Fading? Touch-Up? What’s Normal?
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Everything PMU Artists Need to Know About Pigment Retention
If you're a PMU artist—or a client curious about how permanent makeup heals—you've probably asked (or been asked):
“Why is the color fading?”
“Is this normal?”
“Do I need a touch-up?”
Don’t worry. This blog breaks it all down for you, from pigment fading to ideal touch-up timing, and how to explain it to clients like a pro.
Let’s dive in 👇
🔎 Why Does Fading Happen?
Fading is totally normal—and here’s why.
Pigments sit in the epidermis, the top layer of the skin. And this layer naturally renews itself every 28–45 days. That means as your skin sheds and heals, some pigment loss is inevitable.
This isn’t a failure.
It’s just biology.
Healing + Skin Turnover = Gradual Fading
(Especially after the first session!)
🧩 What’s a “Normal” Amount of Fading?
Right after a PMU session, the brows often look darker, crisper, and more defined.
But during the healing process, here’s what’s normal to expect:
- 20–50% color fade
- Color softens and looks more natural
- Some blurring of lines or edges
This is all part of the journey—not a mistake!
🌞 What Affects Fading Speed?
Every client’s skin is different, so results will vary.
Here are the most common factors that influence how fast pigment fades:
| Skin & Technique Factors | Lifestyle & Aftercare |
|---|---|
| Oily skin types | Sun exposure |
| Shallow technique depth | Sweating / soaking |
| Light color choices | Picking or scratching |
👉 Pro tip: Lighter pigments tend to fade faster. If you’re aiming for soft blondes or taupes, remind clients that touch-ups are more likely.
⏳ When Should Clients Come for a Touch-Up?
The best time to book a PMU touch-up is:
4–8 weeks after the initial session
Why?
- The skin is fully healed
- The color has settled
- Any shape or symmetry adjustments can be made
⚠️ Waiting too long can lead to uneven healing or patchy retention, especially if clients try to “wait it out” for months.
🗣 How to Explain This to Clients
Client education is everything—especially when managing expectations.
Here’s a script you can use during consultations:
💬 “Your brows will look darker for the first week.”
💬 “After healing, they’ll lighten by 30–50%.”
💬 “A second session is completely normal—it helps perfect the shape and color.”
Being upfront avoids confusion later—and builds trust.
💡 Bonus: Pro Tip for Better Healing
Great results start after the appointment. Here's one pro tip you can give every client:
Recommend a high-quality healing balm—look for one that’s:
- Unscented
- Non-comedogenic
- Lightweight and soothing
Also remind clients:
✅ No scratching
✅ No soaking (baths, swimming, steam)
✅ Avoid sun exposure for 2–4 weeks
Proper aftercare = better pigment retention. Simple as that.
🎯 Want to Make Client Communication Easier?
Explaining healing, fading, and touch-ups over and over again? Save your energy.
📩Download my free Client Communication Script.
💬 It covers exactly what to say before every procedure, so your clients feel informed and confident.
