Microblading Healing Process: What to Expect Week by Week

May 9, 2025

Front-facing view of a woman’s face showing fresh microblading results with crisp, hair-like strokes and a balanced brow shape.

A detailed timeline of healing, aftercare, and tips to keep your brows looking their best.

If you're considering microblading or preparing for your appointment, understanding the healing process is just as important as the procedure itself. Knowing what to expect, and how to take care of your brows, can help you get the best possible results. If you're planning to get microblading in Buffalo, NY, here's what you can expect during the healing process—plus the aftercare steps we give all our clients.

How Long Does Microblading Take to Heal?

The microblading healing process takes about 4–6 weeks from start to finish. While some stages are more noticeable than others, your skin will continue healing beneath the surface for over a month. Following proper aftercare is essential for long-lasting, natural-looking results.

Week-by-Week Microblading Healing Timeline

Days 1–2: Fresh Brows & Initial Healing

After your procedure, your brows will appear bold and sharply defined. Some redness, swelling, or tenderness is completely normal. You'll leave with an aftercare kit that includes Aquaphor ointment, sterile saline pads, and microswabs.

What to do:

Gently pat brows with sterile pads
Apply Aquaphor twice daily
Do not wash your brows during this time
Avoid sweating or exercise for 3 days
Change your pillowcase before bed

Avoid:

Touching, picking, or scratching
Any water or cleansers on the brow area
Direct sun exposure and tanning beds

Days 3–10: Scabbing, Flaking & Itching

Your brows may begin to scab and flake as part of the natural healing process. They might feel itchy—this is normal—but do not scratch them.

What to do:

Gently wash brows with a soft, fragrance-free soap
Reapply Aquaphor after each wash (continue twice daily)
If itchy, apply more Aquaphor to soothe the area
Avoid makeup and skincare around the brows

Avoid:

Retinol, vitamin A, or acid-based products (for 30 days)
Picking at scabs (this can cause pigment loss)

Days 15–30: Color Stabilizes

Your brows will start to look more even and natural. At this stage, most flaking is complete, and the color begins to even out.

What to do:

Stick with gentle products
Continue avoiding exfoliants or active skincare near the brows
Stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary sun exposure

Around Day 30: Time for a Touch-Up

By the end of the first month, your skin is ready for the finishing touches. A touch-up ensures any faded or uneven spots are corrected and your shape is perfected.

What to do:

Reach out to schedule your 6-week touch-up
Continue applying Aquaphor after washing your face for a full 6 weeks to support healing

Microblading Aftercare Tips for Best Results

Following aftercare instructions is key to achieving brows that last and heal beautifully. Here’s a summary of the most important tips:

Do:

Use Aquaphor twice daily for at least 6 weeks
Gently wash brows starting on Day 3
Avoid direct sun exposure for 2 weeks
Sleep on a clean pillowcase

Don’t:

Pick or scratch at the brow area
Use active skincare products for 30 days
Get brows wet Days 1–2
Sweat heavily for the first 3 days

Final Thoughts: Trust the Process

Every client’s skin heals a little differently—but with patience, proper care, and a follow-up touch-up, your brows will settle into their final look by the 6–8 week mark. If you're looking for microblading in Buffalo, NY, Pretty in Ink is here to guide you every step of the way.