When undergoing any medical or cosmetic procedure, safety should be the top priority. Microblading is no different. In order to have the best outcome and avoid any complications, certain precautions need to be followed. First and foremost, abstaining from alcohol for at least 48 hours before your appointment is crucial for a safe and successful microblading procedure.
Alcohol affects your blood’s ability to clot which can lead to excessive bleeding during microblading. The artist needs a clear view of the pigment placement in order properly create the hair strokes. Even minor bleeding can obscure their view and affect the outcome. Moreover, unwanted pigment can spread into blood pooling on the surface, further complicating results.
For these reasons, most microblading professionals will instruct their clients to avoid alcohol before the procedure. Drinking alcohol may also increase sensitivity during the process itself since alcohol thins skin layers and dilates blood vessels. This can translate to a more painful experience.
In summary, microblading safety starts with promoting ideal conditions for the artist to work. Avoiding alcohol at least two days prior allows your body to prepare itself, with blood clotting abilities restored and skin sensitivity at normal levels. This sets the stage for the best possible outcome and minimizes chances of complications.
Alcohol Thins Your Blood
Alcohol is a vasodilator, meaning it causes blood vessels to widen and expand. This allows more blood to flow through the circulatory system. However, this increased blood flow comes at a cost- alcohol also interferes with the body’s natural clotting ability.
When blood vessels dilate, the blood has more area to disperse into. This thinning effect reduces the concentration of platelets and clotting factors in the blood. These platelets and clotting factors are necessary for blood to coagulate and form clots that stop bleeding.
So when a person drinks alcohol, especially in larger quantities, their blood literally becomes thinner and takes longer to clot. This can be a problem during microblading when the artist makes tiny incisions into the skin to implant the pigment. Even minor bleeding from these incisions will obscure the artist’s view and make it harder to create the precise hair strokes needed.
The thinned blood can also cause the pigment to spread further than intended as it bleeds out from the incisions. This leads to fuzzier, less defined results.
The body takes time after alcohol consumption to restore its normal clotting factors and platelet levels. Abstaining from alcohol for at least 48 hours before the procedure allows the body to replenish these crucial components and ensure blood has a normal thickness and clotting ability when the microblading occurs.
In summary, alcohol thins the blood primarily through vasodilation of blood vessels and interference with clotting factor production in the liver. Giving the body time to recover from alcohol consumption is key to having blood of normal thickness and clotting function during microblading for optimal results and safety.
Risk of Infection is Higher section
Any time the skin is broken, as it is during a microblading procedure, there is a risk of bacterial infection. The tiny incisions made to implant the pigment into the dermis provide an entry point for bacteria on the skin’s surface.
However, your body’s natural immune defenses work to fight off these potential infections and allow the wounds to heal properly. Two key parts of the immune system are white blood cells and antibodies that identify and destroy invading bacteria.
Drinking alcohol, even in moderate amounts, can temporarily suppress these immune defenses. This makes the body less able to prevent and fight infections for several hours after consumption. Studies have shown that alcohol decreases the ability of white blood cells to phagocytose (engulf and destroy) bacteria. It also interferes with antibody production by immune cells in the lymph nodes.
This weakened immune state after drinking alcohol poses a greater risk of infection for open wounds like those created during microblading. Any bacteria that do enter have an easier time proliferating and causing issues.
Infection can delay wound healing, lead to poor pigment retention, and even force removal of the nanobladed brows. The symptoms of infection include redness, swelling, pain, oozing or leaking fluid, and elevated temperature.
By abstaining from alcohol for at least 48 hours before the procedure, your immune system has time to fully recover and is better prepared to keep any bacteria at bay. This significantly reduces the chances of infection and complications, allowing for optimal healing and pigment retention.
In summary, alcohol consumption makes you more susceptible to infections by suppressing parts of the immune system. Giving your body time to boost its natural defenses again is important for minimizing infection risk during and after microblading.
Other Side Effects to Consider
In addition to its effects on blood thinning and the immune system, alcohol has several other side effects that are best avoided before undergoing a microblading procedure. These can negatively impact the outcome, comfort and overall experience.
- Dehydration: Alcohol is dehydrating, even in moderate amounts. This is because alcohol inhibits the body’s ability to retain water and promote hydration. Dehydration can make your skin drier and less supple, increasing sensitivity during microblading. It also makes you more prone to headaches and nausea.
- Headaches: Alcohol withdrawal as it leaves the system can trigger headaches and migraines for many people. Experiencing a headache during or right after microblading is unpleasant and distracting. It is best to avoid this potential complication by abstaining from alcohol beforehand.
- Blurred vision: Alcohol dilates the blood vessels in the eye, which can cause temporary blurred vision and eye strain. Having clear vision during microblading is important so you can see and communicate with the artist easily. Blurred vision can make the experience more uncomfortable.
- Nausea and vomiting: In rare cases, some people experience nausea and even vomiting as a side effect of alcohol withdrawal. While vomiting is uncommon after just 1-2 days of abstinence, feeling queasy during a procedure is never ideal.
