PMU Touch-Up & Correction Procedures Flashcards

What is the primary difference between a PMU color boost and a full color correction procedure?

Answer: A color boost refreshes faded pigment of the same hue, while a correction addresses unwanted color shifts or shape issues

Color boosts simply replenish faded pigment of the same desired color, while corrections address unwanted shifts in hue, tone, shape, or distribution.

Which factor most commonly causes PMU pigment to heal unevenly or patchily?

Answer: Variations in skin texture, oiliness, or scar tissue across the treated area

Variations in skin surface, oiliness, or the presence of scar tissue cause different rates of pigment retention across even a small treatment area.

A client's PMU looks perfect immediately after the procedure but appears very light after healing. What is the most likely explanation?

Answer: Normal skin cell turnover formed a new epidermal layer over the pigment as the wound healed

As skin heals, a new epidermal layer regenerates over the pigment deposit, naturally lightening the visible color—this is the expected healing process.

When should a PMU artist recommend laser tattoo removal rather than attempting an in-studio correction?

Answer: When pigment has migrated extensively, is deeply embedded, or color distortion is beyond saline correction

Extensive migration, deeply embedded pigment, or severe color distortion may exceed saline removal capabilities and require laser treatment for safe resolution.

What documentation should a PMU artist complete before and after each touch-up or correction session?

Answer: Updated before-and-after photos, healed assessment notes, and documentation of corrections performed

Thorough documentation of each session's healed assessment and procedures performed creates a legal record and informs future treatment planning.

A client presents with healed PMU eyeliner that has spread slightly below the lash line. What is the safest first corrective step?

Answer: Assess whether the migration is stable or still actively spreading before planning any treatment

Before any correction, the artist must determine whether the pigment has stabilized or is still spreading to select the safest and most effective treatment approach.