When women walk in to 3D Volume Lash & Brow Studio wanting their lashes done, they usually have a specific “look” in mind….but they really haven’t thought about it past the “length” and what THEIR idea of “natural” is so as a lash artist—part of my job is understand what they may not know how to communicate.

There are sooooo many different considerations other than length because once I understand “the look” she wants, I have to be able to look at the state of her own natural lashes and calculate exactly what its going to take to get her there and every woman is different…..you have to consider the weight, the fullness, and the curl, style, the type, and the overall design and how that’s going to translate on HER lash line.

I put together this little lash “primer” with pictures to give you an idea of HOW to communicate exactly what you want:

There are FOUR different types of Lash Extensions: Strips, Clusters, Classic and, Volume. They can be combined in multiple ways to produce any classic, hybrid, or volumized style you can imagine.

1. Strip Lash Extensions - Lashes are packed as a strip, then the strip is glued to the client’s eyelashes. The result is a thicker lash line which some people feel are artificial looking when compared to the Cluster Lash Extensions. Strip Lashes are also known as “party lashes” and were invented to be worn on the weekends, or for special occasions.

2. Cluster Lash Extensions - Premade fans with multiple eyelashes on them which are glued onto several of the client’s natural eyelashes at one time. Cluster Lash Extensions were created for “daily wear” and easily filled as they shed out.

3. Classic Lash Extensions - Extensions of silk, mink, sable, or fox where the attachment of 1 extension is applied to 1 natural eyelash. The result is an enhanced lash line with a natural and realistic appearance. We recommend Classic Lashes to those who want their lashes to look beautiful yet natural. Classic lashes are much safer, and more durable than either strip or cluster lashes.

4. Volume Lash Extension - Volume Lashes are multiple (2 - 6) LIGHTWEIGHT eyelashes attached to one, individually ISOLATED eyelash which creates a more voluminous look….for example, if the client has 50 natural lashes and opts for a 2D look—she will have 100 longer, curlier lashes at the end of the service. If she chose 3D she would have 150, 4D = 200, all the way up to 6D for 300 lashes INSTEAD of her natural 50.. For that reason, volume lash extensions tend to be the longest-lasting of all types eyelash extensions.

Types of Materials Used:

Silk -  Silk eyelash extensions are glossy and dramatic.

Faux Mink - Faux mink extensions  are pre-treated with a semi-gloss are rich in color and cast a light shimmer along the lash line.  Dramatic and beautiful.

Mink -   100% genuine Mink is the standard "go to" for lash extensions. Mink lashes have a naturally matte finish, are flexible and hold their curl over the length of wearing them. They are soft and specifically designed to create a stronger lift to open the eyes. Mink has a slightly firmer curl, are tapered and have the option of being available in a Semi-Gloss finish for a mascara look. Our lashes are Ultra light weight, have a Deep rich black color and are available in all curl patterns.

Sable Mink - 100% Genuine Sable Mink is a Luxury Lash. Slightly softer curl than standard Mink lashes. Sable is delicately tapered with a Matte-Velvet finish for a natural look. Sable is the Ultimate "Natural Look" for a set of lashes.

Siberian Mink - Natural chocolate color. Extremely soft, luxurious--Perfect for natural blondes/platinum blondes or brunettes.

Fox - Soft, lush, thick & fluffy Fox lashes can provide a thicker, "feathered" appearance and come in a choice of two colors:  (1) Natural Autumn/Red (Perfect for natural red heads/strawberry blondes and,  (2) Black

Rainbow Lashes- Made from PBT fiber and come in an array of colors: Autumn, Purple, Violet, Red, Blue, Green & two-toned colors.

Glitter Lashes - Made from PBT fiber. Fun, flirty and glittery. Come in various colors: Silver, Gold, Purple, Red, Pink, Blue. 

Swarkovsky Lashes - Made from PBT fiber w/swarkovsky gems in various colors: Diamond, Sapphire, Ruby, Jade, Garnett, Pearl, black Onyx. bras

“…that look you give the nail lady when she asks if you want your brows done….”

― Beyoncé Knowles

What’s the difference between Permanent Makeup and Micro-blading?

Our skin has three essential layers. From outwards in, they are known as the epidermis, dermis, and hypo dermis (also called the subcutaneous tissue). The epidermis is the most superficial layer of skin, ranging from 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm thick. According to general guidelines and word of mouth, permanent makeup penetrates into the dermis and sometimes even to the subcutis.

