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.
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