FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

  • Cosmetic tattooing, also known as Permanent Makeup (PMU), is a form of semi-permanent cosmetic enhancement where pigment is implanted into the skin using a tattoo machine or a manual blade. The goal? To mimic the look of makeup—whether it’s defined brows, a soft lip tint, or subtle eyeliner—while saving you time in your daily routine.

  • PMU is the acronym for Permanent Make Up, which is another term for Cosmetic Tattoo. While the name suggests it lasts forever, PMU does fade over time, requiring periodic touch-ups to maintain its fresh look.

  • Permanent Makeup is simply another way to refer to Cosmetic Tattooing (PMU)—a technique that enhances features by implanting pigment into the skin to resemble makeup. Whether it's brows, lips, or eyeliner, PMU provides long-lasting, natural-looking definition.

  • Lip Blushing is a lip tattooing treatment designed to enhance the natural color of your lips with a soft, sheer tint. It can correct uneven tones, neutralize pigmentation, and even reshape the lips for a more balanced appearance. Think of it as a long-lasting lip tint that never smudges.

  • Nano Brows are an advanced form of Cosmetic Tattooing that creates hyperrealistic hair strokes using a tattoo machine. Unlike Microblading, Nano Brows heal softer and are suitable for all skin types, including oily skin. If you're looking for natural, hair-like strokes that last, Nano Brows are the way to go.

  • Microblading is a manual technique of creating fine, hair-like strokes with a small blade to mimic the appearance of natural brow hairs. While it delivers crisp, realistic results, it’s not ideal for excessively oily skin, as excess oil can cause the strokes to blur over time.

  • Ombré/Powder Brows involve a soft shading technique that gives the eyebrows a powdered, makeup-like finish. Unlike Microblading, which creates individual hair strokes, this method is best for those who love a defined yet natural-looking brow that fades gradually from light to dark.

  • Freckle and Beauty Mark Tattoos are a form of semi-permanent cosmetic tattooing that creates natural-looking freckles or beauty marks using a hand-poking technique. These can be placed strategically to enhance your features or mimic the look of naturally sun-kissed skin.

    Freckles are designed to fade softly over time, blending seamlessly into your complexion, while beauty marks can be made more defined or delicate, depending on your preference.

    Whether you're going for a subtle dusting of freckles or a timeless Marilyn Monroe-inspired beauty mark, this treatment adds effortless charm to your look.

  • A Combination Brow blends Microblading or Nano strokes with shading techniques to create brows that are both defined and natural. It’s perfect for those who want a bit more density while still keeping a soft, realistic appearance.

  • A Tiny Tattoo is exactly what it sounds like—a delicate, fine-line tattoo, typically no larger than 4 inches. Unlike traditional tattoos, these are created with an ultra-fine cosmetic tattoo needle, making them intricate, subtle, and perfect for minimalist designs.

  • Tooth Gems are tiny, dazzling accessories for your smile, bonded (not drilled!) onto your teeth using a dental-safe adhesive. We offer genuine 18K-22K gold and crystal gems that can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few years—adding a little extra sparkle to your grin.

  • Brow Lamination is essentially a brow perm—it restructures and sets brow hairs into place, creating a fluffy, lifted, and fuller appearance. It’s the perfect solution for unruly or sparse brows, offering low-maintenance perfection for weeks.

  • A Lash Lift is a semi-permanent curl and lift for your natural lashes. It enhances your lash line by lifting each lash from the root, giving your eyes a more open, awake look. The results? Beautifully curled lashes that last 4-6 weeks—no lash curler needed.

  • Lash Extensions are individual faux mink fibers carefully adhered to each of your natural lashes to create longer, fuller, and more voluminous lashes. They can be customized from natural to dramatic and last for weeks—because waking up with effortlessly glam lashes is always a good idea.

COSMETIC TATTOO

  • In most cases, we are unable to work over an existing brow tattoo, as it can affect the final healed results. However, we’re happy to assess your brows! Send us a clear photo, and we’ll determine whether correction is possible. You can also schedule a complimentary brow consultation [HERE].

  • The biggest differences come down to needle size and pigment type. Cosmetic tattoos—also known as Permanent Makeup (PMU)—use the smallest needles available, along with water-based or oil-based pigments that fade more naturally over time. Traditional tattoos, on the other hand, use larger needles and permanent ink designed to last a lifetime.

  • Nope! For safety reasons, we do not perform cosmetic tattooing during pregnancy. We’ll be happy to see you once your little one has arrived!

  • While the needles and blades used are ultra-fine, it's still a tattoo—on your face! We use a topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort, and most clients report little to no pain. That said, pain tolerance varies from person to person. If you have concerns, book a consultation [HERE] to discuss your options.

  • The best way to determine the perfect brow tattoo for you is to book a consultation [HERE]. Simply select the BROW CONSULTATION (15 min) appointment, and we’ll guide you to the best option based on your skin type, brow goals, and personal style.

