The idea of microbladed eyebrows is certainly appealing if you have thin or light eyebrows and suffer from one of the many diseases that can result in eyebrow hair loss, such as alopecia.

In microblading, filling in thin eyebrow areas make them appear fuller and more natural. Under the skin, techs apply semi-permanent pigment lines with a blade. Microblading results in a natural-looking feathery brow, and the procedure can last on average for three years, although touch-ups are required about every 18 months.

Most people only experience minor pressure or discomfort during the procedure, which is less painful than a typical tattoo because the depth in which the needle penetrates the skin barrier. Microbladed eyebrows’ pain tolerance varies from person to person. Patients should be ready for some discomfort during this procedure.

Make sure you thoroughly research your provider before considering microblading for microbladed eyebrows. Look at samples of their work before making your decision. Ensure that a topical numbing ointment is applied to the brow area to ease the pain.

The following steps can help you minimize swelling and pain following the procedure.

Do microbladed eyebrows hurt?

In simple terms, microblading is the process of making several tiny cuts across your brow line. Similar to tattoos, minor cuts are made in the skin and then filled with pigment.

Generally, the area will be numbed with an anaesthetic before the procedure begins. The blade doesn’t cut your skin, so you are more likely to feel pressure or scratching sensations from the microblading tool rather than actual pain.

As you go through this process, you will hear loud scratching and crunching sounds, as if you were walking on compacted snow.

In the absence of anaesthetics, the procedure will be more painful if you are not used to the pain. Your skin might feel like it is scratched repeatedly. Your practitioner should discuss using an anaesthetic before you begin the process.

Numbing cream takes 15 minutes or more to begin working. As your practitioner continues the process, they will start adding cuts to existing cuts close to each other. You may feel like your skin is irritated or burnt, similar to a sunburn.

The practitioner can alternate between each brow. While the eyebrow is resting, they might add more anaesthetic.

It is normal to experience some minor discomfort and skin irritation during microblading, but you may be able to reduce both by following these steps before your appointment:

• On the day of the procedure, don’t consume caffeine or alcohol.
• Sunbathing and tanning should be avoided for a few days before the procedure.
• Before the procedure, avoid plucking or waxing your eyebrows.
• In the weeks leading up to the process, avoid chemical peels, laser treatments, and other cosmetic procedures.
• Before starting treatment, stop taking vitamin A (retinol).

Can the procedure for microbladed eyebrows cause pain?

The area usually feels bruised or tender for about a day following a microblading procedure for microbladed eyebrows. There should be no signs of bruises on your skin, but you may see a slight redness. For a few days following a wound’s healing, you may feel like you have a sunburn.

The pigment settles after 10 to 14 days, and then the wound is fully healed. The skin will remain sensitive during this period.

Follow the aftercare instructions provided by the microblading technician to avoid complications, assist with the healing process, and prevent infection. These instructions may include:

• To heal your eyebrows, apply coconut oil twice a day.
• Make sure the area is clean and dry.
• For a week to 10 days, avoid touching the brow area, rubbing it, picking at it, or wetting it.
• You should avoid harsh skin care products.
• You should apply makeup to the site for a week.
• For a few weeks, avoid sweating.
• Don’t expose yourself directly to the sun, including tanning beds.

Conclusion

Typically, microblading for microbladed eyebrows followed by numbing cream. This procedure may cause some discomfort, and afterwards, irritation or soreness may result.

It is relatively painless and safe to have microblading done by a good provider who follows all pre-and post-care instructions.

It would be best if you considered working with a microblading provider with accreditation from the American Academy of Micropigmentation or the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP).