All About Colour Boosts: Keeping Your Permanent Makeup Fresh
Once you’ve had your initial permanent makeup procedure, it’s recommended to book a colour boost every 2 to 3 years to keep your enhancement looking fresh, defined, and natural. But why are colour boosts necessary, and what happens if you leave it too long? Let’s break it down.
Why Are Colour Boosts Necessary?
Permanent makeup is considered “permanent” because parts of the pigment may remain in the skin. However, the pigments naturally fade as they oxidise (break down) in the skin.
Factors like your skin type, immune system, medications, and exposure to the sun and environmental free radicals also play a big role in how quickly the pigment fades. The pigments I use are designed to fade gracefully over time, giving you the most natural-looking results.
What Causes Pigment to Fade?
Some key reasons your enhancement may fade include:
• Skin Type: Oily skin tends to fade faster than dry or normal skin.
• Sun Exposure: UV rays break down pigments. Always use SPF on your enhancement.
• Immune System & Medications: Please let me know if you take any medications before booking.
• Time: Pigments naturally oxidise in the skin, and lighten to maintain a soft, natural look.
When Will I Need a Colour Boost?
You’ll know it’s time for a colour boost when your enhancement starts to look softer and lighter, or a little patchy, similar to how it appeared right before your original top-up. Sometimes the pigment colour may change slightly, this is normal and is the purpose of the retouch to make any necessary adjustments.
If you’re unsure, send me clear photos of your enhancement, and I’ll let you know if it’s time or if you should wait a bit longer.
What Happens If I Don’t Book in Time?
If too much time passes and your enhancement fades significantly, it will require two treatments to restore the look, essentially starting from scratch. Regular colour boosts help you avoid the cost and time of a full rework.
Can I Come Too Soon for a Colour Boost?
Yes, it’s possible to come too soon. If your skin isn’t ready, the pigment can oversaturate the skin, causing your tattoo to look muddy, blotchy, or even permanently stuck in the skin. This will make the enhancement harder to fade naturally and could require removal.
To ensure your skin is ready, I need your enhancement to be faded enough before performing another treatment.
What If I Want to Change the Shape or Colour?
• Changing Shape: A colour boost doesn’t change the shape of your enhancement. If you want to go fuller or tweak the shape, this will require two appointments and be treated as a new procedure.
• Changing Colour: If you want to switch up the colour, you may only need one treatment, but it’s very likely that an additional top-up will be required. This will be charged accordingly, as outlined in the Terms and Conditions.
Microblading or Hair Strokes: Timing Is Everything
For microblading or hair stroke enhancements, it’s crucial not to let the strokes fade completely (oxidise out), as this will require two treatments to bring the look back. Keep an eye on your enhancement, and book your colour boost before it completely disappears.
How to Protect Your Investment:
To keep your permanent makeup looking its best and lasting as long as possible:
Follow Aftercare Instructions: Proper care after your initial treatment is crucial for pigment retention.
Protect from Sunlight: Always use SPF on your enhancement to slow down fading.
Avoid Harsh Products: Skincare containing acids, retinol, or exfoliants can break down pigment faster.
Stay Consistent with Touch-Ups: Don’t wait too long between appointments to avoid extra costs.
Before you book your colour boost:
Please re-read the pre-treatment advice and let me know if you have any changes to your health or medication/s.