Frequently Asked Questions

  • Permanent makeup (AKA “PMU” or “semi-permanent makeup”) is a cosmetic tattoo treatment in which pigment is implanted into the skin to enhance features like eyebrows and lips. It’s considered semi-permanent, fading gradually over time.

  • Immediately after your treatment, the area will look noticeably more defined and more intense in colour than the final healed result. Lips may appear brighter or more saturated, and eyebrows may look darker and bolder. This is completely normal and expected. The colour will soften and settle as the skin heals over the following days and weeks.

    There may also be some mild swelling or slight redness, especially with lip blush, which can make the results look more dramatic at first. As the skin heals, the colour will soften by around 50-70% and the shape will settle into a more natural finish.

    The true healed result is usually visible after 4–6 weeks, once the skin has fully recovered.

  • Once healed, most clients no longer rely on daily makeup for brows or lips. The treatment enhances your natural features, giving a soft, defined look even without decorative cosmetics. However, you can still add makeup if you want a more dramatic look.

  • Typically 1–3 years, depending on skin type, lifestyle, sun exposure, and aftercare.

  • Most clients experience mild discomfort rather than pain. A topical numbing cream is applied to keep you comfortable throughout the treatment.

  • You may not be eligible if you:

    • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

    • Have certain skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis in the area)

    • Are on blood thinners

    • Have uncontrolled diabetes

    • Are undergoing chemotherapy

  • Top ups are needed because PMU doesn’t always heal perfectly evenly the first time. A top-up helps:

    • Fill in faded or patchy areas

    • Improve colour retention

    • Sharpen shape and symmetry

    • Make results longer-lasting and more defined

  • Usually between 4 to 8 weeks after the initial treatment, once the skin is fully healed. Timing can vary slightly depending on the area treated and your skin type.

  • First appointments usually last 2-3 hours. Top ups after 6-8 weeks usually take slightly less time.

  • Yes, but it will be removed before treatment begins.

  • Yes—but it depends on the existing pigment, shape, and saturation. In some cases, a correction is possible; in others, removal or lightening is required first.

  • Yes, but you may need lip neutralisation first to balance the tone before achieving your desired colour.

  • Yes, but timing is important. If you’ve had lip fillers, wait at least 4 weeks before lip blush. If you’ve had Botox, wait at least 2 weeks before any PMU.

    If you’re planning treatments after your appointment, allow 4–6 weeks of healing first. Fillers and Botox can affect shape and symmetry, which can impact upon the results of the PMU.

  • Yes, you can still have lip blush, but if you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex virus), the treatment can trigger an outbreak. Please read the lip blush guide for more info, including how to minimise the chances of an outbreak.

  • Yes, a patch test is required prior to your treatment to check for any sensitivities or allergic reactions.

    A self-test kit will be sent to the address you provide when booking, along with full instructions on how to carry out the test safely at home.