Typical ranges
| Treatment | Typically lasts |
|---|---|
| Powder / ombré brows | About 1–3 years |
| Microblading | About 1–2 years |
| Lip blush | About 2–3 years |
| 3D areola tattoo | Several years |
| Faux freckles | About 1–3 years |
"Semi-permanent" doesn't mean it disappears on a schedule. Pigment softens gradually, so most people book a color boost when it starts looking lighter than they like.
What makes it fade faster
- Sun exposure: UV light breaks down pigment. This is the biggest factor you control.
- Oily skin: oilier skin tends to soften and fade pigment sooner, especially on brows.
- Skincare on the area: retinol, exfoliating acids, peels and frequent exfoliation speed up fading.
- Lifestyle: frequent swimming, saunas and heavy sweating can shorten the time between boosts.
- Skipping the touch-up: the 6–8 week touch-up sets the foundation; results fade faster without it.
How to make it last
- Follow your aftercare closely while healing.
- Keep your touch-up appointment about 6–8 weeks after the first session.
- Use sunscreen on healed brows and lips (an SPF lip balm for lips).
- Keep retinol and acids away from the treated area.
- Book a color boost before it fades completely; it's quicker and cheaper than starting over.
Signs it's time for a color boost
- Brows look patchy, lighter or have lost their shape definition.
- Lip color has faded toward your natural tone or looks uneven.
- You're filling in with makeup again.
Touch-up and boost prices at Inked Arch
Powder brow touch-ups are $199, lip blush touch-ups $119, and ombré lip touch-ups $299. See all prices.