We are often asked by our clients how long semi permanent makeup will last. Whilst there is no definitive answer on this, there are some elements you can consider to reach an understanding about the life expectancy of your makeup treatment.
What affects the length of time your makeup will last?
Semi permanent makeup can last anything from six months to two years. Individual treatments vary, and things like the way you care for your treatment after it is done, as well as the colours used in your makeup will all have an effect on how long it lasts. Some of the issues that can have the greatest influence on how long your makeup lasts include:
* Sun exposure: The sun will quickly bleach out your semi permanent makeup if you spend too long sunbathing after treatment without protecting your skin.
* Sunbeds: Sunbeds can be even worse than sunlight for discolouring your makeup, so if you are going to use them, ensure the treated areas are suitably protected.
* Swimming: Swimming, particularly in chlorinated water, has been known to reduce the lifespan of semi permanent makeup.
* Poor skin care: After your treatment you will be given instructions on how to care for and prolong the life of your makeup. If you fail to follow the guidance as given, you are likely to reduce the amount of time you can enjoy your new look.
* Smoking: Cigarettes contain lots off harmful chemicals which can play havoc with your skin chemistry. People who smoke tend to have a shorter lifespan for their semi permanent makeup.
* Alcohol: Drinking not only dehydrates your body, but it leaves your skin dry and damaged too. Drinking too much and too frequently can often make your semi permanent makeup fade faster.
* Cleansers: Harsh cleansers designed for waterproof makeup removal can cause fading in semi permanent make up too.
Of course, it’s not to say that you can’t do any of these things after you have had a treatment. But it’s good to be aware of the things that can affect your makeup’s lifespan so that you can indulge in them in moderation.
How to make your makeup last longer
There are some things you can do to help your makeup stay bold for longer. Going out in the sun is the biggest cause of early fade in semi permanent makeup, so if you are planning a trip to the beach, sunbathing in the garden or going to a sunbed session, use at least SPF30 sunblock on your treated areas to protect them.
After exposing your skin to the sun, or to chlorine in a pool, you should apply a good moisturiser or skin treatment containing AHA’s to rejuvenate and protect your makeup. Avoiding regular use of tobacco and alcohol is highly recommended, as is not using waterproof makeup which will require scrubbing with harsh cleansers to get off.
A big factor in the length of time your treatment lasts will be how neutral and natural it was in the first place. Although pigmentation for makeup is a form of tattooing, it is applied higher up in the
dermal layers than a tattoo and is designed to look more natural. Paler shades will fade faster, but you can have your treatment retouched after a year or two at a heavily discounted rate to keep things looking perfect.