Understanding the Lifespan of Permanent Makeup
One of the most frequently asked questions that we receive is: “How long does permanent makeup really last?”
Truth is… the lifespan of permanent makeup isn’t one-size-fits-all. Results can vary — although they typically last between one to three years. This depends on a whole host of factors that can influence the outcome: from how you look after your skin before and after the procedure to the intensity of the pigment, your skin type, and so much more. But don’t worry, it’s not as complex as it might sound!
Rest assured, though, that with the right care and attention, permanent makeup can be a time-saving, empowering, and natural-looking choice that suits your lifestyle, matches your unique beauty, and actually lasts.
The 3 Elements That Play a Role in Long-Lasting Permanent Makeup
While permanent makeup is a fantastic, time-saving solution, understanding more about its staying power is essential — especially if this is your first time getting the procedure.
After all, you don’t want to make a mistake that could cause your new brows of lips to fade faster than it needs to, right?
That said, let’s take a closer look at some of the things that influence how long your makeup can last.
1. Pre and Post-Care
One of the most important factors that determine how long your permanent makeup will last is how well you look after your skin before and after the procedure. Think of it as prepping a canvas: by ensuring that your skin is in good condition to begin with, you’ll be setting the stage for the most optimal results. This usually means avoiding other procedures such as Botox, Latisse, and perms for up to 2 weeks before the appointment and refraining from consuming blood-thinning products — like alcohol, aspirin, and some vitamins — or waxing up to 2-5 days prior.
That said, caring for your skin after the procedure is just as important. Make sure you avoid harsh facial products that may interfere with the healing process, and always keep your skin clean — but steer clear of scrubbing the treated area. Additionally, it’s also essential to keep the area moisturized to maintain the vibrancy of the color, but don’t overdo it, as it could affect the makeup’s longevity.
For more details on caring for your skin before and after getting permanent makeup, here’s a quick guide we’ve put together to help you.
2. Skin Type
Just as your skin type influences how regular makeup wears throughout the day, it also impacts how your permanent makeup fades over time. For example, if your skin leans toward the oily side, you might notice that your permanent makeup fades slightly quicker. That’s because the natural oils in your skin can lead to a faster color breakdown, resulting in the need for a touch-up sooner than expected. But remember, this is just your skin’s natural way of interacting with the pigments.
On the other hand, if you have dry or normal skin, your permanent makeup might stick around a little longer. How come? Because dry skin holds onto the pigment much stronger, keeping the colors vibrant for an extended period.
3. Your Individual Goals & Lifestyle
The final influencer in the lifespan of your permanent makeup is all about you: your goals and your lifestyle. Opting for a natural, subtle look? It might soften over time faster than a bolder style. And that’s perfectly okay!
Lifestyle habits — like sun exposure and your skincare routine — can also affect your makeup’s lifespan. Applying sunscreen over your permanent makeup is highly recommended! But here’s a fun fact: as permanent makeup ages, it naturally softens, evolving with you. So you can switch up your style as your preferences change.
Whether you’re a busy mom, a career dynamo, or someone dealing with a medical condition like alopecia, permanent makeup adapts to your life, not the other way around.
Medical vs. Cosmetic Permanent Makeup
The purpose behind the application of permanent makeup — be it medical or cosmetic — also plays a significant role in determining its longevity.
On one hand, medical permanent makeup — often used for procedures like scar camouflage or areola restoration — is typically designed to withstand the test of time. These applications penetrate deeper into the skin, and the pigments used are often more robust, leading to a longer-lasting result.
On the other hand, cosmetic permanent makeup — think eyebrows, eyeliner, or lip color — doesn’t necessarily last as long as its medical counterpart because they require a lighter touch with pigmentation.
In both cases, however, remember that the key to long-lasting, beautiful permanent makeup lies in the hands of an experienced artist who understands your unique needs and lifestyle. With the right approach, you can enjoy the benefits of permanent makeup for years to come!
Permanent Makeup Will Age Naturally, Just Like You
While the term ‘permanent makeup’ may suggest otherwise, it’s important to remember that these pigments, like the natural beauty they enhance, age gracefully over time.
At the end of the day, the objective of permanent makeup isn’t just to create a cosmetic enhancement — it’s to curate a look that feels like you, with less hassle and more free time to dedicate to the other things in life that you enjoy.
