Why Do Some People’s Brows Fade Faster?

One of the most common questions I get asked after a microblading treatment is, “Why do some people’s brows fade faster than others?” If you’ve noticed that your brows don’t last as long as expected, you're not alone. There are several factors that can affect how long microblading lasts, and understanding these factors can help you maintain your brows and ensure they look fresh for as long as possible.

In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons why some people experience faster fading of their brows and what you can do about it.

1. Skin Type

Your skin type plays a significant role in how well microblading pigment holds.

Oily Skin: People with oily skin may find that their brows fade faster. Oily skin tends to push pigment out of the skin’s surface, which means the pigment doesn’t stay as long. If you have oily skin, your artist might recommend a different technique, such as powder brows, to ensure better retention.
Dry or Sensitive Skin: On the other hand, those with dry or sensitive skin might see their microblading last longer because their skin doesn’t produce as much oil, allowing the pigment to settle more effectively. However, it's important to note that dry skin can sometimes cause the skin to flake more during the healing process, which could lead to premature fading.

2. Aftercare Practices

How you take care of your brows after the procedure can have a big impact on how long they last. Aftercare is essential to ensure the pigment stays in place and your brows heal properly.

Not Following Aftercare Instructions: If you don’t follow the aftercare instructions, like avoiding sun exposure, touching the brows, or using harsh skincare products, the pigment can fade faster.
Excessive Moisture or Sweating: Activities like excessive sweating, swimming, or using harsh cleansers can strip the pigment out of the skin prematurely.

3. Sun Exposure

Sun exposure is one of the main culprits behind fading. The sun's UV rays break down the pigment over time, which can lead to your brows losing their vibrancy and definition.

UV Rays: Overexposure to the sun or tanning beds can cause the pigments in microblading to fade faster. Always wear sunscreen on your brows to protect them from harmful UV rays and keep them looking fresh for longer.
Sunbathing: If you enjoy sunbathing, try to avoid direct sun exposure on your brows. Wearing a hat can help protect your brows from the sun.

4. Lifestyle Factors

Your lifestyle and habits can also affect the longevity of your microblading.

Diet and Hydration: A balanced diet and proper hydration help maintain healthy skin, which can improve the retention of microblading. If you're dehydrated, your skin may not heal as effectively, which could impact how long your brows last.
Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can affect your skin’s ability to heal, which may cause the pigment to fade faster. They can also reduce blood circulation, making it harder for the skin to retain the pigment.

5. Skin Exfoliation

Exfoliating the skin, whether through facials, peels, or harsh skincare products, can cause the pigment to fade faster. The outermost layer of your skin sheds naturally, and over-exfoliating speeds up this process, which leads to faster fading of the pigment.

Chemical Exfoliants: Products containing ingredients like retinol, AHA, or BHA can strip away the outer layer of the skin, causing your microblading to fade faster.
Physical Exfoliation: Using rough scrubs or brushes on your face can also cause the pigment to wear off more quickly.

6. Health Conditions and Medications

Certain health conditions and medications can affect how your skin reacts to microblading, and in some cases, they can lead to faster fading.

Autoimmune Conditions: People with autoimmune diseases may find that their skin doesn’t retain pigment as well. Conditions like alopecia or psoriasis can also interfere with pigment retention, as these conditions affect the skin’s ability to heal.
Medications: Medications like blood thinners or certain acne treatments (like Accutane) can make the skin more sensitive, leading to quicker fading of microblading pigment.

7. Touch-Up Schedule

Regular touch-ups are essential to maintaining your microblading. Over time, the pigment will naturally fade, and you’ll need to schedule touch-up appointments to refresh the shape and color.

Skipping the 2nd Touch-Up: If you skip the second touch-up (usually 6-8 weeks after your initial appointment), the pigment may fade faster than expected. The second touch-up is vital to ensure the pigment sets properly, and it helps to correct any areas that may not have healed perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Microblading is a fantastic way to enhance your brows, but various factors can affect how long the results last. By understanding why some people’s brows fade faster, you can take the necessary steps to maintain the vibrancy and longevity of your brows.

Remember to follow your aftercare instructions carefully, protect your brows from the sun, and schedule regular touch-ups to keep your brows looking fresh and beautiful.

✨ Ready to get long-lasting brows? Book your appointment today and let’s work together to achieve the perfect brows for you! ✨