Does Microblading Eyebrows Hurt? Complete Pain Guide

Best PMU Artist in Pune

Reviewed by Dr. Shalthiel Sathe

Last updated: November 29 , 2025

Table of Contents

Overview

Microblading has quickly become one of the most popular treatments for achieving natural-looking, fuller eyebrows. It is loved for its ability to create precise, hair-like strokes that blend seamlessly into your natural brow line. But before booking an appointment, most people have one major concern: Does microblading hurt?

The idea of tiny strokes being applied to the brow area can make first-time clients nervous. Understanding how the procedure works, how the numbing process feels, and what to expect during healing can help reduce anxiety and prepare you for a smooth, comfortable experience.

This complete pain guide explains everything you need to know—how microblading feels, how long the discomfort lasts, and what professionals do to make the process as painless as possible.

Does Microblading Eyebrows Hurt

What Exactly Is Microblading?

Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic procedure that enhances eyebrow shape, thickness, and definition. Using a handheld tool with ultra-fine needles, the artist creates tiny strokes that resemble real eyebrow hair. These strokes are filled with pigment to give the appearance of fuller, natural-looking brows.

Unlike traditional body tattooing, microblading only reaches the upper layers of the skin. This makes the procedure less invasive, shorter, and much more comfortable. It is ideal for people with thin eyebrows, patchy growth, or those who want a defined brow shape without daily makeup.

The Most Common Question: Does Microblading Hurt?

The short answer: Most people say microblading is not painful—just slightly uncomfortable.

Clients often describe the sensation as:

  • Light scratching
  • A tugging feeling
  • Mild pressure
  • A dull tickling feeling

Thanks to numbing cream, the discomfort is significantly reduced. Many people say threading or waxing feels more painful than microblading. Individual experiences may vary depending on skin sensitivity, pain tolerance, and the skill of the artist.

Why Microblading Doesn’t Hurt as Much as You Think

Pain levels are much lower than expected for several reasons:

1. Numbing Cream Is Applied Before the Procedure

A strong topical anesthetic is used 15–20 minutes before microblading begins. This significantly reduces sensation in the brow area.

2. Only the Surface Layer of Skin Is Touched

Microblading does not penetrate deeply into the skin. The shallow depth means less discomfort and faster healing.

3. Controlled Hand Movements

Trained artists use gentle, precise strokes to avoid unnecessary pressure or irritation.

4. Calm, Professional Environment

A comfortable setup helps relax the client, reducing the perception of pain.

What Microblading Really Feels Like

While everyone’s pain tolerance is different, most clients report the following sensations:

  • During Mapping and Drawing: No pain at all—only the outline of the eyebrows is created.
  • During the First Pass: You may feel a light scratching sensation, similar to running a fingernail along the skin.
  • During Pigment Building: Most clients barely feel anything because the numbing cream continues to work.
  • Slight Tugging Near Bone Areas: Since eyebrow skin is thinner near the brow bone, you may feel mild discomfort, but it is usually manageable.

Overall, microblading feels more like an irritation than actual pain.

How Long Does the Discomfort Last?

The discomfort is usually limited to the microblading session itself, which lasts around 2–3 hours. After the session:

  • Mild tenderness or tightness may occur for 24–48 hours
  • Brows may feel sensitive when touched
  • Slight stinging may appear during the first night

These sensations are normal and temporary. As the brows heal, any discomfort gradually fades.

Why to Choose an Experienced & Best Microblading Clinic

Most discomfort during microblading is influenced by the artist’s technique. Skilled professionals know the right depth, pressure, and motion to use. This significantly reduces pain and prevents overworking the skin.

Eyebrows Lips & Scalp Clinic – Pune’s Top Permanent Makeup Clinic – specializes in gentle, precise microblading techniques that ensure maximum comfort. Their use of medical-grade numbing creams, advanced tools, and expert strokes makes the experience far less uncomfortable than clients expect.

Factors That Can Affect Pain Levels

While microblading is generally comfortable, certain factors can influence how you feel during the procedure.

  • Your Pain Tolerance: People with low pain tolerance may feel more discomfort, though it is still manageable.
  • Skin Sensitivity: Dry, thin, or sensitive skin may react slightly more to the strokes.
  • Your Menstrual Cycle: During periods, pain sensitivity increases. It is better to schedule microblading outside your cycle.
  • Stress or Anxiety: Nervousness can heighten your perception of pain.
  • Medications or Conditions: Blood thinners or skin conditions may affect sensitivity.

Your brow specialist will guide you during the consultation to ensure the safest and most comfortable experience.

How Artists Reduce Pain During Microblading

A professional brow clinic follows a step-by-step comfort protocol to minimize pain:

  • Pre-Numbing: A topical anesthetic is applied to numb the area before the first stroke.
  • Secondary Numbing: Once the skin is opened, a second numbing gel is applied to enhance comfort.
  • Gentle Technique: Smooth, controlled strokes reduce irritation.
  • High-Quality Tools: Professional blades glide easily without dragging the skin.
  • Soothing Post-Care: After the procedure, healing balms reduce tenderness.

When done correctly, microblading is surprisingly comfortable.

Post-Microblading Healing

Microblading Healing is another area where clients worry about pain. Here’s what you’ll feel:

  • Day 1–2: Brows may feel slightly tight or tender.
  • Day 3–5: Light dryness or flaking may occur.
  • Day 6–10: Brows soften, and discomfort fades completely.

Throughout healing, the pain level remains extremely low—much like a mild sunburn that disappears on its own.

FAQ's

How long does the microblading pain or discomfort last?

Any mild discomfort lasts only during the procedure, which takes 2–3 hours. After the session, you may feel slight tightness or tenderness for 24–48 hours. This fades quickly as the brows begin to heal.

Microblading feels similar to gentle scratching on the skin. Clients commonly describe it as a tickling, tugging, or slight irritation—not sharp or intense pain.

No. Most people find waxing and threading much more painful. Microblading, with proper numbing, feels significantly milder and more controlled compared to traditional brow grooming methods.

Yes. Even people with low pain tolerance can comfortably undergo microblading. A strong topical numbing cream is applied before and during the procedure. 

Conclusion

So, does microblading hurt?
The honest answer: Very little.

Most people describe it as mildly scratchy but not painful. With numbing creams, expert technique, and modern tools, microblading is a comfortable experience that delivers dramatic, natural-looking results.

If you want beautiful, symmetrical, fuller brows without daily makeup, microblading is one of the best semi-permanent solutions available. And when performed by specialists at Eyebrows Lips & Scalp Clinic, the process is smooth, safe, and as pain-free as possible.

Enjoy stunning brows—with minimal discomfort and maximum confidence.

CALL NOW & book your Appointment: +91-9146708856