Microblading eyebrows has become a popular semi-permanent eyebrow enhancement technique that gives natural looking fuller brows. But many clients are shocked when they see their freshly microbladed brows looking much darker than expected. If you’re wondering why this is, don’t worry – it’s totally normal! Here’s why your microbladed brows look so dark at first and what to expect during the healing process.
1. The Pigment Looks Darker Before It Heals
When the microblading procedure is first done, the pigment sits on the surface of the skin and looks much more concentrated and intense. The colour looks darker because the fresh pigment hasn’t settled into the skin yet. Plus, lymph fluid, pigment particles and oxidation contribute to the temporary darkening. Many clients worry their microblading brows will stay too dark, but this is just part of the healing process.
2. Scabbing and Oxidation Makes Brows Look Darker
In the first few days post-procedure, the tiny hair-like strokes may start to scab as part of the healing process. As the skin starts to heal, oxidation occurs and makes the pigment look even darker. This stage lasts about a week but please don’t pick at the scabs as this can cause premature fading and patchy healing. The scabs correspond to the healing process, so be patient.
3. The Skin’s Natural Exfoliation
After about a week, the excess pigment on the skin’s surface starts to flake off naturally. This exfoliation lightens the brows significantly and you’ll see a much softer and more natural looking colour underneath. Many clients even feel their brows look too light after this stage but the color pigments will resurface as the skin fully heals.
4. The Final Color Takes Time to Develop
Microblading results aren’t immediate. The final colour will develop after 4-6 weeks as the pigment integrates with the skin. Initially the pigment is deposited in the upper layers of the skin and as your skin heals and regenerates the color softens and blends in more naturally with your complexion. Over time brows adjust to a more natural look. If you feel your microblading brows have faded too much, a touch up session can help.
5. Everyone’s Skin Heals Differently
Your skin type, age and aftercare can all impact how your microblading heals. Oily skin types may fade faster, dry skin may retain pigment better. If you have combination skin or atypical skin, your results may vary. Follow the aftercare instructions given by your microblader is key to optimal healing and color retention.
6. Cosmetic Treatments and Skincare Affects Healing
Certain factors such as cosmetic treatments like chemical treatments, facial products and poor aftercare can affect the healing process. Using chlorinated pool water or abrasive products may ruin your microblading or botch your microblading. Avoid blood thinners before your initial microblading session for better results. If you’re getting other cosmetic tattoo procedures, make sure your skin is fully healed first.
How to Deal with the Darker Phase
- Be patient – It’s normal and will fade over time.
- Don’t pick or touch – Let the scabbing and healing process happen naturally to prevent pigment loss.
- Follow aftercare instructions – Use a cotton swab to apply the aftercare ointment as directed and keep your brows dry, no warm water and no excessive sweating for 10 days.
- Trust the process – The full healing cycle takes 6 weeks and any touch up will refine the final look.
7. When to Get Touch-Ups or Adjustments
A touch up is usually needed after 6-8 weeks to refine the color and shape. If you have a bad experience, bad shape or unexpected brow tinting, consult your microblader. If you have poor pigment retention you may need additional microblading pigments or a second microblading session for beautiful long lasting brows. If you have previous eyebrow tattoos that you’re not happy with, you may consider cosmetic eyebrow tattoo removal before microblading.
8. Solutions for Microblading Problems
If you’re not happy with the results, laser treatments or saline solution removal can fix botched microblading. Speak to a board certified dermatologist or an expert eyebrow tattooist to get guidance on the correct treatments. If you’re in Australia, laser tattoo removal Melbourne clinics can remove or lighten old eyebrow tattoos before a new microblading session.
Final Thoughts
If your microbladed eyebrows seem too dark after the procedure don’t freak out. This is part of the healing process and the color will fade to a more natural shade within the next few weeks. Always communicate with your microblading artist if you have concerns and remember patience is key to getting beautifully healed, natural looking brows. By following proper care and aftercare instructions you can have amazing brows that enhance your beauty routine for 9-12 months or up to 12-14 months!
FAQ
How long will my microblading stay dark?
Your brows will be dark for about 5-7 days before they start to fade as part of the healing process.
Can I lighten my brows if they are too dark?
Yes you can lighten them with saline solution removal or laser tattoo removal but it’s best to wait until the healing process is complete before making a decision.
What if my eyebrow tattoos are uneven after healing?
Uneven healing is common. A touch up session after 6-8 weeks will help correct any colour or shape inconsistencies.
Can I wear makeup over my microbladed brows while they heal?
No, don’t apply makeup to the treated area for at least 10 days to prevent infection and premature pigment fade.
How often should I get touch ups for my microblading?
Most clients need a touch up every 9-12 months to maintain their desired brow shape and colour.