Permanent Makeup & Microblading London
Enhance your natural beauty with our expert microblading and permanent makeup (PMU) in London — flawless brows, defined eyes and beautifully tinted lips, tailored to you.
Microblading, Lip Blush, Eyeliner and Hair Loss London
Borciani London are specialists in cosmetic and medical permanent makeup in London — from microblading hair-stroke brows to soft, smudge-proof eyeliner and flattering lip blush. If you’re unsure which option suits you, our experienced practitioners will guide you.
PMU is especially helpful if you experience hair loss or prefer low-maintenance makeup. Lose the pencils, powders and pomades; enjoy results that won’t wipe or melt off. We specialise in extremely natural enhancements that heal softly — never heavy or obvious.
What is permanent makeup?
Permanent makeup (PMU) places pigment into the upper dermis to create a long-lasting enhancement. While related to body tattooing, the depth, devices and pigments differ, so PMU heals softer and fades more than regular tattoos.
Also called micropigmentation or cosmetic tattoo, PMU can be applied to the eyebrows (microblading, nano strokes, powder brows), lips (lip blush, lip neutralisation) and eyeliner. Medical applications include areola restoration, scar camouflage and hair micropigmentation.
We avoid the term semi-permanent makeup (according to the SPCP) as the pigment may remain for years, especially with eyeliner and lip work where skin is thinner. Suitability, longevity and maintenance are discussed in consultation to ensure natural, future-proof results.
Why Choose Borciani London for Permanent Makeup?
• 10+ years expertise in microblading, powder brows, lip blush & lip neutralisation and permanent eyeliner.
• Natural, future-proof design — enhancements that heal softly and age well, not trend-led shapes that date quickly.
• Medical PMU expertise — areola restoration (post-mastectomy), scar camouflage and hair restoration.
• Full choice of techniques — over a decade of training in nano hair strokes, machine shading and corrective colour work.
• Regulated clinic hygiene protocols (single-use needles, barrier protection, patch testing where appropriate).
• Central London location — clinic based in beautiful Notting Hill.
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Browse our before and after photos of permanent makeup, microblading, lip blush and lip neutralisation
Permanent makeup before and after treatment
Permanent Makeup FAQ
What is the difference between Permanent Makeup and Semi-Permanent Makeup?
The simple answer: there is no difference. The treatment has been called “semi-permanent” because it fades, but microscopic traces can remain for years — so the industry now prefers Permanent Makeup (PMU).
Other terms you may see include:
- Permanent Makeup (PMU)
- Semi-Permanent Makeup (SPMU)
- Micropigmentation
- Cosmetic Tattoo
All refer to the same family of treatments for brows, lips, eyes and medical PMU (areola, scar camouflage, hair restoration).
Is permanent makeup painful?
Most clients find PMU very comfortable. We apply a high-quality topical anaesthetic, and many people relax or even nap during treatment. Tip: avoid booking when premenstrual as sensitivity can increase by ~30%.
How long does permanent makeup last?
Longevity depends on pigment, technique, skin type, lifestyle and sun exposure. Typical refresh timelines:
- Microblading: 12–18 months
- Powder Brows: ~18 months
- Lip Blush: 2–5 years
- Eyeliner: 2–5 years
Your artist will advise a personalised maintenance plan at consultation.
Is PMU a tattoo?
PMU implants pigment using similar devices to body tattooing, but works shallower with specialised cosmetic pigments. This creates softer healing and gradual fade, rather than a fully permanent ink tattoo.
Who can’t have permanent makeup?
We cannot treat clients who are:
- Under 18
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- On certain medications or with specific medical conditions (assessed at consultation)
If you’re unsure, please book a consultation to review suitability.
How do I choose the right practitioner?
Evaluate portfolio (healed results), credentials, style match, clinic hygiene and pricing. Speak with the practitioner who will treat you and don’t feel rushed. See our short guide: How to choose a permanent makeup practitioner.
How should I prepare for permanent makeup?
Good preparation helps ensure comfort, retention and smooth healing. A few key pointers:
- 7 days before: avoid actives on the area (retinoids, glycolic/lactic acids, scrubs). Pause Fish Oil/Vitamin E if safe to do so (they can thin the blood). Avoid sun exposure and tanning.
- 3–4 days before: no brow/eyeliner tinting; remove lash extensions a week prior; stop brow/lash growth serums at least 4 months before treatment.
- 48 hours before: no alcohol; limit caffeine on the day.
- Lips only: if you’re prone to cold sores, begin an antiviral as advised by your GP/pharmacist.
- On the day: arrive with clean skin and no makeup on the treatment area; stay hydrated; bring any reference photos if helpful. Avoid booking when premenstrual if you tend to be more sensitive.
For the full step-by-step checklist, please read: How to Prepare for Permanent Makeup.
Where can I find full aftercare instructions?
We provide general aftercare guidelines for brows, lips and eyeliner on this page. Full, detailed aftercare instructions are provided to every client following treatment — please contact us if you would like a copy in advance.
Permanent Makeup Aftercare
Permanent Makeup – General Aftercare
- Do not have Botox 2 weeks before or after your procedure (brows and eyeliner).
- No alcohol for 24–48 hours before treatment.
- Limit caffeine but stay hydrated.
- Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen (blood thinners).
- If prone to cold sores, use antiviral medication (lips only).
- IPL, waxing, bleaching, electrolysis or fillers must be done 2+ weeks prior (if in the area).
- Stop lash/brow serums 4 months before treatment.
- No fish oil or vitamin E one week before.
Healing expectations: Redness, swelling, tenderness, flaking and itchiness are normal.
Colour appears darker at first, fades around days 7–10, then settles by week 3. Brows/eyeliner/lip blush
typically heal in ~4 weeks; dark lip correction may take 6–12 weeks.
Control session: Book your control session at 4–8 weeks (brows, eyeliner, lip blush), or
6–12 weeks (lip neutralisation).
For a full, printable aftercare guide, please contact us.
Microblading & Powder Brows – Aftercare
Day of treatment: Blot brows every 20 minutes for the first hour to remove lymph; apply a
rice-grain amount of balm.
Days 2–7: Cleanse gently morning and night with a baby/sensitive cleanser, rinse, and pat dry.
Avoid acids or exfoliants. Apply a tiny amount of balm up to 3× daily (do not over-apply).
Important: Use a fresh pillowcase; avoid sleeping on your face, sun exposure, heavy sweating,
swimming, saunas and long hot showers for 7–10 days. Do not pick scabs.
Lip Blush & Lip Neutralisation – Aftercare
Days 0–7: Apply healing balm 3× daily with a cotton bud or clean hands; apply before brushing
teeth. Avoid spicy/salty foods, dark liquids, kissing and skincare treatments. No make-up for 5 days; lipstick
after day 7.
Healing: Colour appears strong initially, then sheds and lightens, returning softer by ~3 weeks.
For dark lip correction, results fully settle by 6–12 weeks.
Permanent Eyeliner – Aftercare
Pre-treatment: No lash lifts/tints within 2 weeks; stop lash serums 4 months before; remove
extensions 1 week prior. Do not wear contact lenses on the day.
Days 0–2: Mild swelling/redness/itch is normal. Dry heal; use a small amount of balm only if
uncomfortable. Apply cold packs if needed.
Days 0–7: If lashes stick, cleanse gently; avoid rubbing. No eye make-up for 3 days. When you
resume, use a fresh mascara. Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce wind/pollution exposure.
