Is Permanent Makeup Really Permanent?

If you’re researching permanent makeup, you’ve probably asked the most common question we hear in our studio:

Is permanent makeup really permanent?

The honest answer is: yes — and no.

Permanent makeup is a tattoo, but it’s very different from a traditional body tattoo. At Body and Brows by Ana, we believe the best results come from transparency, education, and realistic expectations — especially when it comes to longevity.

Is Permanent Makeup Permanent or Semi-Permanent?

Permanent makeup is considered semi-permanent because it fades gradually over time.

Unlike traditional tattoos, permanent makeup is implanted more superficially in the skin and uses pigments designed to soften and fade naturally rather than remain bold forever.

Key takeaway: Permanent makeup does not stay the same forever — but it also does not disappear completely on its own.

How Long Does Permanent Makeup Last?

Longevity varies based on skin type, lifestyle, and aftercare, but these are the most accurate real-world averages we see:

Permanent Makeup Longevity by Service

• Brows (Microblading, Nano Brows, Ombré Powder Brows): 1–3 years

• Lip Blush: 1–4 years

• Permanent Eyeliner: Up to 6 years

These timeframes reflect how long results look good, not just how long pigment technically remains in the skin.

What Does Permanent Makeup Fading Look Like?

Fading looks different on every client. This is where understanding skin type becomes critical.

How Skin Type Affects Fading

• Oily skin may heal and fade more blurry or ashy

• Very thin skin may heal patchy

• Warm skin undertones can heal reddish if the pigment used is too warm

This is why technique selection and pigment undertone matching are essential for natural, long-term results.

Do You Really Need a Touch-Up?

Yes — for most clients.

In our experience:

• About 80% of clients need a touch-up after their initial procedure

• Roughly 20% try to skip it, often against professional advice

The touch-up is not optional “extra work.” It’s where we perfect healed color, density, and shape once we see how your skin responds.

Why Does Permanent Makeup Fade Faster for Some People?

Several factors can cause pigment to fade more quickly:

• Oily skin

• Sun exposure

• Skincare products (retinol, acids, exfoliants)

• Sweating and frequent gym activity

• Smoking

• Certain medications

• Strong immune response

• Poor aftercare

Protecting your results after the procedure is just as important as the procedure itself.

Common Myths About Permanent Makeup

There are a few myths we correct almost daily:

Myth No. 1 – “Permanent makeup isn’t a tattoo”

Truth: It is a tattoo, just performed differently than body tattoos.

Myth No. 2 – “It’s a one-time procedure”

Truth: Permanent makeup is a process, not a single appointment.

Myth No. 3 – “If I don’t maintain it, it disappears completely”

Truth: Pigment usually fades, but it rarely disappears 100%.

Myth No. 4 – “Any brow technique works for everyone”

Truth: Skin type matters, and not all techniques are appropriate for all clients.

Does Permanent Makeup Change Color Over Time?

Pigment color can shift if undertones are not selected correctly.

Pigment Undertones Explained

• Cool pigments may fade ashy, especially on cool undertones

• Overly warm pigments on warm skin can heal too red

  
  

Selecting the correct pigment undertone based on the client’s skin undertone is critical to achieving natural healed results.

Permanent Makeup Maintenance Schedule

We recommend a color boost every 1–3 years, depending on how quickly you notice fading.

In most cases, less time between boosts is better, as it’s gentler on the skin and easier to refresh existing pigment.

Real Client Examples (What We See in the Studio)

Brows Lasting 3+ Years

• Some of our Black female clients return only every three years due to excellent skin type and healthy melanin levels that retain pigment beautifully.

Fast Fading with Oily Skin

• Clients with very oily skin may want a refresh as early as 8 months, though we typically wait at least one year to protect skin integrity.

Clients Returning After 4–5 Years

• Some clients wait several years and return with minimal remaining pigment, meaning the procedure must be restarted from the beginning.

Removal and Correction Cases

• We are very selective with correction clients. If skin is compromised or old pigment isn’t removed sufficiently, proceeding can negatively affect the final result.

What Clients Should Know Before Booking Permanent Makeup

Preparation matters.

Following pre-procedure and post-procedure aftercare instructions plays a major role in how your permanent makeup heals and lasts.

Clients who research beforehand and come to their permanent makeup consultation informed experience better communication, more confidence, and more realistic expectations — leading to better outcomes.

Final Answer — Is Permanent Makeup Really Permanent?

Permanent makeup is long-lasting, but it is not forever.

The best results come from:

• Proper technique for your skin type

• Correct pigment selection

• Timely touch-ups

• Consistent aftercare and maintenance

If you’re looking for natural, well-aging results, working with an experienced professional makes all the difference.

📍 Body and Brows by Ana — Yardley, PA

📅 Book your permanent makeup consultation today.