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Outdated Pigments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