Microblading Aftercare - The Healing Process and What to Expect

Quick Answer

You just got a semi-permanent tattoo on your eyebrows, your body is going to notice and take around 2-4 weeks to fully recover.

Your brows go from dark and thick, to patchy and scabby then eventually fade into their desired color and look more natural around 2-4 weeks.

The overarching advice for aftercare is to treat your brows gently for the first 2 weeks:

  • No scratching when they're itchy
  • No make up or harsh skin products on your brows
  • No heavy exercise or swimming

We want your ink pigment to look as natural and possible and following the instructions in this guide will help you with that (and hopfully calm any nerves you have about the process).

Here is what you can expect the healing process to look like, your results may vary.

somibrow client 1-14 days after microblading

Jump Links

The Healing Timeline: A Day-by-Day Guide

Days 1-3: Redness and Discomfort

Swelling and Redness

In the first few days after microblading, you might get some swelling and redness. This varies from person to person but is generally mild.

Possible Discomfort

Along with swelling and redness, some people experience a slight discomfort or a feeling of tightness in the eyebrow area. Try a cold pack and lots of sleep.

Care Instructions

Please follow the aftercare instructions provided by your technician. This includes gently cleaning the area with a mild cleanser, applying aftercare ointment if recommended. Avoid any activities that can introduce bacteria or cause excessive moisture, such as swimming or intense workouts. The goal is to keep the area clean, dry, and free from irritation.

Client Diary

somibrow client before microblading

Natural Eyebrows, Before Microblading

My brows are quite thin to begin with.


somibrow client immediately after microblading, day 1

Day 1

Wow, the day and night difference of getting new brows. I look like a new person, they're so thick and full, but I'm told they'll fade a little after they're fully healed.


somibrow client after microblading, day 2

Day 2

My brows feel a bit tender, but not painful.


somibrow client after microblading, day 3

Day 3

The tenderness is getting less, I'm getting used to the feeling more. They are still a bit red.

Days 4-7: Scabbing, Itching and Healing

Scabbing and Flaking

Around day 4, you may get scabs or flakiness on your brows. This is a normal part of the healing process. You have to resist the urge to pick the scabs, as doing so can remove the pigment and affect the final results.

How to Deal with Itching

Your brows will feel itchy and it's a sign that the skin is repairing itself. Instead of scratching gently pat your skin softly or stroke your brow hair a little. As I always tell my partner (in all brow and non-brow situations) "scratching makes it worse!". If you scratch off your skin, you could remove pigment and end up with patchy eyebrows. At Somibrow we'll do our best to fix any patchy bits in the 4-6 week follow up appointment, but please don't scratch.

Moisturizing Do's and Don'ts

Moisturizing can be beneficial. Use only the recommended products and apply them in the manner advised by your microblading artist. Typically, a thin layer of a moisturiser without over-saturating your brows.

Client Diary

somibrow client after microblading, day 4

Day 4

My brows started to scab and itch a lot, the thicker bits fell away. It was the patchiest day I had and my natural look was revealing itself.


somibrow client after microblading, day 5

Day 5

I was still quite itchy but most of my scabbing was gone.


somibrow client after microblading, day 6

Day 6

My brows looked more natural, less thick than the previous days.


somibrow client after microblading, day 7

Day 7

I'm really enjoying waking up and having perfect brows. I'm wondering the color will fade any more as I love the look of them now.

Weeks 2-4: Towards Fully Healed

Pigment Changes

As your brows heal, the pigment color may change a bit. Initially, the color may appear very dark, but it will lighten and settle into the desired shade as healing progresses.

Touch-Ups and Follow-up

At Somibrow, a follow-up appointment is scheduled 4 to 6 weeks after the initial procedure. This session is crucial for touch-ups, as we'll fix any areas where the pigment may not have taken evenly or where additional definition is needed. It's an opportunity to refine and perfect your brows after they have fully healed.

Client Diary

somibrow client after microblading, day 14

Day 14

I believe my brows are fully healed, they feel normal and have settled to their natural color. Thanks so much Somibrow!

Immediate Aftercare: The First 24 Hours

What to Do Right After the Procedure

  1. Gentle Cleaning: Shortly after the procedure, gently clean the area with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to remove any excess lymphatic fluid. This prevents scabbing.
  2. Apply Aftercare Ointment: Use the aftercare ointment provided by your technician. Apply a thin layer to aid in the healing process.

