If you’ve gone in for permanent eyebrow makeup, you are likely interested in how to get lasting results from microblading. After all, you have made an investment in your appearance, and you’ll want to get your money’s worth. Adorn Cosmetic, a top microblading studio in Oakland, CA, is staffed by trained professionals that are highly experienced with microblading procedures and other forms of permanent makeup. We have advice that can help you prolong your microbladed eyebrows’ longevity.
What is Microblading?
Microblading is an extremely popular permanent makeup procedure for creating fuller and more even eyebrows. Microblading is a fantastic way to achieve beautiful, natural-looking eyebrows with lasting results. The microblading procedure involves a super-fine tool that deposits pigment into the skin. The tool creates strokes that closely resemble individual hairs. The procedure provides a semi-permanent effect distinct from standard cosmetic tattoos, which allows clients to change their brow design over time as trends change and the face ages. There is minimal discomfort during the procedure as we use a topical numbing cream before starting the procedure and add additional numbing while completing the brows.
How Long Does Microblading Last?
While microbladed brows are often referred to as a permanent tattoo, in fact it is more accurately called ‘semi-permanent’. The pigment used in microblading endures a shorter time than in traditional tattoos. Typically, you can expect your eyebrow makeup to last between 12 months and 2 years. Most clients will come in for a touchup at around the 18 month mark to reapply the microblading pigment. There are many variables that can influence the endurance of the pigment, some of which are within an individual’s ability to control, some of which sadly aren’t.
Factors Influencing the Longevity of Microblading
One of the most common questions we receive at Adorn Cosmetic is, "How long does microblading last?" The answer depends on several factors, including skin type, lifestyle, and aftercare.
Oily Skin: Individuals with oily skin may experience faster fading. The excess oil can cause the pigment to break down more quickly, reducing the longevity of the microblading.
Type of pigment used: Microblading pigments are synthetic and have different properties compared to traditional tattoo ink, which is made of iron oxide and is easily dispersible. Unlike tattoo ink, microblading pigments are non-dispersible. Because microblading pigments don't spread as easily, they need to be applied very precisely to ensure they last.
Sun exposure: UV rays can cause the pigment to fade more quickly.
Retinols, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, vitamin C serums, and other acids can be detrimental to the pigment’s integrity. Be careful about using skincare products including lotions, sunscreen, cleansers, and makeup that contain these products. Any products labeled “anti-aging” will contain acids and should not be used on the tattooed brow area.
Regular touch-ups: Scheduling regular touch-up appointments every 12-18 months can help maintain the shape and color of your brows. Touch-ups involve adding more pigment to areas where it may have faded, keeping your brows looking fresh and defined.
Longevity Tips for Microbladed Brows
To keep your treated eyebrows in their best condition, it’s imperative that you follow the aftercare instructions your microblading artist gave you. These include:
Avoid sweating in the brow area in the week or so post-treatment. Intense, sweaty work outs, long hot showers, pools, hot tubs, and saunas, should all be avoided during the healing process
Stay out of direct sunlight in the aftermath of your microblading session. It is important that sun exposure is minimized during the healing process, and using SPF on the brows or covering the face with a hat or visor when you are out in the sun will help keep your brows looking fresh
It’s also strongly advised to avoid dyeing brows during the healing process after microblading. Any makeup deposited on the brows can interfere with the skin’s ability to seal in pigment.
If you smoke, it is a good idea to abstain in the week or so after your microblading, as chemicals in cigarettes and vapes can affect your skin’s ability to heal effectively.
Skin hydration is critical to its healing factor. The more hydrated your skin is, the faster and more effectively it will heal. Drink plenty of water.
After the initial healing period of microblading has passed, there are other factors that can contribute to how fast or slowly the pigment that has been locked into the skin fades over time.
Do not apply eyebrow makeup too vigorously when you’re brow shaping. Gentle strokes that do not disturb the skin are best.
Retinols, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, vitamin C serums, and other acids can be detrimental to the pigment’s integrity. Be careful about using skincare products including lotions, sunscreen, cleansers, and makeup that contain these products. Any products labeled “anti-aging” will contain acids and should not be used on the tattooed brow area.
Oily skin types are not as effective at retaining pigment. Overproduction of sebum (skin oil) can undermine the ability of the pigment to adhere to your skin. To compensate, use skincare products designed to reduce oil buildup. For clients with oily skin, our Nano Brows technique is highly effective, producing lasting results. When you go out, make sure you are using sunscreen to protect your brows (and the rest of your face and neck!).
When you go out, make sure you are using sunscreen to protect your brows (and the rest of your face and neck!).
The Importance of Annual Refresh for Microblading
Even for the most fastidious followers of our after-care instructions, there comes a time when a touch-up is needed. Microblading annual touch-ups, also known as maintenance or refresh appointments, are important to keep your microbladed eyebrows looking their best and for their longevity. Here are several reasons to schedule your annual touch-up:
Normal Color Fading: Over time, the pigment used in microblading can fade, especially if it's exposed to sunlight and other environmental factors. An annual touch-up helps refresh the color and maintain vibrancy.
Natural Skin Regeneration: The skin on your face naturally regenerates over time. As new skin cells replace old ones, the microbladed pigment can become less visible. A touch-up helps reintroduce pigment into the new skin layers.
Maintain Definition: Microblading adds definition and structure to your eyebrows. Annual touch-ups help maintain the crisp lines and hair-like strokes that provide this definition.
Skin Changes: Changes in skin texture, elasticity, and oiliness can affect how microbladed pigment holds in the skin. Annual touch-ups can adapt to these changes.
If you’re interested in eyebrow microblading, you can turn to Adorn Cosmetic for a thoughtful, professional service. We have many satisfied clients who come back again and again for our services. Contact us today to book your Bay Area microblading appointment.