Microblading is a semi-permanent tattooing technique that creates natural looking eyebrows by implanting pigment under the top layer of skin. The results can last from 1-3 years before fading. While microblading offers many benefits like fuller, perfectly shaped brows, some people later decide they want their microbladed brows to be lighter or softer. Luckily, there are a few options for lightening too dark or harsh microbladed eyebrows.
How Long Does Microblading Last?
When first microbladed, eyebrows will appear darker and more saturated as the pigment sits in the upper layers of the skin. Over the following 4-6 weeks, the pigment will naturally exfoliate and fade to a softer, more natural look. Results can last 12-18 months on average before a touch up is needed.
Some factors that determine microblading longevity include:
– Skin type – Oily skin types tend to fade faster while dry skin holds pigment longer
– Pigment color – Warmer brown tones fade quicker than ash browns or black pigment
– Sun exposure – UV rays speed up fading
– Skincare – Exfoliating, retinoids, and chemical peels will lift pigment faster
– Lifestyle – Swimming, sweating, medications can cause early fading
While microblading pigment does slowly fade over time, there are ways to speed up the lightening process if the brows are too bold.
Lightening Options for Microbladed Eyebrows
Laser Removal
Laser tattoo removal is an effective option for lightening microbladed brows. Short laser pulses target and break up the pigment particles under the skin so the body can flush them out and fade the tattoo. It may take several treatments to significantly lighten microblading, spaced 4-6 weeks apart for proper healing between sessions.
Q-switched and picosecond lasers designed for tattoo removal work best on microblading. Common lasers used include the Nd:YAG, Alexandrite, and PicoSure lasers. With each session, the pigment will gradually get lighter until it reaches the desired tone.
Pros:
– Fades pigment efficiently for quick lightening
– Permanent pigment reduction
Cons:
– Multiple treatments needed
– Can be costly – $200-$500 per session
– Risk of scarring if settings too high
Saline/Glyph Removal
Saline (saltwater) or glycolic acid can be tattooed into the brows to slowly draw out the pigment. The salt or acid solution is gently implanted under the skin with microneedling pens or tattoo machines. Over 4-6 weeks it gradually lifts and fades the existing microblading pigment. This is an office procedure performed by a technician.
Pros:
– Less invasive than laser
– Only needs 1-2 treatments
– Fades pigment evenly
Cons:
– Results take 4-6 weeks to see
– Higher risk of scarring
– Can cause irritation or dryness as pigment lifts
Microblading Pigment Removal Serum
Pigment lightening serums can help speed up fading of microbladed brows. Look for serums containing ingredients like hydroquinone, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and vitamin C which work to gently exfoliate the skin and lift staining pigment. Apply the serum 2-3 times a day to the brows to lighten over several weeks.
Pros:
– Gentle lightening method
– Fades evenly with continued use
– Can maintain results by applying once fading reached
Cons:
– Takes weeks to months to see results
– Temporary lightening, doesn’t remove pigment fully
– Can be drying if applied too often
Microblading Removal Aftercare
Using a proper aftercare routine immediately after the microblading session can help prevent excessively dark and harsh healing. Avoiding sun, exfoliants, and picking the scabs allows for slower, softer pigment deposition into the skin. Proper artist technique also influences retention of pigment.
Pros:
– Helps achieve lighter result from the start
– Improves healing
– No cost
Cons:
– Can only somewhat limit initial darkness
– Doesn’t lighten existing pigment that’s healed
Cover Up
Rather than removing the pigment, some choose to go over the existing microblading with a lighter color or different technique. Common options include:
– Microshading – Using fine dots to create a lighter, powdered look
– Blonde pigment camouflage – Matching lighter blond brow hairs
– Ombre brows – Fading color towards the ends
– Manual blurring – Artist manually fades with needles
This adjusts the appearance by adding new lighter pigment rather than removing the original brow tattoos.
Pros:
– Single session adjustment
– Immediate results
Cons:
– Doesn’t fade original pigment
– Adds more pigment overall
Results Timeline When Lightening Microbladed Eyebrows
Laser Removal
| 1 session | 20-30% lighter |
| 2 sessions | 40-60% lighter |
| 3+ sessions | 60-90% lighter |
Full laser removal of microblading can take 6 or more sessions spaced at least 8 weeks apart for complete pigment fading.
