COMMITTED ARTIST
Powder Brow
Lip Blush
Brow Lamination
Sweat-proof, smudge-proof, water-proof:
Where cosmetic tattoos and daily life collide (in the best way).
How can we serve you?
COMMITTED ARTIST
HOME
ABOUT
SERVICES
CONTACT
FAQ
POLICIES
TRAINING
WHAT TO EXPECT
HOW WE CAN SERVE
HOW WE CAN SERVE
Powder Brow
There are many names for cosmetic tattoos: Microblading, Microshading, Powder Brows, Ombré Brows, Nano Brows, Nano Blading, etc. that slightly differ in application of technique.
Fortitude Studios offers Powder brows, which are done strictly with machine-shaded pixels to create a soft, powdery, filled-in eyebrow that starts light and gradually appears more saturated in color toward the tail-end of the eyebrow.
This technique can be as subtle or dramatic as you’d prefer, and is best suited for all skin types.
This is a two-step process, meaning a 10-12 week perfecting session is required. Your transaction is split up and spaced out over separate transactions (retainer, first session, and second session).
Service breakdown: two appointments (initial and follow-up) totaling $700. We offer an Afterpay payment plan of four automatic payments of $175, OR our traditional payment of a $150 non-refundable retainer, $400 balance due at your initial appointment, and a $150 follow-up in 10-12 weeks.
Book Here
Lip Blush
For the woman who likes a sheer tinted gloss or a full-coverage lipstick, either technique serves your style.
Lip blushing is a technique that enhances the shape and fullness of your natural lips, while also correcting any asymmetry to create a more balanced look.
Pigment is implanted by machine-shaded pixels that heal to a soft, sheer, natural “blush” of color for the perfect pout.
This is a two-step process, meaning a 10-12 week perfecting session is required. Your transaction is split up and spaced out over separate transactions (retainer, first session, and second session).
Service breakdown: two appointments (initial and follow-up) totaling $700. We offer an Afterpay payment plan of four automatic payments of $175, OR our traditional payment of a $150 non-refundable retainer, $400 balance due at your initial appointment, and a $150 follow-up in 10-12 weeks.
Book Here
Brow Lamination
For the woman trying to tame those unruly hairs for a sleek and easy look.
Brow lamination is similar to a lash lift in that it temporarily “perms” the hair to lay flat in a uniform position, giving the illusion of fuller, more fluffy brows. *Must have brow hair in order to laminate.*
It is optional to add a tint for the appearance of darker, fuller brows. Lamination lasts 6-7 weeks and the tint lasts 3-4 weeks depending on care. This service can be performed on brows that have a cosmetic tattoo or bare brows.
Experience no downtime with this quick-and-easy service, aside from keeping your brows dry for 24 hours post-lamination to ensure the perm sets correctly.
Book Here
Tracee gave me the most beautiful brows. She took her time listening to me, giving me her professional opinion and explained everything step by step. She made sure I was comfortable throughout the whole process. Her talents as an artist really shine through in her work and her personality makes the experience even more enjoyable. I would highly recommend her and this shop to anyone interested in microblading.
- JOANNA
Next
Back
Struggling to create balance with your makeup is a thing of the past when you put your trust in Fortitude Studios.
WHAT OTHERS
ARE WHISPERING
Today I had the chance for Tracee to work her magic on my brows. After our consultation, we decided that powered brows would be the best look for what I was hoping to achieve. From start to finish, Tracee was professional, knowledgeable, and meticulous. Her visual arts background helped make me feel comfortable with her skill set/expertise. Tracee explained each step of the process and provided fantastic pre and post care instructions. Tracee is truly top-notch in her craft. I highly recommend Tracee.
- JEN
Next
Back
Struggling to create balance with your makeup is a thing of the past when you put your trust in Fortitude Studios.
WHAT OTHERS
ARE WHISPERING
Tracee is a brow magician. She walks you through literally every step of the way so there are no surprises and makes the appointment much more comfortable. The actual blading of my brows was PAINLESS. I was only tender to the touch toward the very end of my session (as expected). Tracee truly cares about her clients and how they feel/want to look. I let her take the reins on color, shape, etc. because I didn’t have anything specific in mind and she met my expectations perfectly. Would recommend her 10/10 times!