The Do's: Keeping the Area Clean

  1. Daily Cleansing: Cleanse the area gently each day to prevent infection and to keep the area free from buildup.
  2. Dry Healing vs. Wet Healing: Follow your technician's advice on whether to keep the brows dry or to apply ointment. This varies based on skin type and healing process.
  3. Avoid Touching: Keep your hands off the brows to prevent infection.
  4. Sleeping Posture: Try to sleep on your back to avoid rubbing the brows against the pillow.

The Don'ts: Activities and Products to Avoid

  1. No Water and Steam: Avoid getting the brows wet during the initial healing period. This includes heavy sweating, swimming, and steam baths.
  2. Avoid Makeup: Do not apply makeup on or near the brows for at least a week or as advised.
  3. Skip Exfoliating Products: Avoid any skincare products that contain acids or exfoliants that can interfere with the healing.
  4. No Picking or Scratching: Do not pick at any scabs or scratch the area, as this can cause scarring or patchy results.
  5. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep the brows protected from direct sunlight; use a hat if necessary. UV rays can fade the pigment.

Long-Term Aftercare and Maintenance

Sun Protection and Microblading Longevity

Protecting your microbladed eyebrows from the sun is essential for maintaining the pigment's longevity. Prolonged sun exposure can cause the pigment to fade more quickly. It's advisable to apply a broad-spectrum, fragrance-free SPF specifically designed for facial use to the brow area when exposed to sunlight. Additionally, wearing hats or sunglasses can provide extra protection. Keeping the brows shielded from the sun not only helps in maintaining the color but also supports overall skin health.

Retouching Schedule: When and Why?

Retouching, or touch-up appointments, are a crucial part of microblading maintenance. We schedule a 4 to 6 week touch up after the initial procedure. This session allows for any necessary corrections after the brows have fully healed. Following this, touch-ups can be booked after 6 months or 12 months, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and pigment retention. Regular touch-ups ensure that your brows maintain their shape, color, and definition over time.

Skincare Products to Use and Avoid

Post-microblading skincare involves being mindful of the products you apply to your brows. Avoid skincare products containing exfoliating agents, such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or retinoids, around the brow area, as these can increase the rate at which the pigment fades. It's also recommended to avoid oil-based skincare products directly on the brows, as oils can lead to pigment fading. Instead, opt for gentle products that support skin health without affecting the microblading pigment.

Common Concerns and Prevention

Infection Signs and Prevention

Signs of Infection

  • Unusual redness or swelling that persists or worsens after the first few days.
  • Pus or discharge from the microbladed area.
  • Increasing pain or hot sensation in the area.
  • Fever or feeling unwell.

Prevention

  • Follow all aftercare instructions meticulously, including keeping the area clean and dry.
  • Use any recommended aftercare products as directed.
  • Avoid touching the area with unwashed hands.
  • If you notice any signs of infection, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

Allergic Reactions and Sensitivities

Allergic reactions to microblading are rare but possible. They can be due to the pigments used or other products applied during or after the procedure. Symptoms may include itching, rash, or swelling around the eyebrows.

Prevention

  • Discuss any known skin sensitivities or allergies with your technician before the procedure.
  • A patch test can be conducted prior to the procedure to check for any reactions to the pigments or products.

Color Fading and Corrections

Over time, microbladed eyebrows will fade, which is a normal aspect of the semi-permanent nature of the procedure.

Factors Influencing Fading

  • Sun exposure: Prolonged sun exposure can accelerate fading.
  • Skin type: Oily skin tends to fade faster than dry skin.
  • Lifestyle and skincare routine: Certain skincare products and lifestyle factors can influence the rate of fading.

Corrections

  • Regular touch-up appointments help maintain the desired color and shape.
  • Adjustments in color or shape can be made during these touch-up sessions to adapt to any changes in your preferences or facial features.

Lifestyle Adjustments for Better Healing

Diet and Nutrition

A healthy diet plays a significant role in the healing process post-microblading. Nutrients such as vitamins C and E, zinc, and protein can aid in skin repair and recovery.

Tips

  • Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your diet.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking ample water, which helps in overall skin health and healing.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol and processed foods, as they can impede the healing process.

