Is permanent makeup really permanent?

While it’s not as permanent as a back tattoo, it’s definitely longer-lasting than even your most trusted waterproof liner.

Permanent makeup will remain visible anywhere from 1 to 3 years. When it comes to microblading, regular touch-ups are par for the course: usually you’ll need to hop back in the esthetician’s chair every 6 to 12 months to maintain results.

While a regular tattoo sinks deep into the dermis, the permanent makeup technique only penetrates the superficial layers in the skin. The dye particles are also less concentrated in makeup ink than the stuff at your local tattoo shop.

Eventually, your skin will metabolize it and will fade away — but how long that takes can vary widely.