Following proper aftercare instructions is crucial for achieving optimal results and ensuring proper permanent makeup healing. This comprehensive guide will help you through the healing process.
Understanding the Permanent Makeup Healing Process
The healing journey consists of several distinct stages.
Day 1-2
- Treated area appears darker and more intense than desired
- Slight swelling and redness are normal
- You may experience mild tenderness or burning sensation
Days 3-4
- Thin scabs begin forming
- Color appears very dark and intense
- Mild tenderness may persist
Days 5-7
- Light scabbing and flaking begins
- Color may look patchy or uneven
- Treated area might feel itchy (avoid scratching!)
Days 7-10
- Most flaking completes
- Initial color starts emerging
- Area becomes more comfortable
Days 30-40
- Final color settles
- True results become visible
- Any needed touch-ups can be scheduled

Essential Aftercare Don’ts
While your permanent makeup heals, AVOID:
- Getting the area wet for the first 24-48 hours
- Applying makeup to the treated area for 7-10 days
- Touching the area with unwashed hands
- Picking or scratching at scabs
- Using skincare products with active ingredients
- Swimming, saunas, or steam rooms for 7-10 days
- Direct sun exposure during healing
- Facial treatments for at least 2 weeks
Permanent Makeup Aftercare Instructions

First 24-48 Hours
- Keep the area completely dry
- Gently blot any lymph fluid with clean tissue
- Sleep with head elevated to minimize swelling
- Take photos of healing progress for artist review
Days 2-7
- Cleanse gently twice daily with sterile water
- Pat (never rub) the area dry with clean tissue
- Apply prescribed aftercare ointment sparingly
- Continue sleeping with head elevated
Days 7-14
- Continue gentle cleansing
- Switch to recommended moisturizer if advised
- You may resume normal skincare avoiding treated area
- Protect from sun exposure
Specific Care Instructions for PMU

For Eyebrows
- Avoid brow makeup for 7-10 days
- Keep hair away from brow area
- No threading/waxing for at least 14 days
For Eyeliner
- No eye makeup for 7-10 days
- Avoid contact lenses for 48 hours
- Use new mascara when resuming eye makeup
For Lips
- Use drinking straw for 24-48 hours
- Apply ice packs wrapped in clean tissue for comfort
- Expect more pronounced swelling than other areas
- Avoid spicy foods during initial healing
Normal Healing Signs

- Slight swelling and redness (1-3 days)
- Initially darker/intense color
- Light scabbing and flaking
- Color appearing patchy during healing
- Mild itching sensation
- 30-50% color softening after healing
Signs to Contact Your Artist

- Excessive swelling after 48 hours
- Unusual pain or burning
- Hot, spreading redness
- Colored discharge
- Fever or chills
- Allergic reactions
- Concerns about healing progress
Touch-ups
- Scheduled 6-8 weeks after initial procedure
- Allow complete healing before touch-up
- Results vary based on skin type and aftercare
- Some areas may need more color saturation
By following these specific permanent makeup aftercare instructions, you’ll achieve optimal healing and long-lasting results. If you have any concerns during healing, don’t hesitate to contact your permanent makeup artist in Seattle.
Remember: The healing process varies slightly for each person and procedure type. Your artist will provide personalized instructions based on your specific treatment.

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