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  • How to Choose the Right Lip Pigment

    for Permanent Makeup 

In the world of permanent makeup, precision is everything—and one of the most important factors in achieving it is choosing the right professional pigment. These pigments determine not just the intensity and longevity of the color but also the final look of your work. That's why the choice of lip pigment isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety, skin compatibility, and achieving flawless results. 

At our store, you’ll find a curated selection of lip pigments for PMU from top global brands: NUVA Colors, Perma Blend LUXE and Etalon Mix. Discover what to look out for when shopping for pigments and how to avoid the most common mistakes in lip pigmentation. 

 

 

How to Choose a Pigment for Your Client’s Complexion

The foundation of a successful lip PMU procedure is a proper color analysis in PMU—matching the pigment’s undertone to the client’s skin tone and overall features. 

• For fair skin tones, choose natural lip pigment colors like nude, salmon, or soft pink. NUVA Colors offer gentle formulas that allow for subtle, buildable effects. 

• Medium and olive complexions shine with warm pinks, corals, or slightly terracotta tones—explore the Etalon Mix and Perma Blend LUXE palettes for ideal matches. 

• Darker skin tones pair beautifully with deeper, richer shades like burgundy-tinted reds from NUVA and Perma Blend LUXE. 

When selecting a pigment for different skin tones, remember: the shade should not only suit the complexion but also align with the client’s expectations—and it should be carefully chosen to maintain the desired effect after healing. 

Most Popular Shades of Lip Pigments in PMU

The popularity of lip pigment shades depends not only on trends but also on each client’s individual beauty—skin tone, natural lip color, and desired outcome. That’s why the choice of lip pigment is a personalized process that combines technical know-how with artistic vision. 

Our store offers a wide selection of PMU pigments for every complexion and aesthetic goal: 

• NUVA Colors – Classic pinks, cool beige tones, and sensual nudes—perfect for everyday styles and that "your lips but better" effect. 

• Perma Blend LUXE – Highly saturated reds, deep pinks, and warm corals—ideal for bold and elegant results. 

• Etalon Mix – A broad range of organic and mineral pigments that can be mixed into customized combinations. 

Yes, PMU pigments can be mixed—but only within the same brand. Each manufacturer uses a unique chemical base, and mixing pigments from different brands can cause unpredictable healing results. 

How to choose a lip pigment color? Don’t just follow trends—think about how the shade will heal and look on the client’s specific skin type. 

 

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Which Pigments to Choose for a Natural Look?

If your client is after a subtle, understated effect, opt for natural lip pigment colors. Focus on formulas that allow you to layer the color gradually. NUVA Colors, for instance, ffers excellent shade control and a broad range of tones. Perfect for delicate effects like blush lips or watercolor lips. 

A natural result doesn’t mean boring—it means a perfectly matched pigment that enhances the client’s beauty without overpowering it.

 

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Pigment Retention vs. Lip Pigmentation Technique

In permanent makeup, pigment is just one part of the equation. Just as critical are the artist’s experience, the chosen technique, and professional tools such as PMU machines and cartridges. 

Even the most long-lasting lip pigments require skilled application to fully showcase their potential. 

When selecting your pigment, look at its coverage level and saturation—this will help you choose the right technique and understand how the color will behave in the skin. 

And don’t forget: proper pigment depth and aftercare are essential. UV protection and avoiding retinol or acids can greatly affect how long the pigment lasts and how evenly it fades. These factors directly determine the longevity and beauty of your PMU results. 

 

See recommended PMU skincare

What to Avoid When Choosing a Lip Pigment Color

Want to avoid mistakes in choosing a pigment? Here are the most common pitfalls: 

• Using a pigment that’s too cool for a warm complexion—this may result in a bluish or grayish tone after healing. 

• Beginners using highly saturated pigments—this can lead to harsh, unnatural results. 

• Skipping the color consultation—not every client wants an intense lip look. The best pigment matches her personality and style. 

• Not understanding lip pigmentation with discoloration—neutralizing pigments (like those in NUVA Colors or Perma Blend LUXE) are essential in such cases. 

• Ignoring the client’s tooth color—cool or high-contrast pigments can make yellow tones more noticeable. For warmer teeth tones, go for warm lip shades that visually brighten the smile. 

Remember: the choice of lip pigment isn’t just about color—it’s about understanding complexion, skin behavior, and personal preference. Smart decisions lead to beautiful, lasting pigmentation and happy clients. 

 

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Frequently Asked Questions About PMU Lip Pigments

  • What pigments should I use to achieve a natural effect?

    The best choice will be soft pinks, beiges, or peachy tones that closely match the client’s natural lip color. NUVA Colors offer formulas that are perfect for subtle, layered pigmentation. Using them allows you to gradually build the desired effect.

    Also check out an article on RECOMMENDED NEEDLES

  • Can I mix pigments from different brands?

    No. Each brand formulates its pigments using a different chemical base. Mixing pigments from different manufacturers can lead to unwanted reactions in the skin and unpredictable healing results. Always mix only pigments from the same brand, and only if the manufacturer explicitly states that it is safe to do so.

  • How do I choose pigments for different skin tones?

    Fair skin works well with pinks and all “nude” tones. Olive skin tones pair beautifully with corals and warm pinks. Darker complexions look great with burgundy and deep red shades. It’s essential to consider not only the immediate effect but also how the pigment will appear once healed.

  • Do permanent makeup pigments change color over time?

    Yes. Pigments may fade or slightly shift in tone over time due to factors such as application depth, sun exposure, and skincare habits. Proper technique and using high-quality pigments can minimize this risk.

  • What are neutralizing pigments and when should I use them?

    Neutralizing pigments help correct unwanted tones (like gray or blue). They are used when dealing with hyperpigmentation or correcting old PMU work. You can find them in collections such as NUVA Colors or Perma Blend LUXE.

  • How does tooth color affect pigment choice?

    Cool-toned pigments can emphasize yellow undertones in the teeth. It’s important to choose shades that complement the client’s smile, especially if their teeth have a warm or off-white tone.

  • Where can I find professional lip PMU training?

    If you're looking for truly high-quality training in permanent lip makeup, make sure to check out joinPMU! You’ll find carefully curated courses led by top trainers, access to online educational materials, and tons of inspiration from other PMU artists. 

    There’s no room for guesswork on joinPMU – only verified professionals operate on this platform. If you want to create beautiful lip pigmentations and feel confident with every procedure, this is the perfect place to start!