Cosmetic tattooing offers a convenient solution for those who want the benefits of makeup without the daily application.
What is cosmetic tattooing?
Cosmetic tattooing, also referred to as permanent makeup or micropigmentation, is a procedure that involves depositing pigments under the skin to enhance features like eyebrows, eyeliner, lips, and scalp hair. This is done using a small handheld tool with needles to puncture the skin and deposit pigments.
Trending cosmetic tattoo procedures
Eyebrow Tattooing
Eyebrow tattooing is a standard cosmetic procedure that enhances eyebrows' shape and fullness, which is especially popular when a fuller, natural look is desired.
Lip Tattooing
Lip tattooing is a cosmetic procedure that enhances the natural colour and shape of the lips, providing a more defined shape, added volume, and correction of any asymmetry. It is a convenient option for maintaining a polished look, especially with minimal need for lipstick touch-ups.
Eyeliner Tattooing
Eyeliner tattooing is a cosmetic procedure that involves adding a thin line of pigment to the upper or lower lash line, creating the look of thicker and fuller lashes. It can be convenient when traditional eyeliners do not hold up well in the heat.
How long does permanent makeup usually last?
Although commonly referred to as "permanent," these treatments do not last forever. New techniques have been developed over the years, offering updated versions known as semipermanent makeup. Some can last over ten years, while others may only last two years.
The longevity of cosmetic tattoos can vary, with most estimates suggesting results last between one to three years. Body metabolism, pigment placement, and skin shedding affect how long the tattoo lasts, necessitating routine touch-ups.
Factors to consider
Cosmetic tattooing is a semipermanent makeup procedure that fades over time. The duration of your cosmetic tattoo's results can vary due to factors like skin type and lifestyle. It's challenging to provide a specific answer to how long a cosmetic tattoo will last.
- Using a brand of pigment with a proven track record for safety is essential.
- The quality of pigment is crucial for optimal results.
- The technique used should be performed by a qualified micropigmentation specialist knowledgeable in the latest techniques.
- Prolonged or long-term sun exposure can cause pigment to fade more quickly.
- Dry skin tends to hold pigment more than oily skin, although there can be exceptions to this generalization.
- Certain medications can affect the skin's ability to retain pigment, making it more difficult or impossible.
- It is important to follow aftercare instructions from your specialist to care for your skin after the procedure. Failure to do so could result in a less long-lasting tattoo or potential healing issues.
- Factors such as exercise, diet, and individual healing processes can impact the outcome of your cosmetic tattoo.
- Specific beauty treatments, including microdermabrasion, glycolic acid, laser treatments, peels, and AHAs, can cause tattoos to fade.
- The depth of colour in pigments impacts their fading rate, with lighter colours fading faster than darker tones.
The longevity of cosmetic eyebrow tattoos can vary depending on factors like skin type, pigment retention, aftercare compliance, and other variables. Generally, they can last anywhere from 12 months to three years.
- The quality and technique used.
- The use of pigments determines the quality.
- Dry skin types may retain pigment more than oily, although this is not always true.
- Sun exposure can cause the pigment of eyebrow tattoos to fade quickly, especially for those who spend much time outdoors.
- Specific beauty treatments, such as exfoliants like glycolic acid, peels, and microdermabrasion, can potentially fade tattoos more quickly.
- After treatment, your body treats the area like a cut and forms a small scab. Take care not to damage the scab to avoid pigment loss. Follow the aftercare instructions from your brow technician to ensure the tattoo lasts and heals properly. Ignoring these instructions may result in a shorter lifespan for the tattoo and potential issues with healing.
- Different eyebrow colours may have varying levels of longevity. Lighter eyebrow colours like blonde may fade quicker and require more frequent touch-ups than darker colours.
Permanent vs. semipermanent Tattoos
Some people think cosmetic tattoos, unlike traditional ones, will last forever. However, cosmetic tattoos are semipermanent and will fade over time. The depth of the ink injection into the skin determines the tattoo's longevity. Traditional body tattoos are deeply implanted for lasting results, whereas tattoos like eyebrows are superficially implanted to allow for fading over time.
Retouching
Scheduling a retouch every 12 months is recommended to maintain the perfect colour. Some individuals may prolong the time between touch-ups, while others may allow the colour to fade before making changes.