Investing in an eyebrow tattoo can enhance your look with minimal effort. However, ensuring that your tattooed brows remain vibrant and well-defined requires proper aftercare and long-term maintenance.
While the lifespan of an eyebrow tattoo typically ranges from one to three years, several factors can influence how long they will last. By following the right aftercare routine and incorporating some key practices into your daily life, you can extend the life of your eyebrow tattoo.
Let’s get straight to the point
To make your eyebrow tattoo last longer, follow proper aftercare right after the procedure, including applying healing balm, avoiding touching the area, and keeping it dry. Protect your brows from sun exposure by wearing sunscreen and covering up with hats or sunglasses.
Keep the skin hydrated with gentle moisturisers and avoid harsh skincare products like retinol. Stay away from water, excessive sweating, and smoking during the healing phase. Schedule regular touch-ups and be gentle when cleaning your face.
Avoid picking, scratching, and hair removal near the tattooed area to preserve the pigment.
1. Follow Proper Aftercare Instructions Right After Your Procedure
The first step to ensuring the longevity of your eyebrow tattoo starts immediately after the procedure. The healing process plays an essential role in how long the pigment stays intact.
Your cosmetic artist will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions that you must follow closely.
- Apply healing balm as directed: Use the prescribed ointment as instructed, typically 2–3 times daily for the first week. This helps prevent infection and promotes healing.
- Avoid touching or scratching the area: The treated area may feel itchy as it heals, but touching it can cause infection or uneven pigment fading.
- Avoid getting the brows wet: During the first week, keep the area dry. Use a damp cloth to clean around the eyebrows without touching the treated skin.
Following these aftercare guidelines ensures your tattooed brows heal properly and the pigment sets as intended.
2. Protect Your Eyebrow Tattoo From Sun Exposure
Exposure to the sun is one of the main factors that can cause premature fading of your eyebrow tattoo. The UV rays break down the pigments in your skin, causing your brows to lose their colour faster.
- Wear sunscreen: Once your brows are fully healed, apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to your tattooed area whenever you go outside. This will shield the pigment from the damaging effects of UV rays.
- Wear a hat or sunglasses: On sunny days, cover your brows by wearing a wide-brimmed hat or large sunglasses. This will offer additional protection and help your tattoo last longer.
By minimising sun exposure, you can help maintain the vibrancy of the pigment in your eyebrow tattoo for a longer period.
3. Moisturise Regularly To Maintain Healthy Skin
Keeping the skin around your eyebrows well-hydrated is essential for prolonging the life of your tattoo. Dry skin can lead to faster pigment fading, while hydrated skin will help retain the pigment longer.
- Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser: After the healing process is complete, apply a lightweight moisturiser around your brows daily. Avoid using moisturisers with harsh chemicals or fragrances that could irritate the area.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is equally important as applying moisturiser. Keeping your body hydrated helps maintain the elasticity and health of your skin, which in turn helps your tattoo last longer.
By maintaining healthy, hydrated skin, you can support the longevity of your eyebrow tattoo and ensure it looks its best over time.
4. Avoid Using Harsh Skincare Products
Skincare products that increase skin cell turnover, such as those containing retinol, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid, can speed up the fading process of your eyebrow tattoo. These products are often found in anti-aging and exfoliating treatments.
- Skip retinol and exfoliating acids: Avoid applying these products directly to your tattooed brows. Instead, focus on using gentler skincare items that will not strip the pigment from your skin.
- Avoid facial scrubs and peels: Harsh exfoliation can also cause the pigment to fade faster. When exfoliating your face, be careful to avoid the brow area entirely.
By being mindful of the products you use on your face, you can prevent accelerated fading and keep your tattoo looking fresh.
5. Avoid Water Exposure In The Initial Healing Phase
Water can interfere with the healing process of your eyebrow tattoo, especially in the first few days after the procedure. Keeping your brows dry during this period is essential to ensuring that the pigment settles properly.
- Avoid swimming and hot tubs: Chlorinated water in pools and the salt in seawater can lead to premature fading of your eyebrow tattoo. Avoid these activities for at least two weeks after the procedure.
- Be cautious in the shower: Keep water away from your brows while showering. Use a handheld showerhead or avoid directly spraying your face. If your eyebrows accidentally get wet, pat them dry with a clean towel immediately.
By keeping your brows dry during the initial healing phase, you will give your tattoo the best chance of settling and retaining its pigment.
6. Schedule Regular Touch-Ups
Even with the best care, eyebrow tattoos will fade over time. Regular touch-up appointments are essential to maintain the shape and colour of your brows.
- Plan for touch-ups every 6–12 months: Depending on your skin type and lifestyle, you may need to schedule touch-up sessions within the first year. These appointments will refresh the pigment and correct any fading or unevenness.
- Don’t wait too long for touch-ups: If you wait too long, the pigment may fade entirely, and you might need to start the process from scratch. Timely touch-ups ensure that your tattooed brows stay in optimal condition.
Regular maintenance is the key to ensuring your brows remain well-defined and vibrant.
7. Avoid Smoking And Excessive Sweating
Certain lifestyle factors can negatively impact the longevity of your eyebrow tattoo. Two major contributors to faster fading are smoking and excessive sweating.
