Preparation · February 8, 2026 · 4 min read

Your Pre-Appointment Checklist: Set Your Skin Up for Stunning Results

Great PMU results begin before you sit in the chair. This simple checklist prepares your skin to receive pigment beautifully.

By Narmela Malekmohammadi

The week before your permanent makeup appointment quietly shapes your final result. Pigment retention, comfort, and healing all improve when your skin arrives calm, hydrated, and ready. Here's your simple countdown.

One week before

Pause retinol, AHAs, and exfoliating acids near the treatment area. These thin the skin's surface and can make it more reactive. Hydrate well all week — moisturized skin receives pigment more evenly.

Three days before

If you're prone to cold sores and booking lip blush, start the antiviral your doctor prescribed. Avoid sun exposure on the treatment area — sunburned skin cannot be worked on.

24 hours before

Skip alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, and fish oil — they thin the blood, increase sensitivity, and can affect how pigment settles. Go easy on caffeine the morning of your appointment, too.

The day of

Eat a proper meal before arriving; it keeps you comfortable and steady. Come with the treatment area clean and makeup-free. Wear something comfortable — brow and lip appointments take around two and a half hours, and many clients find the experience surprisingly relaxing.

And finally

Bring your questions, inspiration photos, and an open mind for the design session. The most beautiful results happen when we create your look together. See the full Pre-Care & Aftercare guide on the site for the complete details.

Ready to design your look together?

Book an Appointment