Expert Guide: How To Fade Old Microblading At Home

Can you fade old microblading at home? Yes, it is possible to fade old microblading at home, but it requires patience, consistency, and the right approach to avoid skin damage.

Over time, the vibrant pigment from your initial microblading can fade, but sometimes it leaves behind an undesirable color or shape. While professional removal methods exist, many individuals seek ways to lighten or fade their old microblading at home. This guide explores safe and effective DIY methods for pigment fading agents, focusing on how to achieve this without harming your skin.

Why Do People Want to Fade Old Microblading?

Several reasons prompt people to seek ways to fade old microblading:

Color Changes: Over time, microblading pigment can oxidize, leading to unwanted tones like pink, grey, or blueish hues.
Shape Distortion: As skin ages and changes, the original shape of the brows may no longer be flattering or symmetrical.
Outdated Style: Brow trends evolve, and what was once desired might now seem dated.
Preparation for New Enhancement: Fading old pigment is often a necessary step before getting new microblading or a different brow tattoo.
Dissatisfaction with Initial Results: Sometimes, the initial results weren’t as expected, and as the pigment fades, individuals want to accelerate the process.

Safe At-Home Fading Methods: What to Expect

When attempting to fade microblading at home, it’s crucial to manage expectations. Complete removal is unlikely with DIY methods. The goal is gradual lightening. Speed also varies significantly based on pigment depth, color, and your skin’s natural healing process.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

Gradual Results: Fading is not instantaneous. It can take weeks or even months of consistent application to see noticeable changes.
Potential for Irritation: Harsh chemicals or aggressive scrubbing can irritate the skin, causing redness, dryness, or even scarring. Always perform a patch test.
Incomplete Fading: Some pigment may remain, especially if it was applied deeply or if it’s a stubborn color.

Exploring At-Home Microblading Fading Techniques

When considering DIY microblading fade, it’s essential to prioritize safety. The skin on your eyebrows is delicate. Over-exfoliation or using harsh chemicals can lead to permanent damage, including scarring or changes in skin texture.

1. Saline Removal: A Gentle Approach

Saline removal is a popular and relatively gentle method for fading permanent makeup, including microblading. It uses a sterile saline solution, which is essentially a salt and water mixture.

How it Works: A technician (or in DIY scenarios, a carefully applied solution) introduces the saline solution into the tattooed area. The salt in the solution draws pigment out of the skin. The saline solution essentially lifts the pigment to the surface, where the body can then expel it through the natural healing process, similar to how a wound heals.
DIY Application (Caution Advised): While professional saline removal is best, some attempt a milder version at home. This typically involves using sterile saline solution and a clean applicator. However, the risk of infection or uneven application is high if not done with extreme care and sterile equipment. It is strongly advised to consult with a professional before attempting any form of saline removal at home.
What You Might Need (if attempting with extreme caution):
- Sterile saline solution (available at pharmacies)
- Sterile cotton swabs or applicators
- Gloves
- A clean, well-lit space
Process (for informational purposes, professional consultation recommended):
1. Cleanse the brow area thoroughly.
2. Using a sterile applicator, gently dab the saline solution onto the microblading.
3. Allow it to sit for a short period (follow product instructions if available, but be conservative).
4. Gently wipe away.
5. Repeat over several sessions, allowing ample healing time between each.

2. Microblading Lightening Cream: Chemical Exfoliation

Microblading lightening cream often contains ingredients that promote skin cell turnover and gently exfoliate the pigmented layers. These creams are designed to lighten hyperpigmentation and can, with consistent use, help fade tattoo ink.

Key Ingredients: Look for creams containing Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid or lactic acid, and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid. Vitamin C is also a well-known skin brightener.
How They Work: These ingredients work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed more easily. As the outer layers of skin are removed, the pigment embedded within them also gradually fades.
Choosing the Right Cream: Opt for products specifically formulated for gentle exfoliation. Avoid products with harsh bleaches or strong acids that can burn or damage the skin. Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying to your brows.
Application:
1. Cleanse your brow area gently.
2. Apply a thin layer of the lightening cream to the microbladed area, avoiding direct contact with the eyes.
3. Follow the product’s instructions regarding how long to leave it on (if it’s a leave-on product) or if it needs to be rinsed off.
4. Use this method consistently, perhaps a few times a week, allowing your skin to recover between applications.

3. Eyebrow Tattoo Removal Cream: Chemical Action

Similar to lightening creams, eyebrow tattoo removal cream is formulated to break down tattoo pigment. These can be more potent than general lightening creams, so extreme caution is advised.

Ingredients to Watch For: These creams often contain chemical agents designed to break down ink particles. Some may contain ingredients like hydroquinone (though this is increasingly restricted due to safety concerns) or other mild bleaching agents.
Risks: Using strong chemical creams on the delicate eye area can cause significant irritation, chemical burns, allergic reactions, and hyper- or hypopigmentation (darkening or lightening of the skin itself).
Usage: If you choose to try an eyebrow tattoo removal cream, it is paramount to:
- Read Labels Carefully: Understand all ingredients and warnings.
- Patch Test: Apply to a small, inconspicuous area of skin first.
- Follow Instructions Precisely: Do not leave the cream on longer than recommended.
- Protect Surrounding Skin: Use a barrier cream like petroleum jelly around the treatment area.
- Discontinue if Irritation Occurs: Stop immediately if you experience burning, itching, or redness.

