Tattoo FAQ
WOAD Studio does not offer microblading. We offer Nanobrows, performed with a cosmetic tattooing machine.
Digital Hair Stroke Brows are created using a cosmetic tattooing machine with a tiny needle that injects pigment into the skin. The pigment is implanted much closer to the surface of the skin than in traditional tattooing, also the pigment used in cosmetic tattooing is totally different to those used in body tattooing.
Nanobrows vs. Microblading
The digital hair stroke technique is much less traumatic to the skin than microblading, so the process causes less bruising, bleeding and inflamation. So clients are able to go through the first pass without the initial anesthetic, using only the secondary one.
How are nanobrows performed?
We use a cosmetic tattooing machine with a single needle and cosmetic tattoo pigments. We DO NOT USE ink!
Using a single needle allows for thin hair strokes, which have a more natural look. To accentuate a hair stroke we do not go deeper, but we implement more pigment in the same layer of the skin without opening the skin, therefore there is less to no bleeding.
Do you offer consultations beforehand?
We offer online consultations if it is done in a timely manner before your appointment. (3 days beforehand) You will need to provide a clear photo of your eyebrows or fill the consultation form on the booking page. We will address and discuss what your desired outcome would be as well as any concerns or questions you might have. The online consultation is free and you will receive digital images with the possible results. In-person consultations are offered separately from the service for the deposit fee with no additional costs.
Which pigments and needles do you use and are they safe?
As per the regulations of the Health Department in the city of Pasadena, we only used needles, machines and pigments pre-approved. Our certifications are always on display, but feel free to ask us any questions. All the needles are high quality, sterilized/sealed and single-use. They are being open in front of each client and disposed of immediately after in the sharps container. Pigments are sterile and NOT FDA approved - as FDA does not regulate them. Stringent quality control is in place to ensure NO heavy metals, carcinogens or impurities.
Does it hurt?
We apply a topical numbing cream to pre numb the area for 20 minutes, then proceed to apply a numbing product throughout the procedure to keep it numb. The active ingredients are lidocaine/tetracaine. Some clients do not require pre-numbing and are comfortable to proceed to the first pass, as the pain as quite low. This is an option we offer as it gives better results. If you are not able to tolerate it, we offer the initial pre-numb.
What is the healing process like?
Some residual swelling, redness or minor bruising is normal for ALL procedures. Most swelling occurs on day 1-3. A needle was placed in your skin, there WILL be swelling, though some clients may have minimal swelling, some may more. Usually, these effects disappear within a few hours.
The area may appear uneven, dry, itchy, tender, red & irritated, flake or scab unevenly. The areas may appear very light under the areas of peeling or flaking. DO NOT PICK. If you pick, you can cause scarring. The results vary from person to person and some clients may heal quicker than others or could take longer. You need to be patient and let the procedure have adequate healing over the course of 30+ days.
In the first days (up to 10 days) the eyebrows might look more intense, darker or thicker than they will look at the end of the healing period. This happens for 2 reasons: the pigment oxidizes a short time after the procedure is done, and the pigment is still in the epidermis, a layer of the skin that is in constant regeneration/exfoliation. Once we lose this superficial pigment, the color WILL fade/soften by 40-50%, and the brows will be thinner by about 10%.
At the touch up we will fine-tune any area that has faded too much. Even then, there is no guarantee that the pigment will heal better. Healing is specific to each client. It is important to realize that you will need a color boost every 1-2yrs to maintain its fresh natural appearance. Fading WILL happen after each procedure. We do not have control over your body’s healing process or skin. You may need still to powder and/or pencil even after the healed results. This is an enhancement to your natural brows....not a permanent one. Each time a procedure is performed, scar tissue is made, causing retention to be less and less each time it is done. This is universal in all cosmetic tattoo procedures. It is a fact. Due to the buildup of scar tissue, touch-ups will not be done any sooner than 1 year after the 1st touch-up. NO EXCEPTIONS!
How long does semi-permanent makeup/cosmetic tattoo last?
Anywhere from 1-3 years, depending on your skin type and lifestyle. Final results can NOT be guaranteed as it depends on each unique skin, which determines how well it holds pigment and breaks it down.
How will I remember what to do? This is a lot of information
Before you leave our studio you will be provided with a printed after-care routine and cream. If you lose it, don't worry. The After Care steps are listed on our website. For any questions, you might have, feel free to always write us a message,
Is there parking available?
Parking is available at the mall right next to Sola Studios. There is usually plenty of space available. There is also street parking available in the surrounding area.