As someone who’s been in the cosmetic tattooing industry for over 21 years, I’ve seen my fair share of eyebrow tattoos that didn’t go as planned. Whether it’s the dreaded “blocky” look or a tattoo that fades into an unexpected colour, these mistakes happen more often than most people realise. And while there’s no shortage of advice out there, it helps to understand exactly why things can go wrong—and more importantly, how they can be fixed.
Common Causes Of Eyebrow Tattoo Mistakes
1. Unqualified Or Inexperienced Artists
One of the most significant factors in why tattooed eyebrows go wrong is the artist’s skill (or lack thereof). I’ve met clients who came to me after seeing an artist who wasn’t experienced enough in eyebrow tattoos, and the results were less than ideal. Uneven brows, mismatched colours, and incorrect placement are all too common when an artist doesn’t have the necessary expertise. Unfortunately, I’ve seen clients who chose their artists based solely on a good deal or price, only to end up with brows that didn’t reflect their vision at all.
I can’t stress this enough: just because someone offers cheap prices doesn’t mean they know what they’re doing. It’s essential to find an artist with solid training, a proven track record, and a portfolio that speaks to their skill level.
2. Poor Communication Between Artist And Client
A common pitfall I’ve encountered over the years is the miscommunication that can happen between an artist and client. You’d be surprised at how many clients have different expectations about eyebrow shapes, colours, and intensities. I’ve had clients come in with brow designs that were far from what they imagined, simply because they hadn’t communicated their wishes clearly enough during the consultation. That’s why I always insist on a thorough consultation and pre-drawing to make sure we’re on the same page.
A clear and honest discussion about your preferences, concerns, and expectations before the procedure is crucial. I always encourage my clients to bring photos of eyebrow styles they admire, which gives me a clearer idea of what they’re aiming for. And if you’re unsure about anything, ask! I find that clients who are active participants in their consultation often leave with the brows they wanted all along.
3. Incorrect Colour Or Shape Choices
Eyebrow tattoo colour and shape can be tricky, especially when it comes to selecting the right pigment for your skin tone. One of the most common complaints I hear is when the pigment fades into an undesirable hue, like red, orange, or even blue.
This happens for a couple of reasons. Firstly, most brow pigments are made from iron oxides or synthetic compounds, and the way the body metabolises certain pigments can cause the colour to shift. For instance, I’ve seen carbon-based black pigments fade to grey or blue, and older red-toned pigments sometimes turn an orange hue over time. But it’s not just the pigment choice that matters—it’s also about how well the pigment is applied.
The depth at which the pigment is implanted plays a significant role in how the colour heals. If the pigment is placed too deep, it can spread in the skin, causing the colour to look blurry or discoloured. If it’s too shallow, the pigment won’t hold, and the brow will fade more quickly.
If you’ve ever had a botched eyebrow tattoo, you know how much the colour change can affect the overall look. It’s all about finding that sweet spot with both the right pigment and the right depth.
Skin Types And Healing Issues
How Skin Type Affects Tattooed Eyebrow Colour?
I’ve worked with clients from all walks of life, and one thing I’ve learned is how much skin type impacts eyebrow tattoo results. Oily skin can push pigment out of the skin, causing it to blur and fade faster. On the other hand, dry skin tends to hold pigment better, resulting in a more defined, lasting colour.
I recall a client, Sarah, who had very oily skin and was disappointed when her brows seemed to blur just a few months after her tattoo session. In cases like hers, I recommend powder brows or ombré shading for better retention on oily skin types, as these techniques create a more diffused, softer finish that holds up longer.
Improper Aftercare: The Importance Of Following Instructions
This is where many people go wrong: they neglect aftercare or don’t follow it as strictly as needed. Aftercare is crucial in the healing process and can make or break the longevity of your eyebrow tattoo.
I’ve seen clients who picked at their scabs during healing, which caused their brows to fade unevenly or even led to infections. Picking at scabs can not only interfere with the healing process, but it also opens the door for bacteria, which can lead to infection. I always remind my clients not to touch their brows while they heal, and if there’s any doubt about the healing process, to come in for a follow-up rather than risk making the situation worse.