4. Vitamin C Serum for Microblading: Antioxidant Power

Vitamin C serum for microblading can be a gentler option for gradually fading pigment. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that also brightens the skin.

How it Works: Vitamin C inhibits melanin production, which is the pigment responsible for skin color. By reducing melanin and promoting cell turnover, it can help lighten the appearance of the tattooed pigment over time. It also aids in skin repair.
Application:
1. Cleanse your face and gently pat the brow area dry.
2. Apply a few drops of a high-quality Vitamin C serum to your fingertips.
3. Gently dab the serum onto the microbladed area.
4. Allow it to absorb.
5. Apply your regular moisturizer.
6. Use this daily or as recommended by the product, preferably at night, and always use sunscreen during the day as Vitamin C can increase sun sensitivity.

5. Glycolic Acid for Brow Lightening: AHA Exfoliation

Glycolic acid for brow lightening is another effective method utilizing the power of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). Glycolic acid is a small molecule that penetrates the skin easily, making it a potent exfoliant.

Mechanism: Glycolic acid works by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells. This promotes shedding, revealing newer, less pigmented skin underneath.
Application:
1. Start with a low concentration of glycolic acid (e.g., 5-10%). You can find this in toners, serums, or specialized creams.
2. Cleanse the brow area thoroughly.
3. Apply the glycolic acid product with a cotton pad, avoiding the eye area.
4. Allow it to sit for the recommended time (often a minute or two for stronger concentrations, or leave-on for milder ones) before rinsing or applying moisturizer.
5. Use this method 1-3 times per week, depending on your skin’s tolerance. Always use SPF during the day.

6. Natural Microblading Removal: Gentle Alternatives

For those seeking natural microblading removal, several common ingredients are believed to aid in pigment fading. These are generally milder but also likely to produce slower results.

Lemon Juice: Contains citric acid, a natural AHA. Dilute with water (e.g., 1:1 ratio) to prevent irritation. Apply with a cotton swab, leave for a few minutes, and rinse thoroughly.
Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera gel can also help with skin rejuvenation, potentially aiding in pigment fading. Apply pure aloe vera gel to the brows daily.
Cucumber: The cooling and mild bleaching properties of cucumber are thought to help. Blend cucumber into a paste, apply to the brows, leave for 15-20 minutes, and rinse.
Honey: Raw honey has natural antibacterial properties and can aid in skin healing and rejuvenation. Applying raw honey to the brows can offer a gentle moisturizing and potentially fading effect.

Important Note: While natural methods are appealing for their gentleness, their effectiveness in significantly fading microblading is often limited. They are best used for very subtle fading or as complementary treatments.

The Role of Exfoliating Eyebrows

Exfoliating eyebrows is a key component in most at-home fading methods. Whether you use chemical exfoliants (like AHAs/BHAs) or gentle physical scrubs, the goal is to remove the top layers of skin cells that contain the pigment.

Physical Exfoliation: This involves using a scrub or a brush to manually remove dead skin cells. For eyebrows, this should be done very gently. A soft bristled brush or a mild facial scrub can be used sparingly.
- Caution: Over-exfoliating physically can cause micro-tears, redness, and irritation, potentially leading to scarring.
Chemical Exfoliation: As discussed with glycolic acid and Vitamin C, chemical exfoliants dissolve the bonds holding dead skin cells together. This is often more effective and less abrasive than physical exfoliation when done correctly.

Peroxide Bleaching Eyebrows: A Risky Proposition

It’s important to address the idea of peroxide bleaching eyebrows. While hydrogen peroxide is a common household item used for bleaching hair and disinfecting wounds, its use for eyebrow tattoo removal cream or fading is highly discouraged.

Why it’s Risky:
- Skin Damage: Hydrogen peroxide can cause chemical burns, redness, blistering, and irritation on sensitive facial skin.
- Ineffectiveness on Ink: It primarily bleaches hair, not skin pigment or tattoo ink embedded in the dermis. It may lighten the tiny hairs of your eyebrows, but it won’t effectively remove the underlying pigment.
- Scarring: Aggressive application can lead to permanent scarring.
- Eye Irritation: Accidental contact with the eyes can cause severe damage.

Therefore, using peroxide bleaching on your eyebrows to fade microblading is not recommended and carries significant risks.

Creating a Safe At-Home Fading Plan

Consistency and patience are key to any at-home fading regimen.

1. Patch Test:
Always perform a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area of skin (like behind your ear or on your inner forearm) 24-48 hours before applying any new product or method to your eyebrows. This checks for allergic reactions or irritation.

2. Cleanse Gently:
Start with a clean canvas. Use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser to wash the brow area. Avoid harsh soaps that can strip the skin of its natural oils.

