What is Semi-Permanent Makeup? Learn About Eyebrow Microblading, Lip Blushing, SMP and more!

Today, makeup serves not only as a way to enhance appearance but also as a means to express professionalism and maintain a polished image. However, applying makeup daily can be time-consuming and, especially during busy weekdays, become a source of stress. It also requires a certain level of skill that not everyone has the time or opportunity to develop.

For these reasons, semi-permanent makeup solutions are gaining popularity. While eyebrow tattoos have been around for decades, those traditional techniques are now considered outdated. With the advancement of new methods, let’s explore the current trends in semi-permanent makeup that offer more natural and long-lasting results.

Eyebrow Enhancement Options

When it comes to semi-permanent eyebrow makeup, there’s more than just microblading. Let’s take a look at the three most popular techniques used today.

1. Microblading (Embroidery Style)

Microblading is ideal for those who prefer a soft, natural look — especially the fuller, bushy brow style. In Korea, this technique is often refined into what’s known as the “embroidery” method. Each hair-like stroke is carefully designed to match the client’s facial features, resulting in brows that look incredibly natural and well-balanced.

Microblading

2. Microshading (Ombre)

Microshading is a great option for individuals who have previous semi-permanent makeup or who prefer a more filled-in, gradient effect. The technique uses a gentle ombre looking method to create a soft, powdered finish! Perfect for a more defined yet subtle look.

Microshading

3. Combination Technique

For those seeking the best of both worlds, the combination technique blends microblading and microshading. This hybrid method delivers the natural hair strokes of microblading with the depth and fullness of microshading, creating a clean, polished, and long-lasting result.

Combination

Eyeliner Enhancement

Eyeliner microblading offers a long-lasting way to define the eyes without daily makeup.

1. General Eyeliner (No Wing)

This style is perfect for those who want a subtle, natural definition. The pigment is delicately applied in a straight line following the natural eyelid shape which can also create the illusion of fuller, darker lashes. 

2. Winged Eyeliner

For a more pronounced effect, this option extends slightly beyond the outer corner of the eye, creating a small wing. It’s great for individuals who regularly apply eyeliner and want to maintain that lifted, well-defined look every day.

Lip Blushing

Semi-permanent lip tinting enhances the natural color and shape of the lips, giving a fresh, healthy look without daily lipstick.

1. Full Tint

This technique applies color evenly across the entire lips, creating a defined, vibrant look. It’s ideal for those who want a polished, lipstick-like effect that lasts.

Full Tint

2. Gradient Tint

A more natural option, gradient tinting focuses color in the center of the lips, gradually fading outward. This soft, youthful style is especially popular in Korea for its subtle and fresh appearance.

Scalp Micropigmentation

Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a non-surgical technique that uses tiny, natural-looking pigment dots to mimic the appearance of hair follicles. It’s an excellent option for perfecting hairlines without the commitment or recovery time of a hair transplant.

This method is especially effective for women experiencing thinning at the crown or along the part, where adding visual density can make a noticeable difference. SMP also works well in combination with hair transplants, enhancing overall coverage and providing a fuller, more defined look — particularly in cases of advanced hair loss.

SMP

Specialized Areas: Scars & Areola

Semi-permanent pigmentation techniques aren’t just for makeup replacement, they can also be used to restore confidence by treating sensitive or specialized areas.

Scar Camouflage

Pigment can be carefully applied to surgical scars, trauma marks, and even stretch marks to help them blend more naturally with the surrounding skin. This technique can significantly improve the appearance of discolored or uneven scars, especially after healing from surgery or injury.

Areola Recoloring and Resizing

For clients who have undergone breast surgery or experience natural pigment change, areola micropigmentation offers a way to restore or enhance the appearance of the nipples. This can include reshaping, resizing, or recoloring to achieve a more balanced, symmetrical look — all tailored to the individual’s skin tone and preference.

It is important to remember that, for all semi-permanent procedures, a thorough consultation is essential. A qualified specialist will assess your skin, condition, and goals to determine what can realistically and safely be achieved.

Seojin isn’t a makeup studio— we’re a certified plastic surgery clinic. Our semi-permanent makeup procedures are performed using high-quality German tools and medical-grade pigments, which offer better results and a lower risk of allergic reactions. Whether you're looking to simplify your daily routine or refresh your appearance, we’re here to help. Ready for a long-lasting, natural look? Book a consultation today!