Understanding the Difference: Permanent Makeup Tattoo vs. Traditional Tattoo

Microblading Newport Beach by Tinted Liquid
Apr 6, 2022
2 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

While permanent makeup (PMU) and traditional tattoos both involve implanting pigment into the skin, they are fundamentally different in technique, depth, pigment composition, and long-term behavior.

Permanent makeup tattoos, such as microblading, nano brows, and ombre brows, are designed specifically for the face and are implanted into the upper layers of the skin (epidermis to superficial dermis). PMU pigments are formulated to fade gradually over time, allowing for adjustments as facial features, skin tone, and beauty trends evolve. The goal is soft, natural enhancement—not permanence.

Traditional tattoos, on the other hand, are placed much deeper into the dermis using stronger inks intended to last a lifetime. These pigments are bolder, more saturated, and not designed to fade predictably. Because of this depth and ink composition, traditional tattoos behave very differently as the skin ages.

For clients in Orange County considering cosmetic tattooing, understanding this distinction is essential. Permanent makeup offers a more flexible, customizable, and skin-conscious approach to enhancing brows, lips, and eyes—while traditional tattoos are intended for permanent body art.

Choosing an experienced PMU professional ensures the correct technique, pigment selection, and depth are used for safe healing and beautiful long-term results.

Microblading a form of Permanent Makeup, may not last as long as a permanent tattoo, however,

the results are very pleasing and most importantly, looks natural!

Permanent Makeup Tattoo vs. Traditional Tattoo

Comparison Table PMU vs. Traditional Tattoo

Feature	Permanent Makeup Tattoo (PMU)	Traditional Tattoo
Purpose	Cosmetic enhancement (brows, lips, eyeliner)	Decorative or artistic body art
Pigment Depth	Upper layers of the skin (epidermis / superficial dermis)	Deep dermis
Pigment Type	Cosmetic-grade pigments designed to fade	Heavier inks designed to be permanent
Longevity	Semi-permanent; fades gradually over time	Permanent
Fading Behavior	Predictable fading, allows future adjustments	Can blur, spread, or discolor over time
Technique	Light, controlled implantation with PMU tools	Deeper penetration using tattoo machines
Ability to Modify	Easier to adjust, refresh, or correct	Difficult and costly to alter
Removal Options	Saline removal, laser (case dependent)	Primarily laser removal
Ideal For	Natural-looking facial enhancement	Long-term body art
Skin Aging Impact	Designed to age softly with the face	May distort as skin ages

Article by Microblading Newport Beach

2 Locations for Microblading Los Angeles and Microblading Newport Beach

Introducing Tinted Liquid’s Elite Permanent Makeup Studios

Tinted Liquid proudly offers top-tier microblading and permanent makeup at our two premier locations: Microblading Los Angeles and Microblading Newport Beach. Renowned for precision, artistry, and natural-looking results, our expert artists enhance brows with customized techniques tailored to each client. Whether in the heart of LA or the luxury of Newport Beach, experience the highest standard in permanent beauty.