Can I Go Out In The Sun After Microblading?

Getting microblading done is a game-changer for your eyebrows. The precision, the shape, and that effortlessly full look—it’s all worth the investment. But after the procedure, there’s one important factor that often gets overlooked: the sun. Whether you’re soaking up the Australian rays at the beach or simply running errands on a bright day, the sun can have a serious impact on your freshly microbladed brows. 

In this blog, we’ll dive into why sun exposure is a major concern after microblading, how it can affect the healing process, and the steps you need to take to protect your brows long-term. Trust me, taking care of your brows during the healing process is as important as the procedure itself, and a little sun protection can go a long way in maintaining those flawless results.

The Risks Of Sun Exposure After Microblading

When you invest in microblading, you’re not just enhancing your brows—you’re giving yourself a fresh new look. But as exciting as the results are, protecting your investment during the healing process is critical, and sun exposure can quickly put a spanner in the works.

How UV Rays Affect Your Microblading Results?

Let me share a story. A lovely client, who had recently got her brows microbladed, returned after a few weeks to show me her results. She was thrilled with the shape but noticed that the colour had faded, and some parts of her brows had turned an odd shade. After some gentle questioning, it turned out she’d spent hours basking in the sun at the beach—unaware that those sunny afternoons were the culprit.

The reality is, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can break down the pigment in the microblading ink, causing it to fade prematurely. What happens next isn’t always pretty. You might notice that your beautiful brow colour starts to shift, and not in the way you’d like. What was once a lovely warm brown may begin to fade to a washed-out grey, or even worse, develop an odd reddish or orange hue. Not the look you’re after, right?

It’s easy to forget how strong UV rays can be, even on overcast days. It’s not just about the direct sun—it’s the cumulative effect. Imagine this: You spend time in the sun for a few days, then go for a walk in the park, and then perhaps attend an outdoor gathering. That constant exposure can cause your brows to fade more quickly than if you kept them out of the sun entirely.

Skin Sensitivity And The Healing Process

It’s no secret that your skin goes through a healing process after microblading. Tiny cuts are made to implant the pigment, and your skin needs time to recover and absorb the colour. If you’ve ever had a small paper cut or burn and exposed it to the sun, you’ll know how painful it can be—and it’s the same concept with microblading.

In the early days of healing (think 7-14 days), your skin is particularly vulnerable. The last thing you want is to make it more irritated or inflamed with direct sun exposure. UV rays can disrupt the natural healing process, causing redness and even swelling. You might think it’s a minor inconvenience, but it can lead to prolonged healing, uncomfortable irritation, and worse—uneven results.

Take it from me: protecting your skin is not just about looking after the appearance of your brows but also about giving your skin the best chance to heal correctly. Overexposure to the sun can also increase the risk of scarring, which could potentially change the shape or look of your brows forever. A little extra care now can go a long way.

Risks Of Delayed Healing And Increased Infection

In the first two weeks after microblading, your skin is working hard to heal. Direct exposure to the sun can interfere with that process, and it might delay your recovery. The longer your skin takes to heal, the more vulnerable you become to bacteria. And if you’re out in the sun, sweat and heat can create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. This can lead to infections, which are not only painful but can also cause permanent damage to the microblading pigment.

Imagine this: You go to a day party with friends, wearing sunscreen, but after a few hours, you start sweating under that glorious Aussie sun. Sweat can easily get into freshly microbladed brows and create an opportunity for germs to settle in, delaying healing and possibly causing infection. It’s not just a matter of looking after your appearance—it’s about keeping your skin healthy and avoiding complications down the road.

Scab Disruption: The Sun’s Role In Premature Healing

Another issue I’ve encountered with clients who expose their brows to the sun too soon is the disruption of scabs. After the initial healing period, you’ll likely experience some scabbing. This is a normal part of the process. However, the sun can dry out the skin, which may cause these scabs to fall off too quickly, before the pigment is fully set in your skin. This can result in patchy, uneven brow colour, which is a far cry from the smooth, natural look you were expecting.

It’s tempting, especially on a warm, sunny day, to expose yourself to the elements. But resist that urge. You’ll thank yourself when you look in the mirror and see brows that have healed evenly and beautifully, rather than dealing with patchy spots.

Timeline: When To Avoid The Sun And Why It Matters?

As we all know, patience is key when it comes to any form of cosmetic enhancement. Microblading is no different. You’ve taken the time to ensure your brows are done right, so it’s important to give them the best chance to heal properly. Here’s a detailed look at the timeline for avoiding sun exposure after microblading.

Immediate Post-Procedure Care (First 7-14 Days)

The first 7 to 14 days after microblading are the most crucial for healing. During this period, your skin is still recovering, and the pigment is settling in. Direct sun exposure can hinder this process and cause damage. Here’s why this early phase requires special attention:

Timeframe	Action	Why
First 7 Days	Avoid direct sunlight completely.	The pigment is still settling. UV rays can cause fading, discolouration, and irritation.
Tanning Beds	Completely avoid tanning.	Tanning beds emit strong UV rays, which can cause immediate fading and irritation.
Stay Indoors	Limit time outdoors.	If you have to go outside, wear a physical barrier (hat, sunglasses) to protect the treated area.