Permanent makeup is a cosmetic technique that employs tattoos (permanent pigmentation of the dermis) as a means of producing designs that resemble makeup, such as eyeliner and other permanent enhancing colors to the skin of the face, lips, and eyelids, lasting up to about 5 years.

 3D Volume Lash & Brow Studio specializes in both Natural Brow Restoration and cosmetic Tattooing and has found the knowledge of both these components of beauty to be priceless in making an informed decision with clients about the future of their brows!

Because brow styles change ever few years (thin is in, then thick, then natural)Microblading is a popular semi-permanent solution to address many different concerns. From clients who have no brow hair at all, to camouflaging scars, or simply adding color and definition, microblading works for everyone.

The difference is in the technique being used.

“Microshading” gives the affect of having your brows tinted. It provides a light, almost imperceptible “background” color to give brows new shape and definition and lasts up to 9 months.

“Brow Embroidery” provides hair strokes to fill in sparse areas for natural looking brows. Touch ups may be required every 2 years

“Powder Brows” gives the affect of having full brow makeup coverage.

“Ombre Brows” gives the affect of having 3D makeup coverage, uses 2 - 3 shades of pigment and has the longest lasting time because the pigment is pushed deeper into the skin.

FADE Permanent Makeup & Tattoos

PMU & Tattoo removal doesnt have to be painful but it CAN take more than one session to complete..

*TX State Law strictly Prohibits any permanent makeup services to Minors

Permanent Makeup has but one purpose and that is to create a long-lasting aesthetically pleasing illusion and should be your final option. While the tools, pigments and, even the procedure itself might be considered expensive—the benefits are priceless. Having 3D Brows will not change the fact that you will still need to probably maintain your existing brow hairs with colour and shape to enhance your implanted color.

Other Permanent Makeup procedures offered at this clinic:

Lip Liner: Defines lips, Makes thick lips appear thinner, Makes thin lips appear fuller & shapelier, Creates a smooth shape out of uneven lips, “Blocks” lipstick from running or seeping into fine smile lines around the lip area, Camouflages scars.

Eyeliner: Defines the eye, Doesn't smear, draws attention to the eyes making lashes look lush and, can be used to enhance or even change the eye's shape.

3D Brows: Sculpt & Define the brow Arch, Fills in sparse/thinning areas revealing a fuller,  more youthful brow, can Create a nonsurgical eye “lift”, Can create an entire brow for alopecia sufferers or chemotherapy patients.

Understanding the Permanent Cosmetic Process:

It is important that clients are well informed of the changes that occur in the appearance of procedures immediately after the procedure is conducted and afterwards during the healing process. Often the initial intense, or fresh, appearance of the procedural area is the primary concern. Understanding why the procedural area appears somewhat darker at first and knowing that this is temporary and predictable helps deal with the process. Although the skin tissue in various locations of the face is different, there are some commonalties that apply to all facial permanent cosmetic procedures:

Swelling

The body sends lymphatic fluids to the site to provide the body’s unique healing fluids. Histamines results in a swelling(usually only slightly) of the tissue, thus bringing the compromised skin together closer in proximity to assist closing the wound site. The degree of swelling which is normally is not easily noticeable in regard to eyebrow procedures, varies from person to person. If you do experience any noticeable swelling, this is temporary and an application of a cooling compress is recommended.

Initial Darker Appearance of the Procedural Area:          

All permanent cosmetic procedures will initially appear somewhat darker or “fresh” as I refer to this condition than the subsequently healed version. The following explanations will provide the reason why this is so:

To apply pigment in the upper dermis location of the skin, it is necessary to implant through the top layers of the skin, the epidermis. The epidermis layers of the skin collects and then exfoliates dead skin cells as new cells are produced. As the dead skin cells in the epidermis layer of the skin are exfoliated, tiny particles of pigment that are trapped in the epidermis are also discarded with the dead skin cells. When the total process is complete only the pigment in the dermis will remain. As a result, the density of the pigment is less and the appearance of the healed procedure naturally appears lighter. Also, these new skin cells cover the procedural area veiling the procedure and causing it to be less visible than when initially implanted.

Lips procedures produce the most dramatic pigment color changes of the three commonly performed procedures, eyebrows, eyeliners, and lip color. Due to the fact that the lips tissue characteristics do not have pores or oil glands, they are the first to expel excess pigment, normally 50% to 70% of the applied pigment within three to four days after the initial procedure was conducted. The appearance of pigment lightening in the eyebrow and eyeliner areas is less noticeable, and normally can be effectively seen in 5 to 10 days depending on the client’s age. 

