Essential Skincare Routine to Prep for Permanent Makeup
- Rita Makmak
- May 2
- 3 min read
Thinking about getting permanent makeup? Whether you're planning for lip blush, eyeliner tattoo, or ombré brows, prepping your skin the right way can make a big difference in how your results turn out — and how long they last! At Rita Makmak Beauty in Rockville, MD, I’ve worked with hundreds of clients over the years, and one of the most common questions I get is:
“What skincare routine should I follow before my permanent makeup appointment?”
So let’s break it down. A good skincare routine before permanent makeup is all about creating a smooth, healthy canvas for the pigment to settle into. Here's what you should (and shouldn’t) be doing in the days leading up to your appointment.
1. Start Hydrating—Inside and Out
Hydrated skin takes pigment better. Period.
Make sure you're drinking plenty of water (yes, it really matters) and moisturizing your face and lips regularly — especially if you're getting lip blush or lip liner. A few days before your appointment, I recommend using a gentle, nourishing moisturizer both morning and night.
Pro tip for lips: Exfoliate gently using a sugar scrub or a damp toothbrush 2–3 days before your lip appointment, then follow up with a hydrating balm.
2. Keep It Gentle—Avoid Active Ingredients
Retinol, AHAs, BHAs, and other exfoliating acids can make your skin extra sensitive. If you’re using products with strong active ingredients, stop using them at least 5–7 days before your procedure. This includes retinoids, glycolic acid, and vitamin C serums.
Why? Because irritated or peeling skin won’t hold pigment well — and it can even increase your risk of discomfort or uneven healing.
3. Say No to Tanning or Harsh Sun Exposure
Tanned or sunburned skin is a big no-no when it comes to permanent makeup. If your skin is damaged from the sun, it may not heal properly and your pigment can fade too fast or look patchy. Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for at least a week before your appointment — and always wear SPF!
4. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine the Day Before
Alcohol and caffeine can thin your blood, which increases bleeding during your appointment. That can lead to more pigment loss and a less defined final look. So skip the wine and coffee the day before (and ideally the day of) your procedure. Your skin will thank you!
5. Skip Harsh Treatments and Facials
Avoid chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, or any strong facial treatments for at least two weeks before getting permanent makeup. These treatments can over-exfoliate the skin and make it more sensitive. Stick to a basic skincare routine with cleansing, toning, and moisturizing.
6. Let Your Skin Breathe
On the day of your appointment, come with clean, makeup-free skin. Don’t wear any foundation, concealer, or brow/lip/eye makeup — I need to see your natural features to map out the perfect shape for your face.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your skin properly before a permanent makeup appointment helps ensure better color retention, faster healing, and more beautiful, long-lasting results.
At Rita Makmak Beauty, I always take time to educate my clients and make sure they’re fully prepped before we begin. If you have any questions about your skincare routine before permanent makeup, feel free to reach out or book a consultation with me. I’m here to help you feel confident and gorgeous — every step of the way.
Ready to get started?Book your appointment now or DM me on Instagram @ritapmuartist. Let's bring out your natural beauty — the smart way!
