What is cosmetic tattooing and how does it differ from a traditional tattoo?
Cosmetic tattooing, also called permanent makeup and/or micro pigmentation, is the process and technique of implanting pigment into the upper dermis layers of your skin to create a soft, realistic effect. Although many of the machines, tools and sometimes inks are similar to traditional tattooing, the technique itself and layer of implantation in the skin is where it differs the most.
If it is semi-permanent, will it disappear completely?
This is a common misconception. Permanent makeup requires maintenance to keep color and detail. Fading of your tattoo will happen slowly over time and may get to a point where it is undetectable by you, however in most cases, residual color will remain. The length of time and condition of fading is unique to the individual. Variables to consider are lifestyle choices, skin health/integrity, use of skin care products, age and also techniques/technology/pigments within the cosmetic tattoo industry. Lightening and or removal can be a normal part of the cosmetic tattoo journey, especially after multiple applications. For most people, their tattoo will last between 1-3 years before booking a refresh.
Can you cover an old tattoo?
All coverups must be pre-approved before booking. Please send a photo in natural light via the contact page or email . If your tattoo is obviously very dark, misshapen, or falls too outside of your natural shape, you will need to wait until it has faded or consider removal. Additional sessions may be needed for coverup work.
Showing up to your appointment with previous work may result in additional charges or loss of booking fee if you were not pre-approved first by me and I am not able to work over it, even if you feel it is “light”.
For removal recommendations, please reach out via the contact page of this website.
Does it hurt?
Generally, no. Pain is subjective but consistent application of anesthetic typically keeps clients very comfortable even to the point of falling asleep!
If you do not respond to numbing agents, there can be some discomfort.
I always do my best to provide a comfortable experience for my clients so please do not hesitate to communicate your needs.
Do I need a touch up?
Touch ups are highly recommended. Due to the uniqueness of each individual and the superficial nature of the tattoo itself, it is common for areas to heal light or to lose some deatil. Touch ups provide an opportunity to assess how your skin responds to the procedure and make any adjustments necessary while also lengthening the longevity of your tattoo. These sessions are not included in the initial price and need to be booked between 5-12 weeks from the time of your first session.
Am I a good candidate?
This process involves a lot of trust and patience. If you feel any uncertainty at all, this may not be for you.
Additionally, if you have a skin condition, scar tissue, discoloration, an older tattoo or lips that are very darkly pigmented due to damage, or some other condition you feel may impact my ability to tattoo that area, you will need to contact me for approval and/or gain a doctor’s note before booking an appointment.
If you are making a thoughtful decision, have done your research, understand all of the risks involved and are prepared to follow the instructions described in the other sections of this website then yes, cosmetic tattooing can be a great way to enter a more low maintenance lifestyle and I will be happy to work with you :)
What makes a bad candidate?
Anyone expecting to be an exception to the policies listed anywhere on this website
Anyone who comes unprepared for their appointment by not reading the information provided them
Anyone with an extremely low pain tolerance and finds it difficult to sit through procedures that are similar (microneedling, microdermabrasion, botox, lasers, etc…)
Anyone who does not understand this is a highly personalized luxury service and are not financially able to cover unforeseen costs such as last min cancellation or late fees, loss of deposit, additional touch ups, etc…
Anyone who feels entitled to be rude and/or condescending because “the customer is always right”
Anyone who has an inflexible schedule such as needing to travel last minute for work, etc…
I have an important event coming up, when should I book?
Because all cosmetic tattoo services require two sessions to see a complete result, unless you have a situation that would require more than the standard two sessions, you will want to make sure that your event falls no earlier than a month from your final appointment.
Why are your policies so inflexible?
Policies exist to protect myself and the client. Communicating and being transparent about expectations allows us to have a positive working relationship. There are no fine print surprises and I hold myself to the same standards as I do my clients.
I purposefully keep new client appointments to a minimum so that I am able to feel confident about giving each client my best work and attention.
All behind the scenes, social and administrative work is unpaid. Clients who no-show, are more than 15 minutes late or reschedule multiple times, directly take away income as the cost of appointments is the only way I get paid and keep my business functioning.
What is the accessibility of your studio?
Durumi is a private, appointment only studio located on the second floor of a warehouse/loft building. The front entrance has 2-4 steps and no ramp. There is a freight elevator available on the first floor after you are inside, however, it is operated by the Super and needs to be reserved ahead of time. He works weekday hours only and scheduling is unreliable, unfortunately.
At this time, my studio is not wheelchair friendly.