How to Keep Microblading from Fading: Top Aftercare Tips

If you’ve invested in microblading to achieve those perfect brows, you’re not alone! In fact, the microblading industry is expected to reach $1.6 billion by 2026.

But let’s face it, the real challenge begins after the procedure—keeping those brows from fading. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with all the tips and tricks to make your investment last.

To keep microblading from fading, focus on immediate and long-term aftercare. Right after the procedure, avoid touching the area and keep it dry for at least a week. For long-term care, apply sunblock to the brows, avoid chlorinated and salt water, and schedule regular touch-up sessions. High-quality dyes and a skilled technician also contribute to longer-lasting results.

Ready to make those brows last? Keep reading to discover the ultimate guide to preventing microblading from fading and keeping your eyebrows on point for the long haul.

Why Does Microblading Fade?

Microblading is a semi-permanent makeup technique that has gained immense popularity for its ability to give fuller, natural-looking brows. However, one common concern is the fading of the microbladed eyebrows over time. So, why does this happen?

1. Natural Healing Process: When the microblading tool makes tiny cuts in the skin to deposit the dye, the skin initiates a self-healing process. During this phase, new skin cells form over the pigment, making it appear lighter.
2. Pigment Quality: The longevity of the microblading pigment can vary depending on its quality. Lower-quality dyes may not hold up well and could fade quicker.
3. Skin Sensitivities: Some people may have sensitivities or allergies to the pigment used in microblading. When this occurs, the body treats the pigment as a foreign substance and tries to eliminate it, causing the artwork to fade.
4. External Factors: Elements like sun exposure and contact with salt or chlorinated water can also contribute to premature fading.

Understanding these factors can help in effective microblading aftercare, which is crucial for pigment retention.

The Importance of Choosing a Specialist

Selecting a qualified and experienced microblading artist is a critical step in ensuring that your brows look their best for as long as possible. The skill of the artist plays a significant role in the outcome. Here’s why:

• Expertise: A seasoned artist knows how to make precise incisions that minimize skin trauma, thereby aiding in better pigment retention.
• Quality of Dyes: Professionals usually have access to high-quality dyes that are less likely to fade quickly. They can also guide you on any skin sensitivities you might have, particularly to common allergens like nickel.
• Customized Approach: Every individual’s skin is different. An expert can tailor the microblading process to suit your specific skin type and conditions, ensuring longer-lasting results.

By investing in a specialist, you’re not just paying for a procedure; you’re investing in quality and longevity.

Immediate Aftercare Tips

The first few hours and days following your microblading session are crucial for achieving the best results. Immediate aftercare is similar to that of traditional tattooing procedures and involves a few key steps:

First 2 Hours Post-Procedure

1. Wipe the Area: Use a cotton swab soaked in sterile water to gently wipe away any extra color or blood. This helps maintain sterility in the region.
2. Avoid Touching: Resist the urge to touch your freshly microbladed brows, as this can introduce bacteria and lead to infection.

First Week After Microblading

• Keep it Dry: For at least 7 days, avoid getting the microbladed area wet. This includes sweating, so steer clear of intense workouts.
• No Makeup: Refrain from applying makeup on or around the brows to prevent any potential irritation or infection.
• Don’t Pick: Scabs will likely form, but it’s important not to pick at them or tug on the brow region.

Additional Tips

• Healing Balm: Apply the healing balm prescribed by your technician as recommended. This aids in the microblading healing process and helps with pigment retention.
• Sun Protection: Notably, applying sunscreen to the treated eyebrow region may aid in fade prevention.

By following these immediate aftercare tips, you’re setting the stage for your microbladed brows to look their best for months, even years, to come.

Long-Term Aftercare Strategies

While immediate aftercare is essential for initial healing, long-term strategies are crucial for maintaining the vibrancy and longevity of your microbladed brows. Here are some key long-term aftercare strategies:

Sun Protection

• Use Sunblock: Always apply a broad-spectrum sunblock to the microbladed area before stepping out. UV rays can significantly accelerate the fading process.
• Wear a Hat: Consider wearing a sun hat or using an umbrella for added protection against harmful UV rays.

Water Exposure

• Avoid Chlorinated and Salt Water: Pools and ocean water can cause your microblading to fade prematurely. If you can’t avoid them, apply a layer of Vaseline or Aquaphor to the brows before swimming.

Physical Activities

• Limit Sweating: Excessive sweating can also contribute to faster fading. Opt for lighter workouts that don’t cause you to sweat profusely around the brow area.

Skincare Routine

• Be Cautious with Products: Some skincare products contain ingredients that can lighten the pigment. Always read the labels and avoid applying such products on the brows.

Regular Touch-Ups

• Schedule Maintenance: Depending on how well your skin retains the pigment, you may need touch-up sessions. These are essential for maintaining the desired shade and fullness.

Diet and Lifestyle

• Stay Hydrated: Good hydration can aid in better pigment retention.
• Avoid Alcohol and Smoking: Both can affect your skin’s ability to retain pigment, leading to quicker fading.

By incorporating these long-term aftercare strategies into your routine, you can extend the life of your microblading, ensuring that your brows look fabulous for a longer period.

How to Handle Fading

Even with meticulous aftercare, some degree of fading is inevitable over time. However, it’s essential to know that fading can be managed and even corrected. Here’s how:

Identifying the Type of Fading

• Color Changes: Sometimes, the brows may not just fade but also change color to hues like red, purple, or blue.
• Uneven Fading: One brow may fade faster than the other, leading to an asymmetrical appearance.

Steps for Correction

1. Consult Your Technician: The first step is always to consult with your microblading artist. They can assess the level of fading and recommend the best course of action.
2. Color Correction: If the fading has led to a change in color, your technician can perform a color correction procedure to bring it back to the desired shade.
3. Lightening the Brow: In extreme cases, the brow may need to be lightened to almost non-existence before reapplying the color.
4. Touch-Up Sessions: Regular touch-up sessions can help maintain the color and shape of your brows. These are generally less intensive than the initial microblading session.

Prevention

• Quality Dyes: Always ensure that high-quality dyes are used in your sessions to minimize the risk of fading.
• Follow Aftercare Guidelines: Rigorous adherence to both immediate and long-term aftercare guidelines can go a long way in preventing premature fading.

Understanding how to handle fading effectively can give you peace of mind and keep your brows looking their best for an extended period.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While aftercare plays a significant role in how well your microblading holds up, there are also common mistakes that can lead to premature fading or even complications. Being aware of these can help you maintain the integrity of your microbladed brows.

Mistakes to Watch Out For

• Ignoring Aftercare Guidelines: Skipping or ignoring the aftercare tips provided by your technician can lead to poor pigment retention and even infection.
• Using Wrong Products: Not all skincare products are suitable for microbladed brows. Using products with harsh chemicals can accelerate fading.
• Excessive Sun Exposure: While a bit of sun is good for you, excessive exposure without protection can lead to rapid fading.
• Ignoring Touch-Up Sessions: Regular touch-up sessions are essential for maintaining the desired look. Skipping these can result in uneven and faded brows.
• Not Consulting for Fading: If you notice your brows fading unevenly or changing color, consult your technician immediately. Ignoring these signs can make correction more challenging later on.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your microblading, ensuring that your investment in fuller, more beautiful brows pays off in the long run.

The Bottom Line

Maintaining the vibrancy of your microbladed brows boils down to diligent aftercare—both immediate and long-term. Keep the area clean and dry for the first week, and protect it from sun and water exposure thereafter.

Don’t forget the importance of regular touch-ups and choosing a skilled technician who uses high-quality dyes. With these steps, you can enjoy beautiful, long-lasting brows.