- Hangover effects: Even if you avoid a full-blown hangover, lingering fatigue, drowsiness and low energy can occur the morning after drinking, especially in larger amounts. Feeling under the weather during microblading takes away from being able to truly relax and enjoy the experience.
In summary, alcohol comes with a host of potential side effects beyond just blood thinning and immune suppression that are best avoided before microblading. Dehydration, headaches, blurred vision, nausea and fatigue can negatively impact the procedure and your comfort level. So for an optimal result and experience free from distractions, it’s wise to abstain from alcohol for 48-72 hours ahead of time. Let your body fully recover its normal functions before undergoing the microblading process.
Alcohol-Free Alternative
While avoiding alcohol for a couple days before microblading is recommended, this does not mean you need to go completely dry during that time. There are plenty of alcohol-free alternatives you can enjoy to relax and unwind before the big day.
- Mocktails: Non-alcoholic cocktails, also known as mocktails, are a great substitute. They provide the visual stimulation and taste of a cocktail without the detrimental effects of alcohol. Popular mocktails include virgin mojitos, virgin pina coladas and Shirley Temples.
- Fruity teas: Herbal and fruit teas provide warmth, mild stimulation and a dose of hydration. Soothing chamomile tea or hibiscus tea with natural berry flavors satisfy sweet tooth cravings without added sugar.
- Seltzer water: Flavored seltzer waters come in many delicious fruit varieties that deliver a crisp, refreshing drink option. The carbonation also provides a similar “bubbly” experience to some alcoholic beverages.
- Juices: Freshly squeezed juices made from oranges, grapefruit, carrot and beetroot provide a boost of nutrients and antioxidants in a delicious drink. Just avoid any with high sugar content.
Don’t feel like you need to give up indulgence completely in the days before your procedure. Choose healthier alternatives that satisfy your palate while maintaining optimal conditions for microblading.
These alcohol-free options can add some enjoyment and relaxation into your pre-microblading routine without the risks and side effects associated with alcohol. So grab your favorite mocktail, tea or sparkling water and indulge freely! Just be sure to swap back to water the day of your appointment in order to arrive hydrated and hangover-free for the best results.
Some Other Things You Should Avoid Before Microblading
- Caffeine – Like alcohol, caffeine can constrict blood vessels and interfere with clotting. It’s best to limit or avoid caffeine for at least 48 hours before your procedure.
- Smoking – Nicotine from cigarettes, vapes or other tobacco products can also constrict blood vessels and impair healing. Avoid smoking for at least a week before and after microblading.
- Retinol products – Ingredient found in many anti-aging creams can increase skin sensitivity and irritation. Stop using at least 1-2 weeks prior.
- Exfoliants – Anything that irritates or removes dead skin cells should be avoided at least 3 days before. This includes scrubs, glycolic acid, etc.
- Ibuprofen/NSAIDs – Can thin your blood and delay healing. Switch to acetaminophen for pain relief instead.
- Harsh cleansers – Use a gentle cleanser like Cetaphil for at least 3 days before to avoid drying out your skin.
- Tanning – Avoid tanning beds or excessive sun exposure for at least 2 weeks before as it can alter how pigment heals.
- Heavy sweating – Sweating can loosen existing pigment and clog pores. Limit strenuous exercise 48 hours before.
In summary, make sure to avoid alcohol, caffeine, smoking, irritating skincare ingredients, blood thinning medications and excessive sweating for best results. Focus on staying hydrated, using mild cleansers and protecting your skin in the days leading up to microblading for an easier and more comfortable experience.
In conclusion, avoiding alcohol intake for at least 48-72 hours before microblading is crucial for a safe and successful procedure. Alcohol thins your blood, impairs your immune system’s ability to fight infection, and causes side effects like dehydration that can negatively impact the outcome. Instead, opt for alcohol-free beverages and teas to relax before your appointment while your body prepares itself in the best possible state.
Follow all recommendations from your artist and focus on nourished, irritation-free skin in the days leading up to microblading. This will set the stage for perfect brows that last.
FAQs
1. Can I drink alcohol the night before microblading?
It is best to avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours before to allow your blood to return to normal thickness and clotting ability. Drinking the night before can still impact your procedure.
2. Will 2 glasses of wine affect my microblading?
While 2 glasses may have a minimal impact, any amount of alcohol thins your blood and impairs immune function. To be safe, abstaining completely is recommended.
3. How long before microblading should I stop drinking alcohol?
At least 48 hours before is best to avoid interfering with blood thickness, clotting or your immune system. Some artists recommend 3-4 days of abstinence.
4. Does drinking caffeine affect microblading?
Yes, caffeine can constrict blood vessels similarly to alcohol and should also be limited or avoided for 48 hours before microblading.
5. How do I prepare for my microblading procedure?
Follow recommendations from your artist, including avoiding alcohol, caffeine, smoking and certain skincare products. Focus on staying hydrated and protecting your skin in the days leading up to your appointment.