Permanent makeup has come a long way over the past decade. As pigments, techniques, and education have evolved, so has our understanding of what creates beautiful, long-lasting results. Some advice that was once considered standard no longer reflects what we know today. The best PMU artists don’t rely on outdated information—they continue learning, refining, and evolving with the industry.

Here are six common permanent makeup myths that have changed over time.

Myth #1: Iron Oxide Pigments Are Always Safer

For years, many artists believed iron oxide pigments were the safest option for every client. Today, we know the answer isn't that simple. Both iron oxide and carbon-based pigments have advantages and limitations. Neither is automatically better than the other.

The right choice depends on factors such as the pigment formulation, the client's skin, the treatment area, and the desired result.

Myth #2: Microblading Is Bad for Everyone

In recent years, social media has created the impression that microblading should be avoided altogether. While it isn't the right choice for everyone, that doesn't mean it's a bad technique.

Microblading can still produce beautiful, natural-looking brows for the right candidate. Skin type, age, lifestyle, healing ability, and artist experience all influence whether it's an appropriate option.

Rather than following trends, a skilled PMU artist recommends the technique that best suits each person.

Want to learn more? Brittany joined the Girlz Ink podcast to discuss why microblading isn't "bad" and how she determines the best brow technique for each client. Watch the episode here.

Myth #3: Nano Brows Are Always Better Than Microblading

Nano brows have become incredibly popular, and for good reason. They can create soft, realistic results and are suitable for many clients. However, "newer" doesn't always mean "better."

Some clients achieve their ideal outcome with nano brows, while others may be better suited to microblading, powder brows, or a combination of techniques. There is no single treatment that works best for everyone.

The goal is to choose the technique that will create the most beautiful, long-lasting result for each person's skin.

Myth #4: Permanent Makeup Should Last Forever

Many people assume permanent makeup should never fade. In reality, modern PMU is often designed to age more naturally. As pigments soften over time, they can be refreshed to maintain shape and colour while allowing adjustments as facial features, personal style, and preferences evolve.

Most people don't want the exact same brows they had ten years ago. Soft, gradual fading gives clients the flexibility to keep their results looking fresh and natural.

Myth #5: Red Brows Mean Bad Work

Seeing brows fade to a reddish or pink tone doesn't automatically mean an artist made a mistake. Many older pigments were formulated differently than the pigments available today. As those pigments aged, warm colour shifts became fairly common.

While poor technique can sometimes contribute to unwanted colour changes, pigment technology has improved significantly over the years. Every case should be evaluated individually before drawing conclusions.

Brittany discusses colour theory while training a student.

Myth #6: Gray Brows Mean the Artist Went Too Deep

Another common misconception is that gray brows always happen because the artist implanted the pigment too deeply. While depth can play a role, it is only one piece of the puzzle. In many cases, several factors work together.

Pigment appearance and how it changes over time can be influenced by things like:

Pigment composition
Skin tone
Healing
Sun exposure
Lifestyle
The natural aging of the tattoo

Why Ongoing Education Matters in PMU

One of the biggest shifts in permanent makeup isn’t a specific pigment or technique, but the industry’s growing commitment to continued education. This evolution is a major reason why PMU today looks so different from what it did 10 or 15 years ago.

As artists gain more long-term insight into how pigments heal and age, best practices continue to evolve. New pigments are developed, techniques are refined, and results improve over time.

The most skilled artists understand that learning never stops and staying current is essential for creating safe, beautiful, lasting results.

Brittany stays current by attending PMU conferences and training.

Permanent Makeup Training in Calgary, AB

At Beauty By B, Brittany is deeply committed to ongoing education and professional growth within the PMU industry. She regularly invests in advanced training, attends industry conferences, and stays current with evolving techniques so her work reflects modern standards and best practices.

If you're an aspiring PMU artist or an experienced professional looking to refine your skills, Brittany offers permanent makeup training and one-on-one mentorship in Calgary. Her courses focus on modern techniques, individualized instruction, and the real-world knowledge that comes from years of hands-on experience.

Learn more