  • If you have sensitive skin or skin conditions (like eczema or psoriasis), please contact us before booking. We want to ensure that the service is right for you and offer appropriate solutions for sensitive skin.

  • The longevity of a brow tattoo depends on several factors, including your skin type, lifestyle, and how well you care for your brows after the procedure. Here's a breakdown for each type of brow tattoo:

    • Nano Brows: Nano brows are created using a machine with ultra-fine needles that mimic the look of natural hair strokes. These brows typically last between 2 to 5 years, depending on your skin type and maintenance. Regular touch-ups every 1-2 years are recommended to keep them looking fresh and defined.

    • Microblading: Microblading is a manual technique where pigment is deposited into the skin in fine, hair-like strokes. This typically lasts 1 to 3 years, but this can vary based on your skin type, aftercare, and how your skin heals. (Not recommended for those with excessively oily or aged skin).

    • Ombré/Powder Brows: Ombré or powder brows involve a shading technique that gives a soft, makeup-like finish. These brows are known for their longevity and tend to last anywhere from 2 to 5 years, with touch-ups every 2 years to maintain color intensity and shape.

    For all brow tattoos, touch-ups are a natural part of the process, as your skin will naturally shed pigment over time. We recommend scheduling a consultation to discuss which brow tattoo technique best suits your style and skin type for the longest-lasting results!

  • It depends on your brow goals and personal preference!

    • Nano Brows & Microblading: Mimic the appearance of real hair strokes for a hyper-realistic effect.

    • Ombré & Powder Brows: Create a soft, filled-in look with a subtle makeup-like finish.

    Every Brow Tattoo service should start with a consultation to determine the best technique for your skin type and desired look. Book yours [HERE].

  • Cosmetic tattooing is a two-step process to ensure the most natural and even results.

    1. First Session: This is the foundation of your brow tattoo. Pigment is applied with a light touch to achieve a natural look while allowing room for adjustments.

    2. Touch-Up Session: The second appointment is essential for a color boost and any necessary refinements. Since every person's skin retains pigment differently, only a small percentage of clients can skip this step.

    It’s always better to add more pigment later rather than apply too much in the beginning!

  • We recommend arriving with freshly cleaned skin, free from makeup, oils, or any products. This will help ensure that the pigment application is as effective as possible. For lip blush, please avoid any lip exfoliation or treatments prior to the appointment.

  • Lip blushing typically lasts 2 to 3 years, but the duration can vary based on your skin type, lifestyle, and aftercare. Touch-ups are recommended about 12 to 18 months after your initial treatment to keep the color fresh and vibrant. Clients with more active lifestyles or who frequently expose their lips to the sun may find that their color fades slightly faster, so regular touch-ups can help maintain the look.

  • If you have a history of cold sores or herpes simplex virus (HSV), it’s important to let us know before booking your lip blushing appointment. Lip blushing can sometimes trigger a cold sore outbreak due to the nature of the treatment, which involves tattooing the lips.

    We highly recommend taking antiviral medication (like Valtrex) for a few days before and after your appointment to help prevent an outbreak. Please consult with your doctor for advice on how to manage this condition before booking your lip blushing service.

LASHES + BROWS

  • Unfortunately, no. Fills are reserved for existing COSMOBOX clients to ensure consistency in quality and application. Please have your current lash extensions removed before booking a new set with us.

  • Absolutely! Lash extensions range from a natural "are-those-my-real-lashes" look to full-on DRAMA—it’s all about your preference. You can wear them once or maintain them with fills every 2 to 3 weeks.

    *If you have sensitive eyes or skin, consult your physician before booking.

    • If you’re already a regular lash extension client, you can continue your fills as usual.

    • For first-time Lash Lift or Brow Lamination clients, you’ll need to wait until after the first trimester. We also recommend scheduling a Lash or Brow Consultation (15 min) for a patch test.

    **Always consult with your physician before booking.

  • On average, 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your aftercare and lifestyle.

  • Nope! Come as you are—overgrown brows are ideal to shape and work with.

    • Lash Extensions: No need! Extensions are designed to replace mascara.

    • Lash Lift / Brow Lamination: Avoid mascara or brow products for the first 48 hours for the best results.

    **For detailed aftercare, click [HERE].

  • By booking a consultation [HERE]. If you're unsure, think about the look you want—whether natural, wispy, or bold. Inspiration photos are always welcome!

  • Not at all! Extensions naturally shed with your real lashes as part of your lash cycle. Damage happens only if you tug, pull, rub your eyes, or sleep on your extensions. Following proper aftercare and using a lash growth serum will keep your lashes strong and healthy.

  • Not in the slightest! Our Lash and Brow services are designed to be relaxing and pain-free—you might even take a little nap. No burning, no irritation—just beautiful results.

  • For lash extensions, lash lifts, or brow services, please arrive makeup-free around the eyes to ensure we get the best possible application. For lash lifts, avoid mascara or eye makeup for at least 24 hours before your appointment.

