Short answer. Powder and ombré brows generally last one to three years before a refresh, and healing runs about four weeks: darker and sharper for four to six days, then lighter and patchy around week two, settling by week four.
Almost every worry about permanent makeup is really a worry about the second week. Knowing the sequence in advance is the difference between panic and patience.
The four-week healing sequence
Week two is when clients text me worried. It is also the week that means healing is going exactly as it should.
How long before they need a refresh?
One to three years for most people. Oily skin, sun exposure, strong exfoliating actives and how deeply pigment was placed all shorten it. A colour boost is a shorter appointment than the original two-session build.
How is the shape decided?
Mapping comes before pigment. Marina measures to your own bone structure and existing hair, draws the shape, and does not start until you have looked in the mirror and agreed. Brow work is built across two appointments precisely so there is a checkpoint before anything becomes permanent.
Aftercare that protects the result
Asked in the room, answered here
Do powder brows look tattooed?
A soft powdered finish is the goal — denser at the tail, lighter at the front. Mapped to your features, they read as makeup rather than a line.
Does it hurt?
A numbing agent is used. Most clients describe pressure and vibration rather than pain.
Can you work over old permanent makeup?
Sometimes. It depends on how much pigment remains and its colour — it needs to be assessed in person before booking.
Is the perfecting session included?
The design is built over two appointments; Marina will tell you at consultation exactly what the second visit covers.