Permanent make-up

Permanent make-up (PMU) is the lasting insertion of colour pigments into the skin to subtly define eyebrows, eyeliner or lips – a kind of long-lasting, smudge- and waterproof make-up. It is a form of cosmetic tattooing and fades over the years.

With permanent make-up the practitioner inserts pigments into the upper skin layer using a fine needle machine. Unlike microblading, which only draws hair-fine strokes, PMU covers several techniques: powder or shaded brows, eyeliner (upper, lower or as a lash-line densification) and lip contour or full lip-blushing. The pigments are developed specifically for skin and toned lighter than tattoo inks so the result looks natural.

The process starts with a thorough consultation, measuring and pre-drawing plus numbing cream. The treatment takes one to three hours depending on the area. After about four to eight weeks a touch-up is needed, because the colour lightens by 20 to 40 percent as it heals and gaps are reworked. For the first days the contours look more intense and may swell slightly – especially with lips.

PMU suits anyone wanting to save time in the morning, those allergic to conventional cosmetics, people lacking a steady hand, or those reconstructing brows after hair loss (e.g. chemotherapy). It lasts one to five years depending on technique, skin type and care, then fades slowly – a refresh maintains colour and shape. Because pigments migrate in the skin and the tone can shift over time, the practitioner's experience is decisive.

In Switzerland permanent make-up usually costs CHF 300 to 600 per area, often including the first touch-up (no guarantee). Full lip-blushing is often at the upper end. Refreshes usually cost CHF 150 to 300. Strict hygiene, single-use needles and approved pigments are essential.

Example

A client with sparse, light eyebrows opts for powder brows. After the touch-up she has a soft, subtly filled brow look that doesn't smudge during sport, swimming or showering and lasts around three years.

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Frequently asked

What is the difference between permanent make-up and microblading?

Microblading manually draws individual hairs with a blade and is only for brows; the pigments sit superficially and fade faster. Permanent make-up uses a machine, also covers eyeliner and lips and usually lasts longer. For brows the two techniques often complement each other.

How long does permanent make-up last?

Depending on technique, skin type and care, one to five years. Eyeliner tends to last longest, lips and powder brows fade faster. Sun, oily skin and exfoliation speed up fading. A refresh renews colour and contour.

Is permanent make-up really forever?

No, despite the name. The pigments are slowly broken down by the body, so the result fades over the years and is not like a permanent tattoo. This is why it is often more accurately called semi-permanent make-up.

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