Pre-Treatment Preparation: How to Get Ready for Permanent Makeup

Nov 18

I can always tell when someone has actually read and followed my pre-treatment instructions versus when they've skimmed them and hoped for the best.

The ones who followed the instructions heal beautifully. Even pigment retention. Minimal complications. Results that look exactly like we discussed during consultation.

The ones who didn't? They're the ones texting me on day three, panicked because their brows are healing unevenly, or because the color didn't take in certain areas, or because they're experiencing more swelling than expected.

And almost every time, when I ask the follow-up questions, it turns out they did something I specifically told them not to do. They had wine the night before their appointment. They took ibuprofen that morning for a headache. They got a spray tan two days prior. They didn't think it would matter that much.

It matters. It matters significantly.

Here's what most people don't understand about permanent makeup: the procedure itself is only half of what determines your results. The other half is how you prepare beforehand and how you care for the area afterward. An artist can execute perfect technique on perfectly prepared skin, and you'll get beautiful results. That same artist using that same perfect technique on unprepared skin will get mediocre results at best, and complications at worst.

I've been doing permanent makeup at my studio in Boca Raton for years, working with clients throughout South Florida — Parkland, Coral Springs, Deerfield Beach, Delray, Fort Lauderdale. I've seen every possible scenario. I've learned what actually matters for optimal healing and what's just precautionary theater.

Let me give you the comprehensive guide to preparing for permanent makeup — the specific things you absolutely must do, the things that are strongly recommended, the things that don't matter as much as people think, and the reasoning behind all of it so you understand why these preparations matter.

Why Pre-Treatment Preparation Actually Matters

Before we get into the specific do's and don'ts, let me explain why preparation matters from a physiological standpoint, because understanding the why makes you more likely to actually follow the instructions.

Blood thinning affects pigment retention. When your blood is thinner than normal due to alcohol, certain medications, or supplements, you bleed more during the procedure. That blood pushes out the pigment I'm trying to deposit into your skin. More bleeding equals less pigment retention equals patchier results that require more aggressive touch-up work. It also makes the procedure take longer because I have to constantly wipe away blood to see what I'm doing.

Skin condition affects healing. If your skin is sunburned, freshly exfoliated, irritated, or compromised in any way, it won't heal predictably. The pigment may not take evenly. You're more likely to experience excessive scabbing, which can pull out pigment as it heals. Compromised skin also increases infection risk.

Medications and supplements affect your body's healing response. Some substances interfere with clotting, others affect inflammation response, others impact how your immune system responds to the trauma of the procedure. All of these factors influence how well your skin accepts and retains the pigment.

Hydration affects skin elasticity and healing. Well-hydrated skin is more elastic, which means I can work more efficiently and with less trauma to your skin. Dehydrated skin is more prone to excessive scabbing and uneven healing.

Caffeine affects your sensitivity and blood pressure. If you're caffeinated during the procedure, you're more sensitive to sensation, your blood pressure is elevated (which can increase bleeding), and you're more likely to feel anxious or jittery. None of this helps the process.

Recent cosmetic procedures affect the treatment area. If you've had Botox, fillers, chemical peels, laser treatments, or other procedures in or near the area where I'll be working, your skin isn't in its normal state. I need to work on skin that's in its baseline condition so I can accurately assess and work with your natural features.

Understanding these mechanisms helps you realize that the preparation guidelines aren't arbitrary rules I'm making up to be difficult. They're specific recommendations based on how your body and skin actually function during and after the procedure.

The Timeline: When to Do What

Let me break this down by timeline, because some preparations need to happen weeks in advance while others are day-of considerations.

4 Weeks Before Your Appointment

Stop retinol and strong exfoliating products on or near the treatment area. This includes prescription retinoids like tretinoin, over-the-counter retinol products, chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or any aggressive anti-aging treatments in the brow, lip, or eye area depending on which service you're getting.

Why: These products thin your skin and increase cell turnover, which means your skin is more vulnerable and will heal less predictably. They also increase sun sensitivity.

Avoid cosmetic procedures near the treatment area. No Botox, fillers, chemical peels, laser treatments, or microneedling for at least 4 weeks before permanent makeup. Ideally longer.

Why: These procedures change your skin's structure, texture, or the position of tissues. I need to work on your face in its normal state. Also, combining procedures too close together increases complication risk.

Begin taking a good quality vitamin C supplement if you don't already. This isn't mandatory, but it supports healthy healing and collagen production.

