What Makes Permanent Makeup Fade? 7 Key Reasons Your PMU Doesn't Last

Permanent makeup (PMU) is a game-changer for those who want flawless brows, eyeliner, or lips without the daily hassle. But while it’s called “permanent,” the reality is that all cosmetic tattooing fades over time. Whether you’ve had microblading, powder brows, lip blush, or eyeliner tattooed, you’ve probably noticed changes in color and intensity over the months and years. So, what makes permanent makeup fade? Let’s break it down.

1. Skin Type Matters More Than You Think

If you have oily skin, you might notice your permanent makeup fading faster than someone with dry or normal skin. Why? Oily skin naturally produces more sebum, which can push pigment out of the skin more quickly. This is particularly noticeable with microblading, where crisp hairstrokes can blur or fade faster on oily skin types.

2. Sun Exposure: Your PMU’s Worst Enemy

Just like regular tattoos, UV rays break down pigment particles in the skin, leading to faster fading. Frequent sun exposure without SPF protection can cause your brows, lips, or eyeliner to lose their vibrancy much sooner. Always apply an SPF 30+ sunscreen (or a physical barrier like a hat) to protect your investment!

3. The Healing Process & Aftercare Play a Huge Role

How you care for your permanent makeup in the first few weeks after the procedure greatly impacts its longevity. Picking at scabs, over-washing, or exposing your fresh PMU to water and sweat too soon can cause premature fading. Following your technician’s aftercare instructions is essential to lock in the pigment.

4. Your Body’s Natural Skin Renewal Cycle

The skin constantly sheds and regenerates, which means pigments implanted in the skin naturally fade over time. As your body metabolizes and breaks down the pigment, the color will gradually lighten. This is why touch-ups are necessary to maintain the look you love!

5. Pigment Choice & Color Shifting

The type and quality of pigment used can impact fading. Organic and inorganic pigments behave differently in the skin, and some colors fade faster than others. For example:

• Cooler tones (like ashy brow colors) may fade to a warmer hue.

• Warmer tones (like orange or red lip blush) may fade into cooler shades.

Choosing an experienced PMU artist who understands color theory can help minimize unwanted color shifts as your tattoo fades.

6. Lifestyle Factors: Sweat, Skincare & More

Your daily habits can either extend or shorten the life of your permanent makeup. Here’s what affects fading:

• Skincare products with exfoliants (like retinol, glycolic acid, or AHAs) can break down pigment faster.

• Frequent swimming or saunas exposes PMU to chlorine and heat, both of which speed up fading.

• Excessive sweating from intense workouts can impact pigment retention, especially in the healing stage.

7. The Quality of the Procedure & Artist Experience

Not all PMU artists are created equal. A well-trained, experienced technician will use the best tools, techniques, and pigments to ensure long-lasting results. Poor technique, low-quality pigments, or incorrect depth of implantation can lead to premature fading.

How to Make Your Permanent Makeup Last Longer

• Always wear SPF 30+ on your tattooed areas when exposed to the sun.

• Follow the recommended aftercare routine to prevent premature fading.

• Avoid harsh exfoliants (like retinol or acids) on your PMU.

• Book a touch-up session every 12-18 months to refresh the color.

• Choose an experienced PMU artist who uses high-quality pigments and the correct technique.

Final Thoughts: Fading Is Inevitable, But You Can Slow It Down

While permanent makeup isn’t forever, there are plenty of ways to maintain vibrant, fresh-looking results. Knowing what causes fading—and how to prevent it—ensures that you get the most out of your cosmetic tattoo. If your PMU is fading faster than expected, it might be time for a touch-up or a chat with your artist to discuss long-term maintenance strategies!

Would you like to learn more about PMU care? Drop your questions in the comments below!