Freckles & Beauty Marks
WHAT IS A FRECKLE/BEAUTY MARK TATTOO?
The process of implanting ink into the upper layers of the dermis to create the appearance of natural freckles and/or beauty marks. While some freckles can be darkened, I can not darken moles or any raised bumps. These are better addressed by a dermatologist.
ABOUT THE PROCESS
I break freckle tattoos into three categories: Light, Medium and Heavy. There will be an additional consultation at the actual appointment where I use a pencil or other tool to map out areas of the face for placement. Only after the client has approved the drawing will any tattooing begin. Due to the gentle nature of the tattoo, numbing is not necessary however it is available for anyone who feels they may need it.
While actual placement is fully customizable, the image below is intended to serve as a reference of what each category of freckles will give a client.
HEALING & AFTERCARE
Right after, most people will appear red in the immediate areas around the fresh tattoo. This is temporary and lasts 1-2 hours. In the following week, the freckles will appear dark, raised and unrealistic until the skin underneath has fully healed and the freckle scab falls off. In some cases, it can take up to two weeks for this to happen. It will take an additional couple of weeks for color and skin to settle and final results can be gauged around week 4.
Although I always aim for perfect retention, due to the superficial implantation of the ink coupled with the amount of exposure and movement in our faces, it is normal to see some fall out (maybe about 10-20%). Clients will have opportunity to add to their freckles at the touch up. Layering will also give the most natural appearance.
Aftercare instructions are similar to brows. The client will need to keep the tattooed area dry for approximately 1-2 weeks (until the scabs have fallen off). Depending on the amount and placement of freckles, some people may find this difficult. You can not wash the area with soap and water or apply products other than a very light layer of either aquaphor or a plain, unscented lotion. Clients may use blotting papers to pick up oil build up but nothing else.
If a client needs to wear a mask at work for long periods of time, it is important to always start with a clean mask and change it every few hours. Friction from mask wearing can impact healing.
Only after the scabs have fallen off can you apply makeup and resume your regular skincare routine. It is important to keep the area clean and free of harsh products and soaps until the freckles have fully healed.
If you have an important event coming up, it will be safe to schedule your appointment at least 2-3 weeks before the event date.
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE?
Freckle tattoos can look good on anybody when done correctly, however they will look best on those with dry to combo skin who already have some natural pigmentation, even if very light.
If you use a lot of skincare products that target dark spots such as Vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin A derivatives (Retinol/Retinoid), etc… you will likely experience rapid fading of your tattoo. It is also important to cease use of these products at least 2 weeks prior to your appointment.
Clients with skin conditions such as rosacea, acne, eczema and others, may not benefit from a freckle tattoo as the process and aftercare instructions may result in inflammation and further breakouts.
CAN I STILL WEAR MAKEUP?
As long as your freckles have finished the initial healing process, yes, but just like natural freckles if you use a medium to full coverage foundation they will be covered. Skin tints and light coverage foundation are best if you want them peeking through.
IS IT PERMANENT?
Although cosmetic tattoos are labeled as “semi-permanent”, actual permanence varies from person to person. While everyone will experience fading over the course of the next 1-3 years and may get to a point where the freckles are undetectable to the client, there may always be slight residue of color depending on individual characteristics of a clients skin tone and lifestyle, etc…
However there are always removal and/or lightening options available to anyone who feels their freckles no longer suit them.
| Light: $200 |
| Medium: $250 |
| Heavy $300 |