Cosmetic Tattoo FAQ's
Have a question that isn't answered here? Email us at hello@draderbrows.com or book a consultation and we'll walk you through everything in person.
Does it hurt?
Most clients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the experience is. For brows, it is optional to apply Emla cream (available at most pharmacies) to the area one hour before your appointment — this isn't compulsory but does help manage any initial discomfort during the first pass. A secondary anaesthetic is then applied mid-treatment, and most clients experience little to no discomfort from that point on.
For lips, you'll arrive 30 minutes early to apply a pre-numbing cream, as the lips are a more sensitive area. We also use a secondary anaesthetic throughout the treatment to keep you as comfortable as possible.
Everyone experiences pain differently, but making the process as comfortable as possible is always our priority.
How long does it take to heal?
Brows and Lip Blush take around 6–8 weeks to fully heal, while Dark Lip Neutralisation takes 8–12 weeks. Your tattoo may appear bolder and darker in the first few days — this is completely normal and it will soften and settle as it heals. Lips tend to settle faster than brows, often within just a few days.
Following your aftercare instructions closely during those first 4 weeks makes a significant difference to your results. You'll receive a full aftercare kit and detailed instructions at your appointment.
How long does a cosmetic tattoo last?
Results vary depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and how well you follow the aftercare advice, but generally:
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Nano Hairstroke Brows — a Colour Refresh is recommended every 12–18 months as the pigment fades and shifts over time
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Ombre & Combination Brows — a Colour Refresh is recommended every 12–36 months, and often longer, as the ink tends to last well in the skin
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Lip Blush & Dark Lip Neutralisation — a Colour Refresh is recommended every 12–36 months depending on how your skin retains the pigment
How many treatments will I need?
All new clients require a minimum of two treatments — your Initial Treatment and a Perfecting Treatment 6–8 weeks later (8–12 weeks for Dark Lip Neutralisation). The Perfecting Treatment allows us to make any fine adjustments after the healing process and ensures the best possible healed result.
Occasionally a third appointment is needed, which is charged at the Perfecting Treatment rate. For Dark Lip Neutralisation, some clients require up to five sessions depending on the depth of pigmentation, skin type, and desired outcome.
Which treatment is right for me?
Not sure where to start? That's completely normal and exactly what our consultations are for. Book a consultation online or email us at hello@draderbrows.com and we'll help you figure out the best option for your skin type, features, and goals.
As a general guide:
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Nano Hairstrokes suit normal to dry skin types and those wanting the most natural, hair-like result
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Ombre Powder Brows suit all skin types including oily skin, and those wanting a fuller, more defined look or needing partial to full reconstruction
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Combination Brows suit those wanting the best of both — natural texture with added density
Do I need to shape or wax my brows beforehand?
No — please leave your brows as natural as possible before your appointment. The more hair we have to work with, the better your result will be. Avoid waxing, threading, or tinting in the two weeks leading up to your treatment.
Can I wear makeup to my appointment?
Yes, no need to arrive bare-faced. Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed before we begin.
What should I avoid before my appointment?
To get the best results, in the week before your treatment please avoid:
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Blood-thinning medications or supplements (aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E) where possible — consult your doctor if unsure
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Alcohol for 24 hours prior
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Retinol or AHA skincare products in the area
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Excessive sun exposure or sunburn
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Botox or fillers in the treatment area within two weeks
What should I avoid after my treatment?
During the healing period please avoid:
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Getting the area wet (swimming, saunas, steamy showers)
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Picking or peeling any flaking skin
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Sun exposure and tanning
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Applying makeup directly to the treated area
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Retinol, AHAs, or exfoliating products near the area
Full aftercare instructions will be provided at your appointment.
Will my cosmetic tattoo look natural?
It can absolutely look natural — it all comes down to what you want and how we approach it together.
For those wanting the most natural result, the key is keeping it soft, light, and understated — less is always more. During your consultation we'll map and measure your brows or lips to your facial features, discuss your goals honestly, and guide you toward a result that genuinely suits you. We'll never push you toward anything that doesn't feel right for your face.
Can I get a cosmetic tattoo if I already have tattooed brows?
It depends on the existing tattoo. Some pre-existing brow tattoos can be worked with, while others may require laser removal first. We'll assess this at your consultation and let you know exactly what's possible before proceeding.
Can I get cosmetic tattooing while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No treatments can be performed on pregnant women. If you are breastfeeding, you are welcome to proceed but will need to express and discard your milk for 24 hours following your treatment.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes — you must be 18 years or older to receive cosmetic tattooing at Drader Brows. Proof of ID may be requested at your appointment.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
A non-refundable 25% deposit is required to secure all bookings. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give us at least one week's notice so we can offer your appointment to another client. Cancellations made with less than one week's notice will forfeit the deposit.
Still have questions? Email us at hello@draderbrows.com or book a consultation online — we're always happy to help.

