Does Permanent Makeup Hurt? What You Need to Know
If you’ve ever thought about enhancing your features with Permanent Makeup (PMU)—whether it’s brows, lips, eyeliner, or scar camouflage—you’ve probably asked yourself this one big question:
“Does it hurt?”
It’s one of the most common Permanent Makeup FAQs, and we’re here to give you the real, unfiltered truth—no scare tactics, no fluff, just facts.
First Things First: What Is Permanent Makeup?
Permanent makeup is a form of cosmetic tattooing that enhances natural features using pigments instead of traditional ink. Permanent Makeup procedures include:
• Microblading or Powder Brows
• Lip Blushing or Lip Neutralization
• Eyeliner Tattoo
• Scar Camouflage & Areola Restoration
Each service has a different technique and sensation—but none of them should feel like traditional tattooing.
So… Does It Hurt?
Short answer: It depends on your personal pain tolerance, the area being treated, and your artist’s technique.
The good news?
At reputable studios like The Laughing Widow Permanent Makeup, we use topical numbing creams before and during your procedure to keep you as comfortable as possible. Most clients describe the feeling as:
• A scratching or tickling sensation
• Mild pressure or vibration
• Occasional discomfort—not pain
What Affects the Sensation?
1. Treatment Area:
Brows tend to be the most tolerable. Lips can be slightly more sensitive due to the nerve endings. Eyeliner might feel more intense, but it’s manageable with proper numbing.
2. Your Pain Threshold:
Everyone’s sensitivity is different. If you’ve had a tattoo, waxed, or micro-needled before, you can definitely handle Permanent Makeup.
3. Hormonal Changes:
It’s best to avoid booking Permanent Makeup sessions around your period, when your pain threshold might be lower.
4. Artist’s Experience:
A skilled Permanent Makeup artist uses gentle, precise techniques. This makes a big difference in your comfort level.
What Clients Are Saying
Most of our clients say:
“It wasn’t bad at all!”
“I was nervous, but it was surprisingly easy.”
“The numbing worked so well—I barely felt a thing.”
Post-Treatment: What About After the Procedure?
You might feel slight tenderness, swelling, or redness right after your session—similar to a mild sunburn. This typically goes away within 24–48 hours. We’ll give you a detailed aftercare guide to help soothe and heal your skin properly.
5. Ultra-Thin Lash Enhancement Tattoos: A Subtle Definition
Instead of bold eyeliner tattoos, lash enhancement tattoos are the go-to for 2025. This technique deposits pigment between the lash line, creating an ultra-natural definition that makes lashes appear fuller without looking like makeup.
Best for: Clients who want a subtle, “I-woke-up-like-this” effect.
Permanent Makeup Isn’t Pain-Free… But It’s Worth It
While there might be a moment or two of discomfort, the results—perfect brows, youthful lips, or defined eyes that stay put—are absolutely worth it. You’ll wake up every day looking fresh, confident, and ready to go.
At The Laughing Widow Permanent Makeup in the Bronx, we make your comfort our priority. From the moment you sit down for your consultation to your last touch-up, we’ve got your back (and your brows).
Ready to Enhance Your Features—Pain-Free?
Permanent Makeup is all about enhancing your natural beauty with effortless, long-lasting results. Whether you’re dreaming of flawless brows, perfectly tinted lips, or a subtle lash boost, the right artist can bring your vision to life.
If you’re in the Bronx, NYC, visit The Laughing Widow | Permanent Makeup for expert brows, lips, eyeliner, and scar camouflage. Our artists specialize in customized Permanent Makeup services tailored to your skin tone, style, and beauty goals.
Book your free consultation today and let’s talk about your goals, comfort levels, and how we can create the perfect look for you—without the fear factor.