- TAYLOR
Next
Back
Struggling to create balance with your makeup is a thing of the past when you put your trust in Fortitude Studios.
WHAT OTHERS
ARE WHISPERING
Tracee is AMAZING. I was nervous to get this service but I had wanted it forever... now I’m wishing I went to her years ago. Very professional throughout the whole process and easily accessible if you have questions before or after! She truly made my brow dreams come true! I get compliments on them all the time, the best feeling ever.
- GRACE
Next
Back
Struggling to create balance with your makeup is a thing of the past when you put your trust in Fortitude Studios.
WHAT OTHERS
ARE WHISPERING
Tracee is everything you could want in a cosmetic tattoo artist. She is professional, informative, and incredibly talented. Making the decision to get cosmetic tattoo is a big one and I couldn’t be happier with my decision to have Tracee do my brows. If you are looking into getting your brows/lips done, look no further Tracee is your girl.
- MADISON
Next
Back
Struggling to create balance with your makeup is a thing of the past when you put your trust in Fortitude Studios.
WHAT OTHERS
ARE WHISPERING
Tracee is so sweet and so talented! Even though I’ve been following her work for a while online, I was still nervous going into my appointment. That feeling went away quickly once I was in her studio. The ambiance is lovely and she made sure I was comfortable for the entirety of our time together by staying engaged and checking in. Super pleased with my brows and super excited for my touch up appointment! Just wish it was sooner!
- CLARA
Next
Back
Struggling to create balance with your makeup is a thing of the past when you put your trust in Fortitude Studios.
WHAT OTHERS
ARE WHISPERING
If you have questions that you do not see answered here, please feel free to reach out at any time. Our goal is to help you feel comfortable and confident in your decision to move forward with cosmetic tattooing.
FAQ
Back
Next //
Pain is subjective, varying from person to person. Some feel nothing, and some experience mild discomfort. For brows, an initial numbing agent is applied and sits for roughly twenty minutes before the procedure. A secondary numbing agent is applied throughout the duration of the procedure once the skin is broken to ensure you remain comfortable.
“DOES COSMETIC TATTOOING HURT?”
FAQ
Scheduling a “color boost” or correction on a foreign cosmetic tattoo (done by a previous artist) must first be approved by Fortitude Studios prior to your appointment being accepted. Clear, close-up photos of your bare brows and a brief description must be sent to info@fortitude-studios.com to be considered. Depending on the state of your previous work, you may be recommended for removal/lightening sessions before any further cosmetic tattoo will be performed. Booking an appointment without disclosing previous work may result in forfeiting the retainer fee and cancellation of the appointment.
“CAN YOU DO MY BROWS IF I HAVE PREVIOUS COSMETIC TATTOOING DONE BY ANOTHER ARTIST?”
Back
Next //
FAQ
You can take Tylenol leading up to your appointment as it will not thin your blood. Non-prescription blood-thinning medications (such as Aspirin, Niacin, Vitamin E, and fish oil) should be avoided leading up to your appointment, unless medically necessary to your health per a physician. Ibuprofen will slow down clotting, so it is best to avoid it until after your appointment.
“CAN I TAKE ANYTHING FOR THE DISCOMFORT BEFORE MY APPOINTMENT?”
Back
Next //
FAQ
You may not know this on your own! This is why your brow artist is the professional. Before your session begins, a consultation will take place where things like shape, size, color, and style are discussed to help you achieve your brow goals that are best suited for you - to produce quality results with longevity.
Your brow shape will be mapped out (drawn on) based on your personal facial structure, proportions, and face shape. Maintain realistic expectations and be open minded. You and your artist are a team and you have hired them for a reason. Trust that they have your best interest in mind as they design your perfect brows.
“HOW DO I KNOW WHICH BROW IS RIGHT FOR ME"?”
Back
Next //
FAQ
Injected substances such as Botox, Dysport, or other neurotoxins take two-to-three weeks to reach their full efficacy. You should wait a minimum of SIX full weeks before or after getting injectables if you have an upcoming cosmetic tattoo appointment as this can lead to asymmetrical mapping, thus impacting the overall appearance of your cosmetic tattoo. Ideally, it is best to wait until you are healed from BOTH sessions before moving forward with injectables so as to not alter the shape or placement of your cosmetic tattoo.
