Semi-permanent Makeup

Semi-permanent Makeup

Permanent or semi-permanent makeup is the technique of using specialized, highly-detailed machines to insert pigment similar to that of tattoo ink, into the layers of the skin in order to mimic the look of makeup.

How Long Does Semi-permanent Makeup Last?

The longevity of today’s cosmetic tattoos varies, but most estimates put the duration of results anywhere between one and five years (hence, why ‘semi-permanent’ is the more accurate moniker). Everyone’s body metabolizes pigment differently, and, since the ink is placed very close to the skin’s surface, it also sloughs away in time. As a result, routine touch ups are required.

The Most Popular Semi-permanent Makeup Options

In addition to eyebrow microblading and shading, modern cosmetic dermal pigmentation options include services that mimic eye makeup, lip color, lip liner, and even freckles. Here’s an overview of the most popular semi-permanent makeup options:

1. MICROBLADING / POWDER BROWS
Technique: Pigment is pressed into hand-placed, hairlike cuts to fill in and/or extend and shape eyebrows / by machine making dots (powder brows)
Procedure Time: 1 to 1.5 hour for the first treatment (with numbing cream); 1 hour for a follow-up
Healing: Flaking and scabbing for a week to 10 days
Restrictions: Keep area completely dry and apply no pressure for one week
Cost: About $500 on the low end, several thousand dollars with premiere technicians
Results: Lasts anywhere from 3 to 5 years
Risks: Fuzzy lines, premature pigment fade, infection, allergic reaction, scarring, granulomas (inflammatory bumps surrounding the pigment)
Best Candidate: Someone with sparse or patchy brows seeking a fuller shape with natural looking hair strokes

2. SEMI-PERMANENT EYELINER
Technique: Pigment is hand-placed above the lash line to mimic eye pencil or liquid eyeliner, with or without a winged corner
Procedure Time: 1 to 1.5 hour for the first treatment (with numbing cream); up to 1 hour for a follow-up (if needed)
Healing: Minor swelling, some flaking and scabbing for a week to 10 days Restrictions: No makeup, keep area completely dry and apply no pressure for one week
Cost: About $500 / $700 (depends if lower too)
Results: Lasts anywhere from 2 to 4 years
Risks: Fuzzy lines, premature pigment fade, eyelash loss, infection, allergic reaction, scarring, granulomas
Best Candidate: A daily eyeliner wearer who wants a semi-permanent solution and does not plan to get eyelid surgery (as this will distort the look of the tattoo)

3. SEMI-PERMANENT LIPS
Technique: Also called permanent lipstick or lip blushing, pigment is deposited into the entire lip area to create a wash of color and/or the illusion of fuller lips
Procedure Time: 1 to 1.5 hours for the first treatment (with numbing cream); up to 1 hour for a follow-up
Healing: Flaking and scabbing for a week to 10 days
Restrictions: Keep area completely dry and apply no pressure for one week
Cost: About $800 on the low end
Results: Lasts anywhere from 1 to 3 years (fades faster than other areas)
Risks: Fuzzy lines, premature pigment fade, infection, allergic reaction, scarring, granulomas, herpes flareup (if present)
Best Candidate: Someone looking for a slight color enhancement and the illusion of fullness

Who is not a good candidate for Semi-permanent Makeup?

Those who are allergic to any of the substances used during the process — from numbing agents to pigments — should avoid permanent makeup. Clients who can’t take a break from blood thinning medications or those who have problems with blood clotting or healing can’t get cosmetic tattoos. People with compromised immune systems are not well-suited either.

Can Semi-permanent Makeup Be Removed?

The short answer? Sometimes. Depending on how long you’ve had it, there are options for both accelerating the fading process and getting rid of the pigment altogether — though there are no guarantees.