Permanent Makeup Brow Touch-Ups: How Often Do You Really Need One?
Updated: January 2026
You’ve invested in gorgeous permanent makeup brows—now the big question is how often you actually need to touch them up. Timing looks different for everyone, and there’s no one-size-fits-all schedule.
How Often Do Tattooed Eyebrows Need to Be Touched Up?
It used to be standard to refresh permanent makeup brows every year, but many clients can actually go up to two years before needing a touch-up appointment.
A general guideline is every 12–24 months, but it varies from person to person.
Factors That Affect When You’ll Need a Touch-Up
Touch-ups are meant to refresh faded areas, rebalance tone, and refine shape, not repeatedly re-tattoo the same pigment. If your brows are still defined and flattering, waiting a bit longer can actually be better for your skin health and long-term color results. Overdoing touch-up sessions can cause pigment buildup or overly cool tones.
Your ideal timeline can vary based on:
Skin type: Oily skin tends to fade pigment faster
Pigment retention: Everyone’s skin holds color differently
Lifestyle factors: Sun exposure, skincare, and exfoliation habits
Color choice: Softer, lighter pigments may fade sooner than deeper tones
For more insight into how to safely refresh or soften older pigment, check out our Fade & Reframe: The Brow Reset for Softer, Natural Permanent Makeup.
Different Brow Techniques, Different Timelines
Each eyebrow tattoo technique is different when it comes to maintenance and fading. Understanding how these styles age can help you decide when to schedule your next refresh.
Microblading: Creates delicate hair strokes manually using a fine grouping of needles. Typically lasts 12–18 months before a touch-up session.
Nano Brows: Done with the machine for ultra-precise, long-lasting healed nano brows. These typically go 12–18 months before needing a refresh.
Powder Brows: A soft, shaded effect done with a machine that can hold for up to two years or more. Ideal for those who love a subtle, filled-in finish.
Each technique ages differently based on skin types, artist expertise, and how faithfully you follow your permanent makeup aftercare.
Signs It’s Time for a Brow Refresh
Even with great pigment retention, your brows will eventually show subtle signs that it’s time for a refresh. Common indicators include:
Brows appear faded or uneven
Color has shifted ashy, grey, or overly warm
You’re reaching for brow pencils again
Shape has softened or lost definition
If you’re unsure, send your artist a photo. They can tell whether you need a periodic touch-up or if a light color correction is a better option.
Are You Ready for a Brow Tattoo Touch-Up?
If your brows have faded unevenly, lost definition, or shifted in tone, a professional touch-up with our experienced artists at The Beauty Block can restore balance while keeping your results soft and natural.
If you’re searching for permanent makeup in Calgary, visit our Crescent Heights studio at 1409 Edmonton Trl #102, Calgary, AB T2E 3K8.
FAQs
How long do permanent makeup brows last?
Results typically last 12–24 months, depending on skin type, pigment retention, and lifestyle factors.
Is a touch-up always necessary?
Not always. If your brows still look even and well-defined, waiting longer can actually support better long-term results.
What happens if I don’t touch up my brow tattoo?
They will gradually fade to a softer version of the original color. Some clients prefer this natural look.
Where can I get a permanent makeup brow touch-up near me?
If you’re looking for a permanent makeup brow touch-up in Calgary, The Beauty Block offers professional touch-up and color refresh services at our Crescent Heights studio.