Why Your New Brow Tattoo Changes Colour in the First Weeks
Getting your brows done can feel like magic, you leave the studio loving the shape, colour, and definition. But a few days later, you might notice something unexpected: your brows look darker, lighter, patchy, or even a little flaky. Don’t panic - this is completely normal!
Why Brow Colour Changes
The colour of your brow tattoo starts settling into your skin almost immediately, sometimes within the first 30 minutes. This means it’s completely normal for the first brow your artist tattoos to appear slightly darker than the second, the pigment is beginning to interact with your skin right away.
During the first week, your skin begins to heal over the pigment. At first, the colour can look darker because the surface layer of your skin is still open and slightly inflamed. As healing continues, that layer closes and your skin naturally sheds tiny flakes as part of the recovery process. This light exfoliation can make the brows appear patchy or lighter for a short time, but once the skin fully renews, the pigment underneath becomes visible in its true, softened shade.
Skin type also plays a role: oily skin may lighten faster, while dry or sensitive skin may hold pigment longer. Every client’s experience is unique, which is why your tattooist always reminds you that the final results take time to appear.
Flaking and Peeling Are Normal
Around days 4–7, your brows may start to flake or peel: a natural part of healing. Some areas may appear lighter or patchy as the top layer of skin sheds, taking tiny amounts of pigment with it. While it can feel unsettling, this is completely normal and part of how the colour settles beneath the skin.
Other Factors That Affect Healing
Several factors can influence how your brows look during the first weeks:
Lifestyle: Swimming, sweating, or sun exposure can lighten pigment.
Skincare: Exfoliants, acids, or heavy creams on the brow area may affect colour retention.
Health & medications: Your immune system and certain medications can impact how quickly your skin heals.
Technique & pigment depth: Powder brows, nano strokes, and microblading all heal slightly differently, so results vary.
Timeline You Can Expect
Days 1–3: Freshly done, brows appear bold and intense.
Days 4–7: Flaking, lightening, and slight patchiness may appear.
Weeks 2–3: Colour evens out, true tone starts showing.
Week 4+: Brows settle, final touch-ups perfect shape and colour.
Tips for Smooth Healing
Avoid picking or scratching flakes.
Keep the area clean and dry.
Follow your tattooist’s aftercare instructions carefully.
Avoid harsh products directly on the brows.
The Bottom Line
It’s normal to feel a little unsure in the first couple of weeks after your brow tattoo. Colour changes, flaking, and uneven patches are all part of the healing process. Trust that your brows are settling into their final, beautiful shape, and remember, the touch-up session is there to perfect them if needed!
If you have any more questions about the aftercare or healing of a brow tattoo and would like to have a personalised discussion with me, feel free to book in an obligation-free phone consult here.