2-3 Weeks Before Your Appointment

Stop tweezing, waxing, or threading your brows (if you're getting brow services). Let all your natural hair grow in so I can see your actual growth pattern and shape. I know this is uncomfortable if you're used to keeping them groomed, but I need to see what we're working with.

Why: Your natural hair growth pattern informs the shape I create and where I place strokes or shading. If you've removed hair recently, I can't see the full picture.

Avoid excessive sun exposure and do not get spray tans or use self-tanners on your face. Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily (you should be doing this anyway) and avoid deliberate tanning.

Why: Tanned or sunburned skin has altered pigmentation that makes it difficult for me to accurately assess your true skin tone. It also affects how the permanent makeup pigment shows up and heals. Plus, UV-damaged skin heals less predictably.

Stop any elective dental work, medical procedures, or surgeries if possible. Obviously don't postpone necessary medical care, but avoid scheduling elective procedures right before permanent makeup.

Why: Your body can only heal so many things at once. Multiple healing processes competing for resources can compromise all of them.

1 Week Before Your Appointment

Stop all blood-thinning supplements and medications if medically safe to do so. This includes:

Fish oil and omega-3 supplements
Vitamin E supplements
Ginkgo biloba
Garlic supplements
Ginger supplements
Turmeric/curcumin supplements
St. John's Wort
Aspirin (if taken for non-medical reasons)
Ibuprofen/NSAIDs (if possible)

Important caveat: If you take any of these for medical reasons or under doctor's orders, do NOT stop them without consulting your physician. Tell me during consultation if you're on required blood thinners so we can plan accordingly.

Why: All of these thin your blood, which increases bleeding during the procedure and compromises pigment retention.

Avoid scheduling the appointment during or right before your menstrual period if possible. You're more sensitive to pain and more likely to swell during your period and the few days leading up to it.

Why: Hormonal fluctuations affect pain sensitivity, inflammation response, and healing. If you can schedule around your cycle, do so. If not, it's not a dealbreaker — just know you might be more sensitive.

Begin drinking extra water. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses daily. Well-hydrated skin accepts pigment better and heals more predictably.

48 Hours Before Your Appointment

Stop all caffeine and alcohol. No coffee, tea, energy drinks, wine, beer, cocktails — nothing with caffeine or alcohol for 48 hours before your appointment.

Why: Both are blood thinners. Both also affect your sensitivity. Caffeine makes you more jittery and anxious. Alcohol affects healing. Just avoid them.

Avoid intense exercise that gets your heart rate very elevated or causes significant sweating. Moderate activity is fine, but skip the marathon training or HIIT classes.

Why: Intense exercise elevates your blood pressure and thins your blood temporarily. You want your body in a calm, baseline state for the procedure.

No additional exfoliation treatments like face scrubs, chemical exfoliants, or aggressive cleansing on your face.

Why: You want your skin in normal condition, not freshly exfoliated and potentially irritated.

The Night Before Your Appointment

Get a good night's sleep. Aim for at least 7-8 hours. Your body heals better when well-rested, and you'll handle the appointment better if you're not exhausted.

Eat a balanced dinner with adequate protein. Don't fast or restrict eating.

Why: Your body needs resources for healing. Going into the appointment depleted doesn't help anyone.

Lay out comfortable clothes for tomorrow. You'll be reclined for 2-3 hours. Wear something comfortable with a soft neckline that won't rub on your face.

No alcohol. I'm saying it again because people often forget that "the night before" counts. One glass of wine at dinner the night before can affect your bleeding the next day.

The Morning of Your Appointment

Eat a substantial breakfast with protein and complex carbs. Do not arrive hungry or having had only coffee. You need stable blood sugar for the 2-3 hour appointment.

Why: Low blood sugar can make you dizzy, nauseous, or faint during the procedure. It also affects healing.

No caffeine. Not even a little. I know this is hard. Drink water or herbal tea instead.

Take any regular prescription medications as normal (unless your doctor has told you otherwise). But no ibuprofen, aspirin, or other OTC pain medications unless absolutely necessary.

Why: You want your body in its normal state, which includes your regular prescriptions. But avoid unnecessary blood-thinning pain medications.

Shower and wash your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser. Come to your appointment with a completely clean face — no makeup, no moisturizer with SPF, no serums, nothing but clean skin.

Why: I need to work on clean skin free of any products that could interfere with the pigment or the numbing cream.

If you're getting lip blushing and you're prone to cold sores, take your antiviral medication as prescribed by your doctor. You should have discussed this during consultation and gotten a prescription if needed.

