Why Your Old Permanent Makeup Isn’t Ageing Well – And What You Can Do About It

Permanent makeup has come a long way in recent years, but many people are still living with the results of treatments they had 5, 10, or even 15 years ago. If your brows have turned ashy, your eyeliner has migrated, or your lips have taken on an unusual tone, you’re not alone — and the good news is, there are solutions.

In this post, I’ll explain why some older permanent makeup treatments age poorly, what’s changed in the industry, and how correction or removal can help you feel more confident in your appearance again.

The Problem With Older Permanent Makeup

Many of the issues we see with older permanent makeup today come down to a few key factors: pigment quality, placement depth, technique, and aftercare advice that no longer reflects best practice.

Outdated Pigments

Older pigment formulations often contained ingredients that didn't fade gracefully. Over time, brows might shift from warm brown to grey, blue, or even orange tones. Lip pigments could fade to a purplish hue and black eyeliner could migrate or blur.

Heavy-handed Techniques

Years ago, the trend was for solid, blocky brows and very defined lip liners. Technicians often worked too deep in the skin, which increases the risk of pigment migration and scarring. These harsh shapes and strong colours can become very noticeable as the face naturally changes with age.

Fading and Migration Over Time

Even with the best intentions, permanent makeup from 10+ years ago tends to break down. The pigment can spread out, fade unevenly, or settle into fine lines — especially if it was placed too deeply or poorly matched to your skin tone.

Natural Ageing

As we get older, the shape and volume of the face changes. Brows that were perfectly placed in your 30s might look too low or severe in your 40s or 50s. Lips lose fullness, and old outlines can start to look stark or uneven against the changing contours of the face.

What’s Changed in Modern Permanent Makeup?

Thankfully, the industry has progressed hugely in the last decade and so have the tools, pigments, and approaches we use.

Softer, More Natural Techniques

Modern treatments focus on subtle definition that complements your features. Techniques like ombré brows, shaded eyeliner, and soft lip blush offer a more natural look — without the harsh lines of the past.

Advanced Pigments

Today’s pigments are designed to fade more predictably over time and are matched much more carefully to your undertone. This helps avoid strange colour shifts or overly cool results.

Better Placement

Skilled technicians now work at a more precise depth in the skin, which reduces the risk of migration and allows for a more natural, buildable effect.

Tailored Results

Permanent makeup is no longer one-size-fits-all. Everything is tailored to your skin type, colouring, face shape, and personal preferences — and most clients are now looking for results that enhance without overwhelming.

What Are Your Options If You Have Old PMU?

If you’re unhappy with older permanent makeup, there are a few options depending on the condition of your skin and how much pigment remains.

Colour Correction

If the shape is still decent but the pigment has faded to an unwanted colour, we can often use corrective techniques to neutralise the tone before adding a new, more flattering colour over the top.

Shape Adjustment and Refresh

Sometimes all that’s needed is a modern update. We can adjust the shape slightly to suit your current facial features, soften the edges, and refresh the pigment using more up-to-date colours and techniques.

Laser Removal

For clients with very old or problematic permanent makeup, removal might be the best option. I use a high-spec laser designed to remove permanent makeup pigments safely and effectively. In many cases, just a few sessions are enough to significantly fade or fully remove the original pigment so we can start again — or leave the area bare if preferred.

How Do I Know What’s Right for Me?

Every case is different, which is why I always recommend booking in for a consultation first. We’ll look at the current pigment, your skin, the age of the treatment, and your goals, then I can recommend the most suitable route forward.

There’s no pressure, just honest advice. Many of my clients feel a real sense of relief once they’ve spoken to someone who understands the issues and has a plan to help.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been feeling self-conscious about old permanent makeup, you don’t have to just put up with it. Whether you’re looking to correct, refresh, or remove it completely, there are modern solutions that can help you feel more comfortable in your own skin again.

If you'd like to chat about your options, you're welcome to book in for a consultation. I’ll talk you through the best route based on your skin, lifestyle, and preferences, no hard sell, just supportive, expert advice

Why Some Permanent Makeup Fades Unevenly, And What You Can Do About It

If you’ve ever wondered why your permanent makeup looks a little patchy as it fades, you’re not alone. Uneven fading is one of the most common concerns clients have, especially with brows and lip blush. Let’s look at what causes it, how to minimise it, and when it might be time for a refresh or removal.

What Causes Uneven Fading?

Uneven fading can happen for a few reasons:

Skin Type & Healing

Oily or acne-prone skin tends to push pigment out more quickly, leading to patchiness. Likewise, some areas of your skin might hold onto pigment better than others, particularly if there are differences in skin thickness, texture, or underlying vascularity.

Aftercare SlipsE

Even small lapses in aftercare, like over-cleansing, picking scabs, or excessive sweating, can affect how pigment settles. The healing process is delicate, and the first two weeks are especially critical.

Lifestyle & Products

Sun exposure, active skincare (like retinols and acids), and even exfoliating treatments can all accelerate fading. Lips and brows are especially vulnerable to UV damage, so SPF is a must!

Previous Work

If you've had older permanent makeup covered or corrected, it can sometimes show through as new pigment fades — particularly if the old pigment wasn’t fully neutralised or removed first.

