Microblading Aftercare Tips: Healing Process Explained

Following proper microblading aftercare helps brows heal evenly, prevents complications, and allows pigment to settle correctly. Healing takes about 30 days, during which you will notice darkening, flaking, fading, and a gradual return of colour. Consistent daily care and avoiding irritation during this stage reduce patchiness, infection risk, and early fading. You will need a touch-up in 4 to 8 weeks to refine colour and shape once the skin has fully recovered.

In this guide, you will learn the healing stages of microblading, aftercare tips, what to avoid, and when touch-up is necessary. 

If you have questions during healing or want professional guidance, contact Alternative Laser Health at (905) 451-4545, or send us a photo for a free consultation. We are located at 37 Dundas Street West, Mississauga, ON.

Microblading Aftercare Instructions (Day by Day)

Below is a table summarizing what to expect after microblading, what to do, and what to avoid. 

Day Range	What to Expect	What to Do	What to Avoid
Day 1	Dark colour, mild swelling, tenderness	Gently blot if instructed, keep brows clean and dry	Touching, sweating, water
Days 2–3	Tightness, dryness, light flaking	Apply approved aftercare ointment and cream sparingly	Scratching, soaking, makeup
Days 4–7	Scabbing and visible fading	Let scabs fall off naturally	Picking, exfoliating products
Days 8–14	Light or patchy colour	Continue gentle care, limit sun exposure	Direct sun, active skincare
Days 15–30	Colour returning and settling	Resume normal routine gradually	Harsh treatments near the brows

The Microblading Healing Process 

Brows heal in stages over about 30 days, starting dark, then flaking and fading before colour gradually returns. These changes are normal and part of the healing process.

Day 1: Fresh Brows and Initial Darkness

Brows appear darker, sharper, and more defined. However, you will notice mild redness, swelling, and tenderness, which are common at this stage. 

Days 2 - 3: Tightness and Early Flaking

The skin may feel tight, dry, or slightly itchy as healing begins. Light flakes can appear along the strokes. The colour may still look dark, but edges start to soften as the skin repairs itself.

Days 4 - 7: Scabbing and Fading

Small scabs form and fall off naturally. You will notice the colour fading during this phase. It may look uneven and patchy. This is a normal response as excess pigment lifts from the skin.

Days 8 - 14: Ghosting Phase

During this stage, your eyebrows will appear very light or seem to disappear in many areas. Pigment will still be present, but temporarily hidden under the new skin. This is normal and nothing to worry about. 

Days 15 - 30: Colour Return and Settling

Colour gradually returns and becomes more even. The tone softens, and the shape looks more natural. By the end of this stage, results are mostly visible, though minor changes can still occur.

What to Avoid During the Healing Period

Avoid the following as you heal:

• Getting brows wet (swimming, steam rooms, saunas, long hot showers)

• Heavy sweating or intense exercise

• Touching, rubbing, or picking at the area

• Makeup or skincare products near the brows

• Exfoliants, retinoids, acids, or facial oils

• Direct sun exposure and tanning beds

• Facial treatments or chemical services near the brows

Signs of Infection or Poor Healing

Mild swelling and redness after microblading are common. You will also see light flakes, tenderness, and mild itching. However, contact your artist or seek medical care if you notice:

• Increasing redness or swelling

• Warmth around the brow area

• Yellow or green discharge

• Severe or worsening pain

• Thick scabbing or oozing

• Fever or flu-like symptoms

Microblading Touch-Up Timeline

Below is when you should consider a microblading touch-up:

• 4 - 8 weeks after the initial session: The first touch-up is scheduled once skin has fully healed. This appointment adjusts colour, fills in areas where pigment faded, and improves overall balance.

• 6 - 12 months after the touch-up: A maintenance visit may be needed as colour softens over time due to skin type, sun exposure, and skincare habits.

• 12 - 24 months: Some clients choose a refresh to maintain definition and shape as pigment continues to fade naturally.

Tips to Extend Your Microblading Results

Follow the tips below to extend your microblading results:

• Apply sunscreen to the brow area once fully healed to protect the colour from fading

• Use gentle creams and a light moisturizer around the brows 

• Avoid exfoliants, acids, and retinoids near the brow area, as they can break down pigment

• Limit prolonged exposure to water, including swimming and frequent soaking

• Keep skincare products away from the brow area unless approved by your artist

• Follow recommended touch-up timing to maintain shape and colour

Care Properly for Long-Lasting Results

Temporary changes in colour and texture after the microblading session are normal. However, avoid irritants during the first few weeks to help results settle evenly. Giving skin time to heal before assessing results leads to better colour retention and smoother healing overall.

If you are considering microblading in Missaissauga, have questions about healing, or want guidance on touch-ups, contact Alternative Laser Health at (905) 451-4545. Our certified eyebrow artists will assess your skin and recommend the next steps based on your skin and goals.

FAQs

What not to do after microblading?

Avoid getting the brow area wet, sweating heavily, picking at scabs, or applying makeup and active skincare products until healing is complete. 

Is itching after microblading normal?

Mild itching is common during healing and indicates that the skin is repairing itself. Avoid scratching, as this can pull out pigment and slow healing.

Can I use balm after microblading?

Use only the balm or aftercare ointment recommended by your artist and apply it sparingly. Overuse can clog pores and slow healing.

When can I use sunscreen after microblading?

Apply sunscreen once the skin has fully healed and there is no flaking or scabbing. Sunscreen protects colour from fading over time. 

Can I shower after microblading?

Avoid getting brows wet during the first several days. When showering, keep the area dry and avoid steam until healing is complete.

Why do I have dry skin on my brows during healing?

Dry skin is common as the area heals and sheds excess pigment. Tightness and light flaking usually improve as the skin recovers.

How should I use an ointment during healing?

Use only the ointment recommended by your artist and apply a thin layer as directed. Too much ointment can block airflow and slow healing.