healed results and make any necessary adjustments to the color, shape, or density. Touch-ups are important to ensure the longevity and desired appearance of your permanent makeup. Most clients require at least one touch-up to achieve optimal results.

A: Yes, this is perfectly normal. It is absolutely normal as the skin is actively repairing itself. New skin cells have been formed under the scabs and they are more dense and opaque. The pigment color under them looks very pale or almost invisible. Don't worry—this is part of the natural healing process. The pigment will clarify and the final color will become apparent in 1 – 2 months. If you have any concerns during your healing process, feel free to contact our Golden Compass team for support and guidance.

A: At Golden Compass, our permanent makeup artists work collaboratively with clients to determine the best eyebrow shape tailored to their unique facial features. We begin with a consultation where the artist carefully assesses your face shape, bone structure, and natural eyebrow contour. After this assessment, the artist will pre-draw different eyebrow shapes directly on your skin using a cosmetic pencil. This allows you to see how various shapes and styles complement your face. You will have the opportunity to review these options and provide feedback on what you find most flattering. We make adjustments as needed until you are fully satisfied with the design. The actual tattooing process will only commence once you have approved the final shape, ensuring that you are completely confident and comfortable with the outcome. This meticulous and transparent approach exemplifies our commitment to delivering personalized and satisfying results.

A: This is a myth. At Golden Compass, we can assure you that during the powder brows procedure, the needle used does not reach deep enough to affect the hair follicle, and therefore it does not prevent hair growth or cause the hair to grow in a different direction. Although the procedure can influence hair growth in certain positive ways, it generally just enhances the natural brow appearance. Strangely enough, in most cases after the treatment, clients often notice that their brow hair appears healthier and more robust due to the semi-permanent makeup providing a form of protection and conditioning to the skin beneath. Rest assured, our professional and experienced team ensures that all procedures are carried out with precision and care, aiming for the best possible results without compromising your natural hair growth.

A: At Golden Compass, we understand that the longevity of your cosmetic tattooing is a crucial concern. While traces of permanent makeup can sometimes last for up to 10 years, the vibrant and intended results generally last from 6 months to 1.5 years with one touch-up procedure. Several factors can influence this duration: 1. Skin Type: Oily skin types tend to break down pigments faster than dry skin. 2. Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV rays without proper protection can fade the pigments more quickly. 3. Skin Care Products: Using exfoliating products or those containing retinol and glycolic acid can accelerate fading. 4. Lifestyle: Activities such as swimming frequently in chlorinated water or engaging in high-intensity workouts can affect how long the results last. 5. Age: As we age, our skin's cellular turnover rate changes, which can impact the longevity of the cosmetic tattoo. 6. Color and Technique Used: Lighter colors fade faster than darker ones, and the specific technique applied by our specialists also plays a role. To maintain your desired look, we recommend a touch-up every 6 months to 1.5 years. Our team at Golden Compass is always here to provide the best advice and follow-up services to ensure your permanent makeup looks fresh and beautiful for as long as possible.

A: At Golden Compass, we understand the importance of feeling confident in your permanent makeup. Unfortunately, covering up dark pigments with lighter or flesh-colored pigments is not an effective solution. When attempting to lighten dark pigments, there is a high risk of blending, resulting in an undesired and unpredictable outcome. For optimal results, we recommend first removing the existing darker pigment through professional removal techniques, such as laser tattoo removal or saline removal. Once the existing pigment is sufficiently lightened or removed, we can then proceed with applying a new, precisely designed permanent makeup to meet your aesthetic goals. Our experienced specialists at Golden Compass are committed to providing safe, effective, and personalized solutions to ensure you leave our studio feeling satisfied with your new look. Please feel free to book a consultation with us to discuss your specific needs and the best course of action tailored to your situation.

The duration of a permanent makeup procedure varies depending on the service. Generally, it can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours.

After your procedure, keep the area clean and dry. Avoid touching the area with unwashed hands, and do not apply makeup on the treated area until it is fully healed. Follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by your technician.

Yes, we offer consultations to discuss your desired look, answer any questions, and determine the best approach for your permanent makeup procedure.