FAQs - PMU / Microblading, Paramedical Tattoos & More!

Q: What makes Tiger Lily Collective different from other permanent makeup studios?

A: At Tiger Lily Collective, we're not just about cosmetic services - we're about holistic healing and empowerment. Unlike traditional studios that focus solely on aesthetics, we approach every service through a lens of wellness, confidence, and personal transformation.

Key differentiators:

• Board Certified by American Academy of Micropigmentation (one of few in the region!)
• STEM-backed approach to technique and safety
• Sustainability-focused: We minimize plastic waste without compromising sterility
• Holistic philosophy: "Enhance ~ Restore ~ Heal"
• Inclusive environment that celebrates individual uniqueness

Our mission isn't to "fix" you, but to help you feel more authentically you - whether that's restoring confidence after medical challenges, simplifying daily routines, or supporting your personal journey.

Q: How do I know what service is right for me or if I am a good candidate?
A: Schedule a Free Consultation and let's talk about your medical history, styles you like, and your goals!

Q: How is Permanent Makeup performed?

A: There are a few methods: Microblading, which is only done with eyebrows, is where a row of tiny needles are used to etch hair strokes into the skin which are filled with pigment to give the illusion of more hair in the brow. Machine work is done with a tattoo machine, which typically looks like a pen, and has an up and down movement instead, which causes less trauma to the skin and is used for all areas (brows, lips and eyeliner). Hand Tapping is just a manual version of the machine, where there is no motor and you are just pushing with your hand instead. The implantation of pigment is still with an up and down motion. 

Q: Does it hurt?

A: Very little pain or discomfort is generally felt, and in most cases, we do use numbing solutions to minimize discomfort. After the service, some discomfort may be felt (as with any tattoo) but is not bad. I like to compare it to that of a cat scratch or sunburn at its worst, and subsides after a few hours to a few days.

Q: How long does it take to heal?

A: There are stages to the healing. Skin takes on average about a month to fully cycle through and heal completely, but the first week or two are the most sensitive. We will provide you with aftercare products & instructions as to use during this healing period, as skin starts to repair at the surface. There is little to no down time as far as the way it will look, but it is important to plan around any vacations, beach/pool plans, exercise routines, etc., as you will need to avoid sun, sweat, soaking, steam, etc. as they heal for the first 1-2 weeks.

Q: How long does it last?

A:  At Tiger Lily Collective, we believe in transparency and setting realistic expectations. Our permanent makeup optimal results* typically last: Eyebrows- 1-3 years, Eyeliner- 2-5 years, Lip Blush- 1-5 years

Factors influencing longevity:

• Skin type
• Lifestyle
• Sun exposure
• Skincare routine
• Health factors
• Aftercare & Individual healing process
• Technical factors 

We offer color boost maintenance sessions to keep your look fresh and vibrant. Our board-certified techniques ensure natural, long-lasting results that evolve beautifully with you.

*To be clear: Optimal results will fade over time, but it is important to understand that as these are tattoos, there shall be no expectation of results ever fading away completely. 

Q: Is it permanent?

A: Yes. The molecules remain even if the pigment (color) fades or appears to fade. This is why some people call it permanent makeup and others call it "semi-permanent" makeup. It IS a tattoo, but A) since it's on the face, it will fade due to sun, exfoliants, skin types, etc.; and B) since we utilize specialized formulas meant for this specific application, they are intentionally designed to faster and more so than traditional body art tattoo inks, to varying degrees. Color boosting (maintenance) touch ups are encouraged every year to few years. (Don't book it if you don't feel you actually need it yet!)

Q: How should I prepare for my permanent makeup appointment?

A: Avoid or limit smoking, alcohol, caffeine, or other blood thinners or anti-coagulants (ibuprofen, aspirin, fish oil, etc.) for 24-48 hours before your appointment! This can all affect how well your appointment goes - how much you bleed, how your skin reacts, and therefore your healing and pigment retention! You also should not have sunburn or any other skin ailments in the area to be tattooed. 

Q: Any specific pre-care tips for each area?

A: For permanent lip blush, be sure to exfoliate and moisturize for days or weeks leading up to your appointment so your lips are healthy and not chapped. Also speak to your PCP about getting an oral anti-viral (such as Acyclovir) to take for three days before through three days after your procedure, if you have ever had a cold sore or are unsure. Getting a cold sore from this service is likely if you have the virus, so this will help minimize the risk. (This is not medical advice as I am not a medical provider, just advice to seek medical advice from your PCP!)

For permanent eyebrows (and freckles), make sure you are not sunburnt, have not been on Accutane for at least a year, have not had a chemical or laser peel for a couple months, and have not had any botox/fillers for a few weeks. 

For permanent eyeliner, please make sure you have a pair of glasses to wear for the day of the service and at least a couple days after, if you normally wear contacts. You will have to go without contacts for the service and through the first stage of healing. Also you must not have eyelash extensions. If you do, please make sure they are removed at least a week ahead of your permanent eyeliner appointment.

For paramedical/other, make sure you are not sunburnt, tanned, or wearing a spray tan or self-tanner, and have not been on Accutane for at least a year.

Q: Can you get permanent makeup or other tattoos if you are pregnant or breastfeeding?

A: You cannot get any permanent makeup or any other tattoos while pregnant or breastfeeding. It is illegal, uninsurable and simply unethical, as it is likely to present a non-zero risk of transferring an infection to your baby/babies.

Q: Am I a good candidate for paramedical tattoo services?

A: Our paramedical tattoo services are designed for individuals seeking:

• Scar camouflage
• Areola restoration
• Stretch mark revision
• Confidence restoration after medical challenges

Ideal candidates: ✓ Medically cleared for the procedure ✓ Realistic expectations ✓ Committed to proper aftercare ✓ Seeking healing, not just cosmetic change

We offer complimentary consultations to determine the best approach for your unique journey.