In addition to scabbing, factors like sun exposure and sweating can also impact the results. For example, a client who spends a lot of time outdoors without protecting their brows from the sun is likely to see faster fading. The UV rays break down pigments, which leads to faster discolouration and fading.
As someone who’s been in the cosmetic tattooing industry for over 21 years, I’ve seen my fair share of eyebrow tattoos that didn’t go as planned. Whether it’s the dreaded “blocky” look or a tattoo that fades into an unexpected colour, these mistakes happen more often than most people realise. And while there’s no shortage of advice out there, it helps to understand exactly why things can go wrong—and more importantly, how they can be fixed.
Common Causes Of Eyebrow Tattoo Mistakes
1. Unqualified Or Inexperienced Artists
One of the most significant factors in why tattooed eyebrows go wrong is the artist’s skill (or lack thereof). I’ve met clients who came to me after seeing an artist who wasn’t experienced enough in eyebrow tattoos, and the results were less than ideal. Uneven brows, mismatched colours, and incorrect placement are all too common when an artist doesn’t have the necessary expertise. Unfortunately, I’ve seen clients who chose their artists based solely on a good deal or price, only to end up with brows that didn’t reflect their vision at all.
I can’t stress this enough: just because someone offers cheap prices doesn’t mean they know what they’re doing. It’s essential to find an artist with solid training, a proven track record, and a portfolio that speaks to their skill level.
2. Poor Communication Between Artist And Client
A common pitfall I’ve encountered over the years is the miscommunication that can happen between an artist and client. You’d be surprised at how many clients have different expectations about eyebrow shapes, colours, and intensities. I’ve had clients come in with brow designs that were far from what they imagined, simply because they hadn’t communicated their wishes clearly enough during the consultation. That’s why I always insist on a thorough consultation and pre-drawing to make sure we’re on the same page.
A clear and honest discussion about your preferences, concerns, and expectations before the procedure is crucial. I always encourage my clients to bring photos of eyebrow styles they admire, which gives me a clearer idea of what they’re aiming for. And if you’re unsure about anything, ask! I find that clients who are active participants in their consultation often leave with the brows they wanted all along.
3. Incorrect Colour Or Shape Choices
Eyebrow tattoo colour and shape can be tricky, especially when it comes to selecting the right pigment for your skin tone. One of the most common complaints I hear is when the pigment fades into an undesirable hue, like red, orange, or even blue.
This happens for a couple of reasons. Firstly, most brow pigments are made from iron oxides or synthetic compounds, and the way the body metabolises certain pigments can cause the colour to shift. For instance, I’ve seen carbon-based black pigments fade to grey or blue, and older red-toned pigments sometimes turn an orange hue over time. But it’s not just the pigment choice that matters—it’s also about how well the pigment is applied.
The depth at which the pigment is implanted plays a significant role in how the colour heals. If the pigment is placed too deep, it can spread in the skin, causing the colour to look blurry or discoloured. If it’s too shallow, the pigment won’t hold, and the brow will fade more quickly.
If you’ve ever had a botched eyebrow tattoo, you know how much the colour change can affect the overall look. It’s all about finding that sweet spot with both the right pigment and the right depth.
Temporary Cosmetic Fixes For Eyebrow Tattoo Issues
While some eyebrow tattoo problems require professional attention, there are several temporary solutions to improve the appearance of your brows in the meantime. Whether you’re waiting for a touch-up or need to correct unevenness, makeup and other non-invasive fixes can help.
Filling In And Adjusting Your Tattooed Eyebrows With Makeup
If your tattooed eyebrows are faded, uneven, or in need of a little extra definition, makeup can be your best friend. I always recommend using eyebrow pencils, powders, or pomades to fill in any sparse spots or adjust the shape temporarily. These tools work wonders for giving your brows a more defined and natural appearance, especially when you need to adjust uneven areas.
