Blade Boutique

The Studio Journal

Beauty that lasts.

Honest advice on permanent makeup, healing, and getting the most out of your treatments — written by Sam from the studio.

Before and after dark lip neutralisation on melanin-rich skin at Blade Boutique Randburg
FeaturedLips

Dark Lip Neutralisation: The Complete Guide

Hyperpigmented lips are one of the most common concerns among South African women — and one of the most fixable. Here is everything you need to know about the treatment.

·7 min read
Permanent makeup artist applying brow treatment in a clean, professional studio setting

Advice

How to Choose a Permanent Makeup Artist in Johannesburg (8 Questions to Ask First)

Permanent makeup is not reversible. Choosing the wrong artist is a mistake that costs you more than the original price. Here is how to evaluate anyone before you book.

10 May 2026·8 min read
Close-up of healed permanent eyeliner tattoo showing defined upper lash line

Eyes

Permanent Eyeliner Tattoo: The Complete Guide for SA Women

Waking up with defined eyes — no smudging, no reapplication, no skill required. Here is everything you need to know about permanent eyeliner before booking.

7 May 2026·7 min read
Healed lip blush tattoo result showing soft natural pink colour on South African woman

Lips

Lip Blush Tattoo South Africa: What It Is, Who It Is For, and What to Expect

Lip blush gives you a soft, natural-looking wash of colour — like your lips on a good day, permanently. Here is the complete guide for South African women.

5 May 2026·7 min read
Before and after brow lamination results showing brushed-up full brows at Blade Boutique Randburg

Brows

Brow Lamination in Johannesburg: What It Is, What It Costs, and Who It Is For

Brow lamination gives you full, brushed-up brows without needles or permanent pigment. Here is everything you need to know before booking in Johannesburg.

3 May 2026·6 min read
Close-up of healed microblading brows showing fine hair strokes on melanin-rich skin

Brows

How Long Does Microblading Last? The Honest Answer for SA Clients

One to three years — but the range is wide and the factors that shorten it are completely avoidable. Here is what actually determines how long your microblading holds.

1 May 2026·7 min read
Side by side comparison of microblading and powder brows healed results at Blade Boutique

Brows

Microblading vs Powder Brows: Which Is Right For Your Skin?

Both give you full, defined brows without daily makeup. But they work completely differently — and the wrong choice for your skin type will cost you. Here's how to decide.

28 March 2026·6 min read
Healed permanent makeup brows at week four — the result of proper aftercare

Aftercare

Permanent Makeup Aftercare: The Complete Healing Guide

The difference between a result you love and one you have to correct usually comes down to aftercare. Here is exactly what to do — and not do — week by week.

10 March 2026·8 min read
Powder brows close-up showing fine detail work at Blade Boutique Johannesburg

Advice

How Much Does Permanent Makeup Cost in South Africa?

Prices vary wildly — and cheap permanent makeup is a false economy. Here is what you should actually expect to pay, and why.

20 February 2026·5 min read