Precare and Aftercare for Permanent Makeup—How to Prepare and Heal Beautifully


At Calix Glow, we don’t just create beautiful brows, lips, and lashes—we ensure your results last with proper care before and after your appointment.

Following these guidelines is essential for minimizing discomfort, improving pigment retention, and achieving flawless, long-lasting results.

General Precare Instructions—Before Any PMU Treatment

Please follow these steps at least 48 hours before your appointment (unless stated otherwise):

Do Not Consume:

  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine (including coffee and energy drinks)
  • Aspirin, ibuprofen, or blood thinners unless medically necessary

These can thin the blood and lead to excess bleeding, affecting pigment retention.

Avoid:

  • Tanning or sunburns
  • Facial treatments (e.g., chemical peels, microdermabrasion, Botox) within 2 weeks
  • Waxing or tweezing in the treatment area within 48 hours

For Brow Procedures:

  • Come with your brows untouched—no makeup, tint, or grooming.
  • Avoid Retin-A or strong exfoliants on the brow area for 7 days prior

For Lip Procedures:

  • Gently exfoliate and moisturize lips for 3 days before
  • Stay hydrated
  • If prone to cold sores: take antiviral medication (e.g., Valtrex) 2–3 days before and after to prevent outbreaks.

General Aftercare Instructions – The Healing Phase

Proper aftercare can make the difference between great and excellent results. Expect some swelling, redness, or flaking—all are normal parts of the healing cycle.

Immediate Aftercare (First 24–48 Hours):

  • Do not get the area wet (no direct water, steam, or sweat).
  • Avoid touching, picking, or scratching the treated area.
  • Use a gentle blotting technique to remove any lymph fluid.

Ongoing Aftercare (First 7–10 Days):

  • Cleanse gently with sterile water and pat dry
  • Apply the provided healing balm as instructed.
  • Avoid: makeup, heavy sweating, swimming, or hot saunas
  • Avoid direct sunlight or tanning beds.
  • Do not use retinols, acids, or harsh products on the treated area.

For Lip Procedures:

  • Use a straw for drinks for the first few days.
  • Keep lips moisturized constantly.
  • No spicy foods or kissing during initial healing

What to Expect During Healing Day

What You Might Experience

1–2

Slight swelling, redness, tenderness

3–5

Scabbing: color may appear darker

6–10

Peeling/flaking, color fades temporarily

14+

Pigment begins settling and softening.

A perfecting session (touch-up) is recommended 4–8 weeks after your initial procedure for best results.

Important Notes

  • Results vary by skin type, lifestyle, and how well you follow aftercare.
  • Brows and lips may fade 30–50% during healing—this is normal.
  • Failure to follow aftercare may result in poor retention or color loss.

Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Your comfort and confidence are our top priority. We’ll walk you through every step before, during, and after your appointment—so you’re never left guessing.

📍 Calix Glow – 395 Civic Drive, Suite E, Pleasant Hill, CA

📞 Call or Text: (551) 274-9838

📆 Free Consultations Available – Book Today