Ombre brows are a semi-permanent makeup technique that offers a gradient effect, giving your eyebrows a fuller, more defined look. While the results are long-lasting, the healing process is delicate and requires careful aftercare to ensure the brows heal properly and retain their pigment.
One of the most common questions is, Can I sleep on my side after ombre brows? The answer is simple—no, you should avoid sleeping on your side during the initial healing phase. Below, we’ll explain why and provide detailed instructions on how to care for your ombre brows during sleep.
Let’s get straight to the point
After getting ombre brows, it’s essential to avoid sleeping on your side for the first 10-14 days to prevent pigment loss, premature scab removal, and infection risks. Sleeping on your back helps ensure even healing and prevents asymmetry.
Use tools like a travel pillow and keep your bedding clean to protect your brows. Follow proper aftercare to achieve the best results for your ombre brows.
Why Sleeping On Your Side Is Not Recommended After Ombre Brows
Sleeping on your side puts pressure on your newly treated brows, which can interfere with the healing process. The first 10 to 14 days after your procedure are the most critical for ensuring that the pigment sets properly and that the scabs heal without being disturbed.
The Risks Of Side Sleeping
- Premature Scab Removal: When you sleep on your side, the pillow can rub against your brows, causing the scabs to fall off too early. This can lead to pigment loss or uneven colour distribution.
- Infection Risk: The friction between your brows and the pillow can cause tiny abrasions, making your skin vulnerable to infection.
- Uneven Healing: If one side of your face is consistently pressed against a pillow, the brows on that side may heal differently from the other, leading to an asymmetrical appearance.
How Long Should You Avoid Sleeping On Your Side?
It is essential to avoid sleeping on your side for at least 10 to 14 days after your ombre brows procedure. This period is essential as your skin heals and the pigment sets.
The first two weeks are when your brows are most vulnerable to disturbances like pressure or friction, which can impact the final results.
Why 10 To 14 Days?
- Critical Healing Time: The skin around your brows needs time to form scabs and heal underneath them. During this time, it is important to keep the area undisturbed.
- Pigment Retention: The pigment in ombre brows is designed to settle into the skin gradually. Any disruption, such as pressure from sleeping on your side, can cause the pigment to shift or lighten.
What Happens If You Accidentally Sleep On Your Side?
While you should make every effort to sleep on your back, it’s understandable that you might accidentally roll onto your side during sleep. If this happens, don’t panic, but make sure to check for any signs of disturbance in the healing process.
Signs Of Disturbance
- Increased Redness: This could indicate that the skin has been irritated.
- Scab Loss: If you notice missing scabs, you might have accidentally rubbed them off while sleeping.
- Pigment Loss: Look for any light patches where the pigment appears to have faded prematurely.
If you notice any of these signs, continue following your aftercare routine and contact your brow technician if you have concerns. Avoid touching or picking at your brows even if you notice scab loss, as this can further disrupt the healing process.
How To Train Yourself To Sleep On Your Back
For those who are habitual side sleepers, adjusting to sleeping on your back can be challenging. However, the effort is worth it to ensure that your ombre brows heal perfectly. Here are some tips to help you maintain a back-sleeping position.
Use A Travel Pillow
A travel pillow can be an excellent tool to keep your head in place while you sleep. Its U-shape supports your neck, preventing you from rolling over to your side.
Surround Yourself With Pillows
Arrange pillows on either side of your body to create a barrier that discourages you from turning over. This can make it easier to remain in a back-sleeping position throughout the night.
Elevate Your Head
Using an additional pillow to elevate your head not only helps with keeping you on your back but also reduces any swelling around the brow area. This can promote more comfortable sleep during the healing process.
Benefits Of Back Sleeping After Ombre Brows
Sleeping on your back offers several advantages during the healing process of your ombre brows. It is the best way to ensure that your brows heal properly and that the pigment remains intact.
No Pressure On Your Brows
By sleeping on your back, you eliminate the risk of pressing your face into the pillow. This prevents scabs from being removed prematurely and ensures that the pigment remains undisturbed.
Symmetrical Healing
When you sleep on your back, both brows heal evenly, avoiding any issues with asymmetry that might occur if one brow is subjected to more pressure than the other.
Reduced Risk Of Infection
Back sleeping minimises contact between your brows and potentially dirty surfaces like pillowcases. Keeping your brows clean is essential to avoid infection during the healing process.
Keeping Your Brows Protected During Sleep
Aside from changing your sleeping position, it’s important to take other steps to protect your brows while you sleep. These measures will help maintain a clean environment and reduce the risk of infection.
Use Clean Bedding
Ensure that your pillowcases are always clean. Change them every couple of days during the healing process to reduce the risk of bacteria coming into contact with your brows.
Opt for silk or satin pillowcases, as they cause less friction and are gentler on the skin.
Avoid Excessive Heat
Keep your bedroom at a comfortable temperature to prevent sweating during the night. Excessive heat can cause sweating, which might disrupt the healing process.
Use light blankets and maintain a cool, comfortable sleeping environment.
Control Moisture Levels
Avoid moisture on your brows at all costs. This means not only avoiding sweat but also making sure your brows stay dry if you wash your face or shower before bed.
Conclusion
Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your ombre brows heal correctly and look their best. While it may be challenging to adjust your sleeping habits, sleeping on your back for the first 10 to 14 days after your procedure is essential for preventing pigment loss, premature scab removal, and infection risks.
By following these careful steps, including using a travel pillow, keeping your bedding clean, and managing any discomfort, you’ll help your brows heal evenly and beautifully. Prioritising these guidelines will result in long-lasting, stunning results for your ombre brows.
FAQs About Ombre Brows Tattoos
Why Is It Recommended Not To Sleep On My Side After Getting Ombre Brows?
Sleeping on your side can apply pressure to your freshly done ombre brows, potentially causing the scabs to come off prematurely. This can lead to uneven healing and pigment loss and may affect the final appearance of your brows.
How Long Should I Avoid Sleeping On My Side After The Procedure?
It is generally recommended to avoid sleeping on your side for at least the first 10 to 14 days post-procedure. This timeframe allows your brows to go through the initial critical healing phase without disturbance.
What Are The Best Practices For Sleeping After Getting Ombre Brows?
The best practice is to sleep on your back. You can use extra pillows to prevent yourself from turning onto your side or consider using a travel pillow around your neck to help maintain your sleeping position.
Can I Use Any Special Pillows To Help Me Sleep On My Back?
Yes, using a travel pillow or arranging extra pillows around you can help keep you in a back-sleeping position. Some people find that a pregnancy pillow provides excellent support for maintaining a back-sleeping position.
What If I Accidentally Sleep On My Side After Getting Ombre Brows?
If you accidentally sleep on your side, check your brows for any signs of disturbance to the healing process, such as increased redness or missing scabs. Continue with your aftercare routine, and consult your brow technician if you notice any significant issues.