At our London clinic, we champion long-term skin health and regeneration. While we do not offer semi-permanent make-up or medical camouflage, we understand that these procedures may appeal to those looking for temporary aesthetic enhancement of visible concerns. Below, we have outlined what these treatments involve, their benefits, risks and key considerations — so you can make informed decisions about your skin.
Semi-Permanent Make-Up (SPMU)
What is it?
Semi-permanent make-up involves using fine needles to place pigments into the upper layers of the skin to define or enhance the brows, lips or lash line. It is often chosen to reduce daily make-up application time or provide colour where there is hair loss or faded pigmentation.
Is semi-permanent make-up the same as a tattoo?
Yes and no — tattoos deposit pigment deeper into the skin and are permanent. Semi-permanent make-up sits more superficially and fades over time, often requiring refresh appointments to maintain colour.
How does it work?
A colour-matching and design consultation usually takes place first, including a patch test for pigment compatibility. Results usually appear more dramatic at first and then soften as the skin heals over 4–6 weeks.
Does semi-permanent make-up look natural?
Yes — when performed by experienced professionals, results can be incredibly soft and refined however, this does not last. After a few months the pigments start to fade or oxidise, or change in colour due to active skin care, sun, hormonal changes in the skin etc which eventually looks dull and less desirable.
Does it hurt?
Most clients describe mild discomfort. Topical numbing cream is typically used to ensure the treatment is tolerable.
Benefits:
- Enhances brows, lips and lash line.
- Time-saving and long-lasting definition.
- May help with concerns such as alopecia-related hair loss, asymmetry or lip colour loss.
How long does semi-permanent make-up last?
Usually 12–24 months, depending on pigment type, lifestyle and sun protection. Lips may last slightly longer than brows or eyeliner.
Risks & considerations:
- Temporary swelling, crusting or dryness is expected.
- Fading may occur unevenly without careful sun protection.
- Occasional allergic reactions or pigment migration are possible.
- Removal is difficult and typically requires multiple laser sessions.
- Requires strict after-care for best results.
- It covers concerns — it does not treat them.
- It takes months or years to remove them if you are not happy with the result.
Medical Camouflage (Micropigmentation for Scars & Pigment Loss)
What is it?
Medical camouflage uses targeted pigments to blend the appearance of:
- Scars
- Stretch marks
- Surgical changes (e.g. post-mastectomy areola recreation)
- Vitiligo and other pigment-loss conditions
It is a specialist procedure often used when standard medical or skin-regenerative treatments cannot further improve the appearance of the area.
Does medical camouflage hurt?
Mild discomfort may occur. Numbing options are typically used to minimise sensitivity.
How long does it last?
Often 2–5 years, depending on area, pigment and lifestyle. Maintenance may be needed for colour stability.
Can all scars or pigment loss be covered?
Suitability depends on stability and healing of the skin. Scars must be fully healed, while areas such as vitiligo may require multiple sessions and cautious expectations.
Benefits:
- Reduces visibility of scars and pigment-loss patches
- Can restore appearance of anatomical features (e.g. areolas)
- Often helps improve personal confidence after significant change to the skin
Risks & considerations:
- Texture and pigmentation can still remain visible under certain lighting
- Some results may shift in tone if not protected against sunlight
- Removal is complicated and must be carefully planned
- Does not correct underlying cause — it camouflages only
Our Clinic Philosophy — Treat the Cause, Not Just the Surface
While semi-permanent make-up and medical camouflage have their place, our expertise lies in restoring and correcting skin concerns at the source. Long-term benefits are best achieved with treatments that promote skin health, such as:
- Laser resurfacing and pigmentation correction
- Collagen-stimulating therapies
- Skin barrier restoration and medical-grade skincare
- Advanced aesthetic treatments delivered by trained professionals
We therefore do not perform cosmetic tattooing. Instead, we help you understand whether these options are appropriate for your needs — or if your concerns can be improved through evidence-based skin treatments with future-safe outcomes.
Your Skin, Elevated
If you’re exploring options to improve pigmentation irregularities, scarring, or cosmetic definition, we would love to assess your skin personally and guide you toward the most beneficial — and lasting — pathway for your skin health and confidence.
Book a consultation with our London skin experts and let’s craft a rejuvenation plan that aligns with both your immediate goals and long-term wellbeing.
