Permanent Make-up: Semi-Permanent Cosmetic Tattooing

Permanent make-up (PMU) is a form of cosmetic tattooing where pigments are implanted into the upper layers of the skin to mimic the appearance of make-up. Common applications include eyebrows, eyeliner and lip colour. Unlike traditional tattoos, PMU uses lighter, iron oxide-based pigments that fade over time.

Techniques

Eyebrows

Microblading: manual technique using a fine blade to create hair-like strokes. Natural result, best for normal to dry skin. Duration: 1–2 years.
Powder / Ombre Brows: machine technique creating a soft, filled-in powder effect. Longer-lasting (2–3 years), more suitable for oily skin.
Combination brows: microblading strokes at the front combined with powder shading at the tail.

Eyeliner

Upper and/or lower lash line defined with pigment. Lash enhancement (very fine line) or full liner. Duration: 2–5 years.

Lips

Lip liner: definition of the lip contour
Lip blush: full lip pigmentation for a soft tinted effect

The Process

Initial consultation and colour matching. Topical anaesthetic applied 30–45 minutes before. Procedure: 1–3 hours. Healing: 7–14 days of fading and peeling. Mandatory touch-up at 4–6 weeks (pigment retention varies). Annual colour refreshes recommended.