- Quit smoking or reduce exposure: The toxins in cigarette smoke can impede your skin’s ability to heal and cause premature fading of your tattoo. If possible, refrain from smoking, especially during the healing period.
- Limit strenuous exercise: Activities that cause you to sweat excessively can also lead to faster fading, especially in the weeks following your tattoo. Avoid intense workouts that lead to heavy sweating until your brows are fully healed.
Making adjustments to your lifestyle can go a long way in helping to prolong the life of your eyebrow tattoo.
8. Be Gentle When Cleaning Your Face
After your eyebrow tattoo has healed, you still need to be careful when washing your face to avoid disrupting the pigment.
- Avoid scrubbing the brow area: When cleaning your face, use gentle motions and avoid using abrasive scrubs or washcloths on your brows. Over-scrubbing can cause the pigment to fade prematurely.
- Pat dry with a clean towel: After washing, gently pat the brow area dry with a clean towel. Never rub your eyebrows, as this can irritate the skin and cause pigment loss.
Being gentle with your daily skincare routine can help preserve the appearance of your tattoo.
9. Don’t Pick Or Scratch The Area
As your eyebrow tattoo heals, you might notice flaking or scabbing in the treated area. It is essential to resist the urge to pick or scratch at your brows during this time.
- Allow the skin to heal naturally: Picking at scabs or flakes can cause scarring and remove the pigment before it has fully set, leading to uneven colouring.
- Keep the area moisturised: If the skin feels dry or itchy, apply the prescribed healing balm to soothe the area without disturbing the tattoo.
By allowing the skin to heal properly, you will avoid any complications that could negatively impact the final result of your tattoo.
10. Avoid Hair Removal Around The Tattooed Area
While your eyebrow tattoo heals, it’s best to avoid plucking, waxing, or threading the area around your brows. These activities can irritate the skin and potentially cause the pigment to shift or fade.
- Hold off on hair removal: Wait at least four weeks after your procedure before plucking or waxing your brows. This gives the skin time to fully heal and lock in the pigment.
- Use tweezers sparingly: When it’s time to shape your brows again, be cautious and avoid getting too close to the tattooed area.
Minimising hair removal around the tattooed area will ensure that the pigment remains intact.
11. Monitor The Use Of Makeup Around The Brows
After your brows have healed, it’s safe to wear makeup again, but be cautious when applying products near the tattooed area.
- Avoid heavy foundation or concealer: Thick layers of makeup can cause your tattooed brows to look less defined and may contribute to clogging pores, which can affect the tattoo’s appearance.
- Use oil-free products: Oily products can break down the pigment more quickly. Opt for oil-free makeup products that won’t interfere with the longevity of your tattoo.
By using the right makeup products, you can maintain the natural appearance of your eyebrow tattoo.
Conclusion
Making your eyebrow tattoo last requires a combination of proper aftercare, consistent maintenance, and mindful lifestyle choices. By following the right steps immediately after your procedure, such as keeping the area clean, dry, and protected, and by taking ongoing measures like moisturising regularly, avoiding harsh products, and protecting your brows from sun exposure, you can significantly extend the life of your tattoo.
Incorporating gentle skincare practices, scheduling timely touch-ups, and being aware of factors like smoking and excessive sweating will also contribute to the longevity of your tattoo. With these tips, you can enjoy vibrant, well-defined brows for years to come.
FAQs About Eyebrow Tattoo
How Long Does An Eyebrow Tattoo Typically Last?
Eyebrow tattoos can vary in longevity based on technique, skin type, and aftercare. Microblading can last anywhere from 1 to 3 years, while powder or ombre brows may last slightly longer. Proper care and occasional touch-ups can extend the life of your eyebrow tattoo.
What Can I Do Immediately After Getting My Eyebrow Tattoo To Ensure The Best Healing?
Immediately after getting an eyebrow tattoo, follow your technician’s aftercare instructions meticulously. This usually includes keeping the area clean, avoiding water and makeup on the brows for the first week, and applying any recommended healing ointments. Avoiding direct sunlight and heavy sweating can also help the healing process.
How Can I Protect My Eyebrow Tattoo From Fading Quickly?
Protect your eyebrow tattoo from premature fading by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen daily once healed. Sun exposure can significantly fade tattoo pigments over time. Additionally, avoid exfoliating the brow area and opt for gentle skincare products to maintain pigment longevity.
When Should I Get A Touch-Up For My Eyebrow Tattoo?
A touch-up might be necessary 6 to 12 months after the initial procedure, depending on how well your skin retains pigment and your preference for brow fullness and color. After this, touch-ups might be needed every 1 to 2 years to maintain the desired look.
Do I Change Any Lifestyle Or Skincare Habits To Maintain My Eyebrow Tattoo?
To extend the life of your eyebrow tattoo, consider modifying some skincare and lifestyle habits. For instance, use gentle cleansers and avoid using retinol or exfoliating acids around the brow area, as these can fade the tattoo. Additionally, wearing a hat or visor to protect your brows from the sun can be beneficial. Lastly, maintaining overall skin health through hydration and a balanced diet can also contribute to the longevity of your eyebrow tattoo.