One of the most common questions clients ask about microblading is how much of the pigment will stay. It’s an important part of setting realistic expectations, because the way brows look immediately after an appointment is not how they will look once healed. Directly after the treatment, brows appear darker and more defined because fresh pigment is sitting on the skin’s surface. As the skin heals and exfoliates naturally, around 30–40% of that colour will lighten. What remains is the true, settled shade, soft, natural and in harmony with the face.

Pigment retention varies from person to person. Skin type plays a role, with oilier skin often fading faster as sebum pushes pigment out more easily. Aftercare is another huge factor. Over washing, sweating, using oils/makeup, or picking at flakes can interfere with healing and lead to patchiness. Lifestyle also contributes sun exposure, swimming and certain skincare products can all cause premature fading. Even skin integrity itself matters, each skin will hold pigment differently.

This is why touch-ups are essential. Microblading is designed as a two-step process, not a one-off treatment. The first session builds the framework, and the second, usually 6–8 weeks later, reinforces the colour and perfects the shape. Without this second step, brows can appear incomplete or uneven once healed. 

Over the long term, most clients return for colour boosts every 18 months to 2.5 years. These sessions don’t mean starting over they simply refresh and redefine strokes that have softened with time. With proper care and maintenance, microblading remains beautifully low-maintenance while still giving you soft, natural brows that last.