“CAN I GET INJECTABLES BEFORE MY BROW OR LIP APPOINTMENT?”
Back
Next //
FAQ
Cosmetic tattooing will not be performed if you are pregnant due to several factors. Pregnancy hormones affect circulation, which can lead to excessive bleeding. Hyperpigmentation can affect the skin and lead to improper color selection based on skin tone. Some topical anesthetics used during your session contain epinephrine, which can harm the baby and cause cardiac complications. Bloating can also impact symmetry. To avoid any risks, wait until after the birth to schedule a cosmetic tattoo appointment. It is also recommended to wait until you have concluded your breastfeeding journey to further allow your hormones to balance.
“CAN YOU GET A COSMETIC TATTOO WHILE PREGNANT?”
Back
Next //
FAQ
It is preferred to let your natural brow grow out and do as little maintenance as possible before your appointment. This allows your artist to know where your natural hair growth occurs and ensures that your brow mapping shape and size complements your natural shape and growth pattern. Once you are fully healed, you are welcome to continue brow treatments as you normally would. Some clients prefer to let their stray hairs grow out as this helps blend the cosmetic tattoo into the brow for the most natural and effortless look.
“DO YOU RECOMMEND PLUCKING, WAXING, OR THREADING BEFORE MY BROW APPOINTMENT?”
Back
Next //
FAQ
Short answer: it can. There are a wide range of products that can gradually impact your cosmetic tattoo over time. It is crucial to be careful when applying products to your face and give your brow area a “buffer” so as to not impact the immediate brow area. Leading up to your appointment (~30 days before and once fully healed), avoid “active” products such as Retinol/Retin-A, AHA/BHA, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, anything marketed as anti-acne, anti-aging, tightening, brightening, etc., around the brow area as these products can cause fading and color changing. You can still use these products on the rest of your face, but give the brow area room (do not apply directly on or near your cosmetic tattoo).
“WILL MY SKINCARE ROUTINE AFFECT MY COSMETIC TATTOO?”
Back
Next //
Out of respect for both you and your artist’s time, please adhere to the following policies to ensure you are able to receive exceptional service.
Booking + Retainers
Cancellations + No Shows
Late Arrivals + Rescheduling
Previous Work
Pets + Children
Fortitude Studios operates by appointment only and does not accept walk-ins. There is a $150 non-refundable retainer required to book your appointment. The remaining balance will be due at the time of your service. All cosmetic tattoo appointments require a follow-up within a 10-12 week period. Follow-up appointments are not included in initial pricing. This service is only bookable for *existing* clients of Fortitude Studios. Clients will incur an additional charge for a follow-up scheduled outside of 6 months and will be charged as a color boost ($275.00 for *existing* clients of Fortitude Studios). Excessive rescheduling (two or more times) will incur the same charge of $275.00. Retainers are non-refundable and non-transferable to another service.
Once you submit your appointment request for review, Fortitude Studios will be in touch should there be any questions. Upon your appointment being accepted, your retainer will be collected and a contract will be sent to the email contact provided upon booking. You must read through and sign your contract prior to your appointment. If any of the contraindications to cosmetic tattooing listed in your contract apply to you, you must reach out to Fortitude Studios directly (with ample time to discuss) prior to your appointment to ensure your safety and proper care during the treatment.
Late cancellations (48 hours or less from the start time of your appointment) will result in a $50 charge applied to the card on file.
No call/no shows will result in being charged fifty percent (50%) of the remaining balance on the service.
We understand that emergencies arise and while we do extend compassion and grace, we also ask that you notify us at your earliest convenience to avoid additional charges. If you are unable to contact Fortitude Studios prior to a sudden cancellation/no-show, please follow up as soon as possible.
If you are going to be late to your appointment, please notify Fortitude Studios as soon as possible via text or call at (317) 643-1011.
If you are going to be 15 minutes late or more, you will need to be rescheduled (unless previously arranged and confirmed with Fortitude Studios) due to back-to-back appointments. There is little-to-no flexibility in between appointment slots and excessive lateness will affect each appointment following yours.
