If you're thinking about getting semi-permanent makeup for the first time, we totally understand the nerves. It’s a big step, and most of the clients who come to Brau Riyadh feel exactly like you do right now, excited but a little anxious about what to expect.
Whether you want natural-looking brows with microblading, a soft, rosy tint with lip blush, or defined eyes with permanent eyeliner, this guide will walk you through the entire process. We’ve written it based on real conversations we’ve had with hundreds of first-time clients here in Riyadh.
Why a Consultation Is the Most Important Step
Let’s be straight with you: the semi-permanent makeup consultation is the most important part of everything.
This isn’t some quick chat just to book you in. It’s your chance to sit down comfortably with your artist, talk openly about what you want, ask all the questions that have been running through your head, and make sure you feel completely at ease. We discuss your skin, your lifestyle here in Riyadh, how much time you want to save on makeup, and what results are actually realistic for you.
That’s why at BRAU Riyadh, we offer free consultations. We don’t want anyone feeling rushed or pressured into semi-permanent makeup. Most clients leave the consultation already feeling much more relaxed and confident.
Types of Semi-Permanent Makeup Treatments Available
During your visit, we’ll talk about which semi-permanent makeup treatments would work best for you. Because every face is different, what looks great on your sister or friend might need a completely different approach on you.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the most popular treatments we do:
We take our time to match the right treatment to your face, skin, and daily life.
How to Prepare Before Your First Visit
Getting a few things right before you come in really helps everything go better. Here’s my honest advice that I give every first-time client:
- Avoid blood thinners like aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, or vitamin E for 48 hours before
- Skip alcohol and caffeine for at least 24 hours
- Stop retinol, chemical peels, or harsh scrubs one week before
- Come with completely clean skin, no makeup, lotion, or sunscreen on the area
- Bring some photos of brow or lip looks you really like
- Wear something comfortable that makes you feel good
These small things help your skin react better and make the whole experience smoother for you.
What Happens During Your Consultation: Step by Step
Here’s exactly what a real semi-permanent makeup consultation at Brau Riyadh feels like.
Step 1: Medical History and Skin Assessment
We always start with safety. You’ll fill out a consent form while we go through your medical history together, allergies, medications, skin conditions, pregnancy, or any past cosmetic work.
Our artist will also check your skin type using the Fitzpatrick scale. This tells us how your skin holds pigment and heals. If needed, we do a small patch test on the spot.
Step 2: Discussing Your Goals and Choosing the Right Treatment
This is the part we always enjoy the most. We just sit and talk openly; what’s frustrating you about your current look, what you’re hoping to achieve, and how the result needs to fit into your real daily life in Riyadh.
We’ll go through the photos you brought, and we’ll give you our honest thoughts on whether microblading, powder brows, lip blush, or permanent eyeliner would suit you best.
Step 3: Custom Design and Facial Mapping
We take measurements, mapping your face so that the shape appears even and natural on you. The artist will sketch the design using a regular cosmetic pencil first, so you can actually see it on your face.
Then you get to look in the mirror and tell us what you think. You can say if you want it thicker, softer, higher, lower, anything. We keep adjusting until you’re really happy with it.
Step 4: Colour Selection and Pigment Matching
We spend time picking the right pigment shade using color swatches. The artist matches everything to your skin tone, hair color, and the intensity you want.
We also explain how the color will look right after the session (darker) compared to the final healed result (softer and more natural).
Step 5: The Procedure Itself (What It Feels Like)
Once you love the design and color, we apply good numbing cream and wait 15–20 minutes.
Most clients tell me it feels like light scratching or gentle vibration, much more comfortable than they thought it would be. Your artist will keep checking in with you the whole time. The full procedure usually takes between 1.5 to 3 hours.
Step 6: Immediate Aftercare Instructions
Before you leave, we sit with you and go through your semi-permanent makeup aftercare instructions clearly. You’ll also get written notes to take home so you know exactly what to do during healing.
The Healing Timeline: What to Expect
Healing can feel a little unpredictable if you don’t know what’s normal. Here’s what most of our clients experience:
- Days 1–3: Color looks dark and bold with some mild swelling
- Days 4–7: Peeling and flaking start; this part can look patchy
- Days 8–14: Color appears lighter as the skin heals
- Weeks 3–6: The final soft, natural color settles in nicely
It’s very common for it to look strange in the middle stages. That’s normal. We stay in touch and are always here if you need reassurance.
Your Follow-Up and Touch-Up Appointment
We usually book your touch-up session 4 to 8 weeks after the first treatment. This is a standard part of semi-permanent makeup treatments and is usually included.
The touch-up is where we perfect the shape, add more color if needed, and make everything look its absolute best. It’s not because the first session failed; it’s how you get the most beautiful, long-lasting results.
Safety and Hygiene Standards to Look For
Your safety is the most important thing. When choosing a studio, make sure they open sterile needles in front of you, use SFDA-approved pigments, and keep everything very clean.
At Brau Riyadh, we follow high international standards because we want every first-time client to feel safe and well taken care of.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does semi-permanent makeup hurt?
With proper numbing, most clients feel only mild discomfort. It’s much easier than people expect.
How long does semi-permanent makeup last?
It usually lasts 1 to 3 years. Your skin type, lifestyle, and sun exposure play a big role in keeping the results and touch-ups help keep it looking fresh.
Can I wear makeup after the procedure?
You need to avoid makeup on the treated area for 7–10 days. After it’s fully healed, you can go back to normal.
How much does it cost in Riyadh?
Semi-permanent makeup in Riyadh generally ranges from SAR 1,200 to SAR 4,500. At Brau, we give you exact prices during your consultation.
What if I don’t like the shape?
You approve the shape with a pencil before any pigment is used. Your happiness is our top priority.
Is semi-permanent makeup safe for sensitive skin?
Yes, especially with proper skin assessment and patch testing. We’ve worked with many different skin types.
Book Your Free Consultation at Brau Riyadh
Your semi-permanent makeup consultation at BRAU Riyadh is free, relaxed, and with zero pressure. We have two convenient locations — Centria Mall and The Canopy — and our team enjoys helping first-time clients feel comfortable.
Ready to take the next step? Book your free consultation here
We look forward to meeting you and helping you feel more confident every single day.
