Permanent vs Semi-Permanent Makeup: Why We Call It Permanent
If you’ve ever searched for cosmetic tattooing, you’ve probably seen it called both permanent makeup and semi-permanent makeup. It can be confusing — after all, if it fades over time, how can it be “permanent”?
At Luisa Krayem Permanent Makeup in Tetbury, we often get asked this question. The short answer is: it is a form of tattooing, so technically it’s permanent — but the pigments are designed to fade gradually for a softer, more natural result.
Let’s break it down.
💉 The Technical Term: It’s Tattooing
Permanent makeup is a type of tattooing, where pigment is implanted into the upper layers of the skin using a specialist digital device. Because the pigment is placed in the skin rather than on top of it (as with traditional makeup), it’s considered permanent.
However, unlike body tattoos, the pigment depth, ingredients, and colour choices are specifically designed for the delicate skin of the face. Over time, natural skin renewal and exposure to light gently fade the colour — which is why a colour refresh is recommended every 12–18 months to keep your brows, eyeliner, or lips looking their best.
💋 Why “Semi-Permanent” Isn’t Quite Right
The term semi-permanent became popular in the beauty industry to reassure clients that results aren’t forever — especially as techniques improved and results became much more natural. But technically, nothing that involves implanting pigment into the skin is semi-permanent.
If a treatment truly were semi-permanent, it would disappear completely after a few months — and that simply isn’t the case. Once pigment enters the skin, a small amount always remains.
So while the look softens and fades, the procedure itself is still a tattoo.
🕊️ Why We Use “Permanent Makeup”
At our clinic, we prefer the term permanent makeup because it’s honest and accurate. We believe in educating our clients properly about how their treatment works — so they can make informed decisions and understand what to expect long-term.
Our pigments are designed for facial use, and our techniques are gentle, precise, and tailored to each individual. We choose colours that age beautifully, fade gracefully, and can be refreshed easily to adapt to changes in your skin tone, hair colour, and personal style.
🌿 What This Means for You
When you choose permanent makeup at Luisa Krayem Permanent Makeup, you’re choosing a low-maintenance confidence boost that lasts for years — with the flexibility to adjust and refresh your look as time goes on.
Think of it less like “forever makeup” and more like a lasting enhancement that evolves with you.
Ready to wake up feeling confident, every day?Book a consultation with our experienced artists in our peaceful Cotswolds clinic and discover how permanent makeup can simplify your routine and enhance your natural beauty.
