Everyone loves coffee. From the robust aroma, to the deep, intense flavor, coffee is a morning ritual for many people around the world. But what if you’re getting ready to go in for a microblading procedure? Should you be drinking coffee before microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent technique of eyebrow tattooing, which uses a small blade to deposit pigment into the skin. The process requires delicate precision and steady hands, so the use of coffee beforehand could impact the quality of the procedure.
The short answer is: it likely depends on your level of sensitivity and your skin’s reaction to the caffeine. Let’s take a look at the research that helps to answer this question.
Dr. Purvi Parikh, a board-certified allergist/immunologist and an assistant professor of medicine at NYU Langone Health, points out that the stimulant effects of caffeine can impact the quality of your microblading procedure. Caffeine causes blood vessels to constrict, thus reducing the flow of blood to the area where your eyebrows are being microbladed. Reduced blood flow leads to the pigment not being absorbed as effectively, which could impact the longevity of the treatment’s results. This is especially true for those with naturally sensitive skin.
“If one is sensitive to caffeine, they should limit their caffeine intake prior to getting their brows micro bladed, as the stimulant will cause vasoconstriction in the area,” says Dr. Parikh.
Dr. Parikh says while it’s generally acceptable to drink coffee prior to getting your brows micro bladed, she recommends that those with naturally sensitive skin avoid caffeine one day prior to the procedure.
On the other hand, some people may find that consuming coffee actually improves the quality of their microblading. Microblading needles are inserted into the skin to deposit pigments, which can be painful. The overexposure of adrenaline in your body can also make the process difficult as well. Because caffeine is known as a stimulant, it not only increases the heart rate but makes microblading less painless. Many people report that they feel more comfortable with the microblading process after drinking coffee prior.
Of course, this depends on the individual and their level of sensitivity, so others may notice the opposite effects. Therefore, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and make an informed decision.
How to Reduce Pain During Microblading.
Of course, pain is one of the biggest fears when it comes to microblading. Thankfully, there are ways to reduce the discomfort associated with the process. For starters, talk to your technician about the type of product they use. Some products contain numbing agents, which can help to reduce the amount of pain experienced. Additionally, you can consult your doctor about taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen before the procedure to help reduce the pain.
In some cases, you might also want to talk to your doctor about getting an anesthetic cream to apply to the area. This can help to reduce the pain associated with the microblading process. Just make sure to ask your technician how long you need to wait before the procedure after applying the cream.
You can also try to reduce stress prior to the procedure. Stress can increase the amount of pain felt, so taking a few moments to relax and take some deep breaths can be beneficial. Listening to calming music or doing some light yoga prior to the procedure can also be helpful.
Preparing for the Microblading Procedure
Aside from avoiding coffee prior to the procedure and managing your pain, there are other steps you can take to ensure the best possible results. For starters, always wear sunscreen, no matter the weather, as this will help to protect your brows from the sun, which can cause fading over time. Additionally, avoid any activities that involve water or steam for at least a day after the procedure, as this can interfere with your body’s healing process.
Also keep in mind that, depending on the type of microblading you’ve had done, you might need to undergo several touch-up sessions. This includes moisturizing regularly and avoiding harsh cleansers that could strip away the delicate work that’s been done. Sticking to a regular brow-care routine can help ensure the longevity of your microblading results.
Foundation and Aftercare
Aside from being pain-averse and taking caution with the products you use on your face, it’s important to use the right makeup foundation and aftercare products post-application. Excessively thick foundations can clog your pores, and using the wrong products could cause infections. Therefore, always seek the help of a professional to determine the best aftercare routine for you.
It’s also important to ensure that you’re using makeup products that are designed specifically for sensitive skin. These products are often labeled as “hypoallergenic” or “noncomedogenic,” which means they won’t clog your pores or cause any irritation. Additionally, using mineral-based foundations instead of regular, full-coverage foundations can help to reduce the risk of infection.
Getting the Most out of the Microblading Process
By following the right pre-procedure and aftercare routine, you can dramatically reduce the potential risks associated with microblading. Additionally, it’s important to listen to your body when deciding whether or not to drink coffee prior to the procedure. Everyone is different, so make sure to speak with your practitioner and consult a doctor to ensure the best possible results.
Research Tips
Doing thorough research before committing to any cosmetic procedure is essential. Look for experienced practitioners in your area who specialize in microblading, and make sure to read reviews from previous clients. You can also consult the Better Business Bureau to make sure the practitioner is certified, then ask for portfolio reviews from the technician to get an idea of their creative approach.
When researching microblading, it’s also important to pay attention to the type of pigment that’s being used, as well as the sterilization methods employed. Additionally, make sure to ask for before-and-after photos to get an idea of their work and make sure the technician is a fit for your desired aesthetic.
Final Thoughts
Microblading is a great way to enhance the look of your eyebrows, and with the right preparation, you can ensure the best possible results. Whether or not you should drink coffee before microblading depends on your sensitivity level and the advice of your practitioner.
You can also reduce the pain of the procedure by talking to your technician about the numbing agents used, as well as consulting your doctor about taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen prior. Finally, it’s important to use the right makeup and aftercare products to ensure you get the most out of the treatment.
