Microblading Aftercare GuideComplete Healing Instructions for Perfect Results

Complete microblading healing takes 4-6 weeks. Initial healing (scabbing and flaking) occurs in the first 7-10 days. The brows will appear darker initially, then lighten by 30-40% during healing. True color emerges after 4 weeks, at which point the skin is fully healed and ready for a touch-up appointment if needed.

No, you must keep your microbladed brows completely dry for 7-10 days after the procedure. This means no water, sweat, or moisture on the treated area. Avoid washing your face directly over the brows, swimming, saunas, and intense exercise during this critical healing period. Use a damp cloth to carefully clean around the brow area.

Picking or scratching your microbladed brows can cause pigment loss, scarring, infection, and uneven results. The scabs contain pigment - removing them prematurely means removing color from your brows. This creates patchy, incomplete results and may require additional touch-up sessions. Always let scabs fall off naturally, even if they're itchy.

It's completely normal for microbladed brows to appear 30-50% darker immediately after the procedure. The pigment oxidizes when exposed to air, and there's slight swelling that makes the color appear more intense. As your brows heal and scab over the next 7-10 days, they will lighten significantly. The true, final color will emerge after 4 weeks of healing.

Avoid all makeup on and around your brows for at least 7-10 days after microblading - until all scabs have fallen off naturally. You can wear makeup on other areas of your face, but keep it away from the brow area. Once fully healed (4-6 weeks), you can resume normal makeup application, though most clients find they need minimal brow makeup after microblading.

Avoid all intense exercise, gym sessions, and activities that cause sweating for 7-10 days after microblading. Sweat contains salt and bacteria that can interfere with healing and cause infection. Light walking is fine, but avoid running, cycling, hot yoga, HIIT workouts, or any activity that makes you sweat. After the initial healing period, you can gradually resume normal exercise.

Apply a very thin layer of aftercare ointment 2-3 times daily for the first 7-10 days, or as directed by your artist. Use clean hands or a cotton swab, and apply just enough to keep the area moisturized without being greasy. Over-application can suffocate the skin and draw out pigment. Less is more - a rice grain-sized amount is usually sufficient for both brows.

Yes, it's completely normal for microbladed brows to look patchy, uneven, or spotty during the healing process (days 7-21). As scabs fall off at different rates, some areas may appear lighter or missing. This is temporary - the pigment is still settling into your skin. Wait until 4-6 weeks after your procedure to assess the final results. Any areas needing more pigment will be addressed at your touch-up appointment.

No swimming for at least 2-3 weeks after microblading. Chlorine in pools, salt in ocean water, and bacteria in any water can interfere with healing, cause infection, and draw out pigment prematurely. Avoid swimming pools, beaches, hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms during the healing period. Wait until your brows are completely healed before resuming water activities.

Signs of infection include excessive redness, swelling, warmth, pus, severe pain, or fever. If you suspect infection, contact your microblading artist immediately and consider seeing a doctor. Don't attempt to treat it yourself. Prevention is key: follow all aftercare instructions carefully, keep the area clean with clean hands only, avoid touching your brows, and watch for early warning signs.