One of the most common questions I get at Manor Ink is, "How long will my cosmetic tattoo last?" While permanent makeup is designed to be long-lasting, it's important to be aware of potential issues and side effects. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision and maintain your brows and lips for as long as possible.
Average Lifespan of Cosmetic Tattooing
Cosmetic tattooing is often referred to as "semi-permanent" because it fades over time depending on what type of pigment your artist uses. Some pigments will not fade very much therefore can be considered as permanent.
It is very Important to make sure you know what type of pigment that your artist uses.
The pigments we use at Manor Ink on average:
Ombre or powder brows last 1 to 3 years
Lip blush tattoos last 2 to 5 years
The exact duration varies depending on your age, skin type, lifestyle, and how well you care for your tattooed area.
Factors That Affect the Longevity of Permanent Makeup
1. Skin Type
Your skin type plays a major role in how long your permanent makeup lasts, as different skin types absorb and retain pigment differently.
Oily skin – If you have oily skin, your body's natural oils can break down pigment faster, leading to quicker fading. While this doesn't mean you can't have permanent makeup, you may need more frequent touch-ups to maintain the vibrancy of your brows or lips.
Dry to normal skin – This skin type tends to retain pigment the best, allowing for longer-lasting results. The pigment stays more even, and touch-ups are required less frequently.
Mature skin – Older skin can hold pigment well. Still, due to natural thinning with mature skin, and reduced collagen production, a slightly different technique may be required for the best results. Touch-ups may be needed over time as skin texture changes.
Combination skin – If you have a mix of dry and oily areas, your results may vary slightly across different parts of your brows or lips, requiring minor adjustments during touch-ups.
2. Sun Exposure
UV rays break down pigment, causing fading. If you spend a lot of time in the sun, your cosmetic tattoo may fade faster. I always recommend wearing SPF on your brows and lips to protect your investment.
3. Skincare Products & Treatments
Certain skincare products can speed up fading, especially those containing:
Retinol or Vitamin A
Glycolic acid or AHAs
Exfoliants and strong chemical peels
If these products come into contact with your brows or lips, they can cause premature fading.
4. Pigment Choice & Colour
Lighter pigments can sometimes fade quicker than the darker ones. For example, a soft pink lip blush might require more frequent touch-ups than a deeper shade or colour. Similarly, lighter brown brows often fade faster than the darker tones.
5. Your Body's Natural Healing Process
Each person's body metabolises pigment differently. Some people's immune systems can break down the tattoo pigments faster, leading to quicker fading, while others retain their results for years.
6. Touch-Ups & Aftercare
When it comes to permanent makeup, following proper aftercare instructions is really important. Immediately after your appointment, try to avoid excessive moisture, sweating, and picking at scabs.
This will help pigment settle properly. Remember, touch-ups every 12 to 18 months can refresh your look and extend the life of your tattoo. By following these guidelines, you can take a much more active role in preserving the beauty of your cosmetic tattoo.
How to Make Your Cosmetic Tattoo Last Longer
1. Protect Against Sun Exposure
Excessive sun exposure can cause premature fading of your cosmetic tattoo. UV rays break down pigment over time, leading to a lighter and patchy appearance. Always apply an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen on the treated area once fully healed to protect your brows and lips. Wearing a hat or sunglasses can also provide extra protection, especially in summer.
2. Follow Aftercare Instructions Carefully
The first few weeks after your procedure are crucial for long-lasting results. For Brow's avoid getting the area wet for 7 days, including swimming and heavy sweating so plan ahead.
All information will be given in detail at your appointment.
Don't pick at scabs or dry skin, as this can pull pigment out before it properly settles. Use the healing balm provided to keep the area moisturised and promote even healing. Avoiding direct sunlight and harsh skincare products during this healing period is also important.
3. Avoid Harsh Skincare Products
Certain skincare ingredients can cause your cosmetic tattoo to fade faster. Avoid using products with retinol, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or strong exfoliants near the treated area. If you use anti-aging or acne treatments, be cautious around your brows and lips to prevent premature pigment loss.
4. Keep Up with Touch-Ups
A touch-up session 6-8 weeks after your initial procedure for Brows, and 8-12 weeks for Lips is essential to perfect your results. This session allows me to fill in any areas where the pigment may not have taken or to make adjustments to the shape or colour based on your healing process.
After that, I recommend maintenance touch-ups every 12 to 18 months to keep your brows and lips looking fresh. Regular touch-ups help restore any fading and allow adjustments to pigment colour if needed.
5. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Your overall health plays a significant role in how long your permanent makeup lasts. Smoking, sun exposure, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor hydration can all contribute to faster fading.
On the other hand, staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can promote healthy skin, helping your tattoo last longer. By making these lifestyle choices, you can actively contribute to the longevity of your cosmetic tattoo, giving you a sense of control and empowerment.
Is Cosmetic Tattooing Worth It?
Absolutely! While no cosmetic tattoo lasts forever, the convenience of waking up with perfect brows and lips every day is worth it. If you're considering getting some permanent makeup in Hamilton, rest assured that it's a decision you won't regret. I'd love to help you achieve beautiful, natural-looking results that suit your style, and I'm confident that you'll be satisfied with the outcome.
Take a look at gallery of my previous work. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to have beautiful brows and lips, hence why I have very competitive pricing
At Manor Ink in Hamilton, we offer expert free consultations and personalised aftercare recommendations to help you maintain beautiful, long-lasting cosmetic tattoos. Book your free consultation today to learn how we can enhance your features with precision and care!
Ph: 021 703 508
