Achieving perfectly shaped, defined brows has never been easier thanks to permanent makeup techniques like microblading and hyperrealism.
However, the initial skin healing phase can sometimes be a rollercoaster of emotions. You might be surprised by some swelling and a darker-than-expected pigment shade. But fear not! This is a completely normal part of the process.
Swelling and Darkening: The Initial Phase
Having recently received permanent makeup brows, you might be experiencing some swelling and a darkening of the pigment. Sometimes called “Brow Shock Syndrome”, this is a common reaction.
The body’s reaction to microblading will vary person to person - having a healthy skin barrier will significantly hasten healing time.
Much also depends on the permanent makeup method and how heavy your brow artist has been. Going too heavy is a common mistake with inexperienced artists, resulting in more noticeable swelling.
During this initial phase, your body works hard to heal the micro-pigmentation sites. Here’s what’s happening:
Redness and Swelling: Slight swelling around the brows is a normal inflammatory response by your body to the microblading process, as the first step towards healing. Redness and heat are caused by increased blood flow, whilst swelling is the result of the increased movement of fluid and white blood cells into the area. It typically subsides within a few days.
Pigment Oxidation: The pigment may appear darker than intended immediately after the procedure. The pigment oxidises as it heals within the skin, settling to its final shade after a few weeks.
Following Aftercare Instructions is the Key
For optimal healing and to prevent complications like scabbing, diligently follow your artist’s aftercare instructions. These might include:
Gently cleansing: Cleanse the brow area with a damp cotton pad and a gentle cleanser, as instructed by your artist, typically for the first three days.
Moisturising: Apply a recommended skin healing product, such as a skin jelly, for the first few days to weeks, depending on the artist’s guidance.
Wet Healing vs. Volcano Healing
Your artist might encourage “wet healing.” This method involves keeping the brows slightly moist with recommended aftercare products, promoting a more even and controlled healing process, likened to an “iceberg effect” – healing occurs beneath the surface without scabbing. Conversely, “volcano healing” refers to scabbing, which can disrupt pigment retention and lead to uneven results.
Shrinking and Softening: The Transformation Begins
As your brows heal, you might notice the hair strokes shrinking in size and the colour softening. As swelling subsides, the initial boldness of the pigment settles. Some hair strokes may seem to disappear entirely - hence why a touch-up appointment is needed.
The Importance of the Touch-Up Appointment
The touch-up appointment, typically scheduled a minimum of 6-weeks to a maximum of 8-weeks after the initial procedure, serves several purposes:
Perfecting the Results: This appointment allows the artist to assess how your skin has retained the pigment. They can address any areas that may have faded completely and refine the overall shape or colour.
Colour Adjustment: Based on your preferences, the artist can slightly adjust the colour to make it darker, warmer, or lighter.
Reinforcing Strokes: The touch-up strengthens existing hair strokes to enhance longevity.
Client Input: This appointment is also your chance to communicate any desired adjustments to shape or style.
The Art of Brow Perfection
Think of the touch-up appointment as adding the finishing touches to a piece of art. The artist refines symmetry, adjusts colour for optimal results, and incorporates your feedback to create perfect brows.
Rare Cases and Long-Term Maintenance
In rare instances, a third touch-up might be necessary. After the initial healing period (1-2 weeks), you can use brow makeup products like powders, pencils, pomades, or waxes to address minor imperfections until your touch-up appointment.
With your newfound understanding of the healing process and by following aftercare instructions, you can expect beautiful, long-lasting permanent makeup brows.
Trust your artist’s expertise and embrace the journey of achieving your perfect arches!