Why: The trauma of the procedure can trigger cold sore outbreaks in susceptible individuals. Antiviral medication prevents this.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Let me give you the practical checklist of what to have with you when you come to my studio at Phenix Salon Suites in Boca Raton.

Required:

Photo ID
Payment method (if you haven't already paid in full)
Any prescription medications you might need during your appointment time
Completed health history and consent forms (I send these in advance)

Strongly recommended:

Sunglasses for leaving the studio after your appointment (especially for eye procedures or if you're light-sensitive)
Your phone with headphones if you want to listen to music or podcasts during the procedure (some people prefer distraction, others prefer to be present)
A bottle of water (I provide water, but having your own is nice)
Any medications you need to take during the appointment window
Phone charger if your battery tends to die

Optional but nice to have:

Reference photos of looks you like (we discussed this in consultation, but if you found new examples, bring them)
A small handheld fan if you tend to get warm (though my studio is climate controlled)
Lip balm for after your appointment (I provide aftercare products, but some people like their specific brand)

Do NOT bring:

Young children (this is a medical procedure requiring your complete attention and focus)
Friends or family "for support" unless we discussed this in advance and I approved it (the studio is small and additional people are distracting)
Expectations of multitasking (you cannot be on work calls during the procedure, you need to be present and still)

Common Pre-Treatment Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Let me tell you the mistakes I see most often, because awareness helps you avoid them.

Mistake #1: "I only had one glass of wine with dinner, it's fine."

No, it's not fine. Even one drink affects your blood and your healing. I've had clients arrive with perfect preparation except they had wine at dinner the night before, and their bleeding during the procedure was noticeably worse. The pigment retention was weaker. The results required more aggressive touch-up work.

I'm not being puritanical about alcohol. I'm telling you from hundreds of appointments' worth of experience that alcohol affects your results measurably, even in small amounts.

The fix: If you need something to relax before your appointment, try herbal tea, meditation, or a warm bath. Save the celebratory drink for after your procedure has healed.

Mistake #2: "I forgot my morning coffee counts."

People often focus on avoiding coffee the day before but forget that morning-of caffeine matters too. They show up having had coffee because "it's just my normal routine."

Your body on caffeine is not in the optimal state for a permanent makeup procedure. You're more jittery, more anxious, more sensitive to sensation, and you bleed more readily.

The fix: Switch to decaf or herbal tea for the 48 hours before your appointment. Yes, you'll probably get a caffeine withdrawal headache. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) if needed — that's not a blood thinner. The headache is temporary. Your permanent makeup results last for years.

Mistake #3: "I didn't think my skincare products mattered."

I cannot tell you how many times I've had clients show up with beautiful, glowing skin because they just got a facial or did an aggressive exfoliating treatment to "prep for the appointment."

That's the opposite of what I need. I need your skin in normal, baseline condition. Not freshly exfoliated. Not irritated from strong actives. Not glowing from a professional treatment.

The fix: Stop all exfoliating products and aggressive skincare at least a week before your appointment. Basic gentle cleanser and moisturizer only in that final week.

Mistake #4: "I can't stop taking ibuprofen, I have chronic pain."

I understand. Chronic pain is real and managing it takes priority. But ibuprofen is a blood thinner, and if you're taking it daily, we need to strategize.

The fix: Talk to me during consultation about your pain management routine. We might schedule your appointment on a day when you can safely take acetaminophen instead of ibuprofen. Or we might plan for your procedure to take slightly longer due to increased bleeding. Or we might recommend you consult with your doctor about temporarily switching medications. The point is to communicate about it rather than just hoping it won't matter.

Mistake #5: "I forgot to get my antiviral prescription for lip blushing."

If you have a history of cold sores and you're getting lip blushing, you MUST take antiviral medication starting 2-3 days before the procedure and continuing for a week after. This isn't optional.

The trauma to your lips can trigger a massive cold sore outbreak that can ruin your results, cause scarring, and be extremely painful.

The fix: During consultation, tell me if you've ever had a cold sore in your life — even once, even years ago. I'll give you a prescription request to take to your doctor. Get the medication filled at least a week before your appointment so you have it ready.

Mistake #6: "I didn't realize spray tan affects the color matching."

If you show up with a spray tan, your skin tone is artificially darkened. When I mix pigment to match your skin tone, I'm matching your fake tan, not your real skin. When your tan fades in a week, suddenly the permanent makeup color looks wrong for your actual complexion.

The fix: No spray tans or self-tanners for at least 2 weeks before your appointment. If you have a tan from natural sun exposure, be aware that it will fade and we'll discuss how that affects color choice during your appointment.

