Eyebrow Aftercare: A Step by Step Healing Guide

Once your appointment is over, how your brows heal decides how they look. This guide follows Val’s aftercare instructions for microblading, powder brows, nano brows and combo brows, from the evening of your appointment through about 8 weeks of healing. Follow each step carefully for the best result. If you are still getting ready for your appointment, start with our guide to preparing for your permanent makeup appointment.

Eyebrow Aftercare at a Glance

The Evening of Your Appointment

Later that evening, take a clean, damp piece of paper towel and apply gentle pressure to the treated area for 1 minute. This lifts away lymph that has built up on the surface. Press gently and do not rub.

The First 24 Hours

For the first 24 hours, avoid working out, tanning, facial treatments and spas. Do not touch or clean the treated area. Keep your hands away from your brows and plan a quiet day.

After 24 Hours: Gentle Daily Cleansing

Once the first 24 hours have passed, you can start gently washing the area once a day with a mild cleanser. Do not scrub, and do not use any product that contains exfoliants.

Your First 7 Days: Antibiotic Cream

Apply an antibiotic cream such as Polysporin to your brows once a day for up to 7 days. Val will confirm what to use at your appointment.

What Healing Looks Like: Flaking, Color Loss and Color Changes

During healing, your brows will flake, lose some color and change color. This is normal. The color moves through stages, going from dark to light, before it settles into its intended shade. Do not pick or scratch flaking skin, and avoid judging your results in the first weeks.

If you are wondering whether something you see is normal, read Is This Normal? Flaking, Color Change and Fading.

Weeks 1 to 8: Protect Your Color

Until you are fully healed, about 8 weeks, avoid Retin A and any strong skincare products on or near your brows. Do not apply sunscreen to the area or use exfoliants for at least 8 weeks. Wear a hat in strong sun. After 8 weeks, sunscreen is recommended.

Once you are healed, see How Long Does Permanent Makeup Last? for tips on keeping your color looking fresh.

Your 4 Week Touch Up

Permanent makeup is built in stages. Around 4 weeks after your first appointment, a 4 Week Brow Touch Up lets Val refine your shape and color once the initial healing has settled. Learn more in Why You Need a 4 Week Touch Up and What a Yearly Refresh Does.

After Healing: Keep Your Brows Fresh

Book a Yearly Brow Touch Up to keep your brows looking crisp and natural year after year.

When to Contact Val

If something does not look or feel right, contact Val at 902-497-7392 or through our contact page. If you notice increasing pain, swelling, spreading redness or discharge, contact Val right away, and see your doctor if you are worried about infection.

Thinking About Brows?

Not sure which style suits you? Read Microblading vs Nano vs Powder vs Combo Brows. When you are ready, book an Initial Eyebrow Appointment, or start with a Personalized Consultation to talk it through with Val.

Frequently Asked Questions about eyebrows care

How long do eyebrows take to heal after microblading?Full healing takes about 8 weeks. Along the way your brows flake, lose some color and change color, going from dark to light before settling into their intended shade.

Can I wash my face after microblading?For the first 24 hours, do not touch or clean the area. After that, wash gently once a day with a mild cleanser, with no scrubbing and no products that contain exfoliants.

Can I wear sunscreen on my brows after microblading?Not on the treated area for at least 8 weeks. After 8 weeks, sunscreen is recommended.

Is it normal for my brows to flake and lose color?Yes. Flaking, loss of color and color changes are a normal part of healing.

Ready to wake up flawless? Book your appointment online, or call 902-497-7392.HD Beauty by Val, 1175 Bedford Highway, Bedford, NS