Permanent Makeup Aftercare: Healing Tips for Long-Lasting Results
Welcome to our final blog in our permanent makeup series!
Over the past few weeks, we’ve covered how to prepare for lip blush, eyeliner tattoos, and scalp micropigmentation.
Now that you’ve completed your procedure, it's time to focus on healing! Following the right aftercare instructions is essential for protecting your results and keeping your permanent makeup looking fresh for as long as possible.
In this blog post, we share the best aftercare measures for permanent makeup. We’ll also cover what to expect during healing, what to avoid, and how to maintain your results.
Why Permanent Makeup Aftercare is Important
Your aftercare routine plays a major role in how well your cosmetic tattooing heals.
Proper aftercare measures help:
Prevent color loss and pigment fading
Reduce the risk of infection and irritation
Promote a smooth healing process with minimal scabbing
Support optimal healing for long-lasting results
Permanent Makeup Aftercare Instructions
No matter which permanent makeup procedure you had—lip blush, eyeliner tattoo, or scalp micropigmentation—aftercare is crucial.
Follow these steps to support proper healing and long-lasting results:
Blot the area every 20-30 minutes for 4 hours post-procedure. This helps absorb lymphatic fluid and minimizes scabbing.
Apply your aftercare ointment with a clean cotton pad or Q-tip 3-4 times daily. Keep the area moisturized to prevent excessive dry skin and flaking.
Avoid direct sun exposure—healing skin is sensitive, and UV rays can cause color loss. Use SPF once healed.
Do not saturate the area with water for 7 days. Avoid excessive rinsing, hot showers, and swimming.
Skip heavy sweating and intense exercise for a week. Sweat can contribute to pigment fading and increase the risk of infection.
Do not pick, scratch, or peel scabs. Pulling scabs off can pull out pigment and leave scars.
Avoid skincare products with active ingredients such as glycolic acids, retinoids, and chemical peels near the treated area until fully healed.
Do not put makeup directly on top of the healing area.
No tanning beds, saunas, steam showers, or hot tubs for one week.
These general aftercare steps apply to all permanent makeup procedures, but each treatment requires specific care to heal properly.
Below, we’ll break down specific aftercare instructions for lip blush, eyeliner tattoos, and scalp micropigmentation to help you care for your results properly.
| Treatment | Aftercare Steps |
|---|---|
| Permanent Eyeliner | No mascara for 1 week. Avoid eyelash growth serums for at least 2 weeks post-touch-up. Eyelash extensions can be applied after 2 weeks. Use a clean cotton pad to remove buildup along the lash line. Avoid eye rubbing, eye makeup, and contact lenses for a few days. |
| Lip Blush | Drink fluids through a straw for 7 days. Eat carefully using a fork and knife. Avoid spicy foods and non-whitening toothpaste. No kissing until fully healed. Apply healing balm frequently to prevent dry skin and cracking. |
| Scalp Micropigmentation | Expect pigment to look darker at first. Bring a clean, loose-fitting hat if needed. Avoid direct sun exposure. Do not wash your scalp for 3 days. Avoid hair styling products for 7 days. From days 3-7, resume brief hair washes but avoid scrubbing. Avoid heat styling tools. Mist Bactine onto the area if itchy. A touch-up session is included within 4-8 weeks. |
| Eyebrow Tattoo | Avoid waxing, tinting, tweezing, or threading for 7 days. If wearing foundation, apply healing ointment afterward to clear brows. |
Slow Down the Fade
Even with proper care, your permanent makeup will naturally fade over time.
Avoid these things to slow down color loss:
UV Rays: Always use SPF on healed areas to prevent premature fading.
Chlorine & Salt Water: Swimming frequently can break down pigments.
Excessive sweating: Heavy workouts can cause faster pigment fading.
Exfoliants: Chemical peels, laser treatments, and glycolic acids exfoliate the skin and fade cosmetic tattoos over time.
Oily skin: People with oily skin may notice their tattoo lightens faster.
🔁 To refresh your permanent makeup and keep it looking flawless, schedule an annual touch-up every 12-18 months!
The Complete Healing Process: What to Expect
Your entire healing time will take a few weeks, but here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Days 1-3: The area looks darker, slightly swollen, or bold.
Days 4-7: Mild flaking is normal—DO NOT pick or exfoliate!
Days 7-14: The pigment softens as the skin heals over top.
Weeks 4-6: The complete healing process is done, and a touch-up appointment may be scheduled.
Trust the Process
🌟 Trust the process, follow the aftercare, and enjoy your stunning new look! 🌟
Healing takes time, and your permanent makeup care is just as important as the procedure itself! Do not stress over temporary changes in color or shape—everything will settle beautifully.
For concerns about shape, color, or symmetry, wait until 2 weeks post-procedure before contacting your artist. Your technician cannot touch the area for at least 4 weeks to prevent scarring.
Permanent Makeup in Calgary at the Beauty Block
At The Beauty Block in Calgary, our skilled artists are here to guide you through your permanent makeup aftercare and help you achieve optimal healing.
📍 Visit us at #102, 1409 Edmonton Trail, Calgary, AB, to see why we are Calgary's Top Choice Beauty Spa in 2025.