During this period, I always advise my clients to stay indoors as much as possible. I know it’s tempting to head out for some sunshine, but this is the time when your microblading needs the most protection. Even though the sun might not seem too harsh, it’s still doing its work beneath the surface.

Extended Sun Protection (Up To 4-6 Weeks)

While your brows may start looking great after the first 7-14 days, the healing process isn’t over. The skin is still working hard to absorb the pigment and complete the recovery. Full sun protection remains essential up to 4-6 weeks. Let’s break this down:

Timeframe	Action	Why
Up to 2 Weeks	Continue to avoid the sun.	The pigment is still settling, and premature sun exposure can cause patchy fading.
2-4 Weeks	Apply full sun protection (sunscreen).	Full protection helps lock in the pigment and prevent colour changes.
4-6 Weeks	Still protect from direct sunlight.	The skin continues to heal, and the brows need extra care to maintain their shape.

At this stage, while the pigment may be visible on your skin, the skin’s healing is still ongoing. If you’re planning on getting a touch-up, this 4-6 week window is the perfect time to make sure everything is fully healed before any additional work is done.

How To Protect Your Brows While Healing?

After a session of microblading, it’s essential to step up your game in terms of protection. I can’t stress enough how little actions can make a big difference when it comes to preserving your brows during the healing process.

Physical Protection: Hats And Sunglasses

When you need to head outdoors during the first few weeks, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and large sunglasses is your best bet. I always recommend these to my clients as a simple yet effective physical barrier. A wide-brimmed hat shields the upper face, while sunglasses protect the delicate area around your eyes, and they look stylish to boot!

I’ve had clients who attended outdoor events, like weddings or barbecues, and wore hats and sunglasses just to be safe. The best part? They returned for their follow-up appointments with their brows looking just as fresh as the day they walked out of the salon.

Limiting Outdoor Time And Peak Sun Hours

We’re lucky in Australia to have long sunny days, but this means that the sun is strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM. If you can, limit your exposure during these peak hours. Let’s face it—sometimes we need to run errands, pick up groceries, or get to work, but if you plan to be outside, consider a few practical measures.

Tip	Action	Why
Stay indoors between 10 AM and 4 PM	Limit time outdoors during peak sun hours.	UV rays are at their strongest, even on overcast days.
Seek shade whenever possible	Walk under trees, patios, or buildings.	Protect your brows from direct sunlight.

You’d be amazed at how much protection a little bit of common sense can provide. If you’re in an outdoor area, make sure you’re in the shade when possible. In fact, even when it’s cloudy, UV rays can still get through, so always take precautions.

Sunscreen After 7-14 Days: When To Start

After the first 7-14 days, when the scabs have fallen off and your skin has healed enough, you can begin incorporating sunscreen. But timing is important here, as applying sunscreen too early could irritate the delicate skin. Here’s when to start:

Timeframe	Action	Why
7-14 Days Post-Procedure	Do NOT apply sunscreen directly to fresh brows.	The skin is still healing, and sunscreen could disrupt this process.
After 14 Days	Start applying sunscreen after scabs fall off.	Protects the treated area while healing continues, ensuring no pigment changes.

I always tell my clients, “Be patient during the first couple of weeks. You’ll see the results soon enough, but let the skin work its magic before you add anything else.” After 14 days, once the area is no longer healing, sunscreen becomes a must to prevent UV damage.

Long-Term Protection: Ensuring Your Microblading Stays Vibrant

Even once your microblading has fully healed, keeping your brows in top shape requires ongoing care. Sun exposure doesn’t stop affecting your skin or pigment once the healing phase is over, and the reality is that microblading results can fade over time without proper protection. So let’s talk about the long-term maintenance to keep those brows looking fresh.

Daily Sunscreen Use: The Must-Have For Long-Term Care

As much as we love a sunny day in Melbourne or the beach days on the Mornington Peninsula, if you want your brows to stand the test of time, sunscreen needs to be part of your daily skincare routine—whether you’re inside or out. I can’t stress this enough: the sun doesn’t take a day off, and neither should your sunscreen. It doesn’t matter if you’re sitting inside, driving in the car, or walking around the city. UV rays can penetrate windows and wreak havoc on your brows.

Here’s a simple daily checklist for sun protection:

Action	Why
Apply sunscreen every morning	UV rays are always present, even on cloudy days.
Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher	SPF 30 provides a good balance of protection. Consider SPF 50 for added coverage.
Reapply every two hours	Especially if you’ve been sweating or swimming, sunscreen wears off after a while.

