General (Pain, Process, Aftercare)
What is a cosmetic tattoo?
Cosmetic means “involving or relating to treatment intended to restore or improve a person’s appearance”. Cosmetic tattoos help to restore and improve appearance by mimicking traditional cosmetics and makeup to enhance eyes, brows, lips, and more. Cosmetic Tattoos are intended to be natural and easy to wear whether you’re going to the grocery store or to a special event!
The cosmetic tattoo services offered at Cinnamon Girl Clinic are known for being the best in the city of Calgary, and include Eyebrow Microblading, Permanent Eyeliner Tattoos, Lip Blush Tattoos, and Scalp + Hairline Tattoo. Cinnamon Girl also offers non-permanent cosmetic services such as eyelash extensions, facial waxing, and facial hair tinting.
What is a paramedical tattoo?
The term Paramedical relates to services and professions that supplement and support medical work but do not require a fully qualified physician. Paramedical tattoos can be used to aid in healing as related to medical conditions whether that includes hair loss related to Alopecia, scarring left from surgeries and skin grafts, 3D tattoos related to mastectomies, or radiation marker camouflage related to cancer treatment.
The Paramedical Tattoos offered at Cinnamon Girl Clinic include treating Acne, Stretchmarks, Alopecia, Radiation Markers, 3D Areola + Nipple Tattoos, Scar and Skin Camouflage.
In Jody Stoski Paramedical Tattoo Academy, tattoo artists can also learn these paramedical tattoo skills to offer in their own clinics.
How many appointments will it take to complete my cosmetic or paramedical tattoo procedure?
For paramedical procedures, each case is so unique there is no “standard”, though most paramedical cases WILL require multiple visits with healing time in between. Fill out your online consultation HERE to get your personalized quote and treatment plan.
Why can’t my PMU be done in one appointment?
PMU is a layering process, and will always yield the best results when built up conservatively. Everyone does heal differently and this way we can perfect on top of a heal to give you the perfect brow shape, lip color, or lash line style! This is why it is so important we see you again for your touch-up appointment. Your tattoo is not complete until this final step is performed!
Watch the brow process here.
Do you offer consultations?
Yes! We want you to feel confident and comfortable going into your appointment, which is why we offer FREE consults to ensure you have all the knowledge about the process and aftercare before you book your appointment. We can also help determine the best service for you, based on your desired outcome.
Get your free, no-obligation online consultation here.
How painful are tattoo procedures and do you use numbing?
Pain levels will vary based on procedure and personal tolerance, but we always do our best to keep pain levels to a 5 and below (out of 10). Most of our clients say they’re at a 1-3 when we ask. We follow a two-step numbing procedure, starting with topical options like Bactine or Anesten. Then once your tattoo has started we use a specifically formulated numbing cream that penetrates deeper to keep you comfortable for the duration of your appointment. If you have anxiety, your doctor may recommend you take your prescribed medication prior to your appointment as well.
Communication between you and your artist during the procedure about pain levels will help us keep you comfortable as well!
I’m scared of the permanence of PMU, what if styles change?
We hear it often! Permanent cosmetics (specifically the face) use natural pigments that are designed to fade over time and do not need maintenance (which we offer at discounted prices). But at any maintenance appointment, you can make changes to the style of your tattoo as you would like, so it’s not AS permanent as an artistic tattoo on the body.
What aftercare do I need to know following my procedure?
Aftercare protocol will always be explained to you at your appointment.
Please click here to watch our Aftercare Video.
Please click here for a downloadable Aftercare Sheet including guidelines about picking (DO NOT PICK), swimming, tanning, getting facials, and more.
What’s the difference between Microneedling and Micropigmentation?
Microneedling does not have any pigment/ink being deposited into the skin. Microneedling can help to soften scars and skin texture and helps the natural skin heal and regenerate without the need for pigment. Sometimes microneedling is done as the first step in a camouflage strategy, with or without micropigmentation done at the next appointment.
What is the difference between a “touch-up” and a “colour boost”?
PMU is a layering process, best results are achieved when done in a two-step process. Because of this, your initial service will always include a touch-up (at no cost, within 3 months of initial service) for us to complete your PMU. Everyone heals differently, and this way we can perfect on top of any healing to achieve the Cinnamon Girl Standard we are known for. Touch-ups are intended to take care of anything that may have healed out in the first appointment. For example, adding a few more strokes to your brows, lengthening your eyeliner wing, or going a bit darker/brighter with your lip colour. Our goal is always to have a natural look and build on that until you are 100% satisfied.
A colour boost is just as it sounds, intended to boost colour and add to the longevity of your cosmetic tattoo! At Cinnamon Girl, if you come back within 3 years of your last appointment, we will consider this a colour boost and offer you reduced pricing. At any maintenance appointment, you can discuss slight changes to the style of your tattoo that you may be interested in.
