Cosmetic tattooing, also known as permanent makeup or micropigmentation, is a great way to enhance your facial features with long lasting results. Whether you’ve had your eyebrows, lip tattoos or eyeliner tattoos, regular touch ups are necessary to maintain the vibrancy and shape of your cosmetic tattoo. But how often should you book these touch ups? Let’s explore the factors that affect touch up frequency and how to keep your cosmetic tattoo looking fresh.
How Cosmetic Tattoos Fades
Cosmetic tattoos fade over time due to:
- Skin type: Oily skin types break down tattoo pigment faster, so it fades quicker.
- Sun exposure: UV rays cause pigment breakdown, so tattoos fade faster.
- Skincare routine: Skincare products with retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid and other active ingredients speed up fading.
- Body metabolism: Faster metabolism means pigment loss sooner.
- Pigment colour: Lighter pigments fade faster than darker ones.
- Lifestyle choices: Excessive sweating, active lifestyle and environmental factors contribute to pigment fading.
- Menstrual cycle & hormonal changes: Affects pigment retention during the healing process.
If you’re getting cosmetic tattooing in Brisbane, you need to understand these factors to get long lasting results.
General Guidelines for Touch-Ups
Most cosmetic tattooing requires maintenance. Here’s a general timeline for touch-ups based on the procedure:
Initial Touch-Up (4-8 Weeks After the Initial Procedure)
After your first cosmetic tattoo procedure, an initial touch-up is crucial. This session will correct any areas where the pigment didn’t take, address loss of pigment and colour and get the colour even and set.
Annual Refresh (Every 12-18 Months)
For most people, a permanent makeup touch-up every 12-18 months is ideal to refresh the colour and shape of the semi-permanent makeup. This will keep it crisp and prevent fading over time.
More Frequent Touch-Ups for Certain Skin Types
If you have oily skin, sensitive skin or expose your tattoo to the sun frequently, you may need touch-ups every 6-12 months to maintain the best results. If you have dry skin you may retain pigment longer and need fewer touch-ups.
Signs You Need a Touch-Up
Not sure if you need a touch-up? Here are some indicators:
- Your tattooed brows, lips or eyeliner looks lighter or patchy.
- The brow shape or facial structure has softened and the lines are less defined.
- You want to refresh the pigment to restore vibrancy and match your natural lip colour or natural hair colour.
- You’ve had a significant skincare routine or cosmetic procedure that affected the tattooed area.
- You’re fading faster due to an active lifestyle or frequent use of harsh cleansers and skincare products with acid-based products.
If you’ve had an eyebrow tattoo and not happy with the results, eyebrow tattoo removal options including laser tattoo removal can help you achieve your desired look.
How to Extend the Life of Your Cosmetic Tattoo
To prolong the life of your cosmetic tattoo and minimize touch-ups consider:
- Protect your skin from the sun: Limit sun exposure and use SPF 30+ sunscreen on tattooed areas to prevent fading.
- Avoid harsh exfoliants: Stay away from skincare products containing retinol or acids near the tattooed area.
- Follow aftercare instructions: Proper aftercare and healing ointment ensures optimal pigment retention from the start.
- Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser: Gentle cleansing with a clean towel or damp cotton pad will support proper healing.
- Don’t over sweat and water: During the aftercare period, avoid activities that make you sweat excessively to prevent pigment loss.
- Go to a professional: A good artist or technician will give you the best results, proper prep and realistic expectations.
Final Thoughts
How often do you need to get touch-ups? It varies from person to person but a good rule of thumb is to get an annual session to keep your semi-permanent cosmetic procedure looking great.
Not sure when to book your next touch-up? Ask a reputable technician or your permanent makeup artist for personalized advice.
FAQs
How painful is cosmetic tattooing?
Pain tolerance varies from person to person but most clients say minimal discomfort. Numbing cream is applied before the procedure to reduce any pain.
Can I wear makeup after getting a cosmetic tattoo?
Don’t wear makeup on the treated area during the initial healing period to prevent infection andproper healing.
How long does the healing process take?
Initial healing takes about 4-6 weeks. Full pigment retention and settling can take up to 8 weeks.
Can cosmetic tattoos be removed if I no longer want them?
Yes, eyebrow tattoo removal and other cosmetic tattoo removals can be done with laser tattoo removal or other removal methods. Consult with a skilled artist before making a decision.
How do I choose the right technician for my cosmetic tattoo?
Look for a reputable technician with experience, good client reviews and proper certification in cosmetic tattooing. Book an initial consultation to make sure you’re comfortable with their skills.
