Microblading is an advanced form of brow enhancement that creates natural, feathered brows with microblading strokes. While the procedure itself is quick, the aftercare – including how you sleep – is key to optimal healing and long lasting results. Your aftercare will directly impact the outcome of your microblading appointment.
In this post we will go over the do’s and don’ts of sleeping after microblading to protect your new brows and promote a smooth healing process. With good aftercare and attention to detail you can have fabulous brows.
Sleeping Habits Matter After Microblading
After a microblading procedure your skin is in a critical healing phase. The pigment from the brow enhancement procedure needs time to settle into your skin cells. Any disruption – direct pressure on the brows or exposure to unclean surfaces – can cause pigment loss, premature fading or even infection. Flaking skin or scabbing that gets disturbed during sleep can also affect the final result of your new brows.
This post procedure phase especially the first 7 days is key. Following good aftercare guidelines such as sleeping comfortably and avoiding risks like excessive pressure or brow makeup will help you have a smooth recovery.
Top Tips for Sleeping
1. Sleep on your Back
Sleeping on your back is the best way to protect your brows during the healing process. This way you won’t disrupt the healing skin and won’t remove the scab too early.
- Tip: Use a U-shaped travel pillow or an ergonomic pillow to keep your head in place and stop rolling over.
- Why: Sleeping on your side or stomach will put extra pressure on the brows and increase the risk of pigment loss and skin disruption.
2. Elevate your Head
Sleeping with your head elevated—with an extra pillow—reduces swelling and speeds up recovery. Keeping your head above heart level also reduces fluid retention around the brows.
- Tip: Stack extra pillows or use a body pillow for extra comfort.
- Avoid: Heavy blankets or too much bedding that can move during the night and touch your brows.
3. Use Clean Bedding
Fresh clean pillowcases and bedding is key to prevent bacteria from touching your brows while you sleep. Silk or satin pillowcases are best for reducing friction.
- Pro Tip: Wash your pillowcases frequently during the week of healing to prevent infection entry points.
4. Don’t Touch Your Brows While Sleeping
Be careful not to touch, scratch or rub your brows during the healing period. Resting your hands on your face whether consciously or unconsciously can cause irritation or pigment disruption.
- Helpful Tools: Wearing cotton gloves at night can prevent accidental rubbing.
5. Keep Your Brows Dry
Keep your brows dry to avoid complications during the healing process. Avoid situations where your brows can get wet such as sweating heavily, sleeping with wet hair or using facial sleep masks that trap moisture.
- Remember: Don’t use products like baby wipes or damp cotton towels near your brows.
Sleep Issues
Minor Pain
Some clients experience minor pain or discomfort in the first few nights after their microblading appointment. This can disrupt sleep.
- Solutions: Use pain relief meds if approved by your brow technician. Always consult your artist for advice.
Rolling Over
If you’re a side or stomach sleeper you’ll find it hard to stay on your back.
- Solutions: Use body pillows or a travel pillow to create a recovery environment that keeps you in place.
Temperature
During recovery your skin will feel warmer. Overheating can cause sweating which you must avoid.
- Tips: Use light blankets and avoid heavy comforters.
What Not to Do While Sleeping Post-Microblading
1. Direct Sunlight
Don’t sleep in areas where your brows will be exposed to direct sunlight, UV rays can cause premature fading and irritation to healing skin.
2. Excessive Pressure
Don’t use regular pillows that apply direct pressure to your brows. Sleep on your back with proper head support.
3. Harsh Products Before Bed
Don’t use anti-aging products, glycolic acid or ascorbic acid near your brows. These can interfere with the healing process and cause faster fading of the pigment.
How Long Do I Need to Be Cautious?
The initial treatment healing period is 1-4 weeks, the first 7 days is the most critical. During this time:
- Don’t get your brows wet, including bodies of water.
- Avoid tanning beds and excessive sun exposure.
- Don’t pick at flaking skin or premature scabs, this can cause loss of pigment and color difference in the finished brows.
After 4-6 weeks your brow technician will assess your healing progress at your follow up appointment.
Extra Tips for Aftercare
- Follow the Aftercare Instructions: Follow the aftercare instructions given by your brow specialist, use the aftercare cream or ointment.
- No Brow Makeup: Don’t use products like Anastasia brow pencils, brow wiz pencils or brow mapping tools on healing skin.
- Clean Hands: Always use clean hands or clean cotton swabs to touch your brows if necessary.
- No Chemical Peels: Avoid any beauty treatments that involve chemical peels or fruit acids during the healing period.
Conclusion
Sleeping after microblading is key to your brows healing properly and looking their best. Follow these tips—sleeping on your back, elevating your head, avoiding moisture and sun and being gentle with pressure—and your brows will heal beautifully and last longer. Remember the healing method you use during the critical healing period is what will keep your new brow enhancements looking stunning.
Sleeping after your eyebrow microblading is important no matter what type of brow you’re getting—eyebrow tattoo, powder brows or any other form of cosmetic tattooing—as each requires special aftercare for optimal healing and long term beauty.
FAQ
Can I sleep on my side after microblading?
No, it’s recommended to avoid sleeping on your side for the first week.
How long do I need to sleep on my back?
You should sleep on your back for at least 7-10 days post-procedure or until the healing period is complete.
Can I use a facial sleep mask after microblading?
No, facial sleep masks are not recommended during the healing process as they can trap moisture and mess with the brow pigment.
When can I go back to sleeping on my side?
You can go back to sleeping on your side after 4-6 weeks when the healing is complete and the pigment has settled.
What if my brows get wet during sleep?
If your brows get wet, gently pat them dry with a clean tissue or cotton pad. Don’t rub to avoid irritation or pigment loss.