Appointments made outside of 3 years are considered new tattoos, as your pigment is mostly gone, we will be starting fresh. This means full-price service, with a touch-up included.
Unlike cosmetic tattoos, paramedical tattoos typically last forever and do not require touch-ups or colour boosts (because we use tattoo inks on the body, and natural pigments on the face). The price you are quoted at your initial consult is the price for the full service with the intention it will last forever. If for some reason you do require a touch-up, we will work with you individually to determine pricing.
How do I know when it’s time for a colour boost?
Is your cosmetic tattoo less defined? Slightly faded? Has it been 1-3 years since your initial tattoo? Then it’s time! If you’re still not sure and want an expert opinion, fill out our consult form or DM us with photos of your tattoo to inquire.
How do i know if i am ready for Permanent Makeup?
Download our FREE PMU Readiness Checklist here, and find out if you are ready for PMU!
Brows
How is eyebrow shape determined?
Our eyebrow tattoo artists work with your face shape and personal preference to create a unique shape for you that compliments your natural features! Prior to your tattoo, you’ll confirm the shape you want as drawn in with an eyebrow pencil. Dots will be used to outline the shape, and things like arch, length, and density are taken into consideration. Each face is unique meaning each brow is unique at Cinnamon Girl Clinic, your consultation is built into the beginning of your appointment where your artist will map the shape you want and draw on examples with an eyebrow pencil. Dots of surgical pen will be used to outline the shape for use during the tattoo. Things like arch, length, density, and brow style (microbladed, nano, powder, ombre, or hybrid) are all taken into consideration. You are 100% in the driver’s seat, and your artist will not start until you are completely comfortable and confident!
How long do henna eyebrows last?
The tint from henna eyebrows lasts up to 2 weeks on the skin and up to 6 weeks on the eyebrow hairs.
What if I don’t like how my eyebrows turn out?
Although this hasn’t happened to us yet, we understand that this is your biggest fear! If at your consultation and initial appointment you do not feel ready to proceed, simply tell us and we won’t. Your satisfaction is our number one priority, and that’s why we always take our time to talk to you about shape, make sure you’re happy with what we draw, and go from there… no pressure! It’s also why your first touch-up is FREE, because we’d prefer to work modestly and then go bigger or bolder at your second appointment if and when you feel more comfortable doing so.
Remember to trust the process! All of our cosmetic services are perfected at your touch-up appointment and your tattoo will likely look much different during the first 7-10 days of healing than it will after your touch-up is completed!
Here‘s what to expect.
Can I get my eyebrows microbladed at Cinnamon Girl if I’ve had them done before elsewhere?
Can I get help with correcting previous microblading work NOT done at Cinnamon Girl Clinic?
Yes! In fact, this is very common. We do a lot of EMERGENCY eyebrow microblading corrections, and as such, we ask that you please note the price of non-virgin (previously bladed) brows starting at $850. Please note it is possible we may recommend laser removal prior to seeing us at Cinnamon Girl Clinic if this is needed to achieve the desired results.
What is the difference between Mircoblading and Powder Brows?
We do not encourage clients to get too hung up on the various brow tattoo types, rather focus on our artist’s ability to create their dream brows based on the style which best suits them, however please reference this post.
How long does Microblading last?
Most clients require a colour boost every 1-3 years (prices for colour boost start at $250 and go up based on amount of time after initial treatment). If you choose not to have them touched up they will fade away completely in about 5 years.
What is a Brow Lamination?
Eyebrow lamination is a relatively new procedure that focuses on creating shiny, smooth brows. Also sometimes called an “eyebrow perm,” the high-shine effects tend to be sought after by those experiencing thinning or unruly brows. Unlike microblading, needles and colouring are not involved. It’s a great way to test-drive your new brow shape!
How long does a Brow Lamination last?
Brow Laminations can last from 4-6 weeks. This depends on lifestyle factors such as facial exfoliations, products used on the face, time spent in water, and exposure to sun and UV rays. For best results, avoid getting the brows wet for 24 hours after lamination, avoid contact with direct sunlight, sunbeds, saunas, steam rooms, and swimming pools for 48 hours, and avoid excessive rubbing or touching of the eyebrows.
Eyes
How long will my eyeliner tattoo last?
Most clients require a colour boost every 1-3 years (prices for colour boosts start at $250 and go up based on the amount of time after initial treatment). If you choose not to have them touched up they will fade away completely in about 5 years.
What if I don’t like how my eyeliner turns out?
Our experienced artists will work with you to ensure they provide you with the liner you are seeking – and you can trust them to get it right as we’ve tattooed thousands of Calgarians since 2008 and this has never happened. If you change your look or style over time, the pigment will fade completely in five years! Please also see this Reel.