What You Can Do

✔ Stick to Aftercare

Follow the aftercare instructions carefully, they're not just suggestions! Protecting the area during healing is key to even pigment retention.

✔ Top-Ups Are Normal

A top-up session (usually 6–12 weeks after your initial treatment) helps fill in areas that may not have retained pigment as well, it’s completely normal and part of the process.

✔ SPF, Always

Once healed, use SPF on the treated area, every single day. This goes a long way in preserving your results and preventing uneven breakdown.

✔ Know When It’s Time for Removal

In some cases, a quick laser session to remove patchy or stubborn old pigment can give a cleaner base for a fresh new treatment. Modern removal methods are quick and surprisingly gentle — often only 1–3 sessions needed.

When to Book In

If your permanent makeup is looking uneven or you're not sure if you need a colour boost or removal, feel free to send a clear photo or book in for a consultation. There’s always a solution and it starts with understanding what your skin and pigment are doing.

Has your permanent makeup faded unevenly? Let's take a look and decide the best next step together.

Email me for more info

 

“What If I Don’t Like It?” Addressing the Most Common Fear About Permanent Makeup

By Hybrid Makeup, Corsham

One of the most common questions I hear from people considering permanent makeup is:
“But what if I don’t like it?”

It’s a completely valid concern, after all, your face is the first thing people see, and making a semi-permanent change can feel daunting. Whether you’re thinking about lip blush, ombré brows, or eyeliner, it’s normal to feel a bit apprehensive.

So let’s talk openly about it.

You’re in Control of the Design

Before anything touches your skin, we go through a detailed consultation. We chat about your preferences, facial features, skin tone, and lifestyle to create a look that suits you.

Everything is pre-drawn and approved by you before we begin. There’s no guesswork, just a step-by-step process, with your input at the heart of it.

It’s Not Forever

Despite the term “permanent,” treatments like lip blush and brows are actually semi-permanent. They fade gradually over time and can be adjusted or refreshed as your preferences change.

If you’re nervous about making a drastic change, we can start subtly and build from there over multiple sessions.

Modern Techniques Are Softer Than You Think

Gone are the days of harsh, blocky brows or heavy tattooed lips. Today’s techniques are designed to enhance, not overwhelm. The healed result is soft, natural-looking, and tailored to your features—not a one-size-fits-all stamp.

Corrections and Removals Are Possible

It’s rare that someone truly dislikes the result when they’ve been involved in the process from the start, but if you ever change your mind, we offer advanced laser removal that can safely break down pigment, often in just a few sessions. This gives you an extra layer of reassurance.

You’re Not Just a Number

As a solo practitioner, I take time with each client. This isn’t a conveyor belt service. My focus is on making you feel listened to, confident, and supported throughout the process.

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Thinking About Booking?
If you’re curious but still unsure, I’m happy to answer any questions before you commit. There’s never any pressure, just honest advice and a warm welcome.

When you’re ready, you can book in easily via the website or by clicking the 'book now' link below.

 

BOOK NOW

The Power of Starting Fresh: Laser Removal and Permanent Makeup Reinvention

Have you ever felt stuck with brows that no longer feel like "you"? Trends change, personal styles evolve, and sometimes, the semi-permanent brows we once loved no longer suit us. That’s where laser tattoo removal paired with permanent makeup comes in – a game-changing combination that allows you to refresh your look with confidence.

Why Removing and Reinventing Brows Matters

One of the biggest advantages of semi-permanent makeup is its adaptability. But what happens when your brows are outdated, uneven, or were poorly done in the first place? Laser removal offers a safe and effective way to remove old pigment, paving the way for a clean canvas. This process is invaluable for:

• Correcting mistakes from a previous artist.

• Adjusting to new trends or personal style changes.

• Creating symmetry where uneven pigment or fading has occurred.

With our state-of-the-art laser technology at Hybrid Makeup, removing permanent makeup is quicker and more comfortable than ever. In as few as 1–3 sessions, you can be ready for a fresh start.

A Second Chance for Your Brows

Once your old brows have been removed, you’re free to redefine your look with new permanent makeup. Whether you want soft, natural ombre brows or a bold, structured design, starting with a blank slate ensures that the result is flawless and tailored to your current preferences.

The beauty of combining laser removal with permanent makeup is the freedom it gives you to explore what suits you best today – not what suited you five years ago.

Why Choose Hybrid Makeup?

At Hybrid Makeup, we bring years of experience in both permanent makeup and advanced laser treatments. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Expertise in removal and reinvention: We specialise in not just erasing old brows but creating new ones that align with your vision.

• Cutting-edge technology: Our laser is designed specifically for permanent makeup removal, ensuring efficiency and precision.

• Personalised approach: Your goals and style preferences guide every step of the process.

The Journey to Brows You Love

If your brows don’t make you feel confident or reflect your style, there’s no need to settle. Laser tattoo removal and a fresh application of permanent makeup offer the perfect solution for starting over without compromise.

Ready to take the first step? Book in today to begin your transformation. Whether you’re looking to correct, enhance, or completely reinvent your brows, we’re here to help you achieve results you’ll love.

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