Does Microblading Hurt? What to Expect Before Your Appointment

Jan 12
3 min read

Updated: Feb 2

If you’re considering microblading, you’ve probably asked the question everyone asks first: “Does microblading hurt?” The short answer is: Most clients say microblading feels more like light scratching or pressure—not actual pain.

With proper numbing, many describe it as completely tolerable or even relaxing. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what microblading feels like, how numbing works, and what to expect during and after the service, based on the techniques used at Velamina PMU Studio in Jacksonville, FL.

What Microblading Actually Feels Like

Microblading uses tiny, ultra-fine needles to create natural hair-like strokes on the skin. While that may sound intimidating, the sensation is much milder than most people expect. Clients often describe it as:

Light scratching
A tickling sensation
Pressure on the skin
A “cat scratch” feeling
Slight irritation during the first few passes

Very few describe it as painful—and most say the anticipation is worse than the actual experience.

Why Microblading Doesn’t Hurt as Much as You Think

1. A High-Quality Numbing Cream is Used

Before the procedure begins, a professional-strength topical anesthetic is applied. It sits for 15–20 minutes to fully take effect. Once numb, most clients feel only pressure or a dull sensation.

2. Secondary Numbing is Applied During the Service

After the first passes, a second numbing solution is used. This keeps you comfortable for the rest of the appointment.

3. Modern Microblading Tools are Extremely Gentle

Advanced blades and pigments glide smoothly and require minimal pressure, reducing discomfort significantly.

4. A Skilled Artist Equals Less Discomfort

Technique matters. A trained PMU artist applies precise, consistent strokes—not digging, dragging, or pressing too hard. At Velamina PMU Studio, the focus is on gentle application and client comfort from start to finish.

Does Microblading Hurt More on Oily, Dry, or Sensitive Skin?

Pain levels can vary slightly depending on your skin type:

Dry Skin:

Usually the most comfortable because strokes glide easily.

Normal/Combination Skin:

Generally very tolerable.

Oily Skin:

May feel a little more pressure, but still highly manageable.

Sensitive Skin:

May feel minor irritation, but numbing still works extremely well.

No matter your skin type, discomfort is usually mild and short-lived.

What Hurts More: Microblading or…?

Here’s how clients compare it to other beauty services:

Less painful than waxing
Easier than getting a tattoo
Less intense than threading
Usually easier than getting your eyebrows tweezed
Most say Botox or lip filler are more uncomfortable

Microblading is widely considered one of the least painful cosmetic tattoo procedures.

When Microblading Might Feel More Uncomfortable

You may experience slightly heightened sensitivity if:

You are on your menstrual cycle
You drink caffeine or alcohol before the appointment
You take blood thinners
You are dehydrated
You have active eczema or psoriasis on the brows

To ensure a comfortable experience, avoid caffeine and alcohol for 24 hours and stay well hydrated.

Does Microblading Hurt After the Appointment?

Most clients do not experience actual pain afterward. You may feel:

Slight tenderness
Mild tightness
Light redness
A sunburn-like feeling for a few hours

By the next morning, most clients feel completely normal.

How Long Does Microblading Take to Heal?

The healing process usually follows this timeline:

Day 1–2: Brows look bold but feel fine.
Day 3–5: Mild flaking or dryness.
Day 7–10: Skin returns to normal.
Week 4–6: Final healed results appear.

Throughout healing, there is no real pain—just minor tightness and dryness.

How Velamina Ensures a Comfortable Microblading Experience

At Velamina PMU Studio in Jacksonville, FL, client comfort is the top priority. Here’s what I do:

✔ Use professional-grade numbing

✔ Perform gentle, precise strokes

✔ Use premium pigments and tools for minimal irritation

✔ Give clear pre-care and aftercare instructions

✔ Customize each service for your skin and sensitivity level

My clients consistently say they are surprised by how easy and comfortable the entire process is.

So… Does Microblading Hurt?

Not nearly as much as you think. With proper numbing and a skilled artist, microblading is a gentle, highly tolerable procedure with long-lasting beauty benefits. If you’ve been hesitating because of fear of pain — you can rest easy. Most people say they would absolutely do it again.