Post-Permanent Makeup Care: Every Step You Need to Know

Permanent makeup is more than just an aesthetic upgrade—it’s a transformation that requires attentive aftercare. How you treat your skin post-procedure directly impacts how natural and long-lasting the results will be. Whether it’s your brows, lips, or eyeliner, with the right care, your semi-permanent makeup can maintain its fresh look for months instead of just days.

Yet, many underestimate this phase, not realizing that the real journey begins after you leave the clinic.

“The quality of the procedure matters, but the precision of your aftercare determines the result.”

This guide covers everything you need to know about caring for your skin after a permanent makeup session:

• When and how to use the right creams?
• How long should the area stay dry?
• What to do (and avoid) during the scabbing phase?
• How should brow and lip care differ?

This isn’t just a post-treatment guide—it’s also essential reading for anyone considering permanent makeup. With the right recovery process, you’ll make your results more durable, healthy, and beautiful.

Why Aftercare Is Crucial in Permanent Makeup

Permanent makeup is not as temporary as applying lipstick or filling in brows with a pencil. These procedures cause micro-trauma to the skin, triggering a healing response. To allow pigments to settle into the skin correctly, a controlled and protected healing process is essential.

“Your treatment doesn’t end when you get off the bed—it actually begins.”

Even a perfectly done microblading session can fade, shift, or require early retouching if aftercare is mishandled. So aftercare is not just about avoiding water or applying cream—it’s about supporting pigment retention, letting the skin peel naturally, and protecting the treated area from external irritants.

Healing speed varies per person, but the first 7 days are the most critical. Whether it’s brows, lips, or eyeliner—if aftercare is neglected during this time, the pigment may not hold properly, and the results may fall short of expectations.

At Canan Genç Clinic, we provide each client with a personalized care protocol. Our goal isn’t just to perform beautiful procedures but to ensure those results stay beautiful for the long term.

Want your results to last longer? Book a free consultation and let us plan your personalized post-treatment protocol together.

What to Do in the First 0–24 Hours

The first 24 hours after permanent makeup is the most sensitive period. The skin is vulnerable, and pigments are beginning to settle. Managing this phase properly has a direct effect on the success of your treatment.

Keep the Area Dry

Avoid all forms of water contact. Steam from showers, sweat, or splashes can interfere with pigment retention. Ideally, postpone hair washing and clean your face with a damp cotton pad around the treated area only.

Gentle Cleansing Is Key

The treated skin is still technically “open,” meaning it’s prone to infection. Use a cotton pad with the clinic’s recommended cleansing solution. Never rub or press down on the area.

Tailored Cream Use

Every procedure requires its own aftercare cream:

• Brows (Microblading): Use a soothing and hydrating cream.
• Lips: Require a different approach due to faster scabbing and potential cold sore outbreaks. Antiviral creams may be necessary.

Apply your cream about 30 minutes after cleaning, then 2–3 times a day in a thin layer. Avoid overuse, which may block the skin from breathing and lead to pigment loss.

Pro Tip: Never apply foundation or makeup to the brow area until fully healed. It increases infection risk and can cause pigment displacement.

At Canan Genç Clinic, we provide a step-by-step aftercare guide and support via WhatsApp during this critical day.

What to Watch for During Weeks 1–2

This is when the skin begins to heal and pigments start to stabilize. Your approach during this time will determine not just how the makeup looks—but how long it lasts.

Brows: Cleansing & Post-Makeup Care

Avoid makeup on the brow area for at least the first week. It may cause infection or interfere with pigment settling.

Cleanse with alcohol-free micellar water and a cotton swab, gently wiping from the outer edges. Never pick at scabs or press on the area.

If your brows itch, apply a cold compress or a calming gel recommended by your specialist.

Lips: Diet & Cream Selection

Avoid hot, spicy, salty, or acidic foods post lip tinting. Drink liquids through a straw for the first 5–7 days to avoid contamination.

For those prone to cold sores, antiviral creams are essential. Use fragrance-free, non-petroleum lip balms to prevent cracking.

Apply lip balm 2–3 times daily in a very thin layer.

Eyeliner / Lashline Enhancement: Special Tips

Avoid all eye makeup for 7–10 days after the procedure. Mascara, eyeshadow, and eyeliner may cause irritation or infection.

Use a medically approved eye-care gel to soothe the area. Mild swelling or flaking is normal. Contact us if you notice increased pain or signs of infection.

Week 3 and Beyond: Long-Term Maintenance

After the initial healing, you enter the maintenance phase. Your goals now are to protect the pigment, support skin renewal, and delay the need for touch-ups.

Use Sunscreen Daily

Regardless of the area (brows, lips, eyeliner), always protect it from UV exposure. Use SPF 30+ sunscreen specifically formulated for the face.

Avoid Active Ingredients

Do not use skincare with retinol, AHA, or exfoliants near treated areas. These may fade pigment or cause discoloration. Double-check anti-aging eye creams as well.

When Is a Touch-Up Needed?

Most clients need a follow-up session at 4–8 weeks. This ensures pigment fills any gaps and enhances symmetry. For some skin types, this may happen sooner or later.

“My pigment seems lighter—is this normal?”

Yes, especially in the brows and lips. Initial fading is common. As the skin exfoliates, the pigment may appear pale, but it typically evens out by week 4.

The more care you give your skin during this period, the longer your results will last. Have questions? We’re always here to help.

Want to make sure you’re on the right track? Book a free follow-up session with our team.

FAQs

How long should I keep the area dry after permanent makeup?

Avoid water contact for 24–48 hours. Even steam can disrupt the healing.

Which cream should I use?

Always follow your provider’s recommendation. Use fragrance-free, healing ointments—usually with panthenol. Never self-prescribe steroids or antibiotics.

Can I shower after a lashline enhancement?

You can shower, but avoid direct water or steam on the face. Clean gently with a dry or damp pad around the eyes.

Is permanent makeup harmful?

Not when done with the right technique, hygienic environment, and professional tools. Poor practices, on the other hand, can cause irritation or uneven results. Always choose a certified specialist.