Permanent makeup is a popular cosmetic procedure that gives you the look of “painted” eyebrows, eyelids, or lips for an extended period. Like any other procedure, it has its own unique characteristics and lifespan. In this article, we’ll explore how long permanent makeup typically lasts, how long it will remain appealing, and what factors influence its durability.
Permanent makeup lasts an average of 6 months to 2.5 years, depending on various factors.
What Affects the Longevity of Permanent Makeup?
Skin Type
Oily or porous skin produces more oil, which can cause the pigment to fade more quickly. People with dry skin tend to hold pigment better, which can make their permanent makeup last longer.
Age
Permanent makeup is applied to the top layer of your skin. As skin rejuvenates roughly every 28 days, the pigment can remain in the deeper layer (dermis) for 9 months to 2 years. Younger clients may find their makeup fades faster due to quicker cell turnover and a more active immune system. In contrast, older clients tend to retain pigment longer because their skin renews more slowly.
Type of Pigment
There are three main types of pigments used: organic, mineral, and hybrid. Mineral pigments, which have larger particles, tend to stay closer to the skin's surface and fade more quickly. Organic pigments penetrate deeper and are usually more long-lasting, whereas hybrid pigments provide an average wear time.
Experience of the Technician
The skill level of the technician is crucial. If they lack experience, they might not apply the pigment at the right depth, affecting how long it lasts.
Application Technique
The method used also plays a big role in durability. Techniques that involve heavy application, especially with organic pigments, tend to hold longer. Softer techniques like watercolor or ombre applications usually last less time.
Color and Pigment Saturation
Darker shades typically last longer than lighter ones. Therefore, the color you choose matters a lot when it comes to how long it looks good.
Skincare and Lifestyle
Regular skincare routines, including peels and treatments, can speed up the fading of pigment. Additionally, UV exposure and the use of cosmetics might affect its longevity. An active lifestyle, like frequent swimming or sun exposure, can also lead to faster fading compared to office workers.
Medications
Some medications, such as antibiotics or hormones, can either speed up or slow down the removal of pigment from the body.
Application Area
The durability of permanent makeup varies by the area where it's applied:
- Eyebrows: This area has many sweat and oil glands, resulting in a shorter lifespan of about 6 months to 3 years.
- Lips: The lack of hair and oil glands allows lip pigment to last longer, typically between 2 to 5 years.
- Eyelids: The skin on your eyelids is the thinnest, but with a dense application, the pigment can last up to 10 years.
How Long Will It Look Good?
The time it takes for pigment to fade and the way it looks can vary. Sometimes, the pigment is still visible, but it may not please the client anymore. Sticking to a maintenance schedule can help keep your permanent makeup looking fresh. It’s also important to consider the pigment choice: brighter colors last longer but can change after about a year and a half, making touch-ups trickier. In some cases, you may need to remove the old pigment and apply a new one.
Cons of Permanent Makeup
- Quality of Work: Poorly done procedures can lead to issues like unevenness, unnatural shapes, or incorrect colors.
- Discomfort: Some people find the procedure painful, although this varies based on individual sensitivity.
- Cost: While the upfront cost may seem high, it can be worth it in the long run, as alternatives like eyebrow tinting or lamination can become more expensive over time.
Permanent makeup is a great way to enhance your natural beauty, but remember that its longevity can be influenced by various factors. A well-executed procedure, proper care, and regular touch-ups will help you enjoy beautiful, long-lasting results. If you decide to go for this service, make sure to ask questions to ensure you get the outcome you want.
