Why Do Some Microbladed Eyebrows Turn Unnatural Colors?

Microblading has become a popular option for achieving perfectly shaped, natural-looking eyebrows. However, a common concern among clients is the potential for their microbladed eyebrows to turn unnatural colors over time. Understanding why this happens can help both clients and artists take steps to prevent it. Here are the main reasons why some microbladed eyebrows may turn colors like blue, green, or purple.

1. Pigment Quality and Composition

The type and quality of pigment used in microblading play a significant role in how the color holds up over time.

• Iron Oxide Pigments: These are commonly used in cosmetic tattooing because they are considered safe and natural-looking. However, they can oxidize over time. For instance, brown pigments made from a mix of red, yellow, and black iron oxides may turn reddish or purplish as the black fades faster than the other colors.
• Organic Pigments: These pigments are generally more color-stable but may not last as long as iron oxide pigments. If low-quality organic pigments are used, they can degrade unpredictably, leading to color changes.

One of my favorite brand inks to use is Tina Davies, particularly the I ❤️ INK Brow Pigments collection. This is an organic-based, hybrid pigment line known for its excellent color retention and stability.

2. Tattooing Depth and Technique

The depth at which the pigment is deposited can significantly impact color retention and change.

• Shallow Placement: If the pigment is placed too superficially, it may fade quickly and unevenly, sometimes leaving a bluish or greenish tint as the top layers of pigment wear away.
• Deep Placement: If the pigment is placed too deeply, it can mix with the underlying blood vessels, leading to a bluish appearance due to the mixing of the pigment with the skin's natural colors.

3. Skin Tone and Undertones

The client's natural skin tone and undertones can affect how the pigment appears once healed.

• Cool Undertones: Clients with cooler undertones (pink, red, or blue) in their skin may find that pigments with red or black bases can turn purplish or bluish as they fade.
• Warm Undertones: Those with warmer undertones (yellow, golden, or olive) might not experience this issue as prominently, but it can still occur depending on the pigment used.

4. Sun Exposure and Skincare

External factors can also affect the longevity and color stability of microbladed eyebrows.

• Sun Exposure: UV radiation can break down pigments over time, causing them to fade or change color. Using sunscreen on tattooed areas can help prevent this.
• Skincare Products: Certain products, especially those containing acids or retinoids, can accelerate fading and color change by increasing skin cell turnover.

5. Aging of the Pigment

All pigments age and break down over time, leading to color shifts.

• Natural Degradation: As pigments break down naturally, the colors can shift. Black pigments, for example, might fade to blue or green, and when mixed with other colors, this can result in a purple hue.

Preventive Measures and Solutions

1. Choosing the Right Pigment: Ensure your microblading artist uses high-quality pigments known for their stability. I highly recommend Tina Davies' I ❤️ INK Brow Pigments collection for their excellent performance.
2. Expert Technique: Go to an experienced microblading artist who understands the importance of correct pigment placement and can tailor the technique to your skin type and tone.
3. Aftercare: Follow proper aftercare instructions, including protecting your brows from excessive sun exposure.
4. Regular Touch-Ups: Regular touch-ups can help maintain the desired color and correct any changes before they become too noticeable.

Microbladed eyebrows can turn unnatural colors due to factors related to pigment quality, placement depth, skin tone, and external influences. By choosing an experienced artist and following proper aftercare, you can minimize the risk of unwanted color changes. If your microbladed eyebrows have already turned an unnatural color, a professional touch-up or color correction can help restore them to your desired shade.

At Ritual Beauty Room in Thousand Oaks, CA, I prioritize using high-quality pigments and techniques to ensure your brows stay beautiful and natural-looking. If you have any concerns or need a touch-up, don't hesitate to reach out—I'm here to help you achieve your best brows.