Microblading Aftercare: Do’s & Don’ts from Artists

Microblading Aftercare Guide: Artist Approved Do’s and Don’ts

Microblading can give you fuller, more defined brows, but the healing process plays a huge role in how your final results look. Even the best microblading artist can’t control what happens after you leave the treatment room. Your aftercare routine decides whether your brows heal crisp and natural or end up patchy and uneven.

If you’re preparing for your microblading appointment or have just had your session, this guide breaks down the essential dos and don’ts recommended by professional artists. With the right care, your brows will heal beautifully and last longer.

Why Microblading Aftercare is Important?

Microblading works by creating tiny hair-like strokes in the skin. These strokes need time to close, heal, and retain pigment properly. Anything that interferes with healing sweat, water, picking, or harsh products, can cause fading or blurred strokes.

Good aftercare protects your brows from:

• Infection
• Premature fading
• Pigment loss
• Scarring
• Patchy healing

Think of aftercare as the final step in the microblading process. Without it, you won’t get the results you paid for.

The First 24–48 Hours: Be Extra Gentle

The first two days are when your brows are most sensitive. The skin is open and healing, and the pigment is settling.

Dos

• Keep brows dry. Moisture can pull pigment out of the skin.
• Blot gently if fluid forms. Lymph fluid is normal; removing it prevents scabbing.
• Avoid touching your brows. Even clean hands carry bacteria.

Don’ts

• Don’t wash your brows yet. Water + fresh strokes = blurred pigment.
• Don’t apply makeup, creams, or oils. They clog the healing area.
• Don’t expose brows to heat or steam. Showers, saunas, and hot tubs are all off-limits.

Days 3–7: Expect Itching & Flaking

Your brows will likely start to scab or flake during this period. This is completely normal.

Dos

• Wash lightly with a gentle cleanser if your artist instructs you. Use mild soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry, never rub. 
• Apply aftercare ointment (only if recommended). A thin layer keeps the skin protected.
• Keep avoiding sweat. Exercise can fade pigment quickly.

Don’ts

• Don’t pick the flakes. This pulls pigment out and creates patchy spots.
• Don’t exfoliate the area. No scrubs, retinol, AHA/BHA for at least two weeks.
• Don’t use tanning beds or sunbathe. UV rays fade brows before they even heal.

Week 2–4: Brows Are Still Healing

By this stage, the scabbing should stop, but the color may look too light or uneven. This is part of the healing cycle and not the final result.

Dos

• Allow color to settle naturally. Pigment often appears lighter before it darkens again.
• Stay gentle with your skincare. Use fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers.
• Protect brows from sun exposure. Use a hat or apply sunscreen once fully healed.

Don’ts

• Don’t judge your brows yet. True results show around 4–6 weeks.
• Don’t apply active skincare ingredients on or near your brows.
• Don’t skip your touch-up appointment. Microblading is a two-step treatment.

Long-Term Care for Lasting Results

Even after healing, your brows need maintenance to stay fresh and defined.

Dos

• Use SPF daily. Sun exposure is the 1 cause of fading.
• Schedule annual touch-ups. Most brows need a refresh every 12–18 months.
• Use gentle skincare products around the brow area.

Don’ts

• Don’t use strong exfoliants directly on brow lines.
• Don’t apply anti-aging serums over your brows. Acids and retinoids fade pigment fast.
• Professional Brow Services at Alladerm

Ready to wake up with perfect brows every day? Schedule a personalized microblading consultation with Alladerm in Aliso Viejo. Our non-invasive procedure will provide long-lasting results. Call us at 949-916-7166 to learn more about microblading and permanent makeup. We offer a range of cosmetic procedures in Aliso Viejo, CA, and surrounding areas.

FAQs

How long does microblading take to heal?

Most people heal in 10–14 days on the surface, but internal healing takes about 4–6 weeks.

Why do my brows look too dark at first?

This is normal. Pigment lightens as the skin heals.

Why did my brows fade after scabbing?

Pigment sits deeper in the skin and returns during the 4–6 week healing stage.

Can I shower after microblading?

Yes, but keep your face away from direct water and avoid steam.

Do I really need a touch-up?

Yes. The touch-up perfects your shape and fills areas where pigment didn’t hold fully.