Mistake #7: "I scheduled my appointment right before vacation."

You're so excited about your upcoming trip to the Caribbean that you think "I'll get my permanent makeup done right before so I look good on vacation!"

Terrible idea. Your permanent makeup will be in the healing phase during your trip. You cannot swim. You cannot have sun exposure. You cannot sweat excessively. You'll spend your vacation worried about your healing brows instead of enjoying yourself.

The fix: Schedule permanent makeup at least 4 weeks before any vacation or major event. Or schedule it for right after you return, when you can dedicate the healing time appropriately.

Special Considerations for Different Services

Pre-treatment prep varies slightly depending on which permanent makeup service you're getting. Let me break down the specific considerations for each.

For Brow Services (Microblading, Powder Brows, Combination Brows)

Stop tweezing, waxing, or threading at least 2 weeks before. I need to see your full natural growth pattern.
If you regularly tint your brows, stop at least 2 weeks before so I can see your natural hair color.
Avoid brow lamination for at least 6 weeks before permanent makeup. The chemicals can affect how pigment takes.
If you've had Botox in your forehead or around your eyes, wait at least 4 weeks (ideally 6-8 weeks) before getting brow services. Botox temporarily affects the muscles that move your brows, and I need to see them in their natural resting position.

For Lip Blushing

If you have ANY history of cold sores, even one episode years ago, you must take antiviral medication. Start 2-3 days before the procedure and continue for 7-10 days after.
Avoid any lip treatments (fillers, aggressive exfoliation, etc.) for at least 4 weeks before.
If you have naturally very dry or chapped lips, begin using a good lip balm regularly at least a week before to get your lips in good condition.
Stop smoking if at all possible, at least 48 hours before (ideally longer). Smoking restricts blood flow and dramatically affects healing.

For Eyeliner

Remove eyelash extensions at least one week before your appointment. I cannot work around extensions safely.
Stop using lash serums (like Latisse) at least one week before. These can increase sensitivity.
If you wear contact lenses, bring your glasses case and solution. You'll need to remove your contacts for the procedure.
Do not have lash lifts, tints, or perms for at least 2 weeks before.
If you've had any eye surgery (LASIK, cataract surgery, etc.), you need medical clearance from your ophthalmologist before getting permanent eyeliner.

Medical Conditions and Medications That Require Special Consideration

Some medical conditions and medications require extra caution, advance planning, or medical clearance before you can safely have permanent makeup. Here's what you need to know.

Conditions that require medical clearance:

Diabetes (especially if not well-controlled) — affects healing
Autoimmune conditions (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, etc.) — affects immune response and healing
Blood clotting disorders — affects bleeding during procedure
Keloid scarring tendency — high risk of scarring from the procedure
Active skin conditions in treatment area (eczema, psoriasis, rosacea) — must be in remission
History of allergic reactions to tattoo ink or pigments
Viral infections (active hepatitis, HIV) — requires special protocols

If you have any of these, I need a note from your physician confirming that you're cleared for the procedure before I can work on you. This isn't me being difficult — it's me ensuring your safety.

Medications that require discussion:

Blood thinners (Coumadin, warfarin, Plavix, etc.) — cannot stop without doctor approval, will affect bleeding
Accutane (isotretinoin) — must be off for at least 6-12 months before permanent makeup
Chemotherapy or immunosuppressants — affects healing, requires oncologist clearance
Steroids (oral or injected) — affects healing and pigment retention
Retinoids (prescription tretinoin, adapalene) — must stop at least 4 weeks before

If you're on any of these medications, tell me during consultation so we can plan appropriately. In many cases, we can still proceed, but we need to adjust expectations or protocols.

Conditions that are temporary contraindications:

Pregnancy or breastfeeding — I do not perform permanent makeup on pregnant or nursing women, period. The risks aren't fully understood and it's not worth it. Wait until you're done breastfeeding.
Active cold sore or fever blister — must be completely healed before lip procedures
Recent sunburn — must wait for skin to heal completely
Active acne or infection in treatment area — must clear before proceeding
Recent COVID-19 infection — wait at least 2-4 weeks after recovery

These are temporary delays, not permanent barriers. We just need to wait for the right timing.

What to Expect on the Day of Your Appointment

Let me walk you through what your appointment day will actually look like at my studio, so you know what's coming.

