Proper before and aftercare is essential for achieving the best results in permanent makeup (PMU) procedures. Following the right guidelines helps ensure pigment retention, minimizes complications, and promotes smooth healing.
Beforecare for PMU
1. General Pre-Care Guidelines (For Brows, Lips, & Eyeliner)
To prepare for a PMU procedure, clients should:
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, Vitamin E) for 24-48 hours before the appointment. These can increase bleeding, affecting pigment retention.
• Stay hydrated and maintain healthy skin for better healing.
•Stop using retinol, AHA/BHA acids, and exfoliating treatments 2 weeks before the procedure to prevent excessive skin sensitivity.
• Avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least one week before the appointment. Sunburned or overly tanned skin will not retain pigment properly.
•No Botox or fillers near the area for at least 2-4 weeks prior to the procedure.
• Avoid facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser treatments 2-4 weeks before PMU.
2. Pre-Care for Specific Procedures
A. Brows (Nano, Powder, Ombre, Microblading)
• If prone to oily skin, blot excess oil and use oil-free moisturizers in the weeks leading up to the procedure.
• Avoid waxing, threading, or plucking the brows at least 1 week before to keep the hairline intact for shaping.
B. Lips (Lip Blush, Full Lip Tint, Dark Lip Neutralization)
• Exfoliate the lips gently with a sugar scrub and hydrating balm for a few days leading up to the procedure.
• Stay hydrated to prevent dry, chapped lips—dry lips won’t absorb pigment well.
• If prone to cold sores, take an antiviral medication (e.g., Acyclovir or Valtrex) 3-5 days before and after the procedure to prevent outbreaks.
C. Eyeliner (Lash Enhancement, Winged Liner, Shaded Liner)
• Remove lash extensions at least 3-5 days before the appointment.
• Avoid using lash serums (like Latisse) for at least 4 weeks before, as they can make the skin sensitive.
• No mascara or eye makeup on the day of the procedure.
Aftercare for PMU
1. General Healing Process & Timeline
• Day 1-3: Swelling, redness, and slight tenderness may occur. Pigment looks darker than expected.
• Day 4-7: Scabbing, flaking, or dryness begins. DO NOT pick at scabs!
• Day 7-14: Pigment may appear lighter or patchy as the skin regenerates.
• Day 21-30: The color begins to settle and even out.
• Week 6-8: A touch-up may be needed to perfect the final result.
2. Do’s & Don’ts After PMU
✅ Keep the area clean and dry for the first 24 hours.
✅ Apply the recommended healing ointment (if advised by the artist).
✅ Use a clean pillowcase and avoid sleeping on the treated area.
✅ Wash gently with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser (if advised) after 24-48 hours.
✅ Wear SPF once fully healed to prevent premature fading.
🚫 No picking, scratching, or rubbing the scabs—this can cause pigment loss and uneven healing.
🚫 Avoid heavy sweating, swimming, saunas, or direct sun exposure for at least 10-14 days.
🚫 No makeup or skincare products on the treated area until fully healed (7-10 days).
🚫 No facials, peels, or laser treatments for at least 4-6 weeks.
🚫 Avoid sleeping on your face to prevent pigment disturbance.
3. Aftercare for Specific Procedures
A. Brows
• Avoid oil-based skincare products around the brows, as they can fade pigment faster.
• If brows feel dry, apply a thin layer of a PMU-safe healing balm (like Aquaphor or a professional aftercare ointment).
B. Lips
• Keep lips moisturized constantly with a PMU-safe healing balm (non-petroleum-based).
• Drink through a straw for the first few days to avoid irritation.
• Avoid spicy, acidic, or salty foods for a few days, as they can cause irritation.
C. Eyeliner
• Avoid rubbing or pulling at the eyelids during healing.
• No mascara, eyeliner, or eye makeup for at least 10 days to prevent infection.
• Use sterile saline wipes if needed for cleaning the area.
4. Long-Term Care & Maintenance
• Touch-ups: Most PMU procedures require a 6-8 week touch-up to perfect the color.
• Sun Protection: Always use SPF 30+ to prevent fading from UV exposure.
• Skincare Adjustments: Avoid retinol, AHA/BHA, and chemical peels near the treated area, as they accelerate fading.
• Touch-ups Every 1-2 Years: To maintain color vibrancy, clients should schedule annual touch-ups.
Proper beforecare sets the foundation for great results, while aftercare ensures proper healing and longevity of the PMU. By following these steps, clients can achieve beautiful, long-lasting results with minimal complications.
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