How to Care for Your Permanent Makeup: Tips for Long-Lasting Results

Congratulations on your new permanent makeup! Whether you’ve just had your brows, eyeliner, or lip blush done, you’re probably loving the convenience of waking up to perfect features every day. But to make sure your investment lasts and your results stay fresh, it’s important to follow proper aftercare.

Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here are some easy-to-follow tips to keep your permanent makeup looking gorgeous and vibrant for years to come.

1. Keep It Clean (But Don’t Overdo It!)

The first rule of thumb: keep the area clean, but don’t scrub! After your permanent makeup procedure, I recommend to gently cleanse the treated area with clean fingers and lukewarm water. Avoid harsh scrubbing or using exfoliants, as this can cause irritation or premature fading. Lightly pat the area dry with a clean, soft tissue—this helps prevent bacteria from setting in while avoiding any unnecessary rubbing.

2. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!

Keeping your new permanent makeup hydrated is key to a smooth healing process. I’ll provide you with a special aftercare ointment or balm that’s perfect for keeping the area moist. Apply a thin layer as recommended, to ensure proper healing and minimize scabbing. This also helps keep the pigment looking fresh and vibrant.

Remember: don’t over-apply, as too much product can clog the pores and slow down the healing process.

3. Avoid Sun Exposure—Your Skin Will Thank You!

Sun exposure can fade your permanent makeup and irritate the freshly tattooed area. For the first few weeks, it’s best to keep the treated area out of the sun. When you do go outside for the first 7 days after the procedure a hat and big sunglasses are your best friend, yes even in the winter months! After the 7 days of healing is complete make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to protect the area from harmful UV rays.

4. Hands Off! No Picking or Scratching

While your permanent makeup is healing, it’s normal for the area to form scabs or flakes. Resist the temptation to pick at them, as this can pull out pigment and lead to scarring and loss of pigment. Let the skin naturally shed and heal. Scratching or picking can also introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. Stay patient and let the healing process work its magic!

5. No Sweating (For a Little While)

For the first few days, it’s important to avoid activities that cause excessive sweating, like intense workouts, saunas, or hot showers. Sweat can disrupt the healing process and cause the pigment to fade more quickly. Once the area has healed and the scabs have fallen off (usually around 7–10 days), you can resume your regular exercise routine. If you must work out to stay in a routine, I get it! Just make sure its a light work out with no sweating.

6. Keep Makeup and Other Products Away (For a Bit)

While your permanent makeup is healing, it’s important to avoid using makeup or skincare products on the treated area, especially for the first week. This includes things like concealers, foundations, or any anti-aging serums. These products may interfere with the healing process and can affect the final appearance of your new brows, eyeliner, or lip blush.

Once healed, feel free to use makeup as usual, but make sure it’s gentle and non-comedogenic to maintain your skin’s health.

7. Touch-Up Appointments: Perfection Takes Time

Permanent makeup isn’t a one-and-done deal! While the initial results may be stunning, depending on the service you received you’ll likely need a touch-up around 6–8 weeks after your procedure to perfect the shape, color, and intensity. During your touch-up, I’ll check how well the pigment has settled in, adjust if necessary, and ensure everything looks flawless.

Most people only need a touch-up every 1–2 years, depending on their skin type and lifestyle, to keep their permanent makeup looking fresh!