Permanent Make up
- Karen Hampsey
- Jan 21
- 4 min read
Permanent Makeup: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Treatment
Permanent makeup has become one of the most popular aesthetic treatments for clients who want to look polished, confident, and put together every day — without the hassle of daily makeup application. Whether it’s perfectly shaped brows, defined lips, or subtle eyeliner, permanent makeup offers long-lasting, natural-looking results when performed by an experienced practitioner.
I specialise in advanced permanent makeup treatments designed to enhance your natural features, not overpower them.
What Is Permanent Makeup?
Permanent makeup (also known as micropigmentation or cosmetic tattooing) involves implanting medical-grade pigment into the upper layers of the skin to create the appearance of makeup. Unlike traditional body tattoos, the pigments are designed to fade gradually over time, allowing your look to evolve naturally.
Common permanent makeup treatments include:
Eyebrow tattooing (powder brows, ombré brows, combination brows)
Lip blush to enhance lip colour and definition
Eyeliner (lash enhancement or classic liner)
Correction or camouflage work for previous treatments
Why Choose Permanent Makeup?
Permanent makeup is ideal for clients who:
Want to save time on their daily routine
Struggle to apply makeup evenly
Have sparse brows or uneven lip colour
Have an active lifestyle or wear makeup that doesn’t last
Want a consistently fresh, polished appearance
Results are subtle, refined, and tailored to your face shape, skin tone, and personal style.
Are the Results Natural?
One of the most common concerns is whether permanent makeup will look “too dark” or unnatural. When performed correctly, the answer is no.
Modern permanent makeup techniques focus on:
Soft, layered pigment application
Custom colour blending
Facial symmetry and balance
Immediately after treatment, the area will appear darker, but this softens significantly as healing occurs. The final result is a natural enhancement — not a harsh tattooed look.
What Happens During a Permanent Makeup Appointment?
Your treatment begins with a detailed consultation, which is one of the most important steps. During this time, we discuss:
Your goals and expectations
Your skin type and undertones
Shape, colour, and style preferences
Medical history and suitability
A full pre-draw is completed and approved by you before any pigment is implanted. A topical numbing agent is applied to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Healing and Aftercare
Healing typically takes 7–14 days, with colour continuing to soften over several weeks. Some light flaking or dryness is normal during this period.
Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the best results, including:
Keeping the area clean and dry
Avoiding makeup, sweating, and sun exposure
Applying recommended aftercare products
Avoiding picking or scratching the area
A top-up appointment is usually required 6–8 weeks after your initial treatment to perfect the colour and shape.
How Long Does Permanent Makeup Last?
Permanent makeup is long-lasting but not truly permanent. Most clients enjoy their results for 1–3 years, depending on:
Skin type
Lifestyle
Sun exposure
Skincare products used
Annual colour refreshes help maintain optimal results.
Is Permanent Makeup Safe?
When performed by a trained, experienced practitioner using high-quality pigments and strict hygiene protocols, permanent makeup is very safe. I adhere to the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and professional practice.
Choosing the right practitioner is crucial — permanent makeup is both a technical and artistic skill.
Why Choose me?
With over 10 years of experience in advanced permanent makeup and aesthetics, I pride myself on delivering results that are:
Natural-looking
Tailored to each individual
Performed with precision and care
Every face is unique, and your treatment should be too. The approach is honest, ethical, and focused on enhancing your natural beauty — not following trends that don’t suit you.
Book Your Permanent Makeup Consultation
If you’re considering permanent makeup and want expert advice, a thorough consultation is the best place to start. I guide you through every step and ensure you feel confident and informed before proceeding.
Book your consultation today and take the first step.
FAQ:
Does permanent makeup hurt?
Most clients describe the sensation as mild discomfort rather than pain. A topical numbing cream is applied before and during the treatment to keep you as comfortable as possible.
Will my permanent makeup look too dark at first?
Yes — this is completely normal. Immediately after treatment, the colour will appear darker and more intense. During healing, the pigment softens by around 30–50%, leaving a much more natural result.
How long does permanent makeup last?
Permanent makeup typically lasts 1–3 years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, sun exposure, and skincare routine. Annual colour refreshes are recommended to keep results looking their best.
Is permanent makeup really permanent?
No. Although called “permanent,” the pigments are designed to fade gradually over time, allowing adjustments to colour and style as your face and preferences change.
How long is the healing process?
Initial healing takes around 7–14 days, with colour continuing to settle over several weeks. Some light flaking or dryness is normal during this time.
Will I need a top-up?
Yes. A top-up appointment is usually required 6–8 weeks after your initial treatment. This allows us to perfect the colour and shape once the skin has healed.
Can I wear makeup after my treatment?
You should avoid applying makeup directly on the treated area until it has fully healed. This helps prevent infection and ensures the best pigment retention.
Is permanent makeup safe?
When performed by a qualified, experienced practitioner using sterile equipment and medical-grade pigments, permanent makeup is very safe. Strict hygiene and safety protocols are always followed.
Who is not suitable for permanent makeup?
Permanent makeup may not be suitable if you are:
Pregnant or breastfeeding
Undergoing chemotherapy
Prone to keloid scarring
Taking certain medicationsA full consultation will determine your suitability before treatment.
Can permanent makeup be corrected or removed?
Yes, in many cases. Correction work and pigment removal options are available, depending on the existing pigment and skin condition. A consultation is essential to assess this.
How do I prepare for my appointment?
Before your treatment:
Avoid alcohol and caffeine for 24 hours
Do not use retinol or active skincare on the area
Avoid sunbeds or excessive sun exposureFull pre-treatment advice will be provided at booking.
Why choose a specialist permanent makeup practitioner?
Permanent makeup is both a technical and artistic treatment. Choosing an experienced specialist ensures correct colour selection, facial balance, safe technique, and natural-looking results.



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