The consultation is the single most important meeting you will have on your permanent makeup journey. It is your opportunity to interview your potential artist, to gain clarity, and to build the confidence you need to proceed. A great artist will welcome your questions and answer them with passion and professionalism. A hesitant or dismissive artist is a major red flag. To ensure you are making a safe, informed, and empowered decision, you need to be prepared. This is your definitive checklist of the 15 questions you must ask during your consultation. The answers will tell you everything you need to know.
Questions About Artistry & Experience
- "May I please see your portfolio of HEALED work?"
This is the most important question. Fresh work can be deceptive. The true skill of an artist is revealed in how their work heals. Look for clear, unedited photos of brows at least 6 weeks after the touch-up.
- "How long have you been a permanent makeup artist, and where did you receive your training?"
Look for an artist who has invested in a reputable, in-depth training program and has dedicated experience in the field. A weekend certification is not the same as a comprehensive apprenticeship or advanced training.
- "How do you determine the right shape for my face?"
The only right answer involves a meticulous, manual process called "brow mapping." They should mention using tools like calipers and mapping string to design a custom shape based on your unique bone structure. Steer clear of anyone who mentions using stencils.
- "How do you choose the right color for me?"
A master artist will talk about color theory, assessing your skin's undertones (cool, warm, neutral), and custom-blending pigments to create a shade that will heal to a natural, flattering color.
Questions About Safety & Hygiene
- "Are you licensed and insured, and can I see your bloodborne pathogen certification?"
This is non-negotiable. These credentials should be proudly displayed and readily available. This is the baseline for a safe and professional practice.
- "Is all of your equipment single-use and disposable?"
The answer must be an unequivocal "yes." Needles and any other tools that come into contact with skin must be brand new, sterile, and opened in front of you at the beginning of your appointment.
- "What kind of pigments do you use?"
Look for an artist who uses high-quality, reputable cosmetic pigments that are specifically designed for the face. They should be knowledgeable about their chosen brand and why they use it.
Questions About the Process & Aftercare
- "What can I expect during the healing process?"
The artist should be able to walk you through the entire healing journey with confidence: the dark stage, the flaking, the ghosting phase, and the final color bloom. An honest and detailed explanation is a sign of an experienced professional.
- "What is your aftercare protocol, and what products do you provide?"
A professional studio will provide you with a detailed aftercare instruction sheet and often a complete aftercare kit with the specific, approved products you'll need.
- "Is the touch-up session included in the price?"
The industry standard for a high-quality procedure is to include the 6-10 week touch-up in the initial price, as it is a mandatory part of the process. Be wary of pricing that presents it as an optional "add-on."
- "How long will the appointment take?"
For a full powder brow procedure, the answer should be around 2.5 to 3 hours. Anything significantly less suggests that crucial steps, like custom mapping, are being rushed or skipped.
Questions About Long-Term Results & Corrections
- "How long can I expect my results to last, and what factors will affect them?"
An honest artist will give you a realistic timeframe (e.g., 1-3 years before a color boost is needed) and will educate you on the impact of sun exposure, skincare, and skin type.
- "What is your policy if I'm not happy with the results?"
A confident, professional artist will have a clear policy focused on client satisfaction, which typically involves making necessary adjustments at the touch-up session.
- "Do you perform corrections on other artists' work?"
An artist's willingness and ability to perform complex correction work is often a sign of a high level of skill and experience.
- "When should I come back for a color boost?"
They should explain the visual cues of fading and provide a general timeframe for this maintenance appointment.
Finding the Right Answers in Orlando, Florida
Asking these questions is your key to finding a truly elite artist. In a competitive market like Orlando, the best studios are those that welcome this level of scrutiny with open arms. At pmstudiook.com, we believe that an empowered client is the best client. We are prepared and passionate about answering every one of these questions in detail. Our masters in Orlando, Florida, are committed to a process that is transparent, educational, and focused on delivering the highest standard of care.
The Takeaway: Your Voice in the Process
Your consultation is a two-way interview. Use these questions as your guide. They will empower you to look beyond the portfolio and assess the artist's commitment to safety, artistry, and professional excellence. The right artist will make you feel confident, cared for, and excited to begin your journey.