Permanent Brows, Brow Tattoo, or Permanent Makeup? Why They’re All the Same

If you’ve started looking into longer-lasting brow treatments, you’ve probably noticed lots of different names being used—permanent brows, brow tattoo, semi-permanent makeup, microblading. At first, it can feel a little overwhelming. Are they all the same thing, or do they mean different treatments?

The truth is: these terms often describe the same idea—enhancing your brows with cosmetic tattooing—but there are some important differences in the techniques.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking about getting permanent brows in Nottinghamshire.

Why People Say “Brow Tattoo”

The term brow tattoo comes from the process itself: pigment is implanted into the skin, similar to body tattooing. But unlike traditional tattoos, cosmetic tattoo pigments (or inks) are designed to fade gradually over time. That’s why your brows will look soft and natural for years, rather than harsh or discoloured.

Why People Call It “Permanent Makeup”

Permanent makeup (often shortened to PMU) is the professional umbrella term for all cosmetic tattooing. It covers brows, eyeliner, lip blush, and more. When someone says permanent brows, they’re simply talking about one part of PMU—the brows.

Why “Semi-Permanent” Is Also Popular

You’ll also see the term semi-permanent brows. That’s because the results don’t last forever. Most clients come back for a colour boost every 12–18 months to refresh the pigment. So while the tattooing process is technically permanent, the look is designed to fade gradually and be updated as your face and style evolve.

Microblading vs. Machine Brows in Nottinghamshire

Here’s where things get important: the technique.

• Microblading uses a handheld blade to scratch pigment into the skin in fine, hair-like strokes. While it can look natural at first, it’s more invasive and, over time, can cause scarring or patchiness.

• Machine Brows (the method we use at Face - Permanent Makeup & Aesthetics) use a digital device to gently implant pigment. This method is:

  
  

  ✔ Kinder to the skin, with less trauma

  
  

  ✔ Longer-lasting than microblading

  
  

  ✔ Able to create different finishes—natural hairstrokes, ombré brows, or soft powder brows

  
  

  ✔ More suitable for all skin types

This is why so many women in Nottinghamshire are now choosing machine brows over microblading—the results are natural, low-maintenance, and stand the test of time.

So Why All the Different Names?

In short, permanent brows, brow tattoo, permanent makeup, microblading—they’re all ways of describing cosmetic tattooing for eyebrows. The words change depending on the style, the technique, or even personal preference, but the goal is always the same: beautiful brows that save you time and boost your confidence.

Why Nottinghamshire Women Love Permanent Brows

If you’re in your 30s, juggling work, family, and a busy lifestyle, permanent brows are a game-changer. No more smudging, no more rushing to draw them on, and no more uneven brows in the mirror. Just polished, natural-looking brows that frame your face and make you feel effortlessly put-together every day.

✨ Imagine waking up with perfect brows, heading to the gym without worrying about smudges, or enjoying a night out without touch-ups.

Ready to Wake Up With Perfect Brows?

At Face - Permanent Makeup & Aesthetics in Nottinghamshire, we specialise in the machine method to create brows that look soft, natural, and totally tailored to your face. Whether you call it a brow tattoo, permanent brows, or permanent makeup, you’ll leave with brows you’ll love every single day.

👉 Book your consultation today and take the first step towards the brows you’ve always wanted.