Permanent makeup
How long does permanent makeup really last, and what happens in the first week?
Microblading, micropigmentation, eyeliner and lip blush. What decides longevity is your skin, not the technique — and the darkness of the first days is not the result.
Modern Hair Beauty Salon · Muratpaşa, Antalya · Updated: 28 August 2026
Short answer
Permanent makeup is long-lasting rather than permanent: the pigment fades over time and usually needs refreshing somewhere between one and a few years. Longevity depends less on the technique than on your skin type, sun exposure and aftercare — on oily skin pigment generally fades faster. In the first days the colour looks darker than intended and lightens as it heals; the result is not judged before healing is complete. At Modern Hair Beauty Salon (Muratpaşa, Antalya) a drawing is made first and nothing is applied without your approval.
The word “permanent” is misleading
In permanent makeup the pigment sits in the upper layers of the skin, and the body disperses some of it over time. The result therefore does not stay fixed like a tattoo; it fades slowly. How quickly varies a great deal from person to person: skin type, sun, the products you use and how fast your skin renews all matter. Treat anyone who gives you an exact number of years with some caution.
The first week: looking dark is normal
- Days 1–3The colour looks markedly darker than intended and the lines look sharp. Mild swelling and tenderness are possible. Panicking at the mirror at this stage is very common.
- Days 4–10Fine flaking begins. Scratching or picking the crust takes pigment with it — this is where the result is most often spoiled.
- Weeks 2–4The colour lightens, sometimes enough to make you think it went too far. As the skin renews, the tone settles.
- The touch-up sessionAssessed once healing is complete, and topped up where needed. Only after this stage is the result judged.
What you must mention before the application
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Blood thinners, a bleeding disorder or diabetes
- A tendency to keloid scarring, or a history of cold sores — especially relevant for lip work
- An active skin problem in the area, a recent skin treatment, or isotretinoin use
- Previous permanent makeup in the same area — old pigment changes the new colour
The drawing stage is not skipped
Before any brow or lip work the shape is drawn with a pencil and looked at together in the mirror. This stage can take a while, and it should: once pigment is in, “a little thinner, please” is no longer available. Nothing is applied until you are happy — that is not courtesy, it is the rule of the work.
FAQ
Are microblading and micropigmentation the same thing?
No. Microblading draws fine hair-like strokes. Micropigmentation (a powder or ombré effect) gives a softer, filled look and generally holds better on oily skin. Which suits you is discussed after looking at your skin.
Does it hurt?
A topical numbing cream is applied; most people describe an uncomfortable but bearable pressure. Pain thresholds differ, and the lip area is usually the most sensitive.
Does the Antalya sun affect longevity?
Yes, sun fades pigment. Once healing is complete, using sunscreen on the area extends the result. Sea and pool should wait until the healing period is over.
Let's decide in conversation first, not in the chair
You can book even if you are not sure yet — the consultation is part of the appointment and is not charged separately.