Question 1

Does cosmetic tattooing hurt?

Accepted Answer

Topical numbing cream is applied before we start and reapplied through the appointment. Most clients describe it as a mild scratching or pressure sensation. Lips can feel a bit more intense for the first 20 minutes before the second round of numbing takes effect.

Question 2

How long does it take to heal?

Accepted Answer

Surface healing is around 7 – 10 days, during which the colour will look darker and may flake. Full healing — when colour has truly settled — takes 6 weeks. That's why a perfecting session is always booked 6 – 8 weeks later.

Question 3

How long does it last?

Accepted Answer

Brows: 12 – 24 months. Eyeliner: 2 – 5 years. Lips: 2 – 4 years. Skin type, sun exposure and skincare routine all change those numbers. A 12-month touch-up keeps everything looking fresh.

Question 4

Is a touch-up included?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A perfecting session 6 – 8 weeks after your first appointment is included in the price of every brow, lip and liner service. After that, annual maintenance touch-ups are charged separately at a reduced rate.

Question 5

Can I get cosmetic tattooing while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

No. We don't tattoo during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. We're happy to consult and book you in for after.

Question 6

What medical conditions stop me from getting tattooed?

Accepted Answer

We can't tattoo over active skin conditions on the area (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis flares). If you take blood thinners, have keloid scarring, diabetes, an autoimmune condition, or recent Botox/filler in the area, please mention it at booking — some require a doctor's clearance, some just a wait.

Question 7

I've had cold sores — can I still get lip tattooing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you'll need a short course of antivirals prescribed by your GP, starting two days before and continuing for five days after. The trauma of tattooing reliably triggers the virus.

Question 8

What should I do before my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Avoid retinols, AHA/BHA and exfoliants on the area for two weeks. No alcohol or caffeine the morning of. No fish oil, vitamin E or aspirin for one week prior (they thin the blood). Eat a proper meal beforehand — you'll be with us a few hours.

Question 9

What's the aftercare like?

Accepted Answer

Keep the area dry for the first 7 days, apply the supplied balm sparingly twice a day, avoid sun, sweat, swimming and saunas for 10 – 14 days. Detailed printed aftercare goes home with you.

Question 10

Do you offer brow lamination or tinting?

Accepted Answer

Not currently — CC Cottage focuses exclusively on cosmetic tattooing. We're happy to recommend trusted local artists for lamination and tinting.

Everything to know.