Congratulations on your new Permanent Makeup (PMU)! Whether you’ve chosen to enhance your brows, eyeliner, or lips, the aftercare process plays a vital role in ensuring that your PMU looks fresh and flawless for as long as possible. At Elysium Cosmetic Tattoo and Academy, we want to help you get the most out of your PMU investment by providing the best care tips post-appointment. Follow these essential do’s and don’ts to keep your PMU looking its best!
Do’s for Keeping Your PMU Fresh
1. Follow Your Artist’s Aftercare Instructions
Your PMU artist will provide specific aftercare instructions tailored to your procedure and skin type. Be sure to follow these guidelines closely for optimal healing and results. These instructions are based on years of experience and the latest techniques, ensuring that you get the best possible outcome.
2. Keep the Area Clean
For the first few days after your PMU session, it’s essential to keep the area clean to avoid infections. Gently wash the area with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing the area. Pat dry with a clean, soft towel.
3. Apply Healing Ointment
Your PMU artist will recommend a healing ointment to apply after cleaning. This helps to protect the treated area, moisturize the skin, and promote healing. Be sure to apply a thin layer as instructed, and avoid overapplying.
4. Moisturize Regularly
Keep the area moisturized throughout the healing process, but use a product recommended by your PMU artist. Keeping the area hydrated helps prevent scabbing and reduces the risk of color loss. Use a thin layer of the ointment or balm to keep the skin nourished, especially in the first week.
5. Protect Your PMU from Sun Exposure
Direct sun exposure can cause the pigment to fade more quickly. For the first few weeks, it’s crucial to avoid exposing your PMU to the sun or tanning beds. If you must be outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat or use sunscreen (once the area is fully healed) to protect your PMU from UV damage.
6. Sleep on Your Back
To avoid putting pressure on your PMU, especially in the first few days, sleep on your back. This will help prevent smudging or rubbing the area while you sleep, promoting quicker and smoother healing.
7. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is essential for your skin’s health and recovery. Staying hydrated helps keep your skin supple, which can lead to better pigment retention and a more vibrant result.
8. Use Clean Towels and Bedding
During the healing process, your PMU will be more sensitive. Make sure you’re using clean towels, pillows, and sheets to avoid any bacterial contamination. Change your pillowcase frequently, especially in the first week, to minimize the risk of infection.
Don’ts for Keeping Your PMU Fresh
1. Don’t Pick or Scratch the Area
As your PMU heals, it’s normal for the area to form a thin scab or flakes of skin. Resist the urge to pick, scratch, or rub the area, as this can cause the pigment to fade prematurely and may lead to scarring. Let the area heal naturally to preserve the quality of the tattoo.
2. Avoid Sweating Excessively
During the first 5-7 days, avoid activities that can cause excessive sweating, such as intense workouts or saunas. Sweat can introduce bacteria to the freshly healed skin and disrupt the healing process, affecting the final appearance of your PMU.
3. Don’t Use Makeup on the Area
For the week, avoid applying makeup directly onto your PMU. Makeup can irritate the area, potentially causing infection or interference with the healing process. Your PMU will start to settle and look its best once fully healed, so give it time to breathe and recover without extra products.
4. Don’t Expose the Area to Water
Avoid soaking your PMU in water for the first few days, including hot showers, swimming pools, or baths. Prolonged exposure to water can cause the pigment to dilute and fade more quickly. When showering, try to keep the treated area away from direct water pressure, and take shorter, cooler showers.
5. Avoid Using Harsh Skincare Products
Stay away from exfoliants, retinol, or other harsh skincare products around the PMU area until it is fully healed. These products can irritate the skin, causing premature fading of the pigment. Stick to gentle skincare until the area has completely healed.
6. Don’t Over-Touch the Area
Touching your freshly tattooed PMU area with dirty hands can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection. Always make sure your hands are clean before applying any ointments or cleaning the area. Avoid rubbing or touching the tattoo unnecessarily during the healing period.
7. Don’t Expose Your PMU to Extreme Temperatures
In the first few weeks, avoid exposing your PMU to extreme temperatures. This includes hot showers, saunas, or very cold temperatures. Extreme heat can cause the pigment to fade faster, while cold weather can lead to irritation and dryness.
8. Don’t Underestimate the Touch-Up Appointment
Even though your PMU might look beautiful immediately after your appointment, a touch-up session is essential to ensure that the pigment is evenly distributed and the final results are perfect. Your touch-up appointment (6–12 weeks after the initial session) is a critical part of the process, so don’t skip it!
Final Thoughts
Proper aftercare is key to ensuring your PMU looks fresh, vibrant, and long-lasting. By following these essential do’s and don’ts, you’ll give your new tattoo the best chance to heal beautifully and maintain its color for years to come. At Elysium Cosmetic Tattoo and Academy, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, from your first consultation to your final touch-up. If you have any questions or concerns during your healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to help!