Once the outer barrier of the skin is compromised (broken) the body will immediately detect a wound that requires healing. As a result, body fluids are sent to cleanse the wound from the inside out. These body fluids include a small amount of blood. Blood is red when it oxidizes with air, and red is the second strongest primary color and causes the procedural area to appear darker for a few days.

The skin surrounding the procedure site has been traumatized, which produces additional circulation under the skin. This blood flow causes the surrounding skin to appear red and irritated, which affects the appearance of darkness of the procedural area. As irritation subsides, the area begins to appear lighter in color.

Although technically the healing process may sound complicated, consider that this same process is something we all go through with everyday skin compromises i.e., minor cuts and scratches, it just sounds more dramatic when put in a text format.

Additional Resources:

http://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-looks/beauty/is-the-eyebrow-embroidery-beauty-trend-safe/

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-eyebrow-embroidery.htm

http://browsandlash.com.au/service/eyebrow-embroidery/

 "But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering." 

-- KJV 1 Cor. 11:15

Male AND female pattern baldness (also called androgenic alopecia)is related to your genes and sex hormones and usually follows a pattern of receding hairline and hair thinning on the crown. 

HF HAIR FOLLICLE THERAPY

HF Hair Follicle Therapy is a hair growth treatment that makes use of low-current and high-frequencies that stimulate hair growth and solve other hair related problems. It cures dandruff, hair falling and alopecia, and is also effective at reducing the inflammation in keloids.

It is carried out by treating the affected area with high-frequency infra and ultra-rays at 250,000 Hz frequency with a hollow glass electrode that generates the stimulating current.

There is also an ultra-ray treatment that is sometimes used to activate rays from a distance with the help of a bulb. The procedure is also known to help with the natural exfoliation of skin while stimulating sebaceous glands.

This treatment works best when performed for a minimum of 12 continuous sittings to a maximum of 48, which must be done 2 - 3x per week. However, even after the treatment is done, it should not be completely stopped.

SCALP MICRO PIGMENTATION

In cases where the hair follicles are so badly damaged and cannot be stimulated for regrowth, Scalp Micro pigmentation is an excellent “Plan B”. Essentially, it is permanent makeup for your scalp. It is an ideal solution to dramatically increase not only your hair’s perceived density, but your overall level of confidence.

Pigments created for this treatment ARE NOT INK! They are specially formulated to remain true to the original color and will not turn blue/green/grey etc.

Depending on your balding pattern, it can be made to mimic actual hairs OR actual fullness to the thinning area so after years of covering up with wigs, weaves, scarves, hats, etc. women and men who suffer from alopecia due to traction or health reasons can wear their own hair again.

IT’S ALMOST SUMMERTIME!!!

Many People ask: “Does Waist Training really work”?

Yes….but how WELL your waist trainer works is dependent on a few factors. Here are just a few:

How long you wear a corset each day?

How many days per week you wear a corset?

How tightly laced the corset is?

Are you following a weight loss regimen?

An instant hourglass figure is only the beginning of the benefits….

Traditionally "waist training" referred to the use of steel boned corsets to develop an exaggerated hourglass shape. By cinching a corset tighter and tighter, the waist trainer corset was able to pull in the floating ribs and even do a bit of rearranging of her internal organs to effectively reduce the circumference of her waist. The effect was semi-permanent, requiring continued corseting even after the goal reduction has been achieved.

More recently, celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Amber Rose have redefined the term with the use of latex waist cinchers during workouts, shifting the entire concept of waist training (we refer to this practice as "waist taming").

Women discussing "waist training" these days are, more often than not, likely discussing it as a part of their workout plan.

What about men?

Waist trimmer belts and waist trainers are different types of products. While the waist trainer is strictly used to reduce the size of the waist and create a more feminine figure, the waist trimmer belt is to be used during workouts.

A waist trimmer is usually made of a material like neoprene. These materials have insulating qualities and they increase the temperature of the body during a workout. People that wear a waist trimmer belt while exercising are likely to sweat more, which leads to the rapid and easy loss of water weight.

Maintaining high temperature throughout the workout will also make it easier to burn the belly fat. You probably know that the adipose tissue in this part of the body is incredibly stubborn and difficult to eliminate. Intense workout and the use of waist trimmers, however, can simplify the process and deliver faster results than exercising alone.

