Cosmetic tattooing including eyebrow tattooing, microblading eyebrows and eyeliner tattooing has become a popular beauty treatment to enhance natural features. One of the main concerns of clients is whether they will bleed during the tattooing process. In this guide we’ll go through the factors that cause bleeding, how it affects the process and what you can do to minimize it.
Cosmetic Tattoo Procedure
The tattooing process involves implanting cosmetic tattoo pigment into the dermal layer of the skin using special tools. This can include microblading, ombre brow and feather touch brows all of which create a brow shape tailored to the individual client. Minimal bleeding is normal but excessive bleeding can occur due to improper pre-care or skin types like oily skin.
Why Do Some People Bleed During a Cosmetic Tattoo?
Here are the factors that can cause bleeding during a cosmetic tattoo:
1. Skin Types and Sensitivity
- Oily skin types bleed more, which can affect pigment retention and result to poor pigment retention or uneven results.
- Dry skin or sensitive skin may bleed slightly but has better pigment retention compared to oily skin types.
2. Medications and Supplements
- Blood thinners (fish oil tablets and certain blood pressure meds) can increase blood flow and cause excessive bleeding.
- Clients on antiviral medication for cold sores should consult their technician before lip treatments.
3. Diet and Lifestyle
- Drinking alcohol, excessive caffeine or energy drinks before the appointment can thin the blood and cause bleeding.
- Being active or having high blood sugar levels can also affect how the body reacts during the tattooing process.
4. Pre-Care and Preparation
- Not following pre-care instructions such as not getting chemical peels, not using Retin-A skin creams and not using anti-aging or anti-acne products can make the skin more fragile and prone to bleeding.
5. Technique and Tools
- Experienced technician with brow design skills uses light touch.
Is Bleeding Normal During Tattoos?
Some bleeding is normal during procedures like microblading, eyebrow tattooing or eyeliner tattoos. It happens as the pigment is being deposited into the dermal layer. But excessive bleeding can:
- Dilute the cosmetic tattoo pigment resulting in poor pigment retention.
- Prolong the healing process and delayed results.
- Increase the risk of infection if not followed properly after the procedure.
How to Minimize Bleeding?
To reduce the chances of excessive bleeding or poor pigment retention during your cosmetic tattoo appointment:
Pre-Care
- Don’t consume alcohol, caffeine products or blood thinning substances like fish oils and antihistamine tablets 24 hours before the appointment.
- Don’t use skincare products with harsh chemicals like Retin-A or chemical treatments for at least a week before.
Choose an Experienced Artist
- An experienced artist with advanced brow design skills no matter what you’re getting microblading, ombre brows or eyeliner tattoos.
Day of Procedure
- Don’t consume excessive caffeine or alcohol 24 hours before your session.
- Wash your skin with lukewarm water and no acne skincare products.
Aftercare
- Follow aftercare instructions and apply aftercare balm or ointment morning and night.
- Avoid direct sunlight, tanning beds and exposure to chlorinated water for the first 7 days.
Healing Process and Bleeding
Healing time for cosmetic tattoos varies but proper care can make all the difference in how the pigment settles and how long the results will last.
Hours After Treatment
- Expect minor bleeding or release of lymphatic fluids immediately after the procedure. Gently blot the area with a damp face cloth or paper towel to clean.
First 7 days
- Apply aftercare balm or aftercare ointment morning and night.
- Avoid wet wipes, chlorinated water and direct sunlight during this period.
Healing Time (4-6 weeks)
- You may see excess lymph fluid or dead skin peeling during this time. This is part of the skin regeneration process.
- Schedule a touch up session at 6-8 weeks after initial treatment to perfect the pigment colour and brow shape.
Longer term (6-12 weeks)
- The true colour of the tattoo will settle after this period, depending on lifestyle factors such as exposure to sunlight or use of skincare products.
What to Do If You Experience Bleeding
If you’re bleeding excessively after the procedure, you need to contact your artist. Poor aftercare or underlying issues like high blood pressure or skin damage may need extra attention. Proper care and no direct sun can reduce the risk of infection and premature fading.
Conclusion
Bleeding during a cosmetic tattoo is normal and manageable. Whether you’re getting an eyebrow tattoo, microblading or eyeliner tattoo, following pre-care and aftercare is key to achieving the best results. Choose a professional artist and follow the care steps and you’ll minimize bleeding, maximize pigment retention and get long lasting beauty.
FAQ
Is bleeding during microblading normal?
Yes, minimal bleeding is normal especially for oily skin types. But it’s manageable with proper pre-care and technique.
How do blood thinners affect cosmetic tattooing?
Blood thinners (fish oil tablets) can increase bleeding during the procedure. Avoid them 24-48 hours before your appointment.
Can I reduce bleeding during the tattooing process?
Yes, by following pre-care instructions like no alcohol, no caffeine and no skincare products that cause skin peels or thinning.
Does bleeding affect pigment retention?
Bleeding can affect pigment retention and result to lighter colour or uneven brows. Proper aftercare will ensure true colour results.
How long is the healing process?
4-6 weeks with a touch up session at 6-12 weeks to refine the pigment colour and brow shape.