When it comes to permanent makeup, the aftercare process is crucial to ensure that the pigment heals properly and the results last as long as possible. One popular product that is often recommended for wet microblading aftercare is Aquaphor.
In this blog, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of using Aquaphor for microblading aftercare and whether it is a good option for your clients.
Why Is Aquaphor After Microblading Recommended?
Aquaphor is a brand of over-the-counter ointment that is designed to soothe and protect dry, cracked, or irritated skin. So, when it comes to microblading aftercare, Aquaphor is often recommended as a moisturizer that can protect the broken skin barrier.
After the microblading procedure, the treated area will likely be red, swollen, and sensitive, so it’s important to use something that won’t cause any side effects or complications. Oftentimes infections or allergic reactions can occur if the product you’re using contains irritants like fragrances, etc.
One of the biggest benefits of using Aquaphor for microblading aftercare is its ability to protect the skin from external irritants. Keeping the wounds clean and sealed with an ointment is especially important in the first few days as that’s when the skin is the most vulnerable.
Aquaphor can be applied to the area several times a day to help soothe any discomfort and prevent the skin from drying out.
Are There Any Cons to Using Aquaphor on Microbladed Eyebrows?
Aquaphor’s ingredients include petrolatum, mineral oil, ceresin, lanolin alcohol, and panthenol. So, one of its key ingredients is petroleum jelly – which is essentially what Vaseline, which is what some artists recommend for aftercare, is.
So one of the main concerns is that Aquaphor will share the same downsides as Vaseline – it can be quite greasy and heavy which can interfere with the scabbing process and pigment retention, and lead to clogged pores.
Let’s explain how Aquaphor works and debunk these common misconceptions:
How Does Aquaphor Work Exactly?
Aquaphor is a thick occlusive, which means it creates a physical barrier on top of the skin to keep skin moist and hydrated. And while this is great for protecting wounds, it also means that its barrier can lead to a lack of oxygen.
Wounds created during the tattooing process need oxygen to be able to properly heal, and without it, the skin’s defense against bacteria weakens, increasing the risk of infection after microblading.
And not only does it not allow the air to penetrate, but when too much Aquaphor microblading ointment is applied, it doesn’t allow sweat to evaporate, either – which can also be problematic as it creates a breeding ground for bacteria.
This disadvantage comes from being occlusive, as occlusive ingredients tend to be heavy, greasy, and often sticky.
However, let’s note that Aquaphor is still less thick than some other aftercare options, or like the aforementioned Vaseline. In general, the best texture for PMU aftercare ointments is lotion-like, which is a bit runnier than Aquaphor.
So, if you do decide to use Aquaphor for microblading aftercare, it’s important you use it very sparingly.
NOTE
Another potential issue with Aquaphor is that it may cause an allergic reaction to one or more of the ingredients in the ointment, which can cause redness, itching, or other symptoms. Try patch-testing it before use to avoid any adverse reactions.
The Proper Way to Use Aquaphor After Microblading
As with all ointments, you need to use only the recommended amount – the size of a grain of rice is enough to cover both brows.
A lot of clients make the mistake of over applying moisturizer, which only suffocates the brows and slows down the healing process.
Don’t apply it too thick or too harshly either – you need to pat the ointment gently, not rub it in.
This should be done after the brows are cleaned with sterile water. Cleaning has to be done regularly to get rid of the lymph that’ll appear from the wound. But that will be explained by your PMU artist in more detail.
Using the ointment correctly ensures you get the best results, however, you also need to follow the proper aftercare routine because it plays just as big a role. You can learn more about that here.
Image source: Freepik
Alternative Aftercare Options
Some alternative options to Aquaphor for microblading aftercare include specialized aftercare creams or ointments specifically designed for cosmetic tattooing procedures.
These products are often formulated with ingredients like vitamin E, aloe vera, and jojoba oil, which help soothe and moisturize the skin without clogging pores or causing irritation.
They may also contain additional ingredients that are specifically designed to help preserve the pigment and prevent fading.
The best option is to use something non-comedogenic that is free from fragrances, dyes, and other potential irritants. Make sure to avoid anything that contains alcohol or other drying ingredients.
Here are some of our product recommendations:
So, Is Aquaphor Microblading Aftercare a Good Option?
Overall, microblading aftercare Aquaphor can be a good option for some people, but it may not be the best choice for everyone, like clients with particularly oily skin. It’s important to consider individual skin types and any potential allergies or sensitivities.
So the answer ultimately depends on the client’s individual needs and preferences.
