Eyebrow tattooing, also known as microblading, is a popular cosmetic procedure that helps to enhance and define the eyebrows. However, proper aftercare is crucial to ensure the longevity and quality of the results.
This guide will walk you through the steps to take care of your eyebrow tattoo, ensuring it heals properly and looks vibrant for a long time.
Let’s Get Straight To The Point
Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure the longevity and vibrancy of eyebrow tattoos. Immediately after the procedure, clean the brows gently every 30 minutes, avoid rubbing, and prevent pigment loss.
Over the next 4 days, moisturize with aftercare cream, keep the area clean, avoid sun exposure, and do not submerge in water. Don’t pick or scratch scabs as they heal.
At night, apply cream and optionally use medical tape to protect the brows. After day 4, expect slight fading as the pigment settles. Internal healing continues for 4-6 weeks, requiring continued care.
Patience and diligence in following aftercare instructions will help maintain your eyebrow tattoos’ color and shape for the long term. Reach out to your technician if needed.
Why Aftercare is Essential for Eyebrow Tattoos?
Tattooing involves injecting pigment into the skin, which means the treated area needs time to heal. Proper aftercare minimizes the risk of infections, helps retain the color, and promotes quicker healing. Without the right care, the tattoo can fade, become patchy, or even develop complications that require further correction. Therefore, following these aftercare instructions diligently is key to achieving long-lasting and beautiful eyebrow tattoos.
Immediate Aftercare: The First Four Hours
The first few hours after getting your eyebrow tattoo are critical for preventing complications and ensuring proper healing. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Clean Brows Regularly
In the first four hours post-procedure, it’s essential to keep your eyebrows clean:
- Wipe your brows gently every half hour with a wet wipe.
- Use light strokes and apply minimal pressure to avoid disrupting the pigment.
- Always wipe in one direction—from the inner part of the brow to the outer—this helps remove lymph fluid and prevent pigment disturbance.
- Avoid wiping back and forth, as this can cause the lymph fluid to settle on the skin, leading to scabbing or uneven healing.
2. Avoid Removing Pigment
Overly aggressive cleaning can remove the pigment before it sets in:
- Use gentle pressure when wiping to avoid rubbing or scrubbing the brows.
- Excessive wiping can cause the pigment to fade or become patchy.
- For best results, simply pat the area lightly.
Daily Aftercare: Days 1-4
Once you’ve completed the immediate aftercare in the first four hours, you’ll need to continue caring for your eyebrows in the days that follow. The goal during this period is to keep the area moisturized and clean while avoiding infection or excessive pigment loss.
3. Moisturize with Aftercare Cream
Moisturizing is crucial for the healing process:
- Apply a small amount of the provided aftercare cream three times a day: in the morning, at noon, and before bed.
- Use a clean wipe or cotton swab to apply the cream, as using your fingers can introduce bacteria to the area.
- Dab the cream gently on your brows and spread a thin layer to avoid over-moisturizing.
4. Avoid Over-Moisturizing
Too much cream can cause issues with healing:
- Applying too much aftercare cream can push the pigment out, leading to patchy results.
- Aim for a thin, even layer of cream. If you apply too much, gently blot the excess with a clean tissue.
5. Keep the Area Clean
Keeping your tattoo clean is essential for preventing infection:
- Wash your brows gently with a mild, fragrance-free soap once or twice a day.
- Pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel—avoid scrubbing or rubbing your brows as it can irritate the skin or disturb the pigment.
6. Protect from Sun and Water
Exposure to the elements can disrupt the healing process:
- Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat, as these can cause the pigment to fade.
- Do not submerge your eyebrows in water, which means no swimming, hot tubs, or saunas during the healing period.
Preventing Infection and Discomfort
During the healing process, your body will naturally form scabs over the tattooed area. It’s important not to interfere with this natural process:
7. Avoid Picking, Scratching, or Peeling
While the healing process may cause itching or dryness:
- Do not pick, scratch, or peel the scabs that form on your eyebrows. Allow them to fall off naturally to prevent scarring or loss of pigment.
