In short
Permanent makeup usually lasts between one and five years. Unlike a body tattoo it is designed to fade, because PMU pigments are less concentrated, are not placed as deep, and the face is exposed to UV every day. How long it lasts depends on aftercare, technique, pigments, skin type, age and lifestyle, and some pigment may never fully disappear.
Body Tattoos vs Permanent Makeup
Permanent makeup is technically a tattoo, and we all know that tattoos last a lifetime. However, unlike body tattoos, permanent makeup has been designed to fade over time. There are a couple of reasons for this. PMU pigments are not as concentrated as body tattoo ink, and permanent makeup is not implanted to the same depth as a body tattoo, only going into the dermal layer of the skin (approx. 2mm). Also, the face is exposed to UV rays every day (even on those dark cloudy days), which gradually fades pigment. So how long does permanent makeup last?
PMU Can Last Anywhere Between 1-5 Years
Even at the higher end of this time frame, you can still expect some visible pigment left. Don’t forget, even though permanent makeup is different to body tattooing, it is still a tattoo. Ink has been implanted into the dermis and although it fades, there’s no guarantee that it’ll ever completely disappear.
What Factors Affect How Long it Lasts?
- Aftercare
This is a HUGE factor in maintaining the look of your permanent makeup! For best results, you MUST follow the aftercare instructions from your technician (see my blog on this). If you don’t, you risk ruining the results, not to mention wasting your money!
- Technique
The technique of your technician and also the depth at which they implant the ink is a factor in determining how long the permanent makeup will last. Ask them about which technique they would use. This will depend on the style of brow you choose.
- Pigments
Another determining factor is the pigments used. Organic is a word widely misunderstood in this context. When talking about pigments, organic means it’s made up of an insoluble organic compound of high colour concentration. So, organic pigments will generally last longer than inorganic pigments.
- Skin Type
Generally, oilier skin has a harder time retaining pigment than dryer skin. The reason for this is that the oil mixes with the pigment, diluting it and ultimately flushing it out. Microblading or machine hair strokes therefore are not the best option for oily skin, but powder brows are perfect for any skin type.
- Age
More mature skin will generally retain pigment for longer than younger skin. Older skin is thinner, and has a slower cell turnover.
- Lifestyle
Factors such as how much sun your face is exposed to, how much exercise you do (or, more specifically, how much you sweat) as well as which skin care products you use on top of your permanent makeup, will all effect how long it lasts.
Colour Boost
You can expect to go for a colour boost any time between 1-2 years, depending on the above factors and the procedure you choose. At the colour boost stage, your permanent makeup will have faded enough so you feel top up is necessary; however, to pay a reduced colour boost rate and not a new customer rate, your technician will still need a visible shape and colour to work with. You can always have a free consultation at Bournemouth Permanent Makeup to answer any questions you may have.
Frequently asked questions
Why does permanent makeup fade when body tattoos don't?
PMU pigments are less concentrated than body tattoo ink, they are not implanted as deeply, and daily UV exposure on the face gradually fades them.
Does oily skin affect how long permanent makeup lasts?
Oilier skin generally holds pigment less well than drier skin. Microblading or machine hair strokes are not the best option for oily skin, while powder brows suit any skin type.
When will I need a permanent makeup colour boost?
The post suggests a colour boost any time between one and two years. To pay the reduced colour boost rate, there still needs to be a visible shape and colour to work with.
Does age affect how long permanent makeup lasts?
More mature skin generally retains pigment for longer, because it is thinner and has a slower cell turnover.