Is Permanent Makeup really permanent?

This is the question that I get asked the most! The main differences between conventional and permanent makeup tattooing are the depth at which the needle goes into the skin, and the composition of the colors used. The tattoo machines that cosmetic technicians use penetrate just below the epidermis while tattoo artists implant deeper into the dermis. Permanent Makeup ink rarely leaves the skin completely. There are several factors that can affect the rate at which the color leaves. Sun exposure, exfoliants used on the skin, anti-aging products, age, and metabolism. Touch-ups will be required when pigments have faded enough but should not be retouched early due to the risk of over-saturation. It is important to understand that only so much ink can be put in the skin when the skin will always retain certain colorant molecules. If you ever hear permanent makeup being described as semi-permanent, it is trying to convey the idea that it will not hold the same color and vibrancy that it has for the first year. There will always be color remaining and just needs to be touched up. It is basically a tattoo that needs maintenance every 12-24 months.