Wearing a waist trimmer belt can give men access to a few additional benefits that go beyond rapid fat loss.

These garments are particularly suitable for weight lifters and bodybuilders. A waist trimmer belt provides some support to the abdominal and the lower back muscles. This support is great for reducing the risk of injuries or muscle strain during intense sessions. Even people that have previously experienced trauma can rely on a waist trimmer belt to make their workouts safer.

The warming effect of the trimmer belt is very therapeutic. It reduces the soreness of the muscles and speeds up the recovery after intense workout sessions. Thus, every man can benefit from such garments. They’re ideal for beginners who aren’t used to a lot if physical activity and for the individuals that are dedicated bodybuilding enthusiasts.

Transepidermal water loss (TEWL or TWL) is the loss of water that passes from inside a body through the epidermis to the surrounding atmosphere via the process of diffusion and evaporation.

….sounds pretty simple and straightforward until you realize that THIS is the key to ALL of our skin issues.

Water loss and how the body decides to correct the problem—because that “correction” removes moisture from another area, when then causes OTHER problems and before you know it, you’re suffering from acne, eczema, psoriasis, wrinkles, dark spots, etc….

All because of water loss.

Have you ever wondered when you should start using certain anti-aging ingredients?

Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, are the most important ones but while it’s unlikely that using a product too early will have negative long-term consequences for your skin, there’s no point in paying out good money on anything your complexion doesn’t really need just yet. Instead, you should develop a good game plan—a strategy for when you’re going to introduce certain ingredients into your morning and nighttime routines for optimal skin care.

Instead of waiting until AFTER your skin is aged—be pre-emptive, start preparing BEFORE it develops and keep your skin from showing signs of aging for as long as possible—THAT’S what “anti-aging” should be about!

1. Hyaluronic Acid

Use it to: Hydrate the skin

Best age to start: 20

Signs you need it: When you start seeing fine lines under your eyes. At a young age, these suggest dehydration.

Buy it in a serum form as it absorbs quicker into the skin. This is also better for young skin, which may be more prone to breakouts. 

2. Retinol

Use it to: Stimulate elastin and collagen

Best age to start: 25 (This is when elastin production starts to slow down.)

Signs you need it: When you start seeing dynamic wrinkles—these are the lines you get when your muscles contract, such as frown lines, crow’s feet or laughter lines.

3. Vitamin C

Use it for: Brightening the skin and protecting against environmental damage such as UV rays, pollution and free radicals

Best age to start: 18

Signs you need it: Brown spots appearing on the skin from sun exposure, skin losing its glow, red marks left from breakouts which are not healing as quickly as they used to 

HEALTHY SKIN

‘Goldenseal’ is widely grown but most of us are woefully unaware of its very existence but it addresses and corrects MANY common skincare issues:

1. Golden Seal is a Natural Acne Remedy

For thousands of years Goldenseal was the trusted remedy for acne. It was used to treat skin ulcers, rashes, abrasions, various swelling and inflammation of ALL TYPES. It is gentle on the skin, and effectively treats acne with NO SIDE EFFECTS.

2. Golden Seal Treats Skin Disorders.

Recently, the latest Harvard studies came to terms with the fact that golden seal is NOT “a folk remedy” and indeed, DOES HAVE MEDICINAL VALUE and can be used to treat a myriad of skin disorders effectively.

This herb is now widely used as an active ingredient in various medicines that are used to treat ECZEMA, ITCHING, HERPES, BLISTERS, and SORES.

3. Golden Seal is an All Natural Antiseptic.

The next time you break the skin while squeezing a pimple—try using AUTHENTIC, ORGANIC Golden Seal. In addition to all of its other qualities and skincare benefits it has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties and can be used to treat most open wounds without apprehension.

Egyptian Chamomile

Chamomile has a very long and stellar reputation for healing, and with good reason. It is prepared from dried flowers and it brings an oasis of calm and tranquility,". Chamomile contains Chamazulene, a chemical compound that possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antispasmodic properties so its very soothing….very calming to any type of skin eruptions and heals skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema when steroids and creams won’t work..

Chamomile helps fade spots, eliminates acne scars and fights breakouts,

Use regularly and often with NO side effects.

Essential Oils:

Tea Tree Oil - EXCELLENT for acne, reduces the itching and irritation of eczema and dry skin, and also soothes painful and irritated skin due to inflammation.

