What is cosmetic tattooing?

Cosmetic tattooing is the process of implanting coloured pigment into the dermis layer of the skin by means of tiny, sterile disposable needles to produce the appearance of makeup and to enhance the natural features of the face. 

How long does it last?

Cosmetic tattoo procedures are considered to be permanent as you can not wash it off, however it will gradually fade as the body metabolises the pigment. This means that it will need to be touched up anywhere between 6/18 months to keep looking fresh. Touch ups will depend on a number of factors; the pigment colour used, the technique chosen, individuals lifestyle choices and skin type/condition. In most cases cosmetic tattooing can last between 1 and 5 years.

How many treatments are needed?

Usually a minimum of two treatments are required, at least 6/12 weeks apart, this is not included in your initial appointment price. With most procedures the colour looks dramatically lighter after the first week. 6 weeks post first treatment we recommend coming in for a review appointment to assess the colour retention and book an adjustment appointment in the near future if necessary. Everybody heals differently and at different rates.

What do you need to do before the procedure?

It is important that you prepare for your procedure. Please do not consume alcohol or caffeine, vitamin E, aspirin, niacin, fish oil supplements, ibuprofen for at least 48hrs prior to your appointment as these can cause thinning of blood. If you have been prescribed acne medication in the past you must wait 1 year before considering having this procedure. Please make sure you are not sunburnt or freshly tanned on or around the area to be treated or your appointment will need to be rescheduled. No tweezing, shaving, waxing, threading of the hair before your procedure. Please read through our contraindications list, and if you are on sure contact us and seek advice from a gp.

Where can I buy numbing cream/gel?

• Ainslie TerryWhite Chemmart Compounding Pharmacy (Ainslie)

• PharmaSave Woden Compounding Pharmacy (Phillip)

• Canberra Compounding Pharmacy (Belconnen)

  Please allow a few days before your appointment to seek out a numbing cream/gel it can take a day or 2 for the pharmacist to make it for you.

  Please bring it with you, and it will be applied during treatment. Please do not apply to the area before coming in.

What are contraindications for this treatment?

Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Skin blemishes (psoriases, dermatitis, rosacea, ingrown hairs, pustules, birthmarks, rashes, blisters)

hair growth serums ( please stop use 4/6 weeks prior to appointment)

moles / raised skin 

Heart conditions

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Shingles

Chemical peels/laser (wait at least 3 months before scheduling your cosmetic tattooing appointment after having these done)

Bruising

Vitamins (stop using 1 week prior to cosmetic tattooing)

Autoimmune disorders

Cancers

Keloid scarring

Bleeding disorders

Diabetes type 1

Diabetes type 2