FAQs 1 — Victoria Wynn

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you must be aware of before undergoing a cosmetic tattooing process.

Let's get your new procedure with confidence!

If you're planning to get a cosmetic tattoo, remember one thing - your tattoo needs to peel to heal. So, best not to book your appointment near any special events. And, make sure to give it a good two weeks to heal.

Why don’t you offer Microblading anymore?

Cosmetic tattooing has seen a significant evolution since it first gained popularity in 2016, with Microblading being one of the first techniques to capture the public's interest. This method, unfortunately, has proven to be more damaging over time than initially assumed.

Microblading is a semi-permanent tattooing technique that employs a handheld tool with a small blade. The process involves making tiny cuts in the skin and then rubbing pigment into these incisions. The intention is to mimic the appearance of individual hair strokes. However, this technique has a significant downside: it can leave up to 100 small scars in the brow area.

Repeated microblading procedures can lead to pink or red scarring, and the severity of the scar depends on how deep the microblading is done. A deeper cut results in a thicker scar. These scars can inhibit hair growth, which can lead to even sparser brows than before.

It's possible to perform microblading with minimal scarring, but this requires such shallow incisions that the pigment will likely fade in less than four months.

An alternative to the handheld tool is a tattoo machine for a process known as 'machine hairstrokes.' However, this process has its shortcomings as well. Over time, the lines blur together, giving an appearance more akin to a blob than individual hair strokes.

For those seeking a more durable and skin-friendly option, the Ombre or Powder brow tattoo is strongly recommended. These techniques offer a more prolonged effect and minimize potential skin damage, making them a better choice for the health and longevity of your brows. Done properly this style of brow looks like a soft natural 3 day old brow tint.

Is cosmetic tattooing a suitable option for everyone?

If you're contemplating getting a cosmetic tattoo, it's crucial to understand that while the majority of individuals are suitable candidates, there are certain considerations to bear in mind.

Firstly, age plays a significant role. While mature skin can be more challenging to tattoo, it's not an automatic disqualifier. With a skilled artist, who specializes in working with mature skin, you will be in good hands.

Secondly, the condition of your skin is critical. The healthier and more nourished your skin, the better the healing process post-tattoo. Therefore, it's important to manage your expectations based on your skin type and age.

Should you have oily skin, it's worth noting that the pigment retention might not be as long-lasting compared to drier skin types. If you're currently taking any medication (birth control being the exception), it's essential to contact me via email at victoria@victoriawynn.co.nz, or text me at 021799197 (texts only, please). Certain medications can interfere with the pigment and healing process, so it's crucial to disclose any medications you're on before booking.

If you're uncertain about your skin's suitability for cosmetic tattooing, or a little nervous about the procedure, don't fret. You can schedule a complimentary skin assessment on the booking page to ensure the best possible outcome.

Please note I do not draw-up your brows during the complimentary skin assessment.

Who is unsuitable?

Pregnant or breast-feeding women
Insulin-dependent diabetes
Active herpes (lip tattoo)
Keloid or hypertrophic scarring
Severe diseases of the endocrine system
Inflammatory skin diseases
Fibromas and haemangioma
Blood clotting issues
Chemotherapy patents
Active viral infections
Hypo or hyperpigmentation on lips
Antibiotics in the last 3 weeks
Accutane within the last 12 months
Epileptic
Clients under 18 years old
Any autoimmune disease
If you have cosmetic tattoo done by another artist, please TXT Victoria Wynn a clear photo of each brow on 021799197 for approval before booking
Not all tattoos can be covered well, you may need removal.

BROW TATTOOING - what you need to know.

Before you book in for your brow tattoo there are a few things you need to keep in mind if you want your tattoo to heal well. Our skin is often damaged due to several reasons such as sun, age, stress, and the environment. So, if you follow these simple instructions, you can ensure the best possible outcome for the best tattoo you skin can allow..

If you're between the ages of 18 and 30, drink at least two litres of water daily to keep your skin hydrated and glowing. If you're over 30 please drink two litres of water daily and rub some face or body cream in the brow area, apply away from the hair growth before going to bed. Trust me; your new tattoo will thank you! Please don’t use face creams with any AHAs, retinols and other chemicals that can cause the skin to be irritated after tattooing.

Please no alcohol 24 hours before your session, alcohol can thin your blood and we don’t want your blood pushing out the pigment. The same goes for blood thinners, so be wary of what you take if you have a headache. Unfortunately, caffeine is also a blood thinner, which means you'll have to give up your morning cup of coffee the morning of your tattoo to avoid any bleeding mishaps. And let's not forget about exercise - as much as we all love some exercise in the mornings, it's best to avoid it before your tattoo appointment since it can also thin the blood.

Please read all the PREP WORK page and follow to a tea, for best healed result .

LIP TATTOOING - what you need to know.

If you're planning to get your lips tattooed, they need to be soft and hydrated. Drink at least two litres of water for 2 weeks prior to your booking. And here's a pro-tip: grab some Bepanthen cream for nappy rash and replace your normal lip balm with it. If you don’t use lip balm you still need to use the Nappy rash 3 times a day for two weeks prior to your appointment. This will make your lips super soft and much easier to tattoo, resulting in a better healed tattoo. If you show up with dry or chapped lips, I can not preform the tattoo and your deposit will be forfeited.

Please read all the FAQ page for everything you may want to know about your tattoo procedure.

So, what's the plan for your appointment?

Your appointment will begin with you completing a consultation form. This enables me to gain a thorough understanding of your skin type, overall health, and personal preferences. Once I've reviewed the form, we can discuss any potential challenges or concerns you may have.

Following the consultation, we'll move into the treatment room where we'll collaborate on designing the ideal shape for you. We'll create a shape that not only visually appeals to you but also enhances your unique facial structure.

Upon your approval of the design, I'll proceed to create a custom pigment blend that harmoniously matches your brow hair or lip colour. The equipment I use is specifically designed for facial application, ensuring minimal discomfort. However, to further enhance your comfort, I also have a numbing cream available.

The entire procedure entails an approximate duration of three hours. To make the most of this time, feel free to bring along your headphones to listen to your favourite podcasts. Alternatively, you can choose to take a rejuvenating power nap.

Upon completion of the procedure, we will discuss aftercare for your cosmetic tattoo. You can also read the aftercare in the below aftercare section. To ensure you have all the necessary information, I'll also send you a detailed text message outlining the aftercare instructions. Your comfort and satisfaction are my top priority, and I'm here to make this experience as pleasant as possible for you.

How will I look straight after the procedure?

You're likely curious about what you can expect to see immediately after your cosmetic tattooing procedure. For those getting their eyebrows done, your brows will be only slightly darker than expected. Also, the pigment will exhibit a slightly warmer hue initially, but rest assured, it will settle into the desired tone between day 3 to 7 as your skin heals. Most clients return to work straight after the procedure with no issues. But your brows will start peeling day 5-14 depending on your skin health, so please don’t book around any events.

For lip tattooing clients, the immediate post-procedure colour will seem quite vibrant. However, it's important to note that this intensity will reduce by approximately 50% during the healing process, which takes about 3 to 7 days.

Post-procedure, it's common to experience some swelling and fullness in the lips. This will usually subside within 24 to 48 hours. Interestingly, many clients find they love this fuller look and often consider lip filler treatments after their swelling reduces.

Remember, each person's experience with cosmetic tattooing is unique, and these are general observations. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out via my contact page.

Do you take a deposit, and is it refundable?

In terms of booking procedures, kindly note that a deposit of $100 is required to secure your appointment. This deposit ensures that the time slot, which can extend up to three hours for the initial sitting and approximately two hours for the subsequent visit, is exclusively allocated to you.

Given the length of these sessions and the specialized nature of the service, it's challenging to fill these slots at the last minute. Therefore, should you need to cancel your appointment for any reason, please understand that the deposit is non-refundable. This policy is in place to compensate for the potential loss of income during that reserved period.

Should you need to adjust your appointment, you may do so without losing your deposit, provided it's done at least 72 hours prior to your scheduled start time.

Should I be getting my eyebrows waxed or tinted prior to my appointment?

As your professional tattoo artist, I aim to provide a bespoke tattooing service that aligns with your aesthetic preferences. To achieve this, the color of your brow tattoo will be matched to your natural brow hair colour. If you regularly tint your brows, it's recommended that you schedule your tinting session at least five days prior to your tattoo appointment. This timeframe ensures that any residual tint on your skin will have dissipated, but the colour in your brows will remain vibrant, allowing us to accurately match the tattoo pigment. This approach guarantees a seamless blend and a result that perfectly enhances your natural beauty.

Can I go to the gym after my appointment?

Considering a gym session after recently receiving a cosmetic tattoo on your brows or lips? It's crucial to pause and consider the healing process. If you've upgraded your lips with a fresh tattoo, it's advisable to wait a minimum of five days before engaging in any sweat-inducing activities. Similarly, if you've had your eyebrows cosmetically tattooed, it's recommended to wait a full ten days before resuming your gym routine.

Why these precautions? It's simple. Your newly tattooed skin needs time to heal fully and properly absorb the pigment. Rushing into a workout and causing excessive sweat could potentially interfere with this healing process. The result could be a less than optimal outcome, possibly necessitating a third session - an additional expense that mirrors the cost of the second session.

So, as eager as you might be to get back to your routine, it's best to allow your body the time it needs to heal. Rest assured, your patience will pay off with beautifully healed cosmetic tattoos.

Can I get my tattoo wet?

After your cosmetic tattooing procedure, it's essential to keep the treated area dry for the first 24 hours. This initial period is crucial for the healing process. Following this, you should clean the tattooed area gently, once daily, until it is completely healed. This ensures the removal of any buildup or impurities that could affect the healing process and pigment retention. Additionally, we kindly request that you wash your hair prior to your appointment. This precautionary measure is aimed at minimizing the need to wet the tattooed area post-procedure, thus supporting optimal healing conditions.

Tattoo healing and aftercare – PLEASE READ

To maintain the vibrancy of your tattoo, it's essential to use a gentle cleanser. I can personally vouch for the Cetaphil cleanser, which is easily available at your local pharmacy or supermarket. It's an affordable option, with a small bottle costing less than $10.

However, it's crucial not to rush the cleaning process. Allow 24 hours to pass after your tattoo session before you commence cleaning. Use warm water and the recommended cleanser to gently pat the tattooed area clean. Remember to avoid rubbing or wiping the area, as this could cause potential problems. For drying, avoid using a used bath towel and opt for a clean paper towel instead.

The day following your tattoo session you can start using your aftercare, which will be provided. There's no need to vigorously apply the aftercare products. Instead, gently pat a small amount into the area as instructed during your procedure. For the brow area, less is definitely more. Use a small amount of aftercare product twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, following cleaning. For lip tattoos, a small amount of Bepanthen for Nappy Rash cream can be applied as necessary after the initial 8 hour period.

Your tattoo should be kept away from water for the 24 hours.

If you notice your tattoo starting to flake, resist the urge to pick at or remove the peeling bits. Allow them to fall off naturally to avoid your tattoo from healing patchy. Lip tattoos typically begin to scab around the second or third day, and this lasts for about 24-48 hours. Brow tattoos, on the other hand, usually start to scab around day seven and can last up to a week. It's advisable to avoid scheduling your tattoo appointment around any major events. Also, be aware that individuals with challenging skin types may require a longer healing period.

If you've had your lips tattooed and experience a cold sore outbreak during the healing phase, it's crucial to seek over-the-counter medication from a pharmacist. It's worth noting that even dormant cold sore viruses can cause outbreaks. In cases where pigment loss occurs due to a cold sore, an additional appointment may be necessary (refer to our price list for further details).

With lip tattoos, it's recommended to drink liquids using a straw and eat small bites of food with a fork until the healing is complete. Spicy foods should be avoided until the lips have fully healed. It's important not to allow any object to brush against your lips during this time, as this could interfere with the healing process and result in colour fading. Avoid rubbing or licking your lips to prevent pigment loss. Please brush your teeth before your appointment, as you can not brush them again for 24 hours.

Your newly tattooed brows and lips will be sensitive to sunlight, so it's essential to avoid sun exposure for the first two weeks. This is particularly important for dark lips to prevent potential hyperpigmentation. It's also crucial not to use any products other than the recommended aftercare until your skin has fully healed. Once healed, make sure to apply SPF 30+ to the tattooed area to prevent fading prematurely.

Avoid using lightening and whitening products (such as Retinol, Vitamins A and C, and chemical peels) on the tattoo, as these can cause rapid fading.

Exercise should be avoided for the first 5 days for lip tattoos and 14 days for brow tattoos. Light exercise is permissible, but remember that sweating can result in pigment loss.

Lastly, refrain from visiting spas, saunas, hot tubs, or taking baths for 14 days following the procedure.

No Botox or fillers in the area just tattooed, please speak to your injector for wait times.

No makeup on the tattooed area until healed.

When should I schedule my touch-up appointment? And is it a must for everyone to have a touch-up session?

You might be curious about the timing for a touch-up after your initial cosmetic tattooing procedure. Let's clarify this. Typically, all cosmetic tattoos necessitate a touch-up appointment about 4-8 weeks after the first session. The reason behind this is the unique nature of every individual's skin and the unpredictability of the healing process until it's fully complete.

For instance, thicker skin with large pores doesn't retain pigment as effectively as thinner skin with minimal pores. Consequently, during your initial session, I will proceed with caution, applying only as much pigment as I believe your skin type can optimally accommodate.

When you return for the second session, we can delve deeper into the details, making any necessary adjustments to achieve the perfect result. Once this process is complete, a colour boost is recommended every 1-3 years to maintain the vibrancy of your cosmetic tattoo. This consistent upkeep will ensure your tattoo remains fresh and aesthetically pleasing.

How long will my cosmetic tattoo last?

Wondering about the longevity of your new cosmetic tattoo? The duration of its vibrance depends on various factors such as your skin type, age, lifestyle, and any prescribed medications. Typically, your fresh brow or lip tattoo will retain its look for approximately one to one and a half years before it requires a colour refresh.

Rest assured, this colour refresh is a streamlined process that can be completed in a single appointment. There's no need for any additional touch-up sessions. To ensure your tattoo's enduring allure, we recommend scheduling a colour refresh treatment every 12-18 months. I do not preform a colour refresh any earlier than 12 months, doing so will add a buildup of pigment that will require laser removal after 3-5 years.

However, be aware that your eyebrows and lips will start to fade within 6 months if not looked after properly. Hence, it's important to be vigilant for these potential causes of fading.

Factors contributing to your cosmetic tattoo fading:

1. Sun Exposure: Protect your tattoo from the sun by applying sunscreen with an SPF level, even in winter.

2. Oily Skin: This skin type can accelerate the tattoo fading process.

3. Usage of Retinol, Vitamin C, and Vitamin A: These compounds can impact tattoo longevity.

4. Iron Deficiency: This health condition can affect the tattoo's color vibrancy.

5. Exfoliants: These skincare products can cause tattoos to fade over time.

6. Chemical Peels: These treatments can lead to tattoo color loss.

7. Exposure to Salt Water: Regular exposure can diminish tattoo vibrancy.

8. Age: Natural aging process can influence the longevity of your tattoo.

9. Medication: Certain prescribed drugs can affect the tattoo's longevity.

By remaining mindful of these factors, you can ensure that your cosmetic tattoo remains vibrant and appealing for as long as possible.

