San Francisco (Pacific Heights, Marina, Hayes Valley, SoMa) · 94118
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Aaron Chen, DO
$770/treatment
Estimated pricing
Permanent Makeup in San Francisco
Compare Permanent Makeup providers in San Francisco with transparent pricing from verified providers across SF proper, Oakland, the Peninsula, and neighboring areas. View real prices, from real providers that fit within your budget before booking an appointment.
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$560-$1,680 is the typical total cost for a Permanent Makeup treatment in San Francisco.
Top Permanent Makeup providers in San Francisco
San Francisco · 94563
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Adrianna J. Browne, M.D.
$770/treatment
Estimated pricing
San Francisco · 94596
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Afshin Parhiscar, MD
$770/treatment
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San Francisco (Pacific Heights, Marina, Hayes Valley, SoMa) · 94110
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Aileen Chang
$770/treatment
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San Francisco · 94063
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Albert Sean Chiou, MD, MBA
$770/treatment
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San Francisco (Pacific Heights, Marina, Hayes Valley, SoMa) · 94109
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Albert W. Chow, M.D.
$770/treatment
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San Francisco (Pacific Heights, Marina, Hayes Valley, SoMa) · 94118
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Alexander Deirdre MD
$770/treatment
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San Francisco (Pacific Heights, Marina, Hayes Valley, SoMa) · 94133
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Amit Arunkumar, MD
$770/treatment
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San Francisco · 94070
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Amy E. Gilliam, M.D.
$770/treatment
Estimated pricing
Pricing shown is estimated based on San Francisco regional averages unless marked "Provider verified."
Always confirm pricing directly with the provider.
What is Permanent Makeup?
Permanent makeup (PMU) uses specialized pigments tattooed into the skin to mimic makeup — brows, eyeliner, and lip color. Modern PMU techniques (microblading, powder brows, nano brows, lip blush) are semi-permanent, lasting 1 to 3 years.
A typical appointment takes 2 to 3 hours, including mapping, numbing, and the actual pigmentation. A 4 to 8 week touch-up is standard and almost always included in the initial price because pigment retention is never 100% on the first pass.
PMU results fade over 1 to 3 years depending on your skin type, skincare routine, and the technique used. Patients typically return for color refreshes every 1 to 2 years.
How much does Permanent Makeup cost in San Francisco?
PMU pricing in San Francisco typically ranges from $560 to $1,680 depending on the service (brows, eyeliner, or lips) and the artist's experience. Most prices include a mandatory 4 to 8 week touch-up.
Microblading (brows)
Hair-stroke technique
$560-1,260
Powder/ombre brows
Soft shaded technique
$700-1,400
Lip blush
Tint and definition
$840-1,680
Eyeliner (upper or lower)
Per lid
$560-1,120
What to ask your provider
- What technique do you recommend for my skin type and goals (microblading vs powder vs combination)?
- Does your initial price include the 4 to 8 week touch-up?
- Can I see a full before-and-after portfolio of your own work, not a generic gallery?
- What pigments do you use? Are they cruelty-free and hypoallergenic?
- What is your licensing and training? How long have you been doing PMU specifically?
- What does aftercare look like, and what should I avoid for the first 10 days?
Frequently asked questions
How much does permanent makeup cost in San Francisco?
Permanent makeup pricing in San Francisco ranges from $400 to $1,200 depending on the service. Microblading averages $400 to $900, powder brows $500 to $1,000, lip blush $600 to $1,200. Most prices include a 4 to 8 week touch-up.
How long does permanent makeup last?
Results typically last 1 to 3 years depending on your skin type, skincare routine, and the technique used. Oily skin holds pigment for shorter periods. Most patients book a color refresh every 1 to 2 years.
Does microblading hurt?
Topical numbing cream is applied before and during the procedure. Most patients describe it as a scratching sensation rather than sharp pain. Pain tolerance varies, but it is generally well tolerated.
What is the difference between microblading and powder brows?
Microblading creates individual hair-stroke marks with a manual blade — best for patients with dry skin and sparse brows. Powder brows use a machine to deposit soft pigment dots that look like a shaded brow pencil — better for oily skin and more dramatic looks. Combination brows blend both techniques.
Is permanent makeup safe?
Permanent makeup is generally safe when performed by a licensed, trained artist using FDA-approved pigments and sterile equipment. Allergic reactions are rare but possible — always ask about a patch test if you have sensitive skin.
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