Sweet Orange Oil - Is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory but it’s not just for acne-prone skin: It's been shown to increase the ability to absorb vitamin C, collagen production, and blood flow, all of which are essential for anti-aging.

Lemon Oil - A good astringent, detoxifying in nature and rejuvenates sagging or tired-looking skin. Its antiseptic properties help in treating pimples and various other skin disorders. Also recommended for reducing excessive oil on the skin.

Lavender Oil - Helps reduce redness, blotchy patches, and acne scarring. Lavender oil's anti-inflammatory properties make it great for soothing and healing skin that's irritated or reddened from the sun, insect bites, or bacteria.

Eucalyptus Oil - A natural antiseptic with antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties making it highly effective in treating wounds, minor cuts, acne, boils, insect bites, and skin infections.

Frankincense Oil - Is tried and true Anti-Aging and Wrinkle Fighter. Frankincense essential oil is a powerful astringent, meaning it helps protect skin cells. It can be used to help reduce acne blemishes, the appearance of large pores, prevents wrinkles, and even helps lift and tighten skin to naturally slow the signs of aging.

Cinnamon Oil - An effective natural remedy for inflammatory skin concerns like rashes and acne.

Peppermint - Has soothing and cooling abilities that freshen the skin. It also has properties that facilitate oil secretion, making it an effective component against acne.

Chamomile Oil - A natural remedy for eczema.

Aloe Oil - Helps the skin heal from sunburn quickly due to its antioxidant properties.

Cassia Oil - Protects the skin and can be used to naturally treat acne, heal cuts and sores, naturally remedy rashes and treat skin irritations.

Cedarwood - Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It may reduce the appearance of scars, treat minor wounds, alleviate arthritis pain, and sooth symptoms of eczema.

Cypress Oil - Decongests skin, addresses skin discoloration and puffiness, also calms inflamed skin and provides astringent properties for more accelerated skin tissue healing. Also an astringent, providing antibacterial support to the skin.

Hyssop Oil - Helps fade marks and reduce signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles. Hyssop essential oil can also help reduce the appearance and symptoms of skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

Myrrh Oil - Reduces inflammation, stimulates the immune system, alleviates pain, and promotes wound healing. Sometimes used as an ingredient in skincare products, myrrh essential oil is also purported to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Myrtle Oil - Address oily skin, open pores, sagging skin, and acne. 

Onycha Oil - Tones up the muscles and the skin. If mixed with water and used as a mouthwash, it also tightens the gums. This astringent property is very helpful for face-lifting and for the reduction of wrinkles on the skin.

Rose of Sharon Oil - Wonderful on “mature” skin.

Now that you have your beautiful lash extensions, microbladed Brows, or Skin Tightening session completed you will need to follow some simple aftercare rules.

Eyelash Extensions:

Remember, just like nails, your natural lashes grow, and this means that your set will start to look less full over the weeks. After 2 – 3 weeks you will require a maintenance appointment, if you wish to keep them looking their best. You will see your eyelash extensions naturally shedding daily, so do not be alarmed as this is perfectly normal. Your natural eyelashes do this every day, but you just cannot see them.

Clients returning for infills must return with at least 50% of their set remaining, otherwise this will be classed as a full set and the full set fee will apply. Clients that attempt to return for an infill outside of the designated infill time frame set by their lash artist, may be charged for a full set of eyelash extensions due to the additional work now required to rectify the set.

At an infill we remove extensions that have grown out and twisted, and replace those extensions that have naturally shed with your natural lashes.

Humans shed approximately 2-5 natural eyelashes per upper lid, per eye, per day (lets average this at 3 per day), and your lash artist will apply approximately 100 extensions to the suitable natural lashes of each eye, therefore you will see the following general loss patterns:

After 7 days you will lose 21 extensions

After 14 days you will lose 42 extensions

After 21 days you will lose 63 extensions

Therefore after 3 weeks you may have lost over half your set.

It is normal to lose up to 5 extensions per eye within the first 24 hours, do not worry.

Now you can see why your lashes, just like your nails, have to be maintained to keep them looking their best; because eyelashes grow and shed daily!

Eyelash Aftercare Rules

Eyelash adhesive actually takes 24 hours to completely cure and therefore, the first 24 hours are the most important time to ensure that your lashes will last.