Saline/Glycolic Acid Removal
| 1 week | Minimal lightening noticeable |
| 2-4 weeks | Moderate lightening, pigment appears softer |
| 6-8 weeks | Significant lightening, pigment faded |
Saline or glycolic acid tattoo removal takes about 6-8 weeks to see the full desired lightening effect.
Pigment Removal Serum
| 2 weeks | Minimal lightening if any |
| 4 weeks | Slight but noticeable lightening |
| 8-12 weeks | Moderate lightening, pigment softened |
Using a pigment fading serum can take 2-3 months for moderate microbladed brow lightening.
Choosing the Best Microblading Lightening Method
The most effective yet invasive option for microblading removal is laser treatment. It’s the only permanent way to eliminate pigment deposits under the skin for dramatic lightening in 6 sessions or less. Multiple treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart are needed for gradual fading.
For a less intense option that requires minimal downtime, saline or glycolic acid tattoo removal can lighten brows in 1-2 office sessions. The acid lifts pigment steadily over 6-8 weeks. Lightening serums also gently fade brows with daily application over 8-12 weeks.
To adjust the color and shape while keeping some brow definition, a lighter microblading cover up is the quickest fix in one appointment. This however doesn’t remove any existing pigment.
Consider the timeframe desired for seeing results, budget, and level of lightening needed when deciding on the best microblading lightening method. While laser treatments offer the most dramatic pigment reduction, other options like saline fading or serums provide more subtle, temporary lightening for those who still want some brow definition.
Risks and Side Effects of Microblading Removal
Some risks and side effects to consider when removing or lightening microbladed eyebrows include:
Laser Removal Risks:
– Burns, scarring – If laser is set too high
– Skin discoloration – Darkening or lightening of treated area
– Eye injury – Wear protective eyewear
Saline/Glycolic Acid Removal Risks:
– Scarring and skin damage – Over-treatment can scar
– Infection – Non-sterile needles may transmit disease
– Skin irritation – Glycolic acid can cause redness
Serums Risks:
– Skin dryness and flaking – Overuse can dehydrate skin
– Contact dermatitis – Reaction to certain ingredients
– Hyperpigmentation – Ingredients may darken skin
Proper aftercare, avoiding sun exposure, and protecting the skin during treatment can reduce the risk of complications when lightening microbladed eyebrows.
Aftercare for Microblading Removal
Once microblading removal sessions are complete, proper aftercare can help soothe, heal, and prevent infection as the skin regenerates. General aftercare guidelines include:
– Clean brows gently with mild soap and water twice a day
– Use antibacterial ointment like Aquaphor for first 5 days
– Avoid direct sun exposure or tanning for 4 weeks
– No facial scrubs, microdermabrasion, or chemical peels on treated area for 1 month
– Avoid sweating excessively and keep brows dry
– Do not pick or scratch the treated skin
– Avoid facial botox or fillers for 2 weeks prior to removal
– Wear SPF 30+ daily after removal treatments
How to Prevent Fading Between Microblading Touch Ups
To help microblading results last as long as possible before needing a touch up, follow these tips:
– Avoid direct sun exposure on brows and wear SPF daily
– Don’t pick scabs during healing as this can pull out pigment
– Avoid chemical exfoliants and facials for 4 weeks after session
– Prevent sweating on brows with headbands, hats, avoiding heat
– Stay hydrated and moisturize skin daily
– Take mineral/biotin supplements to help brows heal well
– Use a nourishing brow gel with peptides to stimulate hair growth
– Get annual touch ups every 12-18 months
Conclusion
While microblading offers semi-permanent eyebrows, the results will gradually fade over time. If the brows become too bold or dark, there are options for lightening and removal when a softer look is desired. Laser treatments fade pigment most efficiently within 6 sessions by breaking up ink deposits under the skin. Saline or glycolic acid tattoo removal provides moderate lightening in 1-2 treatments over 6-8 weeks. Lightening serums require 8-12 weeks but provide subtle fading for those wanting to maintain some definition. Cover up techniques like microshading and ombre brows adjust the color and shape in one quick session by adding new lighter pigment rather than removing the original brows.
When choosing the ideal microblading removal method, consider the timeframe, cost, recovery, and level of lightening preferred. While laser removal delivers the most dramatic results, other more gradual options like serums or saline fading offer lighter pigment reduction for those who still want some brow definition. Proper aftercare and avoiding sun exposure helps maintain results between annual touch ups. With a range of lightening options available, those unhappy with their microblading results can safely achieve softer, lighter brows.