Why Are My Microbladed Eyebrows So Dark at First?

Microblading eyebrows is a semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo procedure that enhances the appearance of your brows by creating hair-like strokes with microblading pigments. If you’ve just had your brows microbladed, you may be surprised how dark they look. Don’t worry—this is normal! Here’s why your microbladed brows look darker in the first few days and what to expect during the entire healing process.

The Darker Look

1. Pigment Oxidation When the microblading pigments are first implanted into the skin, they oxidise when exposed to air and the colour of the brows looks darker than expected. This is a temporary phase. Many of our clients who get cosmetic eyebrow tattoos in Brisbane experience this as part of their healing journey.
2. Scabbing and Healing In the first week your brows will start to form scabs or a light film as part of the healing process. This makes the pigment look more intense before the scabs naturally flake off and the colour underneath is revealed. If you’re considering a Microblading course, understanding this process is key to guiding your clients effectively.
3. Swelling and Skin Trauma Immediately after the initial microblading session, there may be minor swelling and redness making the brows look more prominent. The skin’s natural healing response may also make the pigment look more concentrated. Many of our clients who get an eyeliner tattoo in Melbourne notice a similar temporary darkening effect.
4. Ink Retention and Absorption Your skin will hold onto a lot of pigment initially and as your body regenerates and settles the ink into the skin layers. Different skin types (oily skin, dry skin, combination skin) will heal differently. The eyebrow hair will adjust as the pigments settle.
5. Skin Type and External Factors Microblading is different for everyone depending on individual factors such as skin type, lifestyle and experience with microblading. Some people with dry skin may find the pigment retains better, while those with oily skin may find it fades faster due to skin cells regenerating quickly.

Healing

The healing process has multiple stages which is why understanding the brow routine post-procedure is key.

• Days 1-5: Your brows will look very dark due to oxidation and minor swelling. This can be frustrating but it’s part of the healing brow phase.* Days 6-10: Scabbing and peeling occur, and brows look patchy or flaky. Clients will see individual brow hairs look uneven during this period.
• Days 10-14: Pigment lightens as healing progresses. Brows will look more natural.
• Week 4-6: True color sets in after full healing. A top-up session may be needed to perfect the brow shape and brow arch.

Aftercare

Aftercare is crucial for the best results. Follow aftercare instructions from your microblading artist and everything will be smooth sailing.

• No excessive moisture and direct sun to prevent pigment fade.
• Don’t pick at scabs or you’ll ruin your microblading or have uneven healing.
• Use an aftercare ointment or cream recommended by your brow artist to help the pigment.
• No harsh treatments like deep skin peels or chemical treatments during the healing process.
• Be patient—brows will fade to their intended shade over time so trust the process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Inexperienced microbladers or clients who don’t follow aftercare may experience bad microblading results. Here are things to avoid:

• Not getting the follow-up microblading – A touch-up is necessary to refine the brow design and address any inconsistencies.
• Overwashing the brows post procedure – Excess water can cause premature pigment loss.
• Using makeup too soon – Don’t apply brow gel, dark brow markers or makeup routines that may interfere with healing.
• Choosing a cheap microblading artist – Aesthetic treatments like permanent makeup require experienced microbladers to get good results.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the microblading process, aftercare and choosing an experienced microblading artist is key to happy brow results. Avoid the microblading dilemma by doing your research. If you’re getting microblading for the first time, consult a trusted microblading artist or celebrity brow artist to get high-quality Microblading services.

With the right approach, your instant brows will turn into natural, long-lasting beauty, and the benefits of microblading are worth it! Your individual brow hairs will look fuller and your entire healing process will result in beautifully shaped brows that enhance your natural hair growth and facial features.

FAQ

How long will my brows look too dark?

They will look dark for about 2 weeks then start to fade as part of the healing process.

Can I lighten my brows if they look too dark?

Do not use lightening products. The color will fade on its own over time. If needed, adjustments can be made at your follow-up microblading appointment.

Why do my brows look patchy during healing?

Scabbing and flaking are normal during the healing process. The pigment will settle after 4 weeks and your brows will be fuller.

What should I avoid after microblading?

No swimming, sweating, sun exposure and no brow sculpting products or labour-intensive brow treatments for at least 10 days.

When should I get a touch-up?

A touch-up is typically done 4-6 weeks after the initial microblading service to fine-tune the brow design and color.