PMU Myths & Facts

By Ri Studio Editorial Team
|
October 10, 2024

Permanent Makeup (PMU) has taken the beauty world by storm, and it’s no wonder! With flawless brows, perfect eyeliner, and naturally tinted lips that don’t smudge—what’s not to love? But along with its rising popularity come a host of misconceptions. Let’s debunk some of the biggest PMU myths and hit you with the facts, so you can make the best decision about your beauty game.

Myth #1: PMU = Tattoos on Your Face Forever

Fact: While PMU is often referred to as “cosmetic tattooing,” it’s not the same as a regular tattoo. The pigments used in PMU are different—they’re designed to fade over time. Depending on factors like your skin type, pigment choice, and lifestyle, PMU typically lasts 1-3 years. So, while it’s long-lasting, it’s not forever. Touch-ups are a part of the PMU journey!

Myth #2: PMU Looks Unnatural and Overdone

Fact: Gone are the days of harsh, Sharpie-like brows! Modern PMU is all about subtlety and enhancing your natural features. Whether you’re going for soft, feathered brows, a natural lip tint, or fine-line eyeliner, today’s techniques are designed to mimic your skin’s natural undertones. A skilled PMU artist will tailor the design to your face shape and preferences, so it’s all about getting your perfect look.

Myth #3: It’s Super Painful

Fact: Let’s put this one to rest! The thought of needles on your face can sound terrifying, but most clients compare the sensation to slight discomfort rather than real pain. Numbing creams are applied before and during the procedure to minimize any discomfort. Some areas might be a bit more sensitive (hello, lips!), but most people say it’s way less painful than they expected.

Myth #4: PMU is Only for Women

Fact: Permanent Makeup isn’t just a “female beauty treatment.” More men are turning to PMU to enhance their features in a subtle way. From creating fuller brows to defining the lash line, PMU can give a natural boost of confidence without looking like makeup at all. Men who suffer from alopecia or hair loss can also benefit from techniques like scalp micropigmentation.

Myth #5: It’s Impossible to Fix if You Don’t Like It

Fact: While PMU is designed to be long-lasting, it’s not set in stone. If you’re unhappy with the results, there are options like pigment lightening or color correction techniques to adjust or remove unwanted PMU. This is why it’s crucial to go to a trained, experienced professional who understands color theory and face symmetry—so you’re happy from the start!

Myth #6: It’s the Same for Every Skin Type

Fact: PMU isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment. Factors like skin type, undertones, and lifestyle can impact how your PMU heals and how long it lasts. For example, oily skin types may experience faster pigment fading, while drier skin might hold onto pigments longer. A skilled artist will adjust the technique, pigments, and aftercare advice based on your unique skin.

Myth #7: PMU Will Replace My Daily Makeup Routine

Fact: PMU is designed to give you a natural, everyday look, but it doesn’t mean you’ll ditch all your makeup products. PMU enhances your features—giving you a head start on your routine—but you can still layer makeup on top if you’re going for a more dramatic look. Think of it as a “no-makeup makeup” look that you can build on when you want.

Myth #8: It Fades in Ugly Colors Like Blue or Orange

Fact: This myth likely stems from outdated pigments and poor technique from back in the day. Modern PMU pigments are formulated with a balance of organic and inorganic ingredients to ensure they fade naturally. However, color retention still depends on the artist’s skill and the quality of pigments used. That’s why it’s crucial to go to a certified and experienced PMU artist who understands how pigments interact with skin over time.

Myth #9: PMU is Super High Maintenance

Fact: Actually, it’s the opposite! PMU is a low-maintenance beauty solution. After an initial healing period, and once you’ve had your touch-up session (typically 4-6 weeks after the first treatment), you can enjoy your enhanced look for years. Of course, occasional touch-ups are recommended to keep your PMU looking fresh, but you’ll definitely spend less time on your daily beauty routine.

Myth #10: Anyone Can Do It

Fact: PMU artistry requires skill, precision, and an in-depth understanding of skin, pigments, and facial anatomy. It’s not something just anyone can pick up after a few YouTube tutorials. Always choose a trained, certified professional who can show you a solid portfolio of their work. This is your face we’re talking about—quality and safety should come first!

Final Thoughts: PMU is Here to Stay—But the Myths Aren’t!

The beauty industry is always evolving, and PMU is at the forefront of that change. Whether you’re a brow queen, eyeliner enthusiast, or lip tint lover, PMU offers a personalized solution for long-lasting beauty. By busting these myths, we hope you feel empowered to make the best decision for your beauty routine. So go ahead, embrace the magic of PMU—but be sure you do it with the facts!

PMU Myths & Facts