Why is My Microblading Fading?
It is natural and normal for permanent makeup to fade over time due to several reasons such as exposure to sunlight, use of certain skincare products, and natural skin exfoliation. However, the rate of fading can vary depending on individual factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and the quality of the initial application. We recommend scheduling a touch-up appointment every 1-2 years to maintain the desired look. If you are experiencing excessive fading, consult with a licensed permanent makeup artist for advice.
Below, I will further break down the reasons your Microblading may be fading.
Bleeding During the Treatment
Bleeding is 100% normal when having your eyebrows Microbladed. However, too much blood can impact the way the pigment heals in the skin. The blood can ultimately push the pigment out of the skin while the artist is trying to implant it and therefore, the pigment won’t settle correctly and you could end up with little to no pigment in the skin once healed. An excess amount of bleeding can also cause the strokes to heal blurry and the pigment to turn ashy. Excess bleeding can be caused by a few factors such as the artist pressing too hard in to your skin, having drank caffeine the day of the appointment and/or alcohol within 24 hours of the appointment, or being on blood thinners at the time of the appointment (this includes having taken Advil, Tylenol, etc… prior to the appointment). There, if you are going to get your brows Microbladed, or any permanent makeup for that matter, be sure to steer clear of alcohol for 24 hours, save the caffeine for after the appointment and consult your artist if you are on any type of blood thinners.
Oily Skin
Oily skin is not an ideal skin type for Microbladed eyebrows. If one has skin on the more oilier side, their best option is to have their brows Shaded, as opposed to Microbladed. Oily skin, similar to excess bleeding, will push the pigment out of the skin and not allow it to heal properly. It can also blur the pigment in the skin. Microshading is a better option because the needle gets a bit deeper and creates more of a makeup look so the client will not have to worry about the strokes (meant to mimic real hair) blurring.
Anti-Aging and Acne Products
It is very important that you consult with your artist about what your skin care regimen is prior to booking a Microblading appointment. They will likely have you stop using certain products for a few weeks before you have your brows done and for a few weeks after. A few products to be aware of are: retinols, glycolic acid, Retin-A, etc… Also, if you have to have been off of Acutane for at least one year prior to having your brows Microbladed.
Sun/UV Light
The sun will fade your eyebrows fairly quickly. It’s important that you treat your facial permanent makeup like you would a body tattoo and apply sunscreen to it any time that you will be out in the sun for longer periods. This is a great sunscreen to keep in your purse and roll over your brows when you are planning on being outside, exposing your brows to the sun.
If you have fading that seems premature and you are concerned, don’t be nervous to reach back out to your artist and ask what could be causing it. Everyone’s skin is different so your experience is likely not like your best friend’s. So, find an experienced artist, ask the best ways you should prepare for your appointment, stop using your anti aging/anti acne products at least 2 weeks prior to your appointment, and buy a good sunscreen.