Excessive rescheduling on an initial appointment (two times or more) will require your appointment cost to be paid in full prior to your arrival with the card on file.
Fortitude Studios is regulated as a tattoo parlor. Pets and children under the age of 18 are not permitted inside the studio. There is just enough space for both you and your artist to work comfortably without compromising the quality of work. Please refrain from bringing guests unless otherwise discussed with Fortitude Studios.
Scheduling a “color boost” or correction on foreign cosmetic tattooing (done by a previous artist) must first be approved by Fortitude Studios prior to your appointment being accepted. Clear, close-up photos of your bare brows and a brief description must be sent to info@fortitude-studios.com to be considered. Corrective work over previous cosmetic tattooing on lip blush/neutralization is not offered. Depending on the state of your previous work, you may be recommended for laser removal before any further cosmetic tattooing will be performed as integrity, ethics, and transparency are our top priority.
POLICIES
Pre/Post-Care + Contraindications to Cosmetic Tattooing
WHAT TO EXPECT
Following ALL pre-care and post-care instructions provided to you by your artist is a crucial practice to ensure you get the most out of your investment. Your artist is dedicated to giving you the highest quality of work, but what you choose to do after your appointment makes all the difference in the success and longevity of your cosmetic tattoo.
Brows
Lips
LEADING UP TO YOUR APPOINTMENT (PRE-CARE):
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT (POST-CARE):
CONTRAINDICATIONS TO COSMETIC TATTOOING:
LEADING UP TO YOUR APPOINTMENT (PRE-CARE):
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT (POST-CARE):
CONTRAINDICATIONS TO COSMETIC TATTOOING:
Brows
LEADING UP TO YOUR APPOINTMENT (PRE-CARE):
Caffeine and alcohol should be avoided 24-48 hours before your appointment. Caffeine can reduce the effectiveness of numbing agents, increase sensitivity and discomfort, and slow wound healing time, increasing chances of getting an infection. Alcohol consumption can lead to excessive bleeding, which will ultimately compromise your artist’s ability to perform and negatively impact your healed results.
Non-prescription blood-thinning medications should be avoided leading up to your appointment, unless medically necessary to your health per a physician.
Discontinue the use of antibiotics for a minimum of 8 weeks.
Discontinue use of retinol/Retin-A, anti-aging, anti-acne, tightening, and brightening topical treatments in the brow area for 30 days, as these products thin the skin.
Hair removal is not necessary or recommended before your appointment. This will allow your artist to get a clear picture of your natural growth so that the most natural and appropriate eyebrow is created for you.
Maintain realistic expectations about what is possible for your natural brow compared to your desired outcome.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT (POST-CARE):
CONTRAINDICATIONS TO COSMETIC TATTOOING:
BACK TO PREVIOUS PAGE
Brows
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT (POST-CARE):
You can expect the healing process to take anywhere from 10-14 days (may take longer on more oily skin types). Two weeks is an average timeframe, but not concrete. It isn’t until after your touch-up appointment that final results are achieved. This is a two-step process.
Immediately after your appointment, keep your brows clean and free from lymph while healing. This will look like clear beads of liquid sitting on the brows. Gently blot lymph away with a soft, disposable cotton round or tissue. Dried lymph leads to thick, hard scabs that can extract pigment and prolong healing.
Your brows will go through many phases that range in appearance from bold to dark, flaky, patchy, and even faded. Your skin will take time to heal on the inside and outside. Trust the process and the artist you have hired.
How to care for your fresh brows:
A few hours after your session, apply two pumps of aftercare soap onto a single-use cotton round or clean fingers and gently swipe over the brows to break up any lymph, oil, dirt, and bacteria that has collected on the skin. Do this every three hours during your first two days of healing. After your first two days, cleanse morning and night until fully healed (the last flake will have fallen off).
Apply a rice grain-sized amount of healing balm onto each brow with a cotton swab or clean fingers, gently sweeping in the direction of the cosmetic tattoo.
Do not pick, scratch, or pull at your flakes while healing. This can prematurely lift pigment, lead to inconsistent healed results, and potentially scar your skin.