  • Lash extensions typically require a fill every 2-3 weeks. We recommend scheduling your next fill appointment as soon as you’re ready to ensure you maintain your lashes in their best shape.

  • After getting lash extensions, avoid getting them wet for the first 48 hours to allow them to properly set.

    After that, you’re free to enjoy swimming, but remember that regular maintenance is key to keeping them looking fresh!

TOOTH GEMS

  • Tooth Gems can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few years—it all depends on your oral habits and lifestyle. If you’d like to remove a gem prematurely, schedule a routine dental cleaning and ask your dentist to gently buff it off.

    We highly recommend only having a dental professional remove your gem to protect the integrity of your teeth. We do not offer removals at this time.

  • Nope! But don’t worry—it’s an easy fix. Just schedule a routine dental cleaning and ask your dentist to buff it off.

  • Once a gem falls off, it cannot be re-bonded—sadly, it's a one-time deal. 😢

    If you'd like a new gem on the same tooth, make sure your dentist buffs off any leftover bonding material at your next cleaning before booking a new application.

  • We only use genuine 18K/22K Gold, lead-free Swarovski Crystals, and Opal gems—the highest quality for your smile!

  • Absolutely! Hold off on eating food for only one (1) hour after your Tooth Gem application. Just be cautious with sticky or hard foods, as that can affect the longevity of the gem.

    Drinking beverages immediately after your tooth gem application is completely okay.

  • Yes! Continue whitening as usual, so long as devices or retainers aren’t rubbing against the gem.

  • Unfortunately, no. We can only bond our own high-quality gems to ensure proper adhesion and safety.

  • Nope! Our trained tooth gem technicians use a dental-grade bonding process, ensuring that bacteria can’t get behind the gem.

    Also, we never bond gems between teeth—because flossing is a must, and we respect your dentist! 🦷✨

  • Nope. Real teeth are porous and can hold a dental bond, but false teeth cannot.

  • Yes! If you have a traditional metal retainer, bring it to your appointment, and we’ll work the design around it.
    However, we cannot bond gems onto Invisalign retainers.

  • Tooth Gems themselves are unlikely to stain, but it’s always a good idea to practice good oral hygiene. Smoking or consuming dark beverages like coffee or wine could affect the area around the gem, so we recommend regular brushing and flossing.

APPOINTMENTS & POLICIES

  • For longer appointments, we highly recommend coming solo, as space is limited. However, for shorter appointments, there is a small waiting area where your plus-one can hang out comfortably.

    Please do not bring an entourage unless you text (415) 501-0771 ahead and receive an OK from us—we love a good squad, but space is precious!

  • Many of our services require lying still for an hour or more, which may not be comfortable if you have a back or spinal injury. Additionally, most procedures are performed with clients lying on their backs. If this is a concern, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking and reaching out to us for any accommodations we may be able to offer.

    • For Lash or Brow Services → Arrive with no makeup on your eyes or brows and avoid oily skincare products in those areas.

    • For Tooth Gem Appointments → Arrive with freshly brushed and flossed teeth—a sparkling canvas for your new gem!

    • For all services → Avoid caffeine before your appointment if you tend to be jittery, as some procedures require precision and stillness.

    For more cosmetic tattoo appointment prep information, click HERE.

  • Yes, you can absolutely get your workout in—but please mind your personal hygiene, and bath/shower before arriving. We work very up-close and personal to your head and face.

    For Lash Extension Fills, please schedule your workout at least three hours before your appointment to ensure your lash-line is dry and not producing oils.

  • We understand life happens! However, for your safety and the safety of others, we ask that children not attend appointments unless absolutely necessary. Our space is small and designed for client comfort. Please plan accordingly.

  • While we love to meet new clients, we recommend booking an appointment ahead of time to ensure you get the attention and time needed for your service. We can sometimes accommodate walk-ins for certain services depending on availability - text us (415) 501-0771 or add yourself to the online waitlist.

  • While allergic reactions are rare, if you have any concerns about sensitivity to products used during your appointment (such as tint, glue, or pigments), please contact us (415) 501-0771 immediately. We will guide you through next steps and take the best course of action for your safety.

  • Yes, a valid credit card is required at the time of booking. However, no charges will be made when scheduling. Your card information is not stored unless you opt in for easier checkout.

  • You can always contact us via text (415) 501-0771 or email info@cosmoboxsf.com. We’re happy to help with any questions you may have or to make adjustments to your booking.

  • If you haven’t received your confirmation email, please check your spam or junk folder. If it’s not there, contact us directly and we’ll happily resend it.

  • Yes! Clients may reschedule online up to 48 hours before their appointment.

  • Rescheduling within 24 hours of your appointment time may be subject to a $100 late-cancellation fee.

    Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled appointment time may be subject to the $100 cancellation fee.

    This policy applies to all services, including Cosmetic Tattoo, Lash, Brow, and Tooth Gem appointments.

  • No-shows will be charged a $100 fee.

Need More Info?

Got a question we didn’t cover? Feel free to reach out (415) 501-0771 or check out our aftercare guides here.