FAQ

Cosmetic tattooing, semi-permanent makeup or micropigmentation is the process of implanting pigment beneath the surface of the skin using a tiny, sterile needle to produce the appearance of hair strokes, makeup, or to enhance the natural features of the face, such as the brows and lips. 

It is important to know that while the intention of cosmetic tattooing is to be semi-permanent, any tattoo has the potential to be permanent. The cosmetic tattoo technique uses special pigments rather than ink which are typically less permanent, and enhance the client’s appearance without appearing forced or unnatural. 

More about our Techniques

Cosmetic tattooing is softer and more subtle than traditional body tattooing and is used to enhance the natural features of the face. The cosmetic tattoo procedures we offer are created with a digital cosmetic tattoo device, known as Nano, instead of a traditional tattoo machine. Cosmetic tattoo artists also use iron oxide-based pigments instead of traditional tattoo ink, which are designed to enhance the client’s appearance subtly, while also fading overtime, unlike traditional tattoo inks. This allows the cosmetic tattoo artist to make changes to color and shape over time as the client's natural coloration and facial changes occur, and what is in style evolves.

Nano micropigmentation allows cosmetic tattoo artists to gently replicate authentic-appearing hair strands by injecting microdots of pigment into the skin with extremely small needles. With traditional microblading, the tool is made up of stiff needles that cut the skin in long hair-like patterns to place pigment, which leaves the skin compromised overtime.

More about the precise process of Nano

The beauty of micropigmentation and using a cosmetic tattoo device is that most brow designs are done using the same nano needle, just using a different design method (think winged liner vs smokey eye). It is important to note that all techniques are designed by the artists at Her Velvet Hand to heal in the most natural looking outcome. It is really dependent on your overall goals.

The hair stroke technique mimics the appearance of individual hair strokes. This technique is ideal for those wanting to fill in sparse brows or for a very low maintenance enhancement. Although the addition of hairstrokes alone may replace the need to fill in your brows on a daily basis, this technique will not replace your makeup. The hairstroke technique is best for guests with normal to dry, non porous or oily skin types. Oily skin types may not hold as crisp of a stroke when healed.

The powder technique is designed to leave a soft powdery makeup look. This technique is ideal for all skin types, but especially for oily/combination skins. If you have a full dense brow to begin with, this technique is ideal for you as your natural hair will create that hyper-realistic look when healed.

The combination technique involves a mixture or hairstrokes and powder shading. This is the most popular style today. This technique is suitable for all skin types, can fill in sparse brows, provide longer lasting definition and replace the need for filling in your brows.

More about our Techniques & Services

During your consultation, we will analyze your skin's undertone to anticipate how pigment colors will fade over time. We will also mix pigments to ensure the colour blends perfectly with your existing eyebrow and hair color.

The majority of our clients' tattoos stay true to color and lighten naturally over time. However, in some cases colors may fade to different tones according to the individual’s response to the pigments. Many factors affect these changes such as lifestyle, aftercare and even iron deficiencies.

At your follow-up appointment, we will analyze how your body has responded to the initial color. At this time we will create special formula alterations to correct any color changes, patchiness or lightness which commonly occurs and prevent them in the future.

Your eyebrow tattoo will eventually look softer and have a more "powdered" look. This happens with all clients as the skin ages over time. To keep your results looking their absolute best, a touch-up appointment is suggested every 1-2 years depending on your skin and aesthetic desires.

You will have input every step of the way as our process is collaborative and incredibly personalized. Of course, we will not begin tattooing until you have approved the shape, color and style of your cosmetic tattoo.

We approach every client uniquely

What you can expect with Her Velvet Hand

Cosmetic tattooing is a beautiful solution for those who want to enhance the appearance of realistic-looking brows, lips and hairline. However, cosmetic tattooing isn’t the right solution for everyone due to specific health reasons or other causes.

Learn if cosmetic tattooing is right for you

If you have had your eyebrows previously tattooed, we require photos to be submitted prior to your consultation. Please take a close-up image of your entire face without makeup in natural and full light, and submit it upon booking your consultation. We cannot guarantee certain results for clients who have existing cosmetic tattoos. In some instances where the previous work is too dark, dense, discolored or large, tattoo removal or lightening will be highly recommended before our services will be considered.

For previous lip tattoos, we do not touch up other artists' work. We only work on natural lips that have not been tattooed.

Previously tattooed areas will almost always require additional sessions and will be charged accordingly. Some special cases may be considered. Please contact us with any further questions at info@hervelvethand.com.

Learn more about our Cosmetic Tattoo Removal Service

Lightening procedures are available and while highly effective, total elimination can never be guaranteed and may take anywhere from 2-10 sessions to achieve desired results. Our method is Saline Tattoo Lightening because it is the least abrasive to the skin and creates better results over time. A consultation is required prior to booking your first appointment so we can understand your goals and create a plan for your procedure prior to beginning the process.

Learn more about our Saline Tattoo Removal Service

For the best results for your new tattoo, please plan to carefully follow our Before & After Care Instructions. Before your consultation, review them fully so you are prepared for your procedure day and the healing days that follow.

Before & After Care Instructions

With Nano, very small microneedles are used which should feel much less painful than a regular tattoo. Our clients have related the procedure to eyebrow threading, plucking multiple hairs at once, or a light scratching of the skin. We also apply a topical anesthetic (5% lidocaine ointment) and an additional numbing agent to help make you as comfortable as possible.

Learn more about the procedure process

What to expect during your appointment

You can expect the entire treatment process to last approximately four hours. The entire tattooing procedure is completed in one appointment typically depending on the procedure.

Feel prepared for your appointment day

What To Expect

Children are not permitted in the studio due to Health Department Laws. We love kids but please find a sitter for your child during your tattoo appointment.

The tattooed area will appear thicker and darker than expected for the first few days after the procedure. This will gradually lighten while the tattoo goes through the complete healing process. You can expect some dry skin and flakiness while your new cosmetic tattoo heals, which can last up to two weeks. If you are familiar with healing traditional tattoos, you will find that healing cosmetic tattoos is very similar. Clients will receive detailed aftercare instructions during their procedure to guide you through this process.

We recommend going makeup free for at least 10-14 days after the procedure. Any cosmetics (foundation, powder, moisturizer, primer, etc.) can affect the way the pigment heals in your skin. This is ultimately your decision as we understand we all have different personal circumstances but we ask that you take this recommendation into careful consideration.

More about the healing & recovery process

Absolutely! We pride ourselves on having an immaculate and sterile studio space. We only practice with single-use, disposable needles and supplies. This means each set-up for a new client is safely discarded afterwards. Each of our stations are thoroughly disinfected before opening, closing and throughout the day every day, and before and after each appointment, the stations are thoroughly cleansed again with EPA-registered disinfectants and wipes.

Handwashing stations are readily available and encouraged for our guests and artists to use prior and after their appointment. Each member of our staff has taken the latest certifications in Infection Control & Prevention. We are Blood Borne Pathogens-Certified and obtain a license with the Texas Department of State Health Services.

As professionals, we have always used Universal Precaution (acting on the assumption that any person is contagious) when interacting with our guests. In addition to our sterile space, each artist wears the appropriate protective gear including disposable face masks and nitrile gloves to ensure all safety measures are being followed.

Since COVID-19, we have been extra diligent in maintaining a safe and ultra-sterile environment to ensure the safety of our staff and our guests.