A question I often get asked is, Is permanent make-up actually permanent? In short, the answer is yes. It is a permanent cosmetic procedure that involves using a technique using a micro needle to implant colour into the dermis of the skin. This is the area under the surface of the skin. However, there are a number of factors that influence the permanent makeup result as the colour does fade over a period of time and a boost to refresh the enhancement is recommended within two years of the treatment.
Here are a few things that can affect the duration of the cosmetic treatment to your permanent eye brows, lips or eye-liner.
– Environmental exposure and lifestyle can affect how long your treatment stays vibrant. Spending time outside, gardening, swimming, tanning etc… are examples. You will see that UV exposure and chemical contact to your skin is the theme here. Wearing a SPF sun cream to block UV rays can delay any fading and protect your skin. Anti-ageing creams which are generally good for your skin can also degrade the effect of your permanent make-up due to the way it regenerates your skin on a cellular level, so try to avoid applying them over the areas that you have had any permanent cosmetic makeup.
– Medical conditions and the type of skin (oily, dry, pitted etc..) all determines how long your make-up will stay fresh. Something to ask when you have a consultation with a permanent makeup artist. A knowledgeable permanent make-up artist will advise you about this. Something to think about when looking for a technician is their experience, skills and qualifications. These tips may be of help when researching for a technician/artist.
Also something else to bear in mind is that if you have had darker pigments tattooed you will find that these will last longer than lighter shades. On the subject of pigments, as with most things, you get what you pay for. Permanent make-up artists practising with good medical grade FDA approved, quality pigments will provide you with longer lasting effects opposed to those using cheaper products. A more cost effective return in the long run may be the way to look at it?
A couple of final tips on how to look after your permanent makeup.
– Apply a good SPF cream before going outside.
– Avoid any kind of skin scrubs on those areas too
– Follow the aftercare given to you
– Check that your pigment colours are MRI safe – just in case you ever have one
– To keep it looking fresh book your permanent makeup maintenance every 12-24 months and you will find the permanent makeup artist will provide a loyalty price
– Be aware that skin peels should not cover the area ie. permanent brows or they will lighten
Although, it does fade, and with all these things in mind, its impossible to say how long it will last for sure. It is important to remember this is a good thing! As we age our face shape can change so a skilled artist will be able to adjust the permanent makeup eyebrows to accommodate this. So its not a bad thing if you want a slightly different look or just want a boost on your original colouring.
Happy researching for your permanent makeup and if you want to see some recommended clinic locations this may help.