Should You Get a Botox Brow Lift Before or After Your Brow Tattoo?
If you're thinking about giving your brows a little boost, you've probably come across a Botox brow lift and brow tattoo. Both of these options are amazing tools for looking and feeling your best.
When you are combining cosmetic procedures like microblading or cosmetic tattoos with Botox injections, the timing can make a big difference in your final look.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the ideal order, healing tips, and what to expect from both treatments so you can achieve flawless, natural-looking results.
Brow Tattoo vs. Botox Brow Lift: What’s the Difference?
Let’s take a closer look at each one:
A brow tattoo is a semi-permanent way to enhance or reshape your natural brows. Using a handheld tool with ultra-fine needles, we deposit pigment into the upper layers of the skin to create either realistic hair-like strokes (called microblading or nano brows) or a soft powdered finish. The results can last for months but will gradually fade over time. It’s a great option if you want fuller, more defined brows without having to fill them in every day.
A Botox brow lift uses Botox injections to subtly lift the upper facial region by relaxing specific facial muscles. It creates a more open-eyed look by reducing the pull from muscles that weigh the brows down.
So while one enhances brow placement visually with permanent makeup, the other improves facial symmetry and lifts the brows by changing how your facial muscles function.
Curious about the full process? Check out our complete Eyebrow Tattoo Guide for everything you need to know before booking.
Botox or Microblading First? Why the Order Matters
If you do not currently have Botox, we recommend waiting until after your microblading appointment. This allows us to work with your natural facial movements and create as much symmetry as possible in your unaltered state. After all, the microblading will last longer than Botox.
If you currently have Botox and plan on getting it in the same spot continuously, we recommend scheduling your Botox treatments at least 2 weeks before your microblading appointment so that the brows are sitting where they normally will. Here’s why:
Botox may change the movement of the eyebrows and overall facial structure. Getting Botox can shift your brow placement and change the symmetry.
Your microblading artist maps out your brows based on your natural expressions and current brow position. That position will shift slightly once Botox settles, especially if getting Botox in the forehead or specifically for an eyebrow lift.
Waiting those 10–14 days gives time for the Botox to take full effect and your facial aesthetics to stabilize before we create your new shape.
Microblading Healing Process: What to Expect
After your microblading appointment, your brows will need some extra care to heal properly and retain their pigment.
Here’s what to expect:
Avoid chemical peels, Botox, and other cosmetic treatments for at least 2 weeks before and after your session.
Keep your brows protected from excess sweating, direct sun exposure, and makeup while they heal.
If you have skin sensitivity or a dry skin type, the healing process may take a little longer.
Your pigment color will look more intense at first, but will gradually soften as your skin cells regenerate and settle the pigment.
Check out our blog for full healing tips for long-lasting results.
How to Get the Best Aesthetic Outcomes
If you want lifted brows and long-lasting shape, here’s the ideