FAQs

Short answer:
These are types of semi-permanent eyebrow tattooing that enhance brow shape, fullness, and symmetry.

Details:

  • Microblading: Hand-held tool creates fine hair-like strokes by scratching lines into the skin.

  • Nano brows: Machine-based, ultra-fine strokes for natural-looking brows.

  • Powder brows: Soft, shaded effect, like a subtle eyebrow fill with pencil.

  • Results typically last 1–3 years depending on skin type, pigment, and aftercare.

What are microblading, nano brows, and powder brows?

How do microblading, nano brows, and powder brows differ?

Short answer:
The main differences are in technique, tools, and the final look.

Details:

  • Microblading: Hand tool, creates hair-like strokes, however Nano Brows are a better, more updated technology and I am no longer recommending this service!

  • Nano Brows: Machine, precise strokes, lasts slightly longer, minimal trauma to skin.

  • Powder Brows: Soft, filled-in look, so that you can “wake up with makeup”

How long do brow tattoos last?

Short answer:
Most semi-permanent brows last 1–3 years, with yearly touch-ups recommended.

Details:

  • Longevity depends on skin type, sun exposure, lifestyle, and skincare products.

  • Oily skin fades faster; dry/normal skin may hold pigment longer.

  • Touch-ups restore color, shape, and definition. If you don’t get a touch up, the color gets lighter and lighter until it fades away

How do I prepare for my brow tattoo appointment?

Short answer:
 Preparation ensures the best results and healing.

Details:

  • Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and blood-thinning medications 24 hours before.

  • Do not tweeze, wax, or tint brows for 2 weeks before your appointment

  • If you normally fill in your brows, arrive with brows filled in how you are used to seeing them.

Does it hurt?

Short answer:
A little bit! But only for a few minutes at the beginning. I don’t use numbing for the first layer (the tattoo is built up in layers of color), but apply a fast-acting gel afterward, making the rest of the appointment comfortable. Most clients rate the first few minutes as a 4/10, and breaks are always available if needed.

Details:

  • Sensation varies by technique and individual pain tolerance. Powder technique often feel less intense than Microblading or Nano Brows.

  • Topical numbing creams need 20+ minutes to take effect and can soften the skin, making the first layer difficult to tattoo.

  • After the first layer, the skin is slightly open, allowing a quick-acting numbing gel to penetrate and work in just 2 minutes. This method ensures the first layer heals perfectly while keeping the remainder of the session virtually pain-free.

Are brow tattoos safe?

Short answer:
Yes, when performed by a trained professional using sterile tools and high-quality pigments.

Details:

  • Always ensure the artist uses single-use needles and follows strict sanitation standards.

  • Certain medical conditions (pregnancy, chemotherapy, Accutane, antibiotics) may require waiting.

  • Allergic reactions are rare but possible; patch tests can help prevent issues.

Can I get brow tattoos if I have oily or sensitive skin?

Short answer:
 Yes, but skin type may affect longevity and pigment retention.

Details:

  • Oily skin may require more frequent touch-ups, and does best with the powder brow stule

  • Sensitive skin may bruise or scab more easily; proper aftercare is critical.

How do I choose between the different services you offer?

Short answer:
Choice depends on your desired look, skin type, and where your brow hair grows. Please text photos for a complimentary pre-booking consultation (213-290-3274)

Details:

  • Microblading: I keep this service listed because people don’t know that there is a better, more updated version of this service! (nano brows).

  • Nano: Ideal for people who want a brow tattoo that looks like real hair.

  • Powder: Perfect for people who want to “wake up with makeup”

  • For those who feel especially nervous or are unsure whether brow tattooing is right for them, I recommend booking a Consultation Only appointment. These are in-person, 45-minute sessions during which I can draw a realistic preview of what your brows would look like once healed.

    If you already know you’d like to move forward with a tattoo, you may book any brow appointment. We’ll discuss your goals together and determine which tattooing technique will best achieve your desired results, with flexibility to adjust the approach during the appointment.

