The honest answers.
Most questions come up again and again. Here is everything you’ll likely want to know before your appointment — techniques, pain, healing, what to avoid, and what to expect after.
What’s the difference?
What is Ombre / Powder Brows?
A machine-applied technique that creates a solid fill brow. Great for clients with existing tattoos underneath, oily skin, or anyone who simply loves the look of filled-in brows.
What is Microblading?
PhiBrows microblading is a manual “hand” method of permanent cosmetics for eyebrows that creates extremely fine, natural-looking hair strokes.
What is Micro-shading (Combination)?
Two techniques in one session — manual pen plus machine. Creates a soft light-to-dark effect with natural hair strokes in front and solid fill behind.
How does microblading actually work?
Pigment is applied with a specific PhiBrows tool that has a row of very fine needles, creating thin hair-like marks on the skin.
Does it hurt? How long?
Is microblading painful?
It can feel a little uncomfortable for sensitive clients, but a topical anesthetic is applied to keep discomfort to a minimum. Most clients describe it as tolerable.
How long does the service take?
A brow appointment takes approximately two hours. Eyeliner sessions take at least three hours.
How long does microblading last?
Depending on skin type and care, pigment fades slowly over 3 months up to 3 years. Touch-ups every six to twelve months keep color fresh and strokes crisp.
Why isn’t pricing listed here?
Where can I see current prices?
Permanent makeup prices are shown on the booking calendar so they always reflect the current rate. See the pricing page or open booking.
How are body tattoos priced?
Per piece. Start with the tattoo request form and we’ll reply with a time estimate and quote.
Do you price cover-ups differently?
Yes. Cover-up work depends on the existing ink, so a clear photo is needed before we can quote. Email info@inkspiration.ca with photos.
How to prepare.
Any pre-existing conditions that rule me out?
Contraindications include pregnancy, breastfeeding, keloid tendency, diabetes, serious illness, bleeding disorders, blood thinners, Accutane use, recent Botox, old PMU, broken capillaries, sunburn, recent waxing, and recent chemical peels.
Is there anything I should avoid before coming in?
- Coffee, alcohol, aspirin, vitamin E, ibuprofen — 24 hours prior
- Omega-3 — 1 week prior
- Direct sun exposure — 3 days prior
- Waxing — 2–3 days prior
- Intense skin treatments (peels / laser) — 2 weeks prior
Do you remove my existing eyebrow hair?
No hair is removed during microblading. We only clean up the hair outside the desired final shape.
What to expect on the day and after.
What happens during my service?
Consultation, shape design using the PhiBrows golden ratio, color selection, anesthetic application, pigment work, mask absorption, cleaning, and ointment application.
Is there aftercare?
Yes. Avoid sweating, swimming, hot environments, laser or chemical treatments, picking, heavy facial cleaning, excess alcohol, driving with the windows open, and touching the area except to apply the supplied post-care cream.
How long does healing take?
About 7–10 days for the epithelial crust to form and slough off. Full healing takes roughly one month.
What’s the healing process like?
Color starts dark, then lightens through days 5–12 before settling to its final shade at 3–4 weeks post-treatment.
Can I wear makeup on the brows while they heal?
Absolutely not — it risks infection. You can apply makeup once flaking has fully stopped.
Keeping the work looking good.
What happens at the touch-up?
The artist fills in missing hairs, lengthens individual strokes where needed, and deepens color if it faded unevenly during healing.
How often should I touch up?
Every six months to a year keeps color fresh and strokes crisp.
Can microblading work over an existing tattoo?
Sometimes. Send a clear photo for assessment — results vary based on how the previous work looks.
Products, safety, and removal.
What products do you use?
All products are high-end, vegan, and cruelty-free. Every needle is sterilized in its own package and disposed of after each use.
What if I don’t like the design?
The design is drawn on first and confirmed with you before any pigment goes in. Adjustments within reason are discussed and made before we start.
What tattoo removal method do you use?
A non-surgical method with shorter healing time than laser removal. The removal formula draws the original ink upward and out of the skin. Most pieces take 2–6 sessions depending on severity.
Ask before you book.
Email or call the studio — we’re happy to clarify anything specific to your skin, medical history, or cover-up situation before you commit to a date.