Do not get your extensions wet for the first 24 hours – exposing your new extensions to any moisture such as steam, high humidity and water, will result in the lash glue over-curing and becoming brittle, and your extensions will fall off within a few days.

After 24 hours please keep your extensions clean – clean them gently, as instructed by your lash technician and with a designated lash cleanser. Bodily oils that travel onto your extensions will break down adhesive if not removed by cleaning. Failure to clean your lashes will not only result in poor retention, but the build up of bacteria, and can lead to eye infections.

Keep oil based products away from your extensions, and limit the use of oily products on your face if possible. Oily products are absorbed into the skin and these then leave your body through pores in your skin, including your eyelids. This oil can travel onto the extensions and break down the glue.

Brush your extensions at least 4-5 times a day to keep them looking neat, tidy and uniformed.

Do not pick or pull at your extensions. The adhesive, although safe to use, is very strong and picking or pulling will pull your natural lashes out.

Do not sleep on your face. Your extensions are delicate, so ‘face planting’ in your pillow will cause your extensions to fall out where they are being rubbed out in the night.

Always return for infills within the time set by your therapist, leave them to fall out naturally, or get them removed professionally. Never attempt to remove the extensions yourself.

NEVER apply mascara or liquid or gel eyeliner to your extensions or upper eyelid. Both will adhere to the extensions, cannot be safely cleansed off and will create a breeding ground for bacteria. If you ignore this rule then you may be charged for a removal and full set.

Always arrive with clean extensions. The job or your lash artist is not to clean your lashes due to the lack of client aftercare. Unclean extensions will either require a full removal for client safety, an additional cleansing fee, or less lashing time due to the cleaning time needed.

Microbladed Eyebrows, Eyeliner, Lips, etc

In general, taking care of the area of skin where microblading took place is similar to tattoo care, if a bit more intensive. The pigment immediately following the procedure will appear quite dark, and the skin underneath will be red. About two hours after microblading, you should run a wet cotton swab that has been dipped in sterilized water over the area. This will get rid of any excess dye that’s on your brows. It will also keep the area sterile. It will take anywhere from 7-14 days for the skin to begin to appear healed and for the pigment to fade to its regular shade.

Follow these steps to properly take care of your skin after microblading:

1. Avoid getting the area wet for up to 10 days, which includes keeping your face dry during a shower.

2. Don’t wear makeup for at least a week. This is because the pigments are still settling in to the shallow cuts in your skin caused by the blading.

3. Don’t pick at scabs, tug, or itch the eyebrow area.

4. Avoid saunas, swimming, and excessive sweating until the area is completely healed and you have a follow-up appointment.

5. Keep your hair away from your brow line.

6. Apply any medicated cream or healing balm provided by your technician as directed.

Most technicians recommend getting a “touch-up” of your microbladed eyebrows at least once a year. This touch-up will involve adding pigment to the outline of the brows that you have already.

After your skin is fully healed, you’ll want to protect your microblading investment by taking care of your skin. Applying a sunscreen to the microbladed area may help prevent fading. Like similar cosmetic treatments — such as eyebrow tattooing — microblading is permanent but will fade. Fading may occur at a faster rate than brow tattooing due to the smaller amount of pigment used. Two years after your initial procedure, you’ll most likely have to repeat the procedure in its entirety.

Skin Tightening Aftercare:

Following good and consistent aftercare will help ensure the best outcome to your treatment investment!  Be patient, be diligent!  

*Please remember it takes a FULL 8 WEEKS to see final result.  After dots shed, the skin may appear healed, but that is just the beginning as the skin underneath does its work.   It takes 4 weeks for collagen and elastin production to BEGIN!  Be patient!

1. Always keep the area clean to avoid infections until the carbon crusts (scabs) have formed and exfoliated on their own.  Removing the scabs prematurely will result in scarring.

2. The are will feel like a mild-moderate sunburn but if necessary, you may Ice the treated area (use a clean tea towel/paper towel to cover the ice pack each use) alternating 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off for up to 1 hour for the first 2 days.

3. Keep the treated area clean using a mild unscented glycerin or Dove unscented soap 2x day (morning & night).  Gently splash the area with cool water and very gently cleanse with soap and rinse thoroughly.  Use very mild/gentle pressure when cleansing the area.  DRY VERY WELL – PAT DRY- KEEP DRY!  Make sure the skin feels dry and tight before applying aftercare spray then allow to air dry. Repeat daily as this will help relieve pain/itching each day until your scabs fall off on their own.

