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Unfortunately, pre-existing skin conditions and skin treatments can heavily compromise the effectiveness of microblading, leaving both you and I in an unfavorable situation. As they often say, safety first, and microblading safety is no different. So, before you go ahead and book your appointment, read the pointers below to find out if microblading is for you.

SKIN CONDITIONS (FACE ONLY)

• Skin Complications - If you have skin that is prone to complications with eczema, psoriasis, keratosis pilaris and dermatitis (i.e., your skin is constantly flaking, itching, or aggravated), chances are your skin is in a constant state of unrest. It’s shedding and is not suitable for tattooing; therefore won’t hold onto the pigment for long-lasting results.
• Chronic Conditions - The same goes for conditions like chronic acne and rosacea. The inherent nature of this type of skin causes easy bleeding, which means your skin will not retain the color very well - this is counterintuitive to the intended effect of microblading. Additionally, excessively oily skin can cause those tattooed hair strokes to blur together and give off an unwanted solid effect instead of a naturally feathered look.

It is highly advised that you seek a healthcare provider or specialist to address and help resolve any/all skincare concerns/conditions. Microblading safety starts well before the process itself: with a medical professional who knows the process is safe for those with skin conditions. The inherent nature of these skin conditions promotes easy bleeding once aggravated, which once again means your skin will not retain the colour and intended effect of microblading. Additionally, excessively oily skin can cause those tattooed hair strokes to blur together and give off an unwanted solid effect instead of a naturally feathered look.

• State of Skin - If your skin is sensitive, it is likely to be easily aggravated and bleed easily.  A good way to know if your skin is sensitive is if it turns pink very easily from a little scratch.  If your skin has large pores, specifically in the region of the eyebrows and forehead (aka the T-Zone), the color will blur and result in a powdered look. Along similar lines, tattooed hair strokes will not lay properly on skin with deep wrinkles, which can make the overall look appear uneven. Moles, bumps, piercing, and generally raised skin around the eyebrows will also not be able to retain color.
• Skin Type - If you have Fitzpatrick Skin type 1 (i.e., you are a redhead, have thin, translucent skin with light eyes), your skin is very likely to be hypersensitive and your skin will not be able to tolerate microblading well.  The same applies if you have generally very thin skin - it will bleed easily and not retain colour.
• Sunburn - If you are hoping to get microblading done but have gotten a tan or worse, a sunburn, it’s best to wait until your skin has resumed it's normal colour and wait until your skin has healed before booking in for a procedure.
• Previous Permanent Makeup - People who have previously had permanent makeup may want to change or fix past results. Clients may have to consider laser removal prior to a procedure or ask the artist if they can work with their existing permanent makeup to incorporate the old design and colors into the new one.  Always disclose if you’ve had previous permanent makeup so the artist can treat you accordingly.

MEDICATIONS

• Accutane/Retin-A - Individuals who have been taking acne medications such as Accutane or Retin-A within the last year have an altered skin condition that will not heal well after the procedure. It’s very important that you wait a year before tattooing the skin. Similarly, Retinol and Vitamin A users should discontinue use at least one month prior to their procedure.
• Latisse - Eyelash and eyebrow growth serum bring extra circulation (aka blood flow) to the area resulting in more growth of hair/lashes.  Do not underestimate the power of these products! If you have been using Latisse or any other eyelash or eyebrow growth conditioners, the skin in that area is in a hypersensitive state and will bleed easily. Be mindful to discontinue using these at least 3-6 months before going in for a session otherwise you will begin to bleed profusely.

MEDICAL CONDITIONS

• Hair Transplant - An unknown fact is that scar tissue will form within the eyebrow transplant site. If you've had a hair transplant for your eyebrows, microblading is not a suitable procedure for you.
• Irregular State - If your body naturally runs hot or you have a bleeding disorder, this will result in excess bleeding and prevent adequate color deposit.
• Autoimmune - Even more seriously, if you have an autoimmune disorder such as lupus, or frontal fibrosing alopecia, you will not be a good candidate for Microblading due to your compromised skin health caused by these disorders.
• Other Conditions - If you are pregnant, nursing, have hemophilia, or a heart condition, it is absolutely not recommended that you get any form of permanent make up done as this puts you in a high-risk position. People who have heart issues often are on medications that thin the blood which will cause excessive bleeding, leading to poor microblading results.

REACTIONS TO TREATMENTS

Below is a list of medical conditions that often cause skin irregularities, making microblading an unsuitable procedure for you:

• Trichotillomania (i.e., the compulsive pulling of body hair) can cause scar tissue in the skin to be prominent, which does not allow the color to heal properly.
• Glaucoma-If you hope to get eyeliner tattooed, the use of glaucoma eye drops makes eyelash follicles and eyelids hypersensitive, causing excessive bleeding and poor color retention. If you have continued use of Accutane, Retinol, or skin-peeling acids, you may be prone to excessive bleeding due to your altered skin condition, therefore, microblading would not be a viable option for you.

OTHER MICROBLADING SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS YOU’VE MIGHT HAVE MISSED

• Botox- Get Microblading done BEFORE you get botox so your muscles will be in a normal state of movement.  Alternatively, if you regularly use botox, you will need to wait at least 3 weeks after botox before doing microblading in order to allow the botox to settle in at its full effect.
• Vacationing- microblading is a tattoo and therefore is a mild injury to the skin which takes time to heal.  If you are planning to go on a hot vacation involving sun, sweating, and swimming, make sure you give your skin two weeks to heal post microblading before showing off your newly microbladed brows on the beach!

So, if you’re thinking you’re ready for a microblading procedure, it is important to know that the results of your permanent makeup will be based on the health and quality of your skin. Results will vary from person to person, and if you have a pre-existing skin condition or are on medications, you may still be eligible for a procedure but should adjust your expectations based on your situation.  Like any procedure, every person is unique and will react differently.