In short: For the first week, keep brows clean and dry, apply only the aftercare balm you are given (a thin layer), and don't rub, pick or scratch as they flake. Avoid sweat, swimming, saunas, direct sun and makeup on the brows. Brows look bold at first, flake around days 5–10, then soften into their true colour by about 6 weeks.
Why aftercare decides your result
With brow tattoo, the colour "sets" while the skin heals — so how you treat your brows in the first week directly affects how crisp, even and long-lasting they look. Good aftercare is the biggest thing within your control.
Day-by-day healing timeline
Days 1–2: Brows look bold and feel slightly tender. Gently blot any lymph fluid in the first few hours (as instructed) and apply a thin layer of the aftercare balm. Keep them dry otherwise.
Days 3–5: Colour darkens and tightens before flaking begins. This is normal — do not pick or scratch.
Days 5–10: Light flaking as the surface sheds. Brows can look patchy or unexpectedly light underneath — don't panic, the colour returns.
Weeks 2–6: Colour softens and evens into its true tone. Brows are fully healed by around 6–8 weeks and ready for the follow-up session if one is needed.
What to avoid while healing (first 7–10 days)
Sweat and heavy exercise, swimming pools, spas and saunas, direct sun and sunbeds, makeup or skincare on the brow area, exfoliating acids near the brows, and letting water run directly over your brows in the shower. Don't pick the flakes — let them shed naturally.
What to do
Apply the aftercare balm sparingly as directed, keep brows clean and dry, sleep on your back for the first couple of nights if you can, and be patient through the flaky stage. If anything looks unusual (redness spreading, heat, pus), contact Lorraine.
When you'll see the final result
Your true brow colour shows at around 6 weeks. Many clients book a paid follow-up around 6–8 weeks to even out any areas that healed lighter and add depth — a normal part of a flawless, lasting result.
See brow tattoo treatment & results →
Cosmetic tattoo & paramedical practitioner with over 20 years in the cosmetic industry and international training in Milan, London and Paris. More about Lorraine →