• IMPORTANT!  Allow scabs to come off on their own.  This will ensure the best possible healed result and avoid scarring and infection.  Do NOT pick for any reason!

• Do not apply makeup (even mineral makeup) until the scabbing is complete.  This is to avoid infection or disrupting the scabs prematurely.

• IMPORTANT!  Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds to the treated area- Once the scabbing process is complete, always apply broad spectrum SPF to the area for a minimum of 3 months after your last treatment.  This skin is still healing and can easily become damaged by any UV rays and may cause hyperpigmentation and/or premature aging.

• Do NOT apply any home remedies, plasters (liquid bandaid) or ointments other than what is provided to you.  This may delay the intended healing process and or cause infection.

• Do not workout, swim, hot tub or steam bath until scabs have exfoliated.

• BE PATIENT WITH THE HEALING PROCESS AND ALLOW YOURSELF TIME TO REST & HEAL.

**Swelling is to be expected after this type of treatment.  This is due to the fact that the area will be recovering from a deliberate controlled wound, therefore the natural side effect is swelling.  There are steps to minimize swelling (ice and antihistamin), but swelling cannot be avoided.  You can’t avoid or cure the swelling- it is a response to trauma.  The swelling will subside in a matter of days. 

Should I tweeze, wax, or thread my brows?

Tweezing:

Hands down, tweezing is the preferred method by Eyebrow experts everywhere for one simple reason: it allows for the most detailed and accurate brow shaping, leading to the most beautiful and perfect results possible. Tweezing doesn’t harm the skin and there’s little risk of major errors since each hair is taken individually and it’s also the only method that can easily be done at home when you notice stray hairs popping up, which can let you go longer between appointments.

 Cons

Tweezing can be slightly painful, if at all, depending on personal tolerance. Although a skilled and experienced artist can work quickly, pulling each hair individually takes some more time and costs a bit more. But since the results will be the focal point of your face for weeks, most people find it well worth the effort. 

Waxing:

Removing hair with wax is done with various types of hard or soft waxes that are either applied cold or hot to the skin. Hard wax is heated and applied to the brow hairs and then pulled off once it has hardened, while soft wax is also applied warm but removed with a strip of muslin.

Pros

Waxing can be appropriate for people with dense or coarse hair or for people who need a larger amount of hair removed. Waxing is also a good option for teenage girls who are new to brow grooming and timid about the pain of tweezing. It’s also frequently used by men looking to tame their uni-brows.

Businesses prefer waxing because it’s fast and profitable.

Cons

Waxing is not recommended for people with rosacea or those using Retin-A or other anti-aging products or anti-acne prescriptions. Always be sure to inform your aesthetician if you are using any of these before opting for waxing*.  

Waxing can cause or aggravate breakouts and though it is a brief process, waxing provides the least amount of control and precision of the three methods and can also cause the most discomfort.

Hair needs to be a certain length for the wax to take hold, so time between treatments may be longer – meaning more noticeable growth between treatments.

Finally, since the wax also adheres to the skin, the pulling from repeated waxing over time may lead to prematurely sagging skin and hyperpigmentation.

Threading:

The Middle Eastern practice of threading, which has become very popular in the States over the last few years, is the method of wrapping two pieces of thread around hair and pulling from the root.

Pros

Like tweezing, this is a chemical free process, which is beneficial to those who are sensitive to wax, have very dry skin, or use products like Retin-A and other anti-aging products.  Redness of the areas treated tends to disappear in a short amount of time. The process can be done very quickly.

Cons

This technique can be done in a short amount of time but this means mistakes can occur just as fast. As we age, those mistakes take longer to grow back (if at all). Or the other end of the spectrum, if an inexperienced professional performs this technique incorrectly, brow hairs can break resulting in quicker hair re-growth and more visits. Depending on a person’s sensitivity and the skill of the person performing the technique, it can be somewhat painful and leave skin feeling a little tender. The sharp thread can even lead to minor cuts if not done properly.

Keratin Lash Lift

The Keratin Lash Lift is a great alternative to eyelash extensions or for clients with sensitivities. It is a low maintenance lash solution for clients as results lasts up to 12 weeks. Using your own lashes, it is permed against a silicon pad to give it a natural looking "lift".  These are perfect for those who have straight or downward facing natural lashes, giving your eyes and face an instant lift! You will look more awake and even more youthful!