Arrival: Come to Phenix Salon Suites at 7112 Beracasa Way, Suite 119, Boca Raton. Parking is directly in front of the building — easy and free. Arrive about 5 minutes before your scheduled time. Not too early (I might be finishing with another client) and definitely not late (we have a tight schedule to execute the procedure properly).

Check-in: You'll come into my private suite. I'll verify your paperwork is complete and answer any last-minute questions.

Final consultation: Even though we've already had a consultation, I'll review your goals one more time and confirm we're aligned on the plan. This is your last chance to bring up concerns or make small adjustments.

Photos: I take before photos from multiple angles for my records and so you can see the transformation later. Your photos are confidential and only used with your permission.

Shape design and approval: For brow services, I'll draw the shape on your face and we'll refine it together until you're completely happy. For other services, I'll mark the area I'll be working on. You must approve the shape/design before I proceed.

Numbing: I apply topical numbing cream to the treatment area. This sits on your skin for 20-25 minutes while it takes effect. You can relax, check your phone, or close your eyes during this time.

The procedure: Once you're numb, I begin the actual permanent makeup application. For brows, this takes 90-120 minutes for both sides. For lips, 60-90 minutes. For eyeliner, 60-90 minutes depending on the style.

During the procedure, I check in with you regularly. If you need more numbing, we reapply. If you need a break, we take one. The goal is your comfort.

Immediate aftercare: When I'm done, your permanent makeup will look very dark — darker than the healed result will be. This is normal and expected. I'll give you detailed aftercare instructions, all the products you need, and my contact information for questions.

Scheduling touch-up: We'll schedule your touch-up appointment for 6-8 weeks out before you leave.

Payment and departure: If you haven't already paid in full, we handle final payment. Then you're free to go. The whole appointment takes 2.5-3.5 hours depending on the service.

Why Preparation Matters More Than You Think

I want to end this section with a story that illustrates why I'm so adamant about proper preparation.

I had a client drive up from Miami for brow services. She'd followed most of my instructions but admitted during our pre-procedure check-in that she'd had two glasses of wine at a work event the night before. "Just two," she said. "I figured it would be fine."

I explained that it might affect her results but that we'd proceed carefully. During the procedure, she bled significantly more than normal. The blood kept pushing out the pigment I was trying to deposit. What should have taken 90 minutes took over two hours because I kept having to wipe away blood and reapply pigment.

The initial result looked okay. But when she came back for her touch-up 8 weeks later, the pigment retention was very patchy. About 40% of the strokes I'd created had faded completely or weren't visible. We had to do a much more aggressive touch-up to get her to the result we should have achieved in the initial appointment.

She was frustrated. I was frustrated. And all of it could have been avoided if she'd just skipped the wine.

That's why I'm so specific about preparation. It's not arbitrary rules. It's the difference between beautiful, even results and patchy, disappointing results that require more time, more touch-up work, and more of your money to correct.

Ready to Book Your Permanent Makeup Appointment?

If you're in the South Florida area — Parkland, Coral Springs, Deerfield Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Fort Lauderdale, or anywhere in Broward or Palm Beach Counties — and you're ready to invest in luxury permanent makeup that's worth the preparation, I'd love to work with you.

Visit heragencyusa.com to see my portfolio, read detailed information about each service, and book your free consultation. During the consultation, we'll discuss your goals, assess your candidacy, and create a preparation plan tailored to your specific situation and medical history.

My studio is at Phenix Salon Suites, 7112 Beracasa Way, Suite 119, Boca Raton, FL 33433. Private, comfortable, professional, and designed specifically for permanent makeup services.

I'll send you detailed pre-treatment instructions when you book, and I'm available to answer questions as your appointment approaches. My goal is for you to arrive perfectly prepared so we can achieve the beautiful results you're investing in.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pre-Treatment Preparation

Can I have caffeine on the day of my appointment if I'm a heavy coffee drinker?

No, you should avoid caffeine for at least 48 hours before your permanent makeup appointment, regardless of your normal consumption level. I understand this is difficult for heavy coffee drinkers who may experience withdrawal symptoms, but caffeine significantly affects your blood pressure, increases bleeding during the procedure, makes you more sensitive to sensation, and can make you jittery or anxious. The combination of these factors compromises your results. To manage caffeine withdrawal, start reducing your intake gradually a few days before you need to stop completely, stay well-hydrated, take acetaminophen (Tylenol, not ibuprofen) if you get a withdrawal headache, get extra sleep, and consider switching to decaf a few days early to ease the transition. The temporary discomfort of caffeine withdrawal is worth it for optimal permanent makeup results that will last years. After your appointment is complete and you're home, you can resume caffeine immediately if you want, though staying hydrated helps with healing.