What is a lash lift?
A lash lift is a perm meant to enhance your eyelashes by providing a natural-looking lift and curl that can last for weeks on end.
What is a lash tint?
Lash tints involve one of our trained lash aestheticians applying a semi-permanent dye to your natural lashes, to add a rich colour that highlights facial features and gives depth to a lacklustre lash line for the appearance of darker, thicker lashes.
Are lash tint and lifts safe for sensitive eyes?
Lash Lifts are suitable for most eyelashes, short lashes, straight lashes or droopy lashes. Lash Lifts are also suitable for men.
However, for people who have severe skin irritation or very sensitive eyes, it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider to discuss any concerns.
Lips
How do you choose the right Lip Blush shade?
Bring in your favourite lipstick or gloss for us to colour-match our pigments to! We carry a wide range of shades at the clinic and can also make suggestions based on photos, and testing them on your lips first! It is important to note that the colour will be darker immediately after the appointment, fade, and then full colour will return by week 4 when you are fully healed. Colour will fade over time, which is why we recommend colour boosts every 1-3 years.
Check out the process here.
How long will my lip blush tattoo last? When will I need a colour boost?
Most clients require a colour boost every 1-3 years (prices for colour boosts start at $250 and go up based on the amount of time after initial treatment). If you choose not to have them touched up they will fade away completely in about 5 years.
What if I don’t like how my lip blush turned out?
Our experienced artists will work with you to ensure they provide you with the look you are seeking – and you can trust them to get it right as we’ve tattooed thousands of Calgarians since 2008 and this has never happened. If you change your look or style over time, the pigment will fade completely in five years!
How long does it take for the swelling to go down after a lip blush tattoo?
Within 36 hours – please see our video about what to expect.
Will my lip blush tattoo fade?
Most clients require a colour boost every 1-3 years (prices for colour boosts start at $250 and go up based on the amount of time after initial treatment). If you choose not to have them touched up they will fade away completely in about 5 years.
Can I still wear lipstick/lipgloss after getting lip blush?
Of course! After you have fully healed (7-10 days later)
Areolas
Will insurance cover my 3D areola tattoo?
In most cases, insurance companies do not cover the partial or full cost of paramedical tattoos unless the procedure is completed by a healthcare professional. There have been cases at Cinnamon Girl Clinic where clients were able to apply their healthcare spending account towards the cost of areola tattoos. You will need to research your own insurance plan to find out. Learn more about our 3D Areola + Nipple services.
Will my areola tattoo fade?
We use permanenet ink so your areolas are not likely to require a touch up for years, if ever.
Will my areola tattoo hurt?
Clients report pain to typically be below 2 out of 10 when receiving an areola tattoo
How many sessions are required for an areola tattoo?
Typically an areola will require one initial appointment and one touch-up appointment within 4-6 weeks.
How do you determine the colour for my areola tattoo?
Jody matches the areola colour, size and shape based on discussion with you at the start of the appointment to ensure the areola matches your skin and most importantly your desired results.
Scars & Stretchmarks
How does camouflage react in the sun? Does it change colour? What precautions should be taken regarding sun exposure?
It is recommended that all clients use sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) to protect their tattoos.
Pigments used in camouflage are stable and have been formulated to stay true to color.
So, the area that has been camouflaged may stay lighter in the sun than the rest of the skin that is getting a tan, as the pigment does not tan with the sun.
With that said, if the skin is suntanned the camouflage will still blend better than before the tattoo.
Once the skin is not tanned it will be perfectly blended again!
Clients should always come in at their most regular skin tone to ensure the perfect colour match.
See this post for more information.
What happens to stretchmark revisions when I tan?
Please see this post.
Scalp & Beard Pigmentation
What is SMP?
Scalp Micropigmentation deposits small amounts of pigment into the skin to replicate hair follicles freshly growing while matching your natural hair pattern and density. This treatment is done over multiple sessions to conservatively add density to your scalp which will reduce the contrast of scalp vs. hair, giving the illusion of fuller hair.
SMP is a permanent tattoo that may fade over time and can require a touch-up in 5 – 10 years depending on the patient’s lifestyle. This can be a great option for those who may not be a candidate for hair transplants. Fill out an online consult form here to get a personalized treatment plan and quote!
Watch the process here.
Can I get my beard tattooed?
Yes! We use the same technique for beard micropigmentation as we do for our scalp + hairline tattoo. If you are looking to add density in thinner areas, cover a scar, add darker stubble between grey areas, beard micropigmentation is for you! Contact us for a consult as pricing varies depending on the size of the area.
Will my SMP tattoo fade?
SMP is a permanent tattoo that may fade over time and can require a touch-up in 5 – 10 years, depending on the patient’s lifestyle.
