Semi Permanent vs Eyebrow Tattoos

I completely understand when my clients ask “Is Microblading is the same as Tattooing?” The beauty industry evolves at a rapid rate, with more beauty techniques coming onto the market every day, especially in semi-permanent make-up.

However, I’ve been seeing a lot of (AI-written? 🤢 ) posts recently that say Microblading and Tattooing are the same, but this is NOT the case.

Despite the similar goal (fuller, well-shaped brows that save you time) these two approaches are not the same thing. Understanding the difference will help you choose the right treatment for your skin type, lifestyle, and long-term goals.

What’s The Difference Between SPMU and Eyebrow Tattoos?

Microblading is a form of semi-permanent make-up and uses organic pigments that are ‘designed’ to fade over time. Regular top ups are recommended every 12 to 18 months (depending on the skin and how it digests the pigment).

Tattooing, however, is permanent and uses synthetic ink which with time (especially if the therapist didn’t ace their colour theory) can fade into cool blues or salmon pinks.

Here’s a handy table for you to see the differences ‘at a glance’.

In simple terms:

• Eyebrow tattoos are typically permanent and done using traditional tattoo techniques.
• Semi-permanent brows (like microblading, ombré brows, or combo brows) use specialist cosmetic tools and are designed to fade over time, which means your eyebrows can be redone differently as fashions change).

Pros and Cons

As with everything in beauty (and life!) there are both pros and cons to each type of eyebrow enhancement. The important thing is to properly understand what your goals are, why, and both short and longer-term effects of your decision.

Microblading Pros

• Natural-looking results, as smaller amounts of pigment can be inserted into the very upper layer of the epidermis enabling the artist to create realistic hair like strokes
• Saves time on your daily make-up routines.
• Hair loss correction for thinning hair, or for those with alopoecia or chemotherapy challenges.
• Colour will not change to salmon pink or cool blue.
• Almost painless, as the artist works on the epidermis and use a topical anesthetic, (unlike a tattoo).
• Shape can be changed over time if desired, by allowing the pigment to fade completely.

Microblading Cons

• Will require top ups every 12-24 months.
• Is not suitable for those with very oily/damaged/ or large pores on the brow area.
• Can be a higher initial investment (💰 wise) than daily makeup.

Tattooing Pros

• Saves time on your daily make-up routines.
• Hair loss correction for thinning hair, or for those with alopoecia or chemotherapy challenges.
• Permanent and will not require topping up every 12 to 18 months.

Tattooing Cons

• Risk of tattoo fading to unnatural-looking cool blue or salmon pink over time.
• Tattooing requires the use of a machine so fine ‘realsitc’ hair stoke lines cannot be achieved resulting in a ‘sharpie’ look.
• Lines created by the machine are not as fine as microbladed lines, therefore over time they begin to ‘bleed out’ resulting in a thicker brow.
• The artist deposits more ink deeper into the dermis making this procedure considerably more painful for the client.
• Limited flexibility over changes and therefore harder to correct/remove.

Which one is right for me?

Here’s how to make an informed choice between SPMU and Tattooed Eyebrow— fast:

1. What’s your long-term goal?

If you want the option to adjust your brow shape as you age, change styles, or correct pigment as it fades, semi-permanent is the smarter, lower-risk choice. Eyebrow tattoos, while longer-lasting, offer very little flexibility once they’re in place.

2. What’s your skin type?

• Oily skin: Microblading may blur quickly. Consider ombre, combination, or tattoed brows instead.
• Dry/normal skin: Most techniques heal well and stay crisp.
• Mature skin: Powder styles are gentler and more forgiving.

A skilled brow artist will take this into account during your consultation.

3. Are you prepared for maintenance?

If you’re looking for truly maintenance-free brows, tattooing may appeal. But be aware: the ‘permanence’ can work against you if the pigment fades oddly or your face changes over time.

With semi-permanent brows, you’ll need a top-up every 12 to 24 months, but this also allows your brows to evolve naturally with your features and personal style.

Wrapping Up

So if you’re someone who has a high pain threshold, greasy or uneven skin on the brow area, unable/unwilling to commit to top ups and are unlikely to want to change your brow shape or style in the future, then tattooing is your best bet.

However, if you’d prefer more flexibility with your brows, want to take advantage of different options for a natural look, and are not put off by regular top ups, you will love waking up with microbladed eyebrows that enhance your natural beauty!

Ready to Book (or Still Have Questions)?

If you’re weighing up your options, start with a free consultation. I’ll be able to assess your skin, brow goals, and preferences to help you decide what’s best for your face — no pressure, no guesswork.

First Name *

This field is required.

Last Name

Email *

This field is required.

Phone

Write Your Message Here

Submit

Semi-Permanent Makeup vs. Tattooes Frequently Asked Questions