What if I accidentally took ibuprofen the morning of my appointment?

If you accidentally took ibuprofen or another NSAID (like aspirin or naproxen) the morning of your appointment, call me immediately. Depending on the dosage and timing, we have a few options: if it was a single regular-strength dose and we're early enough in the day, we might be able to delay your appointment by several hours to allow some of the blood-thinning effect to diminish; if it was a higher dose or you're unable to reschedule that day, we might proceed with the understanding that you'll likely bleed more during the procedure and pigment retention may be compromised; or if the circumstances are particularly concerning, we might reschedule your appointment entirely to a day when your blood isn't thinned. The worst thing you can do is not tell me and hope I won't notice — I will absolutely notice when you bleed more than normal, and by then it's too late to adjust. One missed ibuprofen dose doesn't ruin everything, but it does affect the procedure, and I need to know about it to plan accordingly and adjust my technique.

How do I manage pain before the appointment if I can't take ibuprofen?

For pain management in the 48 hours before your permanent makeup appointment, use acetaminophen (Tylenol) instead of ibuprofen or other NSAIDs. Acetaminophen is not a blood thinner and won't affect your procedure results. For most types of pain — headaches, muscle aches, minor injuries — acetaminophen provides adequate relief. If you have chronic pain that typically requires ibuprofen or prescription NSAIDs, discuss this with me during your consultation so we can create a pain management plan that works with your permanent makeup timing. Some clients with chronic pain schedule their appointments strategically so they can take their normal pain medications for as long as possible beforehand, and resume them as soon as possible afterward, minimizing the window without their regular medication. Other options for pain management that don't affect bleeding include applying ice or heat to affected areas, gentle stretching or movement, distraction techniques, and relaxation methods. If your pain is severe enough that you cannot safely go 48 hours without blood-thinning pain medication, permanent makeup might not be the right choice for you at this time, or we need medical clearance from your doctor for modified protocols.

Can I work out the day before my permanent makeup appointment?

Light to moderate exercise the day before your appointment is fine — walking, gentle yoga, light cycling, or similar activities that don't dramatically elevate your heart rate or cause significant sweating. However, avoid intense workouts like HIIT training, heavy weightlifting, long-distance running, or any exercise that gets your heart rate very high or causes profuse sweating. Intense exercise temporarily thins your blood, elevates your blood pressure, and puts your body in a heightened inflammatory state — all of which can affect your procedure negatively. You want your body in a calm, baseline state for optimal results. The day of your appointment, skip exercise entirely. You'll be reclined for 2-3 hours during the procedure, and you need to avoid sweating and elevated heart rate for the first 24-48 hours after the procedure anyway. Consider your permanent makeup appointment a built-in rest day in your workout routine. You can resume light exercise 48 hours after your appointment and return to full intensity after 7-10 days once initial healing is complete.

What should I do if I get my period right before my scheduled appointment?

If your period starts within a few days of your permanent makeup appointment, you have a decision to make based on your personal experience with your cycle. Many women are more sensitive to pain, more likely to swell, and emotionally more volatile during menstruation and the days immediately before it. If this describes you, consider rescheduling your appointment to a week when you're not menstruating, typically days 5-14 of your cycle tend to be optimal. However, if you don't experience significant pain sensitivity during your period, there's no medical reason you can't proceed with your appointment. The topical numbing cream I use is quite effective, and most clients tolerate the procedure comfortably regardless of their cycle timing. Some clients prefer not to reschedule because their period timing would affect most possible appointment dates anyway, and they'd rather just proceed. If you're experiencing heavy bleeding, significant cramping, or feeling generally unwell, it's reasonable to reschedule. If you're feeling relatively normal despite menstruating, proceeding with the appointment is fine. The decision is yours based on your self-knowledge about how your body responds during your cycle.

Can I get permanent makeup if I'm on prescription blood thinners for a medical condition?

If you take prescription blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin), apixaban (Eliquis), rivaroxaban (Xarelto), clopidogrel (Plavix), or similar medications for medical conditions like atrial fibrillation, blood clots, or heart conditions, permanent makeup is possible but requires special considerations. First, you absolutely cannot stop your blood thinning medication without explicit approval from your prescribing physician — doing so could be life-threatening. Second, you need written medical clearance from your doctor stating that you're stable on your medication and cleared for the elective cosmetic procedure. Third, you need to understand that you will bleed more during the procedure, which means pigment retention may be compromised and you might need more aggressive touch-up work or additional sessions to achieve desired results. Some permanent makeup artists won't work on clients taking prescription blood thinners; I do work with these clients when they have medical clearance, but we have very thorough discussions about expectations and potential complications. The results can still be beautiful, but the process may be more complex than for clients not on blood thinners. Schedule a detailed consultation where we can discuss your specific medication, your medical history, and realistic expectations.

