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A Guide To Microblading Aftercare: What You Need To Know

Posted by Ellie Swain on Jul 14th 2023

A Guide To Microblading Aftercare: What You Need To Know

Thanks to the art of microblading, everyone can have perfect eyebrows at all hours of the day.

But aftercare is key when it comes to achieving great results with this semi-permanent procedure.

We’re here to go through everything you need to know about microblading aftercare – from what to do and not do post-treatment to essential FAQs about the entire process. Learn how you can have perfect brows for months or even years on end by following our simple tips.

What is Microblading?

Microblading is a semi-permanent procedure revolutionizing how we enhance our eyebrows. It involves an experienced eyebrow technician using a specialized tool to create realistic, hair-like strokes on your brow area.

This technique gives more precision and control than alternatives such as waxing or threading, resulting in natural-looking results. The pigment used is carefully applied to match your existing eyebrow color so it blends seamlessly.

Microblading can add definition and fullness to sparse areas for brows that can last up to 18 months before needing touch-ups. Plus, no downtime is required. You can return to most work or other activities almost immediately after treatment.

Microblading procedure on eyebrows being done by an eyebrow technician

The Importance of Microblading Aftercare

Properly caring for your brows in the days and weeks following treatment is essential to achieve long-lasting results. Not only will following the proper steps help keep your eyebrows looking fresh and beautiful, but they’ll also ensure that any potential side effects are minimized.

What to Do After Microblading

After your microblading appointment, you'll need to ensure your new eyebrows look their best and last as long as possible.

Moisturize

Firstly, keep the eyebrow area hydrated with a light layer of ointment or Vaseline at least once daily during the healing process. This will help prevent any scabbing which could lead to pigment loss.

The EltaMD Post-Procedure Balm is a great option, designed to help soothe compromised skin, reduce inflammation and boost healing.

Avoid Sunlight and Makeup

Additionally, it’s essential to avoid direct sunlight and refrain from using makeup until healing has been completed. Both can cause fading or discoloration of the eyebrows.

Most makeup products may contain chemicals that could irritate your skin, leading to infection and further damage to those freshly bladed hairs. If you really feel makeup is necessary, use light powder – but make sure that this is applied sparingly and gently.

Ditch the Workouts

It’s also recommended to avoid any activities that could cause excess sweat or rub off any applied ointment – such as working out at the gym or swimming. It’s time to have a workout break!

After about one month post-treatment, it’s safe to resume activities such as swimming without worrying about ruining your newly shaped brows.

Hold Off on the Exfoliation

Finally, be aware that exfoliating lotions should never be used anywhere close to your brows following treatment. These can remove pigment too quickly and ruin all hard work done by your technician. Additionally, try not to touch or pick at any scabbing that might form, as this could lead to scarring or uneven patches in healing areas.

Instead, opt for gentle cleansers and moisturizers like those containing aloe vera, such as the Tuel Stop Being Sensitive Milk Cleanser.

With proper care and maintenance, microbladed eyebrows can last between 12-18 months before needing additional sessions – giving you long-lasting definition with minimal upkeep.

Woman applying moisturizer to eyebrows with a spoolie

What to Expect after Microblading

Immediately following microblading treatment, you may experience some redness and slight swelling around the brow area, which should subside in a few hours. It’s also normal for the pigment to appear darker than desired and flaky - this will fade within a week or two as your skin heals.

Are There Any Risks of Microblading?

While microblading is generally considered safe when performed by a certified technician, there are some risks involved. For example, the possibility of infection, allergic reactions to pigments, scarring, and even permanent hair loss.

Infection can occur if needles and other equipment aren’t properly sterilized between clients. It’s also essential that the area being treated is clean before the procedure begins.

Likewise, allergic reactions may occur when certain materials or pigments come into contact with the skin. This can cause swelling, itching, and discomfort, requiring medical attention.

Scarring may also occur because of improper technique or lack of aftercare instructions from your technician. This risk increases for those with sensitive skin or existing allergies. Finally, over time there may be some fading or lightening of pigment color and patchy hair growth due to scarring caused by improper technique during treatment.

It’s highly recommended that you conduct extensive research about professional technicians before booking an appointment to know what kind of results you can expect after treatment. Taking the time to read reviews online or ask friends who have had similar procedures done is key.

Additionally, discussing potential risks associated with any beauty service before beginning treatment is essential so you feel as comfortable as possible moving forward.

Do you want more skincare advice? Here are six tips for flawless skin the ancient Chinese way.