What to Expect Before, During, and After PMU (Permanent Makeup)

Thinking about getting Permanent Makeup (PMU)? Whether it’s brows or lip blush, PMU can save you time, enhance your features, and boost your confidence with a flawless, long-lasting look.

But before you book, it’s important to understand what the process involves — from prep to healing. Here’s your complete guide on what to expect before, during, and after your PMU appointment.

✨ What is PMU?

PMU, or Permanent Makeup, is a form of cosmetic tattooing that enhances your natural features. Using fine needles and pigments, the artist creates semi-permanent designs that mimic the appearance of makeup. Common areas include:

• Eyebrows (Microblading, Powder Brows, Combo Brows)

• Lips (Lip blush, colour correction, or definition)

Results typically last 1–3 years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and how well you follow aftercare instructions.

📆 Before Your PMU Appointment

1. Avoid Blood Thinners

For 24–48 hours before your appointment, avoid alcohol, caffeine, aspirin, and ibuprofen. These can thin the blood and lead to more bleeding, which may affect pigment retention.

2. Pause Skincare Actives

Stop using retinol, acids, or other exfoliating products around the treatment area at least one week before your appointment to avoid irritation or sensitivity.

3. Don’t Wax or Tint

Avoid waxing, threading, or tinting the area for at least 3 days before your PMU appointment.

4. Stay Out of the Sun

Sunburned or tanned skin can’t be tattooed — so avoid tanning or sun exposure for a week prior.

5. Plan Around Events

You’ll go through a healing phase that includes scabbing and fading, so don’t plan your PMU treatment right before a big event or vacation.

🖊 During the Procedure

1. Consultation & Design

Your artist will begin with a detailed consultation, discussing your goals, assessing your skin tone and facial structure, and mapping out the shape and style of your PMU.

You’ll approve the design before any pigment is applied.

2. Numbing

A topical numbing cream is applied to keep you as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure. Most clients report minimal discomfort, describing the sensation as a light scratching or buzzing.

3. Pigment Application

Using a precision tool or machine, the artist implants pigment into the skin’s upper dermal layer. The process can take anywhere from 1–3 hours, depending on the area being treated.

💕 Aftercare & Healing

PMU results are not immediate — healing takes time and care. Here’s what to expect:

Day 1–2:

• The colour will appear darker and more intense than expected.

• You may experience slight swelling or redness.

Day 3–7:

• Flaking or light scabbing may occur as the skin heals.

• Avoid picking, rubbing, or applying makeup on the area.

Day 7–14:

• The pigment will soften and lighten as your skin regenerates.

• Some areas may appear patchy — this is completely normal.

4–6 Weeks:

• A touch-up session is usually scheduled to perfect the shape and colour.

• Final results are visible after full healing.

  
  

✅ PMU Aftercare Tips

• Keep the area clean and dry — avoid water, sweat, and steam for 7–10 days.

• Apply any recommended healing ointment as instructed.

• Avoid sun exposure and always wear SPF once healed.

• No facials, lasers, or exfoliating treatments on the area until fully healed.

  
  

✨ Long-Term PMU Maintenance

• Touch-ups are typically needed every 12–24 months to maintain shape and vibrancy.

• Lifestyle factors like sun exposure, skincare products, and your skin’s natural oiliness can affect how long your PMU lasts.

  
  

💬 Ready to Wake Up with Makeup?

PMU is an amazing confidence boost — helping you feel polished and ready, 24/7. Whether you're tired of filling in your brows every day, want more definition to your eyes, or are dreaming of a perfect lip tint, PMU can be a life-changing solution.

Book a consultation today to see if PMU is right for you — and let us guide you through every step of the journey.

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