How long do I have to wait after Botox before getting permanent brow services?

Wait at least 4 weeks after Botox injections in your forehead or around your eyes before getting permanent brow services, though 6-8 weeks is ideal. Here's why this timing matters: Botox temporarily paralyzes muscles, which affects how your face moves and how your brows rest naturally. When I'm creating your permanent brow shape, I need to see your brows in their natural resting position and understand how they move when you make facial expressions. If your muscles are still affected by Botox, I'm working with an artificial representation of your face, not your natural baseline. The shape I create might look great while the Botox is active, but when it wears off and your muscles return to normal function, the permanent brow shape might not work as well with your natural movement patterns. Similarly, after getting permanent brow services, wait at least 4 weeks before getting Botox, preferably longer. The permanent makeup needs to heal completely before you introduce another procedure that causes trauma to the area. If you're someone who gets regular Botox, plan your permanent makeup appointments to fall in the window when your Botox has worn off but before your next scheduled Botox session.

What if I have a spray tan appointment scheduled before my permanent makeup?

Cancel your spray tan appointment or reschedule it for at least 2 weeks after your permanent makeup appointment, not before. Here's why spray tans are problematic before permanent makeup: the artificial color on your skin makes it impossible for me to accurately assess your true skin tone and undertones, which directly affects the pigment color I mix for you. If I match pigment to your spray-tanned skin, when the tan fades in a week or two, the permanent makeup color will no longer match your actual complexion. Additionally, spray tan solution creates a barrier on your skin that can interfere with pigment absorption and numbing cream effectiveness. The chemicals in spray tan can also affect healing. If you absolutely must have a tan for your permanent makeup results, get a natural tan from gradual sun exposure (with proper SPF) that develops slowly over weeks rather than an artificial tan that appears overnight. Even better, embrace your natural skin tone for permanent makeup and add spray tans later if desired — the permanent makeup is designed to work with your natural coloring, and a spray tan on top of that is fine. After your permanent makeup has healed (4 weeks post-procedure), you can resume spray tans, just be gentle with the permanent makeup areas and avoid harsh scrubbing or exfoliation products that might fade the pigment faster.

Can I get permanent makeup while taking antibiotics?

This depends on why you're taking antibiotics and what type they are. If you're taking antibiotics for an active infection, you should reschedule your permanent makeup appointment until the infection is cleared and you've finished the antibiotic course. Your immune system is already fighting an infection, and adding the trauma of permanent makeup compromises your body's ability to heal both the infection and the procedure site. If you're taking prophylactic antibiotics for a chronic condition (like for acne or recurrent UTI prevention), this is less concerning but should still be discussed during consultation. Some antibiotics make your skin more sun-sensitive, and since you need to avoid sun exposure on your permanent makeup during healing, this compounds the issue. Some antibiotics affect your body's inflammatory response, which can impact healing. The safest approach is to schedule permanent makeup when you're not on antibiotics, if possible. If you develop an infection and are prescribed antibiotics between booking your appointment and the actual appointment date, call me immediately so we can discuss whether to proceed or reschedule. Taking antibiotics after your permanent makeup procedure (if needed for an unrelated infection) is generally fine, though some antibiotics can affect healing, so inform your prescribing doctor that you recently had a cosmetic procedure.

What should I eat the morning of my appointment?

Eat a substantial, balanced breakfast the morning of your permanent makeup appointment that includes protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Good options include: eggs with whole grain toast and avocado; Greek yogurt with granola and berries; oatmeal with nuts and banana; a protein smoothie with nut butter and fruit; or a breakfast burrito with eggs, beans, and vegetables. Avoid eating only simple carbohydrates or sugar, which can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes during your appointment. Don't come on an empty stomach or having only had coffee — low blood sugar can make you dizzy, nauseous, or even faint during the procedure, and it compromises your body's healing response. You want stable blood sugar throughout the 2-3 hour appointment. If your appointment is later in the day, make sure you've eaten a proper lunch as well, not just snacks. Bring a small snack like nuts or a granola bar if your appointment is particularly long or if you tend to get hungry between meals. Stay well-hydrated — drink water with your breakfast and bring water to sip during your appointment. Avoid alcohol obviously, and remember no caffeine for 48 hours before. The goal is to arrive well-nourished, hydrated, and with stable energy for the length of the appointment.