Sleep and Recovery

Adequate sleep is crucial for the body's recovery and healing. During sleep, the body repairs itself, which is essential for the healing of the microbladed area.

Tips

  • Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
  • Maintain a regular sleep schedule to support your body's natural healing processes.
  • Use a clean, soft pillowcase and try to sleep on your back to avoid putting pressure on the brows.

Stress Management

High levels of stress can negatively impact the body’s healing process. Managing stress is therefore important for optimal healing post-microblading.

Tips

  • Engage in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or gentle exercise.
  • Ensure you take time for relaxation and activities that you enjoy.
  • Consider practices like deep breathing or mindfulness to help manage stress levels.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Warning Signs

  • If you experience any signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, pus, or fever, seek medical attention promptly.
  • Unusual pain or symptoms that don't seem to align with the normal healing process should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
  • If you suspect an allergic reaction to the pigment or any aftercare products, consult a doctor immediately.

Conclusion

We hope you now have a better idea of what to expect in the healing process. The success and longevity of your microblading results significantly depend on how well you follow the aftercare instructions provided by your microblading artist. These guidelines will help ensure optimal healing, pigment retention, and overall satisfaction with your new brows. If you have any concerns or unusual symptoms during the healing process, don't hesitate to reach out to your microblading artist or a healthcare provider. The journey to achieving and maintaining beautiful, natural-looking eyebrows is a collaborative effort between you and your microblading artist. With proper care and regular touch-ups, your new brows will boost your confidence for years to come.

If you're ready to begin your journey towards flawless brows, Book an appointment with the Somibrow Team.

Need more info on which microblading technique you'd like? Check out the different techiques we offer and how other clients achieved their dream brows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear makeup after microblading?

Answer

  • We recommend avoiding makeup on your microbladed eyebrows for at least 7 to 14 days post-procedure. Makeup can interfere with the healing process and may contain bacteria that could lead to infection.
  • After the initial healing period, you can resume using makeup, but be gentle when applying or removing it around the brow area.

How long until I can exercise or swim?

Answer

  • You should avoid any strenuous exercise for at least 7 days after your microblading procedure. Sweating can cause the pigment to fade prematurely and increase the risk of infection.
  • As for swimming, it's advisable to wait at least 14 days before swimming in pools, oceans, or saunas, as the chlorine, saltwater, and steam can all negatively impact the healing process and pigment retention.

What if my microblading starts to fade?

Answer

  • Fading is a natural part of the microblading process. Most clients require a touch-up 4 to 6 weeks after the initial procedure, followed by 6 monthly or annual touch-ups to maintain the desired look.
  • If fading occurs prematurely, consult with your microblading artist. They can assess the situation and provide advice, which may include modifying aftercare practices or scheduling an earlier touch-up.

Appendix

Understanding Microblading

What is Microblading?

Microblading is a cosmetic tattooing procedure that fills in thin eyebrow areas to make them look fuller. Unlike a traditional tattoos, which are permanent, microblading involves using a microblading hand tool with needles to apply semi-permanent pigment to the skin. The technique is known for its precision, as the tool creates fine strokes that mimic the appearance of natural eyebrow hairs. This personalized approach ensures that each client receives a brow shape that is tailored to their facial structure and preferences.

Benefits of Microblading

The primary benefit of microblading is the enhancement of the eyebrows' appearance. It offers a long-term solution for those seeking fuller, well-defined brows without the need for daily makeup application. It's particularly beneficial for individuals with thin, sparse, or uneven eyebrows. Microblading also saves time in your morning routine and is a great option for those who engage in activities where makeup might wear off, like swimming or exercising. You will also feel more confidence, providing natural-looking brows that fit your face just perfect.

The Semi-permanent Nature of the Procedure

One of the key aspects of microblading is its semi-permanent nature. The results typically last between 1 to 3 years, depending on factors like skin type, lifestyle, and sun exposure. This semi-permanent feature is advantageous as it allows for changes over time, accommodating natural changes in skin tone, age, and brow trends. It also means less commitment compared to traditional tattoos. Touch-up sessions are generally recommended to maintain the desired look, as the pigment fades gradually and naturally over time. A note about "semi-permanent" — it doesn't mean your microblading will vanish completely. Instead, it's about the dream brows you get from the microblading gradually fading over time.