Q: What is Brow Henna?

A: A natural and healthy way to tint your eyebrow skin and hair temporarily and non-invasively. 

Q: How long does brow henna last?

A: About a week or two on the skin, and up to 6 weeks on the hair (depending on your skincare products/regimen).

Q: What is Saline Lightening/Removal?

A: Li-ft saline solution is made up of a special formula of salts and fruit seed extracts, and is tattooed into the skin. By the process of osmosis, water carries the pigment molecules up from the dermis to the epidermis and then out of the skin.

Q: What does it feel like?

A: It feels just like a normal tattoo but might sting a bit more due to the salt. But we do use topical anesthetics to ease any discomfort if you want it.

Q: How long does it take?

A: If you want something completely removed, it will likely take several sessions, so expect a commitment of likely more than a year. We can only enter the skin every 8 weeks, and ideally no more than 3-4 times in a year, so that the skin heals up entirely in between sessions, and to minimize risk of scarring. If you just want something lightened so it can be covered, it could be only one or two sessions, but likely still at least 3-4 or more. It all depends on many variables - the pigments, level of saturation, age, location, your unique skin type, lifestyle, etc. Best to start with a free consultation so we can take a look and establish goals and expectations!

Q: How big of an area can you treat?

A: This is best for smaller tattoos as we only want to work on a small area at a time to minimize any risks with healing (infection, scarring, etc.). The most we would want to do in one session is the size of a deck of cards or smaller. So if you have a large piece you want removed, this method may not be very efficient.

Q: Does this work for all tattoos?

A: Yes, this works on both body art and permanent makeup (cosmetic tattoos), and all colors of ink/pigment.

Q: Are your services right for me?

A: Our services are designed for individuals seeking:

• Confidence restoration
• Time-saving solutions
• Healing from physical or emotional transitions
• Inclusive, judgment-free wellness experiences
• Preventive and ongoing skin rejuvenation services

  We specialize in serving diverse clients, including:

• Individuals managing hair loss
• Survivors seeking reconstructive services
• Busy professionals wanting low-maintenance solutions
• Anyone looking to feel more comfortable in their own skin

Q: What should I expect during my first consultation?

A: Our complimentary consultations are about education and empowerment - not sales pressure. We'll:

• Discuss your specific goals and concerns
• Explain techniques in detail
• Ensure you have no contraindications to treatment
• Discuss any necessary preparatory care and aftercare
• Review potential outcomes
• Address any questions or apprehensions
• Provide transparent information about the process
• Quote any customized treatments

Q: What safety precautions do you take?

A: Safety is our top priority. Our commitment includes:

• Board Certification from American Academy of Micropigmentation
• Strict sterilization protocols
• EU-standard pigment selection (eliminating potential carcinogens)
• Comprehensive health screenings
• Eco-friendly, medical-grade supplies
• Individualized aftercare planning

We don't just meet industry standards - we set them.

Q: What makes your approach different from other providers and studios?

Our Unique Approach:

🌟 Holistic Wellness Perspective

🔬 STEM-Backed Techniques

♻️ Sustainability Commitment

🤝 Inclusive Environment

💖 Healing-Centered Services

We're not just changing appearances - we're supporting transformative personal journeys.

Q: What is the parking situation like?

A: There is free street parking out front, on both Lincoln Ave and 107th St.

Q: Where are you located?

A: We have a Studio inside Me Time Beauty & Wellness Studios, at 10631 W Lincoln Ave, West Allis WI 53227.

Q: What is your cancellation policy?

A: We ask that you give more than 72 hours' notice if you need to cancel your appointment. This allows a chance for others to still book in and fill that time. Deposits are required for most services, and always go toward the cost of service.

Deposits are refundable if cancellation is made more than 72 hours (3 days) ahead of appointment. Cancellations made within 72 hours of appointment time will forfeit deposit or be subject to a fee equal to 25% of the service fee. Same-day cancellations and no-call/no-shows will be charged a fee equal to the full service amount.

We know things come up unexpectedly sometimes,  causing a last-minute scheduling conflict, but please let us know! You can call us, text us, email us, DM us- whatever is easiest, to give us a heads up if you aren't able to make it in for your appointment. Our number is 414-246-7101 which is the fastest way to reach us!

It should go without saying, but No-Shows are the worst, and cost time, money, etc. We're here for you, and excited for every appointment! But we don't have to be here if clients aren't coming in. So, we ask that you please be respectful of our and everyone else's time by letting us know if you can't make it in, so no one's time or resources are wasted, and our time can be reallocated appropriately if we cannot backfill your appointment.

***See FULL Cancellation Policy in the "POLICIES AND TERMS" tab/page.***

Q: Do you accept Insurance?

A: YES! -- Some paramedical tattooing services may qualify for IN-NETWORK INSURANCE COVERAGE, such as 3D Areola tattoos, and even scar camouflage, for breast cancer survivors' post-mastectomy reconstruction. Coverage is only offered by certain private companies such as Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and more to come! (Unfortunately, public/state insurance such as Medicare and Medicaid do not recognize paramedical tattooists as qualified providers for coverage.) BUT if your insurance won't allow us to bill them directly, for any reason, you may still attempt to submit for reimbursement on your end, and we can provide all necessary documentation/receipts! 

Q: How do I find out if my insurance will cover my procedure?

A: Ensure you will have met your annual deductible first, if you want to take advantage of full coverage. Either way, bring your insurance card and info to your consultation. If you can also obtain a Letter of Necessity from your doctor, that will help your case as well. Our billers will submit your information to your insurance to see if a prior authorization is required or if you are clear to proceed with the service.