Can I wear makeup to my appointment?

No, you should arrive with a completely clean, product-free face. Do not wear any makeup to your permanent makeup appointment, especially not in or near the area being treated. Before brow services, no brow products, no eye makeup, no foundation or concealer on your forehead. Before lip blushing, no lipstick, lip liner, lip gloss, or any lip products. Before eyeliner, no eye makeup at all. You should cleanse your face thoroughly the morning of your appointment with a gentle cleanser and leave it bare. Don't apply moisturizer, serums, sunscreen, or any skincare products to the treatment area either — I need completely clean skin to work on. You can wear makeup on other parts of your face if you have somewhere to go after your appointment, but realistically, your permanent makeup will be very dark and possibly swollen immediately after, so most clients prefer to just come bare-faced and go straight home afterward. If you're concerned about being seen without makeup, wear sunglasses and a hat. Having products on your skin interferes with the numbing cream, affects how the pigment goes into your skin, and can cause contamination or infection risks. The time to look polished is after your permanent makeup heals, not on the way to getting it done.

How far in advance should I book my permanent makeup appointment?

For permanent makeup at my Boca Raton studio, I recommend booking 4-8 weeks in advance, though during busy seasons (fall and early winter when everyone wants to look good for holiday events) you may need to book even further ahead. This advance booking timeline serves several purposes: it gives you adequate time to properly prepare by adjusting medications and supplements, stopping certain skincare products, and planning around your schedule; it allows you to schedule around your menstrual cycle if desired; it gives you time to complete any necessary medical clearances if you have conditions requiring doctor approval; it prevents you from rushing into the decision without adequate consideration. If you're coming from Parkland, Coral Springs, or other areas in Broward County and need to coordinate childcare or time off work, advance notice helps with logistics. Some clients book their initial appointment and their 6-8 week touch-up appointment at the same time to secure their preferred timing. If you need an appointment on short notice (within 2 weeks), call me directly rather than booking online — I occasionally have cancellations or can sometimes accommodate rush appointments, but this isn't guaranteed. Never book permanent makeup right before a major event, vacation, or important occasion — give yourself at least 4 weeks of healing time before anything where you need to look your best.

What happens if I show up unprepared for my appointment?

If you arrive at your appointment having not followed the preparation instructions — for example, you had caffeine that morning, alcohol the night before, took ibuprofen, have active cold sores, are wearing makeup, haven't stopped your retinol, or any other violation of the guidelines — I will assess the situation and make a decision based on the severity. For minor issues (like wearing makeup), I can work around it by thoroughly cleansing your face before we begin, though this adds time to your appointment. For moderate issues (like having caffeine or one drink the night before), I'll proceed with the appointment but warn you that bleeding and results may be compromised, and you may need more aggressive touch-up work. For serious issues (like active infection, taking blood thinners without medical clearance, being significantly under the influence, or having recent Botox I wasn't aware of), I will reschedule your appointment for your safety and optimal results. In cases where rescheduling is necessary due to your non-compliance with preparation instructions, you may forfeit your deposit or be charged a rescheduling fee. I don't make these decisions to be punitive — I make them because I cannot produce quality results on unprepared skin, and I won't compromise your health or waste your money on a procedure that won't heal well. The preparation guidelines exist for very specific physiological reasons, and while some flexibility is possible, others are absolute requirements.

The bottom line is simple: permanent makeup preparation isn't optional or flexible. It's an essential part of the process that directly determines your results.

You wouldn't show up to surgery without following pre-operative instructions. You wouldn't get a tattoo on sunburned, drunk skin. Permanent makeup deserves the same respect and preparation.

When you book with me at heragencyusa.com, you're not just booking a procedure. You're committing to a partnership where we both do our part to achieve beautiful results. My part is expertise, precision, quality materials, and meticulous technique. Your part is proper preparation and following aftercare guidelines.

I'll give you every tool, every instruction, and every piece of information you need to prepare perfectly. The rest is up to you.

Ready to do this right? Book your free consultation and let's create permanent makeup you'll love for years to come.

I'm at Phenix Salon Suites, 7112 Beracasa Way, Suite 119, Boca Raton, FL 33433, serving clients throughout South Florida including Parkland, Coral Springs, Deerfield Beach, Delray Beach, Pompano Beach, and Fort Lauderdale.

See you soon — properly prepared and ready for beautiful results.

Natalia Ti