How to Extend the Life of Your Microbladed Brows: Pro Tips for Long-Lasting Results

by | Nov 18, 2017 | Beauty, Lifestyle

Microblading can give you beautifully defined, natural-looking brows that last anywhere from 12 to 18 months. But how can you ensure that your investment lasts as long as possible? By following a few simple tips and making small adjustments to your routine, you can help extend the life of your microbladed brows and keep them looking fresh and vibrant for months.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essential steps you can take to prolong the life of your microblading results.

1. Follow Aftercare Instructions Carefully

The first step in ensuring long-lasting results starts immediately after your microblading session. Your technician will provide you with aftercare instructions, and following them diligently is key to preserving your pigment and overall brow shape.

Key Aftercare Tips:
– Keep your brows dry for the first 7-10 days.
– Avoid touching, picking, or scratching your brows as they heal.
– Apply the aftercare ointment (if recommended) as instructed.
– Stay out of direct sunlight and avoid activities that make you sweat excessively.

By following these guidelines, you give your brows the best chance to heal properly, which lays the foundation for lasting results.

2. Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure

One of the biggest threats to the longevity of your microbladed brows is exposure to the sun. UV rays can break down the pigment in your brows, causing them to fade faster.

How to Protect Your Brows:
– Avoid direct sun exposure, especially during the first few weeks of healing.
– Wear a wide-brimmed hat or large sunglasses to shield your brows from the sun.
– After the healing period, apply a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to your brows when outdoors. Use a gentle, non-comedogenic sunscreen to avoid irritating the skin.

Even after your brows have fully healed, sun protection will go a long way in maintaining the pigment and shape of your brows.

3. Limit Exposure to Water and Sweat

While it’s fine to resume your normal activities after your brows have healed, excessive exposure to water and sweat can still cause the pigment to fade over time.

Ways to Protect Your Brows:
– When swimming, try to avoid submerging your face or rubbing your brows.
– Wear a sweatband or towel to keep sweat from dripping onto your brows during workouts.
– Avoid using harsh cleansers or exfoliating products directly on your brow area.

By taking extra care to keep your brows away from water and sweat, you can help the pigment last longer and maintain its vibrancy.

4. Avoid Skincare Products with Harsh Ingredients

Certain skincare ingredients can fade your microblading pigment if used on or near your brows. Exfoliants, retinoids, and acids (like glycolic acid or salicylic acid) are especially likely to accelerate fading.

Ingredients to Avoid:
– Retinoids (Retin-A, retinol)
– Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)
– Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA)
– Vitamin C serums
– Chemical peels

When applying skincare products, be mindful of your brow area. Use a gentle cleanser on your face and avoid applying any treatments or serums directly to your brows.

5. Schedule Regular Touch-Ups

Even with the best care, microblading is a semi-permanent procedure, and the pigment will naturally fade over time. To keep your brows looking fresh and defined, schedule touch-up appointments as needed.

Most people find that a touch-up every 12-18 months keeps their brows looking perfect. During these touch-ups, your technician will fill in any faded areas and can even make adjustments to the shape or color, ensuring your brows stay on point.

6. Avoid Excessive Exfoliation in the Brow Area

Frequent exfoliation can thin the top layer of skin where the microblading pigment is deposited, leading to faster fading. Whether it’s from scrubs, chemical peels, or harsh facial treatments, exfoliation can wear down the skin and take the pigment with it.

Tips to Protect Your Brows:
– Be gentle when washing your face, especially around your brow area.
– Skip the brow area when using exfoliating scrubs or acids on your face.
– Opt for gentle facial treatments if you’re prone to regular skincare treatments.

By minimising exfoliation in the brow area, you help preserve the pigment and ensure that your brows stay defined and vibrant.

7. Stay Hydrated and Keep Your Skin Moisturised

Healthy skin is essential for the longevity of your microblading results. Keeping your skin hydrated helps retain the pigment and prevents your brows from fading too quickly.

Skincare Tips for Hydration:
– Drink plenty of water daily to keep your skin and brows hydrated from within.
– Use a gentle, non-greasy moisturiser on your face to keep your skin nourished.
– Avoid heavy, oil-based products on the brow area, as they can break down the pigment over time.

Hydrated skin heals better, holds onto pigment longer, and helps maintain the overall appearance of your brows.

8. Be Mindful of Your Lifestyle

Certain lifestyle habits can affect the longevity of your microblading results. Activities like smoking, excessive sun exposure, and exposure to pollution can cause your brows to fade more quickly.

Tips for a Brow-Friendly Lifestyle:
– Quit or reduce smoking, as it can negatively impact your skin’s health and the retention of pigment.
– Stay out of tanning beds and minimise sun exposure as much as possible.
– Practice a consistent skincare routine that promotes healthy, hydrated skin.

Making small adjustments to your lifestyle can have a big impact on how long your microbladed brows last.

Final Thoughts

Microblading can give you beautiful, low-maintenance brows, but it’s up to you to take care of them to ensure long-lasting results. By following these pro tips—protecting your brows from the sun, limiting exposure to water, avoiding harsh skincare ingredients, and scheduling regular touch-ups—you can keep your brows looking flawless for as long as possible.

Want to keep your brows looking their best? Schedule your touch-up appointment or consultation with Sadie Hancock today!