3. Application Technique:
* Precision: Use sterile cotton swabs or fine brushes for precise application, especially with chemical treatments.
* Avoid Over-Application: Never apply more product than recommended or leave it on for longer than instructed.
* Protection: Use petroleum jelly or a thick balm to protect the skin around your eyebrows from the active ingredients.

4. Healing and Recovery:
* Rest Days: Allow your skin to heal between treatments. If you are using exfoliants, aim for 2-3 treatments per week, with at least one day of rest in between.
* Moisturize: Keep the skin hydrated with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer. Well-hydrated skin heals better.
* Sun Protection: Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun after exfoliation. Always wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on your brows whenever you go outdoors. Sun exposure can also make any remaining pigment more visible.

5. Monitoring Progress:
Take “before” photos and regularly document your progress. This helps you see the subtle changes and adjust your routine if needed.

Table: At-Home Microblading Fading Options Comparison

Method	Primary Action	Pros	Cons	Best For
Saline Removal	Draws pigment out	Relatively gentle, natural ingredients	Requires sterile technique, risk of infection, slow results	Mild fading, minimal irritation
Microblading Lightening Cream	Chemical exfoliation (AHAs/BHAs)	Accessible, readily available products	Can cause irritation, slow results if concentration is low	Gradual lightening, improving skin texture
Eyebrow Tattoo Removal Cream	Stronger chemical action	Potentially faster results	High risk of burns, irritation, scarring	Those seeking more aggressive at-home fading (use with extreme caution)
Vitamin C Serum	Antioxidant, skin brightening	Gentle, promotes skin health, readily available	Slow results, can increase sun sensitivity	Subtle fading, improving overall skin tone around brows
Glycolic Acid	Chemical exfoliation (AHAs)	Effective exfoliation, can speed up fading	Can cause redness/irritation, requires sun protection	Moderate fading, enhancing cell turnover
Natural Methods	Mild exfoliation/brightening	Very gentle, safe for sensitive skin	Very slow results, may not be effective for deeper pigment	Very subtle fading, complementing other methods, for sensitive skin
Peroxide Bleaching	Bleaches hair/skin	None for tattoo removal	HIGH RISK of burns, scarring, ineffective on ink	NOT RECOMMENDED FOR TATTOO FADING

When to Seek Professional Help

While at-home methods can offer gradual fading, there are times when professional intervention is the best course of action.

Significant Color Issues: If your microblading has turned an undesirable color (e.g., strong blue, green, or orange tones), professional saline or laser removal is usually more effective.
Deeply Implanted Pigment: If the pigment was applied very deeply, DIY methods may struggle to reach it.
Urgency: If you need the microblading faded or removed quickly, professional treatments are faster.
Skin Concerns: If you have very sensitive skin, a history of keloids, or any skin conditions, consult a professional.
Unsatisfactory Home Results: If you’ve tried at-home methods consistently with little to no success, a professional can offer more potent solutions.

Professional removal options include:

Saline Removal: Performed by trained artists using specialized tools.
Chemical Peels: Stronger concentrations of acids applied by professionals.
Laser Tattoo Removal: The most effective method for breaking down ink particles, though typically used for body tattoos, specialized lasers can be used on eyebrows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long does it take to fade old microblading at home?
A1: It varies greatly depending on the pigment, depth, your skin type, and the method used. Expect it to take several weeks to months of consistent application to see noticeable results.

Q2: Can I use regular hair bleach on my eyebrows to fade microblading?
A2: No. Regular hair bleach is too harsh for the delicate skin on your eyebrows and can cause chemical burns, scarring, and allergic reactions. It is also ineffective for removing pigment from the skin.

Q3: What is the safest at-home method for fading microblading?
A3: Gentle methods like using Vitamin C serum or a mild glycolic acid for brow lightening with careful application and consistent use are generally considered safer. Always prioritize patch testing and listen to your skin.

Q4: Will salt water fade microblading?
A4: While saline removal uses a salt and water solution, simply applying salt water without the proper technique and sterile equipment for saline removal is unlikely to be effective and could lead to irritation.

Q5: Can I get new microblading done over old microblading that I’m trying to fade at home?
A5: It’s best to wait until the old pigment has faded significantly or is removed professionally. Trying to tattoo over stubborn or discolored pigment can lead to unpredictable results and a muddy appearance.

Q6: Are eyebrow tattoo removal creams safe to use?
A6: Some eyebrow tattoo removal cream products can be safe if used exactly as directed and if you have no adverse reactions during a patch test. However, they carry a higher risk of skin damage than gentler methods. Always proceed with extreme caution.

Conclusion

Fading old microblading at home is a journey that requires patience, diligent care, and a commitment to safety. By understanding the mechanisms behind various pigment fading agents and employing gentle, consistent techniques like those involving vitamin C serum for microblading or glycolic acid for brow lightening, you can gradually lighten your existing pigment. Remember that while DIY methods can be effective for subtle fading, severe discoloration or a desire for faster results may necessitate consulting with a qualified permanent makeup professional. Always prioritize your skin’s health and well-being throughout the process.