|
Issue |
Solution |
Recommended Product |
|
Faded tattooed eyebrows |
Fill in with a pencil or powder to create a fuller look |
Brow pencils, powders, pomades |
|
Uneven brows |
Define one brow more to balance out the shape |
Brow pencils with precision tips |
|
Discoloured tattooed brows |
Apply a colour-correcting brow gel or pencil to neutralise unwanted tones |
Colour-correcting brow gel, tinted brow gels |
|
Too dark or blocky brows |
Use a concealer to soften and shape |
Concealer for brow shaping |
Concealing Techniques
If you find that the tattooed eyebrows are too dark or the shape isn’t quite right, concealing can help adjust the overall look. A concealer can be applied around the edges of the brows to make them appear smaller or more defined. I’ve used this technique on clients who felt their brows were too bold or “blocky.” By gently applying a concealer along the edges of the brows, I was able to soften the harsh lines, giving them a more natural appearance.
Lightening And Concealing Eyebrow Tattoos
In some cases, clients may feel that their eyebrow tattoos have turned out too dark. While this can happen during the initial healing phase, sometimes it remains even after the brows have fully healed. To temporarily lighten the appearance of your brows, you can use a lighter brow mascara or brow gel.
Applying a light brow mascara can help tone down the darkness and create a more natural gradient from the start of the brow to the tail. It’s a subtle and effective fix if you’re not ready for professional intervention but need to adjust the look for a while.
Final Considerations For Eyebrow Tattoo Fixes
When it comes to fixing tattooed eyebrows, it’s important to have realistic expectations and know when to opt for temporary solutions versus permanent fixes. Some clients may find that the tattoo isn’t what they wanted, while others might encounter complications with the healing process. Understanding your options and working with the right professionals will make all the difference.
When To Consider Eyebrow Tattoo Removal Instead Of Correction?
In some cases, eyebrow tattoo removal is the best option. If the tattoo has faded poorly, the colour has turned an undesirable shade, or the shape is irreparably off, then starting fresh might be the way to go. I’ve had clients who experienced significant colour shifts, where no amount of correction could get the brow back to its original design. In these cases, I recommend removal before attempting further corrections.
Temporary Versus Permanent Removal Solutions
It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of both temporary and permanent removal solutions:
|
Solution |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Saline or Glycolic Acid Removal |
Non-invasive, less costly than laser |
Requires multiple sessions for noticeable results. May cause skin irritation |
|
Laser Removal |
Highly effective, breaks down pigment completely |
Multiple sessions needed, higher cost, slight discomfort during treatment |
|
Temporary Makeup Adjustments |
Quick, easy, low-cost solution for uneven brows |
Not permanent, requires daily application |
Avoid At-Home Tattoo Removal Creams Or Gels
A quick word of caution: I’ve heard of people trying at-home eyebrow tattoo removal creams or gels in an attempt to speed up the process. These can be extremely risky, causing skin damage, infection, and scarring. Always consult with a professional who can guide you through the safest options available.
The Importance Of Choosing The Right Professional For Eyebrow Tattoo Corrections
When you’re dealing with eyebrow tattoo corrections, choosing a professional who has experience with corrections is critical. A technician who is not skilled in correction work may only make the situation worse. I’ve worked with clients who went to cheaper artists or those who didn’t specialise in corrective work, and the results were less than stellar. In the world of eyebrow tattooing, expertise makes all the difference.
During your consultation, make sure the artist thoroughly listens to your concerns, offers suggestions for improvement, and explains the process in detail. Clear communication is key to making sure both parties are on the same page about the expected outcome.
When choosing a professional for eyebrow tattoo corrections, look for someone who:
- Has experience with eyebrow tattoo corrections, specifically
- Offers a clear consultation and mapping process
- Uses high-quality pigments and tools
- Prioritises safety and hygiene protocols
- Is transparent about expected results and timelines.
Tattooed eyebrows are a convenient and long-lasting solution for anyone looking to enhance their brow shape. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, things can go wrong due to a variety of factors, including inexperienced artists, poor aftercare, or improper pigment choices.
Fortunately, there are plenty of options for fixing tattooed eyebrows, from professional touch-ups and colour correction to temporary makeup solutions. With the right guidance, you can restore your brows to their best shape and colour, whether that involves minor adjustments or more advanced correction methods. Just remember to be patient during the healing process and consult with a skilled professional to achieve the brows you’ve always dreamed of.
