Procedure Technique, Device and Needle Selection, and Aftercare
This domain tests device and needle choices, controlled technique, and aftercare that protects healing.
Core rules
- Select single-use sterile needles by configuration: 1RL for fine detail, 3RL/5RL for liner work, magnum/shader for soft fill. Smaller needles reduce trauma on thin eyelid skin.
- Match machine type and voltage to the task; keep disposable grips and barriers. Never reuse a needle, even on the same client.
- Technique: stretch the skin, maintain consistent angle and depth in the papillary dermis, avoid overworking, and wipe with sterile gauze without double-dipping.
- Aftercare: gentle cleansing, thin moisturizer, no picking, no makeup on the site until healed, avoid sunbeds, pools, saunas, and vigorous exercise for about two weeks; SPF after healing. Schedule touch-up at 4–6 weeks. Document machine settings, needle lot, and pigment used.
Worked example
For a thin eyeliner, a 5RL may be too much trauma for narrow lid tissue. Reasoning: smaller 3RL gives more control and less risk of blowout; the trade-off is slower coverage, so plan a touch-up rather than pressing harder.
Traps
Believing more passes equal better retention; recommending thick antibiotic ointment routinely; booking touch-up at one week; using the same needle after “sterilizing” it.