Microblading can give you the bushy brows of your dreams. But alas, they fade away over time — meaning microblading doesn’t last forever.

How long does microblading eyebrows last?

Microblading usually lasts for 18 to 30 months. The exact results depend on your skin type, aftercare routine, and the type of pigment used during the procedure.

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For the inside scoop on all things microblading, we talked to New Jersey-based brow expert Dana McAndrew. McAndrew is board certified by the American Academy of Micropigmentation (AAM), she’s Li-FT Removal and Emergency Removal-certified, and she’s a Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP) Technician member. So, it’s safe to say she really knows her stuff!

Here’s how long microblading results really last. Plus some top-notch aftercare tips to help keep your brows stylish for as long as possible.

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Microblading is a semipermanent cosmetic procedure. That means it’ll last a long time — about 18 to 30 months — but not forever. Here’s how it works.

The treatment is a two-step process. During the initial sesh, your practitioner will use ultra thin blades to make tiny incisions into your skin. Then they deposit pigment into the incisions to create a full, realistic brow. You go back 6 to 8 weeks later for another treatment. This will help extend the life of your results.

“With both sessions and healing time, the final and best results will be seen in about 3 months,” says McAndrew.

But you’re not done after the initial treatment. Most folks get microblading touch-ups once a year to keep their brows in style.

During a touch-up, your practitioner will refill the pigment. Think of it like getting your roots done without dyeing the rest of your hair.

“To maintain the hair stroke appearance of microblading, you want the pigment to be almost completely faded out or at least 60% to 70% faded before having more pigment deposited by microblading,” says McAndrew. “This is because if the brows become oversaturated with pigment, the hair strokes will merge and blur together, leaving an undesirable result.”

Folks with oily or combination skin might not get the same results as dry skin types.

“Microblading is not recommended for those with very oily skin because the oils in the skin cause the pigment strokes to heal much thicker in the skin than those with normal to dry skin,” says McAndrew.

She also notes that the results can fade faster in folks with oily skin.

Let your practitioner know if you have any skin concerns before your treatment. Some examples include psoriasis, eczema, skin allergies, or very sensitive skin. They can give you a detailed guide on what to expect.

Microblading can get pretty pricey. Here are some things to keep in mind before you get your blade on.

  • Microblading treatments can cost between $250 and $1,000.
  • Touch-ups are usually about half the price of the full procedure. So, if you spend $500 for the initial session, expect to pay around $250 to $300 for a refill.
  • While insurance prob won’t foot the bill, it doesn’t hurt to ask. Certain medical conditions, treatments, or medications that make your eyebrows fall out might be covered under a health savings account (HSA).

Pro tip: Ask your practitioner if they offer newbie or seasonal discounts.

Most peeps make a full recovery 10 to 14 days after a microblading sesh. But it can take up to a month for the color to fully settle.

PSA: Ignoring the right aftercare rules can extend your recovery time. So, be sure to follow your practitioner’s post-procedure advice. That means no scab picking, fam!

These treatment tips can help keep your brows looking bomb for longer.

  • Discomfort, inflammation, and itching are common microblading side effects. But try not to rub, itch, or exfoliate your skin. The symptoms should go away after a couple of weeks.
  • Avoid excessive sunlight, LED light, resurfacing lasers, and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment.
  • Don’t get your brows wet during the first week of recovery. It can lighten and loosen the pigment.
  • Reminder: Don’t pick at your scabs. It can lead to an infection and may mess with your result. They’ll slough off when they’re ready.

Microblading is super safe when it’s done by a licensed, experienced professional. But there are still some potential probs to keep in mind.

Microblading shouldn’t be too painful. But discomfort and a slight burning sensation are common during the session.

“Topical anesthetics are used before and during the treatment, which keep almost everyone very comfortable,” says McAndrew.

You need to keep the area clean and dry for at least 1 week after the procedure to reduce your risk of infections. The color may bleed, change, or spread due to exfoliation or sun exposure. This can create an uneven or blurred look.

“Pigment retention varies for every guest, being that every ‘body’ and skin type is different,” says McAndrew. “Time and lifestyle cause the pigment to fade over time, while proper care can help prolong the life of the pigment.”

It’s also important to note that you’re stuck with your new brows for up to 30 months. This can be an issue if you don’t like the way they look.

FYI: There have been some reports that microblading can trigger a delayed granulomatous reaction. This can make your skin look inflamed, red or discolored, and textured. Even thought this reaction is rare, it’s still a possibility.

Reminder: Microblading is a semipermanent procedure. You might want to start with a cheaper or more temporary option until you’re 10/10 sure you’re ready to commit. Some fab alternatives include:

Microblading results can vary from brow to brow, but you can usually expect them to last 18 to 30 months. Keep in mind, you might need to get a touch-up once or twice a year to maintain your results.

P.S.Only go to a pro. Research your local area for a licensed, well-reviewed practitioner.