Microblading is a popular beauty treatment for fuller, natural looking brows. But like all cosmetic procedures the results can be a little different in the first few days. If you’re thinking of getting microblading or have just had it done you might be wondering does microblading look bad at first? Here’s what you need to know about the microblading healing process and what to expect from your eyebrow microblading appointment.
What Is Microblading?
For a softer, more defined look powder brows are a great option, a gentle shaded effect that follows the natural brow shape. Unlike traditional eyebrow tattoo methods, microblading uses a hand tool method which gives more realistic results, whereas tattoo can be more permanent and bold in appearance.
What Happens Right After Microblading?
The procedure itself can leave your brows looking much darker and more intense than the final result. But that’s normal. Here’s why:
- Darker Brows: The procedure itself can leave your brows looking darker because the pigments are still settling into the skin. As the pigment absorbs into the skin and the excess fades your brows will return to a more natural colour, tailored to your skin tone and natural hair colour.
- Swelling and Redness: Like any other Cosmetic tattooing procedure there will be some bleeding and swelling in the treated area. The numbing cream used during the microblading session will make it minimal but your skin may still react. The redness and swelling will subside in a few hours.
- Sharp Lines and Patchiness: After the microblading the lines may look harsh or too defined. This is normal and the sharp edges will soften as the brows heal. During the healing process you may also see patchy areas of the brow as the microblading scab starts to flake off.
The Healing Process: Days After
Microblading healing takes time and you must follow aftercare instructions. Over the next week or so here’s what will happen:
- Flaking and Peeling: As your brows start to heal the skin around the strokes will start to flake. You may see dead skin or dry skin peeling off and must not pick at these flakes to allow the natural healing process to occur. This stage may make the brows look uneven but it’s part of the process.
- Pigment Lightening: Many people worry when their microbladed brows look lighter or patchy after the initial healing. This is normal as the skin exfoliates and the pigment settles. By the end of the healing tunnel the pigment will be softer, more natural and closer to your desired brow shape.
- Swelling Subsides: The initial slight bleeding and swelling will reduce and the microblading scab will fall off in about 7-10 days. Your brows will start to look more natural and beautiful.
- Touch-Up Appointment: You must have a touch-up session after the initial microblading healing process to fill in any areas where the pigment may have faded or didn’t take. This microblading touch-up will make your brows look their best and last longer.
Aftercare Tips
To avoid a bad microblading job from improper aftercare here are some must tips:
- Dry Healing vs Wet Healing: Your microblading artist may recommend dry healing or wet healing. For dry skin or combination skin dry healing is often preferred, for oily skin wet healing may be better. Follow your artist’s advice for best results.
- No Sun: Protect your brows from sun exposure as too much sun can cause faster fading and uneven brows. When you’re out use a hat or avoid the sun as much as possible during the healing period.
- Don’t Pick at Scabs: Allow your skin to heal naturally by not picking at any scabs or flaking skin. This will keep the pigment intact and won’t result to loss of pigment or patchy brow areas.
- Aftercare Products: Your artist will recommend aftercare products like aftercare ointments, aftercare gel or antiseptic cream. These products will keep the area clean and moisturized during the healing process and prevent infection and promote a smoother recovery.
- No Intense Workouts: During the first few days avoid intense physical activities that may cause excessive sweating. Sweat will mess with the pigment and cause faster fading.
What to Expect in the Long Term
After following the aftercare and your microblading touch up your brows will look natural with defined strokes that blend into your natural shape. Microblading can last 1-2 years depending on skin type, lifestyle and aftercare.
Conclusion
Microblading won’t look perfect after the first treatment but don’t worry. The first few days of healing can be a scary time, as your brows will go through many changes. After the microblading scab falls off and the skin heals you’ll have natural looking brows that enhance your features and stay in place with minimal maintenance. If you follow your aftercare and consult with microblading experts your microblading will be flawless!
FAQ
How long does it take to heal?
7-14 days. Results may take up to 6 weeks.
Can I wear makeup over my microblading right after the procedure?
No, avoid makeup for at least the first few days to prevent infection and allow the pigment to heal.
Will my microblading look too dark at first?
Yes, it’s normal for brows to look darker at first but the pigment will lighten and settle into a more natural shade as it heals.
Can I get a touch up?
Yes, after the first treatment a touch up is recommended to fill in any areas that have faded during the healing process.
Will my microblading last forever?
No, microblading is semi permanent and lasts 1-2 years depending on skin type and aftercare.