Things to consider for your brows:
Be extra cautious while washing your hair and face so as to not soak the eyebrow area. Do not submerge in any water while healing (hot tubs, pools, baths, etc.). Avoid extra steamy showers to eliminate the potential for sweating.
Sweating is a no-go during the healing process. Until your skin is completely healed over the cosmetic tattoo, you may risk flushing out pigment.
Sleeping on your side or stomach can cause poor retention and premature removal of pigment and flakes during the healing phase. Try to stay on your back while sleeping.
Stay out of the sun while healing and avoid any products on and around the brows until fully healed. Once healed, ensure SPF 50+ is always protecting your investment.
Avoid brow tinting/lamination, makeup on/around the brows, and facial treatments until you are fully healed. Any products from the eyes and below are safe.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT (POST-CARE):
CONTRAINDICATIONS TO COSMETIC TATTOOING:
BACK TO PREVIOUS PAGE
Brows
CONTRAINDICATIONS TO COSMETIC TATTOOING:
A cosmetic tattoo cannot be performed on anyone pregnant or breastfeeding.
A cosmetic tattoo cannot be performed on any traces of a sunburn and you will be rescheduled. Avoid all natural and artificial sun exposure for a minimum of 5-7 days before your appointment.
If you are required to take antibiotics before a dental visit, you must have written clearance from a doctor to determine if this will also be necessary for your cosmetic tattoo procedure.
Botox, Dysport, or other neurotoxin injections must take place a minimum of two weeks before or after your cosmetic tattoo appointment.
Accutane must be discontinued for a minimum of one calendar year.
Diabetes can lead to complications during the healing process and an increased risk of infection.
In cases of heart conditions or high blood pressure, you are asked to bring written consent from your doctor permitting your cosmetic tattoo procedure so as to avoid any unforeseen side effects, regardless of severity. If you are on any prophylactic (intended to prevent disease) due to having suffered from a mitral valve prolapse or have an artificial heart valve, you will also need to take a prophylactic prior to treatment.
If you have a compromised immune system or are undergoing treatment that can compromise your immune system, you must first consult your doctor, as a healthy immune system will aid in a smooth healing process. Treatment/medication/illness that compromises the immune system would not make you a good candidate for cosmetic tattooing.
Immediately after your appointment, your brows may appear red, mildly puffy/swollen, and you may experience tenderness. This is normal. If these symptoms persist more than 2-3 days, along with an elevated body temperature, rash, or drainage from the area treated and you feel that you are experiencing a concerning reaction, seek medical attention. Consult a physician or dentist at the first sign of infection.
Once all flakes naturally slough off, your healing is complete. You may resume your regular beauty routine. You may notice that your brows appear significantly faded. This is to be expected as you have naturally exfoliated away the top layers of your brow area. Give the brows 2-4 weeks. As your skin cells regenerate, your pigment will begin to resurface. You can expect to lose 40-50% of your pigment after the initial session. After your touch-up, you should retain 90% of your pigment or more.
Be careful with harsh chemicals in your products. If you are unsure if a product is safe for your cosmetic tattoo, reach out to Fortitude Studios for guidance.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT (POST-CARE):
BACK TO PREVIOUS PAGE
Lips
LEADING UP TO YOUR LIP APPOINTMENT (PRE-CARE):
Caffeine and alcohol should be avoided 24-48 hours before your appointment. Caffeine can reduce the effectiveness of numbing agents, increase sensitivity and discomfort, and slow wound healing time, increasing chances of getting an infection. Alcohol consumption can lead to excessive bleeding, which will ultimately compromise your artist’s ability to perform and negatively impact your healed results.
Drink plenty of water during the entire week leading up to your appointment to prevent cracking and flaking. Tattooing on broken skin is extremely difficult, unpredictable, and not advised. Gently exfoliate and moisturize your lips during the entire week leading up to your appointment. Avoid deep chemical exfoliation (such as chemical peels) for at least two weeks.
Non-prescription blood-thinning medications should be avoided leading up to your appointment, unless medically necessary to your health per a physician.
Discontinue the use of antibiotics for a minimum of 8 weeks.
If you are prone to cold sores, you will need to take an antiviral medication three days before and after each session to prevent outbreaks.