Can I tan with SMP?
The ultraviolet rays from the sun may damage the SMP pigments if no sunscreen is used over many months or years. The result would be fading and the need for a touch-up. Do not use tanning beds. They can fade your SMP.
Botox, Filler, Pregnancy & Medications
Can I get botox or filler and still get PMU?
Yes, you absolutely can! We just recommend spacing appointments with at least a week in between to allow adequate aftercare for both treatments. If you want to get filler as well as lip blush, we recommend getting filler before the blush so we can match the shape to what you desire.
See the difference between Lip Blush and Lip Filler here.
Can I get a cosmetic or paramedical tattoo when pregnant?
We do not recommend getting a cosmetic or paramedical tattoo when you are pregnant due to the risk of infection.
Can I get a cosmetic or paramedical tattoo when nursing?
Yes! Once your little bundle of joy has arrived, you are safe to get cosmetic or paramedical tattoos. However, when nursing, our bodies tend to be on overdrive, meaning pigments can metabolize faster and you may not see the same results as when you were not nursing.
Booking, Cancellation & Pricing
How do I book an appointment?
The best way to book an appointment is online here but you can also call us at (403) 288-2769 or email info@cinnamongirlclinic.ca.
Your appointment time is reserved just for you. A late cancellation or missed visit leaves a hole in our day that could have been filled by another client therefore a credit card or paid deposit will be required to secure your appointment.
What is your cancellation policy?
48-Hour Cancellation
Your appointment time is reserved just for you. A late cancellation or missed visit leaves a hole in our day that could have been filled by another client. As such, we require 48 hours notice for any cancellations or changes to your appointment. Patients who provide less than 48 hours notice, or miss their appointment, will be charged a cancellation fee to the card on file.
Missed Appointments and No-Shows
Failure to show up for your appointment, or notify us in advance will be charged a $100 cancellation fee to the card on file. If you miss a touch-up appointment and need to rebook outside of the touch-up window, you will be charged full price.
Running Late
If you are running late, we will hold your appointment for 10 minutes, and appreciate if you can call or text to let us know you’re running behind. If there will not be enough time to complete your service and we have other clients waiting, we may need to reschedule your appointment.
How much is a colour boost?
Colour boosts are priced according to your service, artist, and how long it’s been since you had your initial appointment OR your last colour boost (yes every time you have colour boost the 3 year pricing resets!).
For example, if it’s been 1 year, it will cost less than if it’s been 2.5 years. View our preferred colour boost pricing on the service page you are inquiring about, ie. brows, lips, and eyeliner. Please do not exceed your 3-year mark, otherwise, you will have to pay full price again – and don’t worry – we’ll send a text to remind you of your upcoming PMU – anniversary.
Find out what you get after your PMU is done here.
How much is a touch-up?
Touch-ups are always included at no cost in all full price first-time service within 4-6 weeks of your first appointment. Just one of the reasons Cinnamon Girl has become known as Calgary’s best cosmetic tattoo, eyebrow microblading, permanent eyeliner, and lip tattoo clinic.
Gift Cards & Online Shop Orders
How do Cinnamon Girl gift certificates work?
Gift certificates are great if you want to pay for a portion of someone’s service OR if you don’t know which service they want to purchase in full.
Gift certificates are physical cards available in our online shop that can be mailed, or picked up at the clinic. Once you gift it, all they have to do is bring it to their appointment to redeem!
Can I pre-pay for a friend’s service as a gift?
If you know what service they want, you can purchase it for them in our online shop, and they can show us the receipt when they come in for their appointment. If you’re not sure… then opt for a gift card instead!
Where do you ship to and how much is shipping?
Cinnamon Girl Clinic offers expedited shipping at competitive prices through Canada Post to all Canadian provinces. If you live in Calgary, save yourself shipping and select the In-Store Pick-Up option at checkout!
Can I buy these products anywhere else?
All products we sell online are also available in the Cinnamon Girl Clinic in Calgary. If you would like to sell them in your own retail store or clinic, please contact us and we’ll see what we can arrange!
What is the return and refund policy?
All Sales Final
For customers who have purchased a brow mascara, brow soap, gift vouchers, or other product from the Cinnamon Girl Shop, all items are FINAL SALE, and there are no refunds or exchanges. If you aren’t sure what colour to buy, please feel free to email us and we’ll help you shade match!
Gift Vouchers
Present your gift voucher for payment at Cinnamon Girl Clinic. This is not a credit/debit card and has no implied warranties. Cinnamon Girl is NOT responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged cards or any authorized card use. Card is redeemable for purchases only. Unused value remains on card and cannot be redeemed for cash, except where required by law.
Don’t See Your Question?
Submit It Here and It Will Be Added