- Applying the aftercare cream as directed will help alleviate discomfort.
8. Do Not Use Other Products
It’s essential to stick to the products recommended by your eyebrow technician:
- Avoid applying any other skincare products on your brows unless advised by your technician. Certain ingredients in other products could interfere with healing or cause irritation.
Nighttime Aftercare Routine
Your evening routine is equally important for eyebrow tattoo aftercare. Nighttime care ensures that your eyebrows remain moisturized and protected while you sleep.
9. Apply Cream Before Bed
Before going to sleep:
- Apply a thin layer of the post-care cream to your eyebrows to keep them moisturized overnight.
- Use a cream specifically designed for post-tattoo care to avoid irritation.
10. Protect with Tape
If advised by your technician:
- Use medical-grade tape across your brows before bed. This will protect the area from friction while you sleep and prevent any accidental rubbing or peeling.
- Ensure that the tape is secure but not too tight to avoid irritation or discomfort.
Morning Routine: Day 2 Onward
In the mornings, your brows may need a little extra care to remove any residue or protect them for the day ahead.
11. Remove Tape Carefully
If you used tape overnight:
- Gently remove the tape starting from the side to avoid pulling the skin.
- Cleanse any residue left on your brows with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and warm water.
12. Reapply Cream
Once your brows are clean in the morning:
- Reapply a small amount of the aftercare cream to keep the skin moisturized throughout the day.
What to Expect After Four Days
By day four, the external healing process will largely be complete, but it’s important to continue aftercare for optimal results. Here’s what to expect in the days that follow:
13. Slight Fading is Normal
After the first few days:
- Your brows may appear slightly faded—this is completely normal. The pigment will begin to settle into the skin and adjust over the coming weeks.
- Continue following the aftercare instructions to help maintain the color and shape of your brows.
14. Healing Progress
Though the external healing might be finished by day four:
- Internal healing will continue for the next 4-6 weeks. During this time, it’s important to avoid harsh treatments, such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion, and continue protecting your brows from water and sun exposure.
15. Maintain Patience and Care
Healing takes time, and it’s important to be patient:
- Allow your body to heal naturally. The final color of your eyebrows may not be apparent until the healing process is fully complete.
- Consult your eyebrow specialist if you notice any unusual symptoms, such as excessive redness, swelling, or if you have any concerns about how your brows are healing.
Conclusion
Proper aftercare is essential for achieving beautiful, long-lasting eyebrow tattoos. Following the steps outlined in this guide will help ensure that your tattoo heals well, retains its color, and looks natural. By committing to a consistent aftercare routine and avoiding actions that can damage the tattoo, you’ll be able to enjoy your new brows for a long time. If you ever have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your technician or a healthcare professional for advice.
FAQs About Eyebrow Tattoo
What Is Eyebrow Tattooing?
Eyebrow tattooing, also known as microblading or permanent makeup, is a cosmetic procedure where pigment is applied to the skin to enhance, shape, and fill in the eyebrows.
How Long Does Eyebrow Tattooing Last?
Typically, eyebrow tattoos last between 1-3 years, depending on skin type, lifestyle, and aftercare. Annual touch-ups may be required to maintain the color and shape.
Does Eyebrow Tattooing Hurt?
Most people experience mild discomfort during the procedure. A numbing cream is applied to minimize pain, and most clients report the sensation as tolerable.
What Is The Difference Between Microblading And Eyebrow Tattooing?
Microblading involves hand-drawing hair-like strokes with a tool, while traditional eyebrow tattooing uses a machine. Microblading creates more natural results but fades faster than a traditional tattoo.
Is Eyebrow Tattooing Safe?
Yes, when performed by a licensed and experienced technician following proper sanitation protocols, eyebrow tattooing is safe. Always ensure you choose a reputable practitioner.