Before Your Appointment: How to Prepare

• Text or call if you are running late or need to reschedule; the fastest way to reach Mahsa is (424) 230-4356.
• Bring photos of looks, brows, or lip colors you like, and any you know you do not want.
• Tell Mahsa about allergies, sensitive skin, eye conditions, and recent facial treatments before your appointment starts.
• Arrive with clean skin in the area being treated, unless you are asked otherwise.

• Bring a valid photo ID. California does not allow permanent makeup on anyone under 18.
• Expect to complete a health questionnaire and informed consent form, as California law requires.
• Avoid Botox, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser treatments on the face for four weeks beforehand.
• Stop retinoids and strong exfoliating skincare near the area before your appointment.
• Tell Mahsa about every medication and supplement you take, including blood thinners and fish oil. Never stop a prescribed medication without your doctor's approval.
• For lip blushing, tell Mahsa if you have ever had cold sores; your physician may recommend preventive medication.
• Mention isotretinoin (Accutane) use in the past year, keloid history, or skin conditions near the area.
• Permanent makeup is not performed during pregnancy, over an active infection or open wound, or during chemotherapy or radiation.

Plan your calendar too: avoid scheduling permanent makeup right before a vacation, beach trip, or event, because the area needs about ten days away from sun, pools, and heavy sweating. See aftercare and, for brides, permanent makeup before your wedding.

• Ask about a patch test; product manufacturers typically recommend one 48 to 72 hours before a first treatment.
• Stop retinol and strong actives around the brows and eyes for three to five days beforehand.
• Arrive without eye or brow makeup, and remove contact lenses.
• Reschedule if the area is irritated, sunburned, or recently treated with permanent makeup.

• Moisturize well in the days before, and avoid new skincare, peels, or facials in the final week or two.
• Arrive with a clean, moisturized face and no makeup.
• Bring a photo of your outfit and jewelry, and your glasses if you will wear them.
• Wear a top that comes off without going over your face.
• For weddings, see the bridal makeup trial guide.

• Bring your own makeup and brushes so you learn with what you will use at home.
• Arrive with clean skin, or with your usual makeup if you want feedback on your current routine.
• Write down the looks and problems you want to work on.

More on private makeup lessons.