Maintain realistic expectations about what is possible for your natural lips compared to your desired outcome.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT (POST-CARE):
CONTRAINDICATIONS TO COSMETIC TATTOOING:
BACK TO PREVIOUS PAGE
Lips
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT (POST-CARE):
You can expect the healing process to take anywhere from 4-7 days (slightly longer than one week is nothing to be concerned about). Any swelling should subside within 1-2 days. You can gently ice your lips in 15-minute increments to reduce the swelling, if you deem necessary.
Immediately after your appointment, keep your lips clean and free from lymph while healing. This will look like clear beads of liquid sitting on the lips. Gently blot lymph away with a soft, disposable cotton round or tissue. Dried lymph leads to thick, hard scabs that can extract pigment and prolong healing.
Your lips will go through many phases that range in appearance from plump and vibrant, to flaky, patchy, and even faded. Your skin will take time to heal on the inside and outside. Trust the process and the artist you have hired.
How to care for your fresh lips:
Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor to the lips during the healing process to alleviate the tightness and chapping until fully healed (the last flake will have fallen off).
Do not pick, scratch, or pull at your flakes while healing. This can prematurely lift pigment, lead to inconsistent healed results, and potentially scar your skin.
Things to consider for your lips:
Be extra cautious while washing your face and brushing your teeth so as to not disturb any flaking.
Avoid spicy foods for the duration of your healing process.
Do not submerge in any water while healing (hot tubs, pools, baths, etc.).
Sweating is a no-go during the healing process until the lip membrane is completely healed over the cosmetic tattoo.
Sleeping on your side or stomach can cause poor retention and premature removal of pigment and flakes during the healing phase. Try to stay on your back while sleeping.
Stay out of the sun while healing and avoid any products other than the provided aftercare on and around the lips until fully healed.
Avoid makeup on/around the lips, and facial treatments until you are fully healed.
CONTRAINDICATIONS TO COSMETIC TATTOOING:
BACK TO PREVIOUS PAGE
Lips
CONTRAINDICATIONS TO COSMETIC TATTOOING:
A cosmetic tattoo cannot be performed on anyone pregnant or breastfeeding.
A cosmetic tattoo cannot be performed on any traces of a sunburn and you will be rescheduled. Avoid all natural and artificial sun exposure for a minimum of 5-7 days before your appointment.
If you are required to take antibiotics before a dental visit, you must have written clearance from a doctor to determine if this will also be necessary for your cosmetic tattoo procedure.
Botox, Dysport, or other neurotoxin injections must take place a minimum of two weeks before or after your cosmetic tattoo appointment if anywhere near the mouth.
Accutane must be discontinued for a minimum of one calendar year.
Diabetes can lead to complications during the healing process and an increased risk of infection.
In cases of heart conditions or high blood pressure, you are asked to bring written consent from your doctor permitting your cosmetic tattoo procedure so as to avoid any unforeseen side effects, regardless of severity. If you are on any prophylactic (intended to prevent disease) due to having suffered from a mitral valve prolapse or have an artificial heart valve, you will also need to take a prophylactic prior to treatment.
If you have a compromised immune system or are undergoing treatment that can compromise your immune system, you must first consult your doctor, as a healthy immune system will aid in a smooth healing process. Treatment/medication/illness that compromises the immune system would not make you a good candidate for cosmetic tattooing.
Immediately after your appointment, your lips may appear swollen and you may experience tenderness. This is normal. If these symptoms persist more than 2-3 days, along with an elevated body temperature, rash, or drainage from the area treated and you feel that you are experiencing a concerning reaction, seek medical attention. Consult a physician or dentist at the first sign of infection.
Once all flakes naturally slough off, your healing is complete. You may resume your regular beauty routine. You may notice that your lips appear significantly faded. This is to be expected as you have naturally exfoliated away the top layers of your lips. Give the lips 2-4 weeks. As your skin cells regenerate, your pigment will begin to resurface. You can expect to lose 50-60% of your pigment after the initial session, leaving you with a soft, natural blush of color. After your touch-up, you should retain 90% of your pigment or more.
Be careful with harsh chemicals in your products. If you are unsure if a product is safe for your cosmetic tattoo, reach out to Fortitude Studios for guidance.
BACK TO PREVIOUS PAGE
MEET
THE
FOUNDER
