am i suitable for combination brows?

Combination brows are ideal for anyone who wants to enhance their brows while keeping a soft, natural finish. It’s particularly suited to those with sparse or minimal brow hair, as the technique creates the realistic appearance of individual hairs using precise, artistic strokes.

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Nicole uses microblading or digital hairstroke techniques to replicate the natural direction and density of real brow hair, helping to restore shape and balance while maintaining a subtle look.

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This treatment works best for normal to dry skin types, and for clients who prefer a natural everyday brow rather than a filled-in makeup effect.

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During your consultation, Nicole will assess your skin type, lifestyle, and existing brow hair to confirm whether microblading — or an alternative technique such as powder or combination brows — will achieve the best, most natural-looking result for you.​

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Those whom are pregnant, breastfeeding, or undergoing active cancer treatment are not suitable for permanent make-up. Clients with certain health conditions or on specific medications may also need medical clearance before booking. Nicole will always complete a full consultation and medical questionnaire beforehand to make sure the treatment is safe and appropriate for you.

how long do they last?

Combination brows typically last between 1–3 years, but this can vary from person to person. Everyone’s skin heals differently, and pigment retention depends on factors such as skin type, lifestyle, aftercare, and how your body naturally metabolises the pigment over time.

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Permanent makeup is designed to fade gradually, which helps the results stay soft and natural rather than harsh or over-saturated. This gentle fading also allows for changes in your style, skin, or colouring over time.

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For those who’d like to keep their brows looking fresh, Nicole offers touch-up services to maintain colour, shape, and definition. A quick refresh every 12–18 months is usually all that’s needed to keep your brows looking beautiful and balanced.

Do combination brows hurt?

It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous about discomfort, but most clients find permanent brows far more comfortable than expected. Nicole applies a numbing cream before and during the treatment to keep you relaxed and minimise any pain or sensitivity. You may feel some light scratching or pressure, but it shouldn’t be painful.

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After your appointment, the area can feel a little sore or tender, and mild swelling or redness is completely normal. This happens because the skin experiences a small amount of trauma during the process — it’s just part of the healing phase and usually settles within a day or two.

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It’s very important that you don’t take painkillers or blood-thinning medication (such as aspirin or ibuprofen) before your treatment, as they can cause excessive bleeding and affect how the pigment holds in the skin. This can impact the final result of your brows and how evenly the colour heals.

Nicole will always make sure you’re comfortable and informed at every stage — your safety and results come first.

how to prepare for your brow treatment

To get the best results from your treatment and ensure your skin is in the right condition, please follow these guidelines before your appointment:

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• Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks, pre-workout) on the day of your treatment — it can make the skin more sensitive and cause bleeding.

• Do not take painkillers or blood-thinning medication such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin for at least 24–48 hours before your appointment, as they can affect pigment retention and increase bleeding.

• Stop using Retinol, Vitamin A or any active skincare products (such as AHA/BHA acids, Retin-A, or exfoliants) on or around the brow area for at least 4 weeks before treatment — these can thin the skin and cause irritation.

• Avoid Botox, dermal fillers, or similar cosmetic treatments around the forehead or eye area for at least 2–4 weeks before your appointment.

• No tanning, sunbeds, or excessive sun exposure for at least 1 week prior — skin that is sunburnt or recently tanned cannot be treated.

• Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs for 24 hours before your appointment, as these can thin the blood and increase sensitivity.

• Do not wax, thread, or tint your brows within 48 hours of your treatment.

• Arrive with clean skin — no makeup, creams, or oils on or around the brow area.

• If you’re feeling unwell or have any open cuts, cold sores, or irritation near the treatment area, please reschedule your appointment until fully healed.