Eyebrows are one of the most defining features of your face, and having them perfectly shaped every day without the hassle of pencils or gels is a dream for many. Microblading—a semi-permanent eyebrow treatment—has gained immense popularity for this reason. But one of the most common questions we get at Truly Permanent Beauty is:
“How long does microblading last?”
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the lifespan of microblading, the factors that influence how long it lasts, and share expert tips to help extend your results so your brows stay beautiful for as long as possible.
What Is Microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent tattooing technique used to create the illusion of fuller, more defined eyebrows. It involves using a handheld tool with ultra-fine needles to implant pigment into the skin in the form of hair-like strokes.
Unlike traditional tattoos, microblading deposits pigment in the upper layers of the skin, which is why it fades over time—but that’s also what gives it a natural, soft finish.
So, How Long Does Microblading Last?
On average, microblading lasts between 12 to 18 months, though some clients may enjoy results for up to 24 months with proper care.
Key Factors That Influence How Long Microblading Lasts:
These are the main factors that influence the longevity of microblading:
- Skin Type
- Oily skin tends to fade faster because natural oils can push the pigment out of the skin more quickly.
- Dry to normal skin tends to retain pigment better and for longer.
- Aftercare
- Proper aftercare, especially during the first 14 days, is crucial to long-lasting results. Failing to follow your technician’s instructions can lead to premature fading.
- Sun Exposure
- UV rays break down pigment over time. Constant exposure can cause brows to fade or change color more rapidly.
- Skincare Routine
- Products containing retinol, glycolic acid, or exfoliants can accelerate fading when used around the brow area.
- Lifestyle
- Active lifestyles that involve excessive sweating, swimming, or sauna use can also cause quicker fading.
- Pigment Quality
- At Truly Permanent Beauty, we use premium, hypoallergenic pigments that are designed for longer retention and better healing.
- Technician’s Skill
- An experienced microblading artist understands how deep to implant pigment and how to choose the right color and technique for your skin type.
What to Expect Over Time
As the time passes how your eyebrows will look after microblading.
👉 Month 1: Initial Results + Healing
After the procedure and a touch-up around week 6, your brows will appear defined and crisp. Some fading and patchiness are normal before the final healed result.
👉 Months 2–6: Perfect Brows
This is the period where your brows look their best—natural, full, and symmetrical.
👉 Months 6–12: Gradual Fading
Pigment starts to break down and fade gradually. Your brows may begin to look less defined, depending on your skin type and lifestyle.
👉 Months 12–18: Time for a Touch-Up
For most clients, a touch-up or color boost is recommended during this window to maintain shape and color intensity.
How Often Do You Need a Touch-Up?
- Initial Touch-Up (6–8 weeks after your first session): This perfects the shape and fills in any faded or missed strokes.
- Annual Touch-Up: Helps refresh the color and keep the shape sharp.
- Earlier Touch-Ups (every 6–9 months) may be needed for oily or mature skin types.
At Truly Permanent Beauty, we create a custom maintenance plan for each client based on their unique skin, brow goals, and lifestyle.
Tips to Make Your Microblading Last Longer
Follow these tips to make your eyebrow microblading last longer.
1. Follow Aftercare Instructions Religiously
- Avoid getting the brows wet for the first 7–10 days.
- Don’t pick, scratch, or peel the scabs.
- Avoid makeup and skincare products on the brow area during healing.
- Apply healing ointments if recommended by your technician.
2. Protect Your Brows from the Sun
- Use SPF 30 or higher on your brows once healed.
- Wear hats or sunglasses when outdoors.
- Avoid tanning beds altogether.
3. Avoid Active Ingredients Around Your Brows
- Retinol, AHAs/BHAs, and vitamin C serums can speed up pigment fading.
- Keep anti-aging products at least 1 inch away from your brows.
4. Be Gentle with Your Skincare Routine
- Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating the brow area.
- Pat your face dry instead of rubbing it with a towel.
5. Schedule Regular Touch-Ups
- Don’t wait for your brows to completely fade before booking a refresh.
- Regular touch-ups help maintain shape and color without needing to “start over.”
Can Microblading Fade Faster Than Expected?
Yes, and here’s why it might happen:
- Improper aftercare during healing
- Excessively oily skin
- Using anti-ageing or exfoliating products too soon
- Skipping sunscreen
- Frequent facial treatments like chemical peels or laser
- Health conditions or medications that affect healing
If you notice rapid fading, talk to your brow artist about a touch-up schedule tailored to your needs.
What If You Don’t Touch Up Your Brows?
If you choose not to touch up your brows, the pigment will gradually fade over time, eventually disappearing completely within 2–3 years. You won’t be left with blue or green brows, especially if high-quality, iron oxide-free pigments were used, as we do at Truly Permanent Beauty.
You may see a soft shadow of your former brow shape, but it won’t be stark or unnatural.
How to Know It’s Time for a Touch-Up
You might need a touch-up if:
- The color appears faded or dull
- You notice patchiness or uneven strokes
- The shape looks less defined
- You want to change the color or style of your brows
At Truly Permanent Beauty, we offer personalized touch-up sessions to refresh or rework your look based on how your skin has retained the pigment.
Choosing the Right Microblading Artist Matters
Longevity doesn’t just depend on your skin or habits—it depends heavily on the expertise of the artist.
At Truly Permanent Beauty, all our technicians are:
- Certified and experienced
- Trained in color theory and skin undertones
- Experts in custom brow design to match your bone structure and face shape
- Focused on sanitation, comfort, and long-term results
Conclusion
So, how long does microblading last?
💡 12 to 18 months is the average, but with the right artist, aftercare, and ongoing maintenance, you can keep your brows looking gorgeous for even longer.
Think of it as a low-maintenance beauty investment that pays off every time you wake up with perfectly shaped brows—no makeup needed.
At Truly Permanent Beauty, we’re here to help you feel confident in your brows from day one through every touch-up.