I’ve had clients who’ve made sunscreen a habit, and they’ve seen their brows stay vibrant for much longer. One client, in particular, has maintained beautiful brows for over a year by simply applying sunscreen every morning, even when staying indoors. She credits the longevity of her microblading to that small but mighty habit.

The Best Sunscreen For Microbladed Eyebrows

Not all sunscreens are created equal, especially when it comes to protecting the delicate skin of your freshly microbladed brows. After healing, your skin is a little more sensitive, and the right sunscreen can make a world of difference. I always recommend using mineral-based sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) because they sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays rather than absorbing them like chemical sunscreens. They are gentle on the skin and provide instant protection.

Sunscreen Type	Why It Works
Mineral-based (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide)	These create a physical barrier, reflecting UV rays away.
Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher	Protects against both UVA and UVB rays, essential for complete protection.
Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free	Sensitive skin needs extra care to avoid irritation.

After I advise my clients on sunscreen, I always remind them to avoid spray sunscreens around their brows. They might seem convenient, but they often miss areas and can even get into the eyes, which can be irritating. Instead, I recommend opting for cream or lotion formulas for precision and protection.

Avoid Tanning Beds And Direct UV Exposure

As tempting as that “golden glow” can be, tanning beds are the sworn enemy of your microblading. A few minutes of tanning could undo months of carefully executed work. Tanning beds emit concentrated UV rays that cause fading and discolouration to your brows faster than the sun can. If you love having a tan, there are safer alternatives—like spray tans or gradual tanning lotions—but tanning beds should be off-limits after microblading.

Action	Why
Avoid tanning beds completely	The concentrated UV rays cause rapid pigment fading.
Use sunless tanning products	Safer alternatives like gradual tanners won’t affect your brows.

I’ve had a few clients come to me after frequenting tanning beds, and their brows were a pale shadow of their original beauty. It’s hard to reverse the effects of sun and tanning bed exposure once the damage is done, which is why I always tell my clients to protect their brows for the long haul.

Other Factors That Can Affect The Longevity Of Your Microblading

Beyond sun exposure, other elements in your lifestyle can impact how well your microblading holds up over time. As much as we want our brows to stay fresh for months, there are several things to be mindful of that could shorten their lifespan.

Sweat And Excessive Physical Activity

I get it. A good workout in the Aussie heat is hard to beat. But here’s the catch—sweat can affect your microblading. Excessive sweating can push out the pigment, causing it to fade or blur over time. If you’re going to sweat, make sure to gently blot your brows rather than rub them. This applies to anything that causes sweat—whether it’s hitting the gym, doing hot yoga, or just having a big day running errands under the sun.

Action	Why
Blot, don’t rub, sweat from your brows	Rubbing can cause pigment to fade or blur.
Wear a headband	Keeps sweat from dripping onto your brows.

I’ve seen clients struggle with fading after intense exercise, but a simple habit of blotting instead of rubbing made all the difference for many. Sweat doesn’t have to be the enemy if you take the right steps.

How Does Water and Swimming Affect Your Microblading?

Water is another sneaky culprit when it comes to fading your brows. Swimming in chlorinated pools or saltwater can loosen the pigment and cause the colour to fade prematurely. This doesn’t mean you have to avoid the water entirely, but there are a few tricks I always recommend to clients to safeguard their brows.

Action	Why
Avoid swimming for 2-3 weeks post-procedure	It’s best to keep your brows dry during the initial healing.
Use a barrier (Vaseline or Aquaphor)	These create a barrier to protect your brows from water.

One client, an avid swimmer, followed this advice and used a protective balm around her brows when swimming after 2 weeks of healing. She was able to enjoy her workouts in the pool without worrying about ruining her microblading.

Skincare Products To Avoid For Lasting Results

Your skincare routine is just as important as protecting your brows from the sun. Some products can accelerate fading or cause discolouration to your microblading, so it’s essential to avoid certain ingredients around your brow area. Exfoliants, acids, and retinoids are particularly damaging as they speed up the skin’s natural turnover, pushing out the pigment before it has a chance to set properly.

Product Type	Why It Affects Your Microblading
Exfoliating acids (glycolic, salicylic)	These accelerate skin turnover, causing fading.
Retinoids (Retin-A, retinol)	These can cause the pigment to blur or fade more quickly.
Vitamin C or Hydroquinone	These can cause discolouration and make the pigment fade.

As part of your aftercare, avoid these ingredients in the first few weeks and continue to keep them away from your brows for the long term. I always remind clients, “If it’s in your regular skincare, it’s probably best to give it a break around your brows!”

Taking the time to care for your microblading after the procedure ensures long-lasting, beautiful results. Sun exposure is one of the most significant factors that can compromise the pigment, speed up fading, and cause unwanted skin irritation. By being proactive—avoiding direct sun exposure during the crucial healing stages, applying sunscreen daily, and protecting your brows from external elements like sweat and harsh skincare—you can enjoy your stunning brows for months to come. It may feel like extra work, but your brows will thank you for the protection.