Are Permanent Makeup Touch-Ups Really That Important?

The short answer: Super important.

The long answer: Still super important—and here’s why.

When it comes to permanent makeup, achieving flawless results in just one session is more the exception than the rule. Several variables affect how your skin retains pigment: the type of pigment used, the method of application, your unique skin type, and of course, the all-important aftercare.

Let’s Talk Pigments

Unlike traditional tattoo ink, permanent makeup pigments are specially formulated to be less concentrated. This softer formulation allows for a more natural, buildable look that can evolve with trends or your preferences over time. Because of this lighter density, it’s completely normal—and expected—to need a touch-up session to layer in more pigment and refine the shape or color.

Application Methods Matter

Microblading, a manual technique, involves scraping pigment into the skin with a fine blade. It’s beautiful but finicky, especially since every hair stroke must be applied at just the right angle and depth. Skin thickness varies across the brow and from person to person, making consistency a challenge.

In contrast, machine-based techniques like Nano Brows, Powder Brows, and Lip Blush use precise needles to implant pigment with more control. These methods often retain pigment better—but only if the application is done correctly.

It’s All in the Skin

Facial skin is thinner, oilier, and regenerates faster than skin elsewhere, which affects how pigment heals and holds. For example, oily skin can push pigment out, while lip skin, though thinner, lacks oil glands and heals differently. And if we’re correcting or covering an old tattoo, there’s added complexity—think scar tissue, unwanted undertones, and shape corrections.

Why Aftercare Is Everything

Unlike traditional tattoos where the area is shaved and bandaged, permanent makeup is done around existing hair and left uncovered. That means your skin is exposed to more external elements during the healing process. Artists rely on specially formulated aftercare products to support healing without disrupting your daily life.

Skipping proper aftercare can lead to premature fading, patchiness, or uneven results. Sunscreen, gentle skincare, and avoiding active ingredients like retinol and AHA are essential to keeping your pigment fresh.

What Else Affects Fading?

Sun exposure is the #1 culprit in tattoo fading. So always use SPF 30+ on healed areas when outdoors. Also, keep in mind:

• Skincare products like peels, acids, and exfoliants accelerate fading.

• Pigment color matters—lighter shades fade quicker, especially on tanned or darker skin.

• For lips, overly dark pigments may not blend naturally, may appear patchy over time.

The Takeaway on Touch-Ups

No matter how skilled your artist is, you’ll almost always need a touch-up at 6–8 weeks post-procedure. It’s the best way to perfect the pigment, fill in faded spots, and make subtle adjustments. You may also need touch-ups every 1–3 years depending on the treatment and your lifestyle.

And if you’re covering up an old tattoo or have tricky skin? Multiple touch-ups might be part of your beauty journey—and that’s okay.

Touch-ups aren’t just maintenance—they’re an opportunity to enhance and evolve your look.