I first tried Microblading about 3 years ago - I got an offer to try it out from Gene Juarez and because I had trusted them with my hair for so long, I thought, sure! It wasn’t until I was laying down in the chair that I realized I had just consented to getting my face tattooed. You can read all about that experience here to break down all the questions you first timers have. This post however, is about up keep and if it’s worth it in the long term.

I just got my third touch-up from when I originally got it done in 2016. One is the mandatory touch-up, about 8 weeks after the original appointment and I got another one about a year later. Apparently you can’t get it done while pregnant so I had to wait until post-baby to get that much needed appointment. Tips about what I’ve learned so far in having these tatted up brows…

If you don’t use sunscreen, the color can turn reddish brown:

I originally thought that the red tint was just how the color faded on my skin but was informed during this appointment that most of that is due to not protecting my brows from the sun. Because who remembers to put sunscreen on their eyebrows?? I guess I’ll have to now!

You can’t get it done while knocked up:

They recommend (with all tattoos really) to not do it while you’re pregnant or breastfeeding due to risk of infection. I learned this when I was attempting to make an appointment while pregnant and thought, “none of my clothes fit but maybe my eyebrows can look good.” Nope, you have to wait that ish out.

It really only looks good for about a year:

They tend to say it lasts for 1-3 years but I feel like to keep them looking defined and fresh, expect to get a touch-up annually. However, if you’re a person that spends money on brow pencils and 5 minutes every day as part of your make-up routine, it can be argued that it’s definitely worth it.

It can be tricky to get the same person each time:

Ideally, you want to stick with the same artist that did your brows the first time but realistically if you move or your stylist leaves, it’s likely you may have another person attempt the up-keep.

Be Prepared for some itchiness:

While it’s healing, be prepared for your eyebrows to itch like crazy on occasion - usually around day 3-4 after the service. It doesn’t last very long though and the A&D ointment they give you serves as an instant relief. Your brows will look shiny for a while but it’s better than itchy…and don’t scratch!

BEFORE/AFTER PICS:

For my original before and after pics, see my previous article.

Most recent touch-ups:

Pricing:

First time: $350-$500+

First touch-up: $100-$150+

Second Touch-up: $150-$200+

Third Touch-up: $250+

These prices may vary depending on the salon and overall popularity of the service.

If you’re thinking about getting this done and have any questions - comment below or get at me on socials!

-SG