I got my first cosmetic tattoo done with another artist. Would you be willing to work your magic over it?

If you've previously had cosmetic tattooing done by another artist, it's crucial that I assess your tattoo before proceeding with any additional work. Cosmetic tattooing is a highly technical process, and working over another artist's work presents its own set of challenges. My approach aims to achieve a soft, natural look, which might be incompatible with darker, denser tattoos. If your prior work is of this nature, my work might not be as effective.

Should I agree to proceed with a cover-up, please be informed that an additional charge of $100 will apply. To facilitate this process, you can either schedule a consultation with me or send clear images of your brows to 021799197 for my approval.

Please bear in mind that if your previous tattooing is excessively dark or deeply implanted, laser removal might be a necessary prerequisite before we can move forward. Additionally, if the original tattoo was incorrectly positioned, shape correction may not be possible without laser intervention. But rest assured, we will collaborate to find the best possible solution for your unique situation.

Why do my brow tattoos not match my friend's even though we both got them done by you?

Every client I work with is unique, and this principle guides my approach to tattooing. When creating brow or lip tattoos, I consider several individual factors such as your skin type, hair colour, and overall health status. This means that your cosmetic tattoo may not look exactly like your friend's even though they were done by me.

Differences in skin health and type can significantly affect the final outcome of the tattoo. For instance, healthier skin will always result in a better tattoo outcome. If your friend's brow tattoos appear different from yours, it's likely due to intrinsic differences in your skin types.

However, I want to ensure your satisfaction. If you have concerns or want to make adjustments to your brow tattoos, please let me know at your next appointment. We can discuss your preferences and explore different options to achieve the look you desire.

Remember, no two sets of tattooed brows will heal identically due to variables like skin health, colour, and even certain medications. But rest assured, my primary goal is to provide you with a naturally beautiful, healed tattoo that you will absolutely love.

Can I get my lips tattooed if I have filler?

Yes, you can certainly get your lips tattooed if you've had filler. However, it's crucial to wait a substantial period of about 8-10 weeks post-filler before proceeding with the tattoo. Fillers can be an excellent solution if you're dissatisfied with your lip shape or desire enhanced symmetry.

Cosmetic lip tattooing can help in giving your lips a fuller appearance. Yet, it's important to understand that I cannot extend the tattoo beyond your natural lip border. The reason behind this is that the pigment tends to heal differently outside the vermillion border, resulting in an undesirable aesthetic outcome.

Therefore, it's advisable to adhere to the guidelines and stay within the natural lip boarder to ensure the best possible results from your lip tattoo. After all, the goal is to enhance your natural beauty, not compromise it.

Is it possible to develop a cold sore after getting a lip tattoo?

If you are a carrier of the herpes simplex virus, there is a possibility that you might experience a cold sore outbreak following a tattoo procedure. Stress often triggers cold sores, and the procedure might induce such a response. To prevent this, I advise my clients to commence a course of prescribed cold sore medication five days prior to, and five days following, the tattoo session. Please note, an outbreak of cold sores could adversely affect the final appearance of your tattoo. Therefore, I encourage you to take these precautions seriously to ensure optimal results.

What pigments do you use?

You've posed an excellent question regarding the pigments I use for my tattoo services. I am pleased to inform you that I maintain an extensive assortment of pigments to cater to the varying preferences of my clientele. Importantly, if you have specific requests such as the need for vegan-friendly pigments, I encourage you to notify me in advance of your appointment. This will enable me to prepare the most suitable pigment option for you, ensuring that your tattoo experience aligns with your personal values and lifestyle choices. I will always strive to offer highly personalized services tailored to meet your unique needs.

Do you offer cosmetic tattoo training?

Absolutely! Whether you're a novice or an experienced professional, I have tailored courses just for you.

For more details, please click on my course training page. Let's gear up for an exciting learning journey ahead!