Your Pre-Appointment Checklist for PMU & Paramedical Tattoos

Getting a permanent makeup or paramedical tattoo is an exciting step, and a little preparation can make all the difference in how smooth and comfortable your appointment goes. Here’s everything you need to do (and NOT do) to ensure the best experience possible.

DO:

✅ Hydrate – Your skin loves water, and hydrated skin takes pigment better. Start drinking plenty of water at least a day or two before your appointment.

✅ Eat a small meal – Showing up hungry isn’t fun for anyone, and low blood sugar can make you feel lightheaded. No one wants to pass out mid-tattoo.

✅ Dress comfortably – You’ll be sitting or lying down for a while, so wear something cozy. Bonus points for loose-fitting clothing if I’m working on an area like areolas or scar camouflage.

✅ Bring a blanket or an extra shirt – Some people run cold, and your body temperature can drop when you’re relaxed. A blanket or an extra layer can help keep you comfortable.

✅ Relax – You booked this for a reason, and I’ve got you! Deep breaths, unclench your jaw, and trust the process.

✅ Keep your face still if we’re working on it – Talking moves your whole face, which makes precise work harder. If you can’t talk without moving your face, consider staying quiet during your PMU session. No hard feelings—I’d rather have you silent for a bit than risk uneven work.

✅ Check for contraindications with your doctor – If you have health concerns, are pregnant, nursing, or take certain medications, get the green light from your doctor before booking.

✅ Take your own before photos – I do my best to take before-and-afters, but if I get caught up in the process and forget, you’ll be glad you took some yourself!

DON’T:

❌ Get Botox within two weeks before your appointment – Botox changes the way your muscles sit, which can affect symmetry. If you want both Botox and PMU, get the tattoo done first and wait at least two weeks before getting injectables.

❌ Take ibuprofen, aspirin, or fish oil – These thin your blood and can lead to excessive bleeding, which makes it harder for the pigment to stay put. Tylenol is fine if you need something for pain before your appointment.

❌ Use your phone while I’m working on your face – You need to be still, and phones are a major distraction. Let’s keep the TikTok scrolling for later.

❌ Bring a friend into the treatment room – I know moral support is nice, but having an audience adds pressure and can be distracting. If someone drives you, they’re welcome to wait in the lobby.

❌ Show up too early (or too late) – I run on a schedule, and if you show up too early, I might still be with another client or prepping for you. On the flip side, don’t be late—especially if you’re coming from out of town. Plan for traffic and arrive on time.

Extra Pro Tips:

✨ Skip the coffee if you're caffeine-sensitive. It can make you jittery and more sensitive to pain.

✨ Avoid alcohol the night before. It thins your blood, which isn’t great for pigment retention.

✨ Plan for healing time. Your brows, lips, or areola tattoos will go through a healing phase, and they’ll look darker or bolder than the final result for a few days. Don’t schedule your appointment right before a big event.

✨ Be honest on your intake form. I need to know about medications, health conditions, or prior work to give you the best result possible.

✨ Trust the process. Healing takes time, and permanent makeup always softens and settles. If you have questions, ask—but don’t panic if things look a little wild at first.

By following this checklist, you’re setting yourself up for the best experience possible. I can’t wait to work with you and give you results you’ll love! If you have any questions before your appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out. See you soon! 💛