Nano Brows or Microblading in San Diego? Here’s Your Essential Aftercare Guide

Tori Celina
Jul 11, 2025
3 min read

Getting nano brows or microblading in San Diego? Aftercare is one of the most important steps to ensure your new brows heal beautifully and retain their shape and color. As a permanent makeup artist in San Diego since 2017, I’ve seen how proper healing plays a huge role in achieving soft, natural-looking results that last.

Whether you’re new to PMU or just need a refresher, here’s my go-to guide for caring for your brows post-procedure — customized for the San Diego lifestyle and climate.

1. Immediately After Your Appointment (Day 1)

Gently blot your brows with a clean tissue or cotton pad every 10–20 minutes during the first hour to absorb lymphatic fluid.
Continue blotting periodically for the next 3–4 hours.
1–2 hours after your appointment, gently wash your brows using the provided antibacterial cleanser. Repeat before bedtime.
Avoid touching, rubbing, or sleeping directly on your brows.

2. Days 2–10: Healing and Protection
Cleanse brows morning and night using the provided cleanser.
Apply a very thin layer of healing balm (less is more!) on clean, dry skin.
Avoid swimming, saunas, facials, steamy showers, and heavy sweating.
Stay out of direct sunlight — San Diego UV is no joke and can interfere with healing.

3. Days 5–14: Peeling Phase

Light scabbing or flaking is normal — do not pick or scratch.
Your brows may appear lighter after peeling; color will gradually settle and return between weeks 4-6.
Continue using balm as needed to keep brows from feeling too dry or tight.
Avoid direct sun and all water activities until peeling is fully complete.

4. Scheduling Your Touch-Up

Touch-ups are recommended 6–10 weeks after your initial session.
This allows time for full healing and color stabilization.
If everything heals great and there is nothing you want to change or adjust you do not need the touch up. We do not want to over saturate the skin with pigment if it is not necessary. This will give you the best long term results.

5. Long-Term Care in the San Diego Sun

Always apply SPF to your brows once healed — UV exposure is the #1 reason for premature fading.
Avoid using retinol, glycolic acid, or exfoliants on or near your brows.
Color boosts when the ink is 60% faded help maintain crisp strokes and ideal pigment retention.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ FAQ: How long do nano brows or microblading take to heal?

A: The initial healing process usually takes 10–14 days. During this time, you may experience scabbing, flaking, or dryness. However, true healing happens over the next 4–6 weeks as pigment settles and skin regenerates. A touch-up is recommended after 6–10 weeks.

❓ FAQ: Can I get my brows wet after microblading or nano brows?

A: It's important to keep your brows mostly dry during the first 7–10 days. Avoid swimming, sweating, steamy showers, or washing your face directly over the brow area. Only gentle cleansing and applying healing balm as instructed are key to proper healing.

❓ FAQ: Is peeling or scabbing normal after brow tattooing?

A: Yes! Light scabbing or flaking is completely normal and part of the healing process. Do not pick or scratch your brows, even if they look uneven or patchy during this stage—color will even out as your skin heals fully.

❓ FAQ: Can I wear make up after nano brows?

A: Avoid make up on or near the brows until the brows are done flaking. Remember this is an open wound and it is crucial we are keeping them clean to avoid an infection.

Ready to book your nano brows in San Diego? Click here to schedule or reach out with any questions. I’d love to create brows you’ll fall in love with.