What happens during the appt?

Short answer:
Your brows will first be shaped and tweezed. This is followed by a 45-minute consultation during which we discuss your ideal brow shape and map it directly on your skin.

The tattoo planning process may take up to one hour, and the tattooing itself takes approximately 45 minutes (plan for an hour and 45 minutes)

Can I remove or correct brow tattoos if I don’t like them?

Short answer:
Yes! But that won’t happen with me since we have a 45 minute consultation before we start tattooing.

Removal is easy and affordable with laser. I recommend Fresh Cosmetic Tattoo in North Austin, or Clean Slate ink in South Austin.

Emergency removal can be performed within 72 hours with a special solution that soaks into the skin and prevents the pigment from adhering to the skin. Text photos to 213-290-3274 for approval before booking.

Details:

  • Minor corrections or color adjustments are usually done with touch-ups.

  • Complete removal may require laser treatments.

  • Always consult a professional before attempting removal.

Do I need a touch-up, and when?

Short answer:
Yes! Most clients need a touch up 2-6 months after the first session. Once you have the touch up session, you can expect to need additional touch ups every 1-3 years.

Current pricing

Microblading, Nano Brows, Powder Brows all have the same rates:

  • New client /Cover Up (first appointment with me) : $600

  • 6-12 week touch up: $350

  • 3-8 month touch up: $400

  • Yearly touch up (9 months + since last session): $450

How should I care for my brows after the procedure?

Short answer:
 Follow your aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing.

Details:

  • Avoid touching, scratching, or picking the area.

  • Avoid soaps, heavy sweating, and makeup on or near the brows for the first 2 weeks.

  • A little water from the shower is fine, but don’t submerge your head in lake or pool water for 2 weeks.

  • Gently wipe the brows morning and night for the first 2 weeks. Apply provided healing cream if they get dry and flakey.

How much does it cost?

Short answer:
 In general, prices vary based on technique, artist experience, and location.

Current pricing

Microblading, Nano Brows, Powder Brows all have the same rates:

  • New client /Cover Up (first appointment with me) : $600

  • 6-12 week touch up: $350

  • 3-8 month touch up: $400

  • Yearly touch up (9 months + since last session): $450

What should I expect during healing?

Short answer:
Days 1-5: Brows appear darker and more bold

Days 5-10: Brows may become dry and flakey. An aftercare ointment will be provided

Days 10 - 30: Brows will lighten up and lose up to 50% of the color. The tattoo is hiding beneath a thick new layer of skin that has formed across the top of the tattoo. Final results from each session are visible at week 6.

How do I care for my brows after the procedure?

Short answer:
Follow your aftercare instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and lasting results.

Details

  • Avoid swimming, saunas, and heavy sweating during initial healing.

  • Apply recommended ointments as instructed.

  • Avoid makeup on or near the brows and harsh skincare on the area for 3 weeks.

When can I go back to exercising or swimming?

Short answer:
Light activity is fine, but avoid heavy sweating or swimming for 2 weeks. Protect your investment to make sure it heals beautifully!

Will the color fade or change over time?

Short answer:
Yes. The pigment will get lighter and lighter over time, but will not turn red.

Details:

  • Sun exposure, skincare products, and skin type affect fading.

  • Annual touch-ups help maintain color and definition.

Why does brow tattooing cost so much?

Short answer:
The price most often reflects the skill of the artist, and time they have spent doing this art form.

Details:

  • Artists spend years training and perfecting technique.

  • High-quality pigments, single-use tools, and sterile environments are essential.

  • Professional care ensures long-lasting, natural results.

Appointment Policies

  • Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable.

    Any client who does not show up for a scheduled appointment will forfeit their deposit and will be required to pay a new deposit to book a new appointment. After two no-shows, we will refuse you service.

    No children under the age of 18 are allowed in the studio, however, there is a waiting room in the lobby. Please do not bring small children to your appointment.

    If you show up to your appointment and have a previous cosmetic tattoo that wasn’t approved before booking your appointment, you will be turned away and your deposit will be forfeited.

    We have the right to refuse service to anyone.

  • All new client appointments require a deposit. The deposit is non-transferable and non-refundable.

    Any cancelations or no-shows within 48 hours of the scheduled appointment will forfeit their deposit and be required to pay a new deposit.

    If no deposit was taken, a $75 fee will be required to pay before re-booking.

  • You do not need to arrive more than a few minutes early for your appointment. Please take into account travel time and parking. There is ample parking available in front of Grapevine Salons.

    Any client 20 minutes (or more) late to their appointment, regardless of unforeseen circumstances that may arise, will forfeit their deposit and be required to re-book a new appointment with a new deposit.

    If you are running late, even a few minutes, it is expected that you text or call the studio to inform your artist. The phone number can be found in the “Contact Us” section of this website.

What are the contraindications?

  • Do not consume alcohol or blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, Niacin, etc) 48 hours before your procedure to avoid excess bleeding.

    No caffeine the morning of your appointment.

  • If you have any allergies or are being treated for a health condition, please check with me PRIOR to booking an appointment. I can provide you a list of ingredients of all products used, and schedule you to come in for a patch test.

    If you have a serious autoimmune condition, are being treated for cancer, or are on any blood thinning or immunosuppressants, a doctor’s note approving you for cosmetic tattooing may be required.

    Again, please check in about this PRIOR to booking.

  • Typically no. But, if you have a history of keloid scarring, please send an email or text to chat about this more BEFORE booking an appointment. Sometimes keloiding is the skin’s response to a specific injury and not your skin’s typical response.

  • You must be off antibiotics for at least 2 weeks before being eligible for an appointment.

    If you are on a long-term dose of antibiotics for a condition such as Lyme disease, please email Sophie to discuss further as it may be possible to be seen with a doctor’s note.

    YOU MUST RESCHEDULE WITHIN 48 HOURS NOTICE IF YOU HAVE BEEN ON ANTIBIOTICS IN THE LAST 2 WEEKS BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT.

    This is a non-negotiable studio policy, and your deposit will be forfeited if you do not provide 48 hours notice.

  • No, you cannot be tattooed if you currently undergoing chemotherapy or treatment for cancer.

    A doctor’s note may be permissible if you are on a long-term oral immunosuppressant and have been declared in remission from cancer by your doctor. This must be cleared with Sophie before booking.

  • No. Per the laws in the state of Texas, I cannot work on anyone who is pregnant or nursing.

  • No, you must have been off Accutane for at least 9 months. If it has been less than 9 months, a doctor’s note may be acceptable, but you must check in with Sophie prior to booking your session. 

  • You MUST stop using Retinol 2 weeks prior to your appointment and avoid using it for the 2 weeks following your appointment.

  • You should NOT use any product near the brows that contains any type of oil, retinol, AHA, or any anti-aging product. Oils will fade your brows very quickly and cause microbladed or nano brow strokes to become blurry.

    If you sweat a lot, always make sure you wipe your brows off after your workout. Sweat contains oils from your skin and this can cause your brows to fade at a faster rate. If you are a regular swimmer (multiple times a week) either in chlorine or the ocean, make sure you wipe your brows with a mild soap and warm water afterward. 

    If you spend a lot of time in the sun, it is best to wear a hat to protect your brows from the sun as it will fade them faster. Sunscreen is also great, but using a daily sunscreen on your brows is not recommended unless you are actually in the sun long enough to get a tan or sunburn. Anything you put directly on your eyebrows can impact the ink.

    If you are planning a chemical peel, laser treatment, or other medical procedure, please inform the technician that you have had a cosmetic tattoo. Careful application must be taken to avoid affecting the tattooed area.