Otherwise known as Permanent Makeup, Cosmetic Tattooing and Micropigmentation are all terms used to describe the process of tattooing ink/pigment into the upper dermal layer of the skin, known as the reticular layer to maintain a long lasting cosmetic enhancement.  While some clients prefer natural makeup, others desire more of a bold and polished look. Either way the personal freedom from applying makeup is well worth the investment.  Common procedures include; Lips, Lip Liner Eyeliner & Brows. The experienced artist will have multiple modalities, techniques and needle configurations to create beautiful long lasting results.

Short answer, yes. The term Microblading, simply means a hand held  manual tool with a needle used to create hairstrokes on the skin. There are other methods to create and mimic a natural hair stroke pattern besides microblading. Not all skin types are good candidates for Microblading/hairs-strokes however, and your artist will help you choose the best technique for your skin type. The experienced artist will consider all the tools of their trade to achieve the best outcome for their client.  

Yes. All methods of Permanent Cosmetics are tattooing and considered permanent.  They will fade however over time.  Sun exposure and tanning bed are the number one reason for fading. Certain medications, pharmaceutical skincare products and laser treatments will fade the pigment as well.  Your artist will discuss this in detail during your consultation and give you helpful aftercare instructions to protect your investment.

There are multiple benefits to permanent cosmetics that spans over all age groups. Non existent brows, sparse lashlines to fading vermilion borders of the lips are no fun.  Neither is applying makeup every day!  There are many reasons such as skin conditions and seasonal allergies making eyeliners impossible to wear. Also, makeup allergies, asymmetry, poor eyesight and disabilities that make it difficult to apply. All of these benefit greatly from permanent cosmetics. Waking up with makeup can be the best decision you ever made.

In general, no.  Specific to each procedure, numbing creams containing lidocaine are applied before the procedure and in addition, numbing is applied throughout the procedure to ensure comfort as well. The anticipation of procedures can cause some mild anxiety, however this quickly subsides once the procedure begins.

Some artists work faster than others and to each their own. Appointments are usually scheduled at two hour intervals for brows and liner.  Lips may take a little longer. The time frame will be determined during your consultation and scheduled accordingly. This will include paperwork, numbing, drawing and procedure time. 

Permanent cosmetics is a two part process. After your initial procedure, there will be a follow up scheduled at 6 weeks to perfect and adjust color and shape if need be.  For those desiring a more conservative outcome, you will appreciate the gradual change depending on the subtlety.  Some clients need very little perfecting, some need a little more.

There are many variables involved that can affect the longevity of permanent makeup and will need to be refreshed from time to time.  The number one cause of fading is sun exposure including tanning beds, also pharmaceutical skincare products such as hydroquinone, retinA and retinol products. Some light colors and natural techniques will fade sooner as well. Expect microblading and other conservative techniques to be refreshed every 1-3 years. This will be discussed at great detail during your consultation.

Yes. Our first appointment will be a consultation to go over all necessary information. This appointment runs 30-40 min.  We’ll discuss your concerns and goals for your permanent makeup and go over all the options to create the outcome you are looking for. We will discuss pre procedure do’s and don’ts as well as what to expect during your healing process. Having your makeup done when you arrive is recommended so I can see how you wear your makeup. Some clients come in with no makeup and prefer suggestions as to what shapes and colors are best for them. Either way is acceptable.

Over time, your permanent makeup will need refreshing.  This is called a color boost.  It is a great time to adjust the shape and color to update, as styles change over time.  Color boosts are recommended any time after the first year, as needed.

I rely heavily on color theory when choosing the right inks for my clients skin tones. The same color theory process applies for correcting and neutralizing previously done permanent cosmetics that have changed color.  The experienced artist knows her inks inside and out and can accurately determine warm or cool undertones. Sometimes a removal session or two is necessary in order to lighten the color first before applying a color corrector. Color correction and removals are advanced procedures and can be a lengthy process. Not all work can be corrected so its best to research your artist thoroughly and ask to see pictures before having work done. 

Doing your research before your consultation is paramount! 

Each state has different requirements and currently for the state of Washington, anyone 18 or older can apply for a tattoo license, no experience necessary. There are no requirements for training! Yup! Shocking I know. Some artists learn on their own, while others simply get by with as little as taking an 8-16 hour class before they begin working on clients. This is the harsh reality of the industry right now as we know it.  Some states are different, so it is important to know the laws in your state. 

Licensed artists are required in the state of Washington to follow OSHA safety standards of practice, which includes yearly BBP (Blood Borne Pathogen) testing to renew their licenses each year. These certifications are to be posted for clients to see.  Shop licenses should be visible as well.  If you do not see it, ask for it! This is very important and will prove their compliance.  If the shop is not registered with the state or county,  this means no inspections and no accountability. Run!

Look for pristine cleanliness! Is the shop/office and work space clean? While fabric materials such as blankets and pillows are cozy for the client, they can easily harbor bacteria and blood borne pathogens and cause cross contamination. This includes the condition of treatment beds as well. Look for tears in the vinyl upholstery and should not be covered up by fabric. This is unsafe.  

Does the artist use single use sterile disposables? If not, how do they clean and sterilize them? What are their sanitation practices?

Fine Lines Dermal Services is a fully licensed facility located in a medical setting in Vancouver, Washington.  Diane Warren has been providing permanent makeup and removals services for nearly two decades and your safety is top priority!  Single use disposables products, PPEs (Personal Protection Equipment) and strict sanitation practices including chairs, counters and trays are thoroughly wiped down and disinfected between each client using hospital grade disinfectants and proof of state inspections.  No artwork is worth the risk in an unsafe facility. Safety first!

• Brows
• Eyeliner/Lash enhancement
• Lips/Lip liner
• Removals/Corrections