Microbladed eyebrows are a form of semi-permanent makeup that require special care, especially when exposed to the sun. Sun exposure can fade the pigment, causing your brows to lose their vibrant appearance prematurely.
Choosing the right sunscreen is critical to protecting your microbladed brows and ensuring longevity. Below, we provide detailed guidance on what type of sunscreen you should use and other essential aftercare tips.
Let’s get straight to the point
To protect your microbladed eyebrows from sun damage and fading, use a mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum protection. Opt for a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and lightweight formula to prevent irritation.
Apply sunscreen gently and reapply frequently, especially after sweating or swimming. Avoid sunscreens with harsh chemicals like oxybenzone, parabens, and alcohol. Incorporate daily sunscreen use into your routine, even after the healing phase, to maintain your brows’ color and shape long-term.
Why Sunscreen Is Essential For Microbladed Eyebrows?
Protecting your microbladed eyebrows from UV rays is one of the most important steps in maintaining their colour and shape. Sun exposure can cause premature fading of the pigment, making your brows appear lighter and less defined.
UV rays can damage the delicate skin around your brows, causing irritation or discolouration during the healing process.
- UV rays can fade the pigment quickly.
- The skin around the eyebrows is sensitive and prone to irritation after microblading.
- Sunscreen prevents discolouration and damage.
What To Look For In Sunscreen For Microbladed Eyebrows?
Choosing the right sunscreen for microbladed eyebrows is critical. Not all sunscreens are created equal, and many contain chemicals that can irritate freshly microbladed skin.
Look for sunscreens that are gentle, mineral-based, and provide broad-spectrum protection.
Mineral-Based Sunscreens
The best sunscreens for microbladed eyebrows are mineral-based, containing ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients act as physical barriers, reflecting harmful UV rays away from the skin. Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb into the skin and can cause irritation, mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin and are much gentler.
Important Ingredients:
- Zinc oxide: Provides broad-spectrum protection, especially against UVA rays, which cause long-term skin damage.
- Titanium dioxide: Effective at blocking both UVA and UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburn and pigment fading.
Hypoallergenic And Fragrance-Free
After microblading, the skin around your eyebrows will be sensitive and prone to irritation. To avoid any complications, choose sunscreens that are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Avoid sunscreens with harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances, as these can irritate the delicate skin and hinder the healing process.
- Fragrance-free: Prevents irritation and allergic reactions.
- Hypoallergenic: Reduces the risk of skin sensitivity or breakouts.
Breathable And Lightweight Formulas
Your skin needs to breathe, especially while it heals from the microblading procedure. Look for sunscreens that are lightweight and allow the skin to breathe. Heavy sunscreens can clog pores and cause irritation, so a non-comedogenic formula is essential.
Top Qualities to Look for:
- Non-comedogenic: Won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
- Lightweight formula: Comfortable for daily use and prevents irritation.
SPF Recommendations For Microbladed Eyebrows
When choosing sunscreen for your microbladed eyebrows, the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is an important consideration. SPF measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which are responsible for causing sunburn and skin damage.
For microbladed eyebrows, it is recommended to use a sunscreen with at least SPF 35 or higher.
Why SPF 35 Or Higher?
A sunscreen with SPF 35 or higher provides adequate protection from the sun’s harmful rays without being too heavy on the skin. Higher SPF ratings don’t necessarily mean better protection—what matters is how often you reapply it.
Spf Guidelines
- SPF 35-50: Offers sufficient protection for daily use and prevents fading of microbladed brows.
- SPF 50+: Ideal for extended sun exposure, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
How To Apply Sunscreen To Microbladed Eyebrows?
Knowing how to apply sunscreen to your microbladed eyebrows is just as important as choosing the right product. Proper application ensures that your brows are fully protected without disrupting the healing process.
Apply Gently
When applying sunscreen to the brow area, be gentle. After microblading, the skin around your eyebrows is sensitive and should not be rubbed or pressed too hard. Use clean hands or a soft applicator like a cotton pad to lightly dab the sunscreen around your brows.
Avoid direct application to the brows during the first few weeks of healing.
Application Tips:
- Use clean hands or a cotton pad for gentle application.
- Dab, don’t rub: Avoid disrupting the delicate skin or pigment.
Reapply Frequently
Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours when you are exposed to the sun. This is especially important for your microbladed eyebrows, as UV exposure can quickly cause the pigment to fade.
Always reapply after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying.
Reapplication Tips:
- Reapply every two hours when in the sun.
- Apply after swimming or excessive sweating.
Avoid Chemical Sunscreens
During the healing process, avoid using chemical sunscreens on your brows. Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and can irritate or interfere with the pigment.
Stick to mineral sunscreens with physical blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Sunscreen Ingredients To Avoid On Microbladed Eyebrows
Some ingredients in sunscreens can be harmful to microbladed skin. Avoid sunscreens containing alcohol, parabens, and oxybenzone, as these can cause irritation or affect the healing process.
Ingredients To Avoid
- Oxybenzone: A chemical blocker that can irritate sensitive skin.
- Parabens: Preservatives that can cause allergic reactions or irritation.
- Alcohol: Can dry out the skin and hinder healing.
Using Sunscreen After Microblading Healing
Once your eyebrows have fully healed, which typically takes about 10-14 days, sunscreen becomes your best defence against fading. While hats and sunglasses offer protection, sunscreen ensures that your brows are protected even in direct sunlight.
To maintain the colour and shape of your microbladed eyebrows, continue using sunscreen long after the initial healing period. Even after months, consistent sun exposure can cause the pigment to fade, so make sunscreen a permanent part of your routine.
Conclusion
Protecting your microbladed eyebrows from the sun is critical for maintaining their color and longevity. Choosing the right mineral-based sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection, such as those containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, will safeguard your brows from fading and irritation.
Opt for a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and lightweight formula to avoid any disruptions in the healing process, and make sure to apply gently and reapply frequently when exposed to the sun. Finally, remember that daily sunscreen application is key not only during the healing phase but as part of your long-term skincare routine to keep your brows looking fresh and vibrant.
FAQs About Microbladed Eyebrows
Can I Use Any Sunscreen On My Microbladed Eyebrows?
Opt for a gentle and gentle sunscreen for sensitive skin, as the skin around the eyebrows can be more delicate. Choose a product free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and alcohol to prevent irritation.
How Often Should I Reapply Sunscreen On My Microbladed Eyebrows?
Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you are swimming, sweating, or rubbing the area. Microbladed eyebrows are more susceptible to sun damage, so consistent reapplication is crucial for maintaining the colour and integrity of the pigment.
Can I Use A Spray Sunscreen On My Eyebrows?
It’s best to avoid spraying sunscreens for the eyebrows, as they may not provide precise application and can inadvertently get into the eyes. Stick to creams or lotions and apply them carefully to ensure proper coverage.
Should I Apply Sunscreen Directly On The Microbladed Area Or Around It?
Apply sunscreen directly to the entire eyebrow area, ensuring that you cover the microbladed strokes. Be gentle during application to avoid disrupting the pigment. Extend the sunscreen slightly beyond the borders of the microbladed area for complete protection.
Can I Use Sunscreen With Makeup On My Microbladed Eyebrows?
You can apply sunscreen before or after applying makeup to your microbladed eyebrows. If you apply makeup over sunscreen, ensure it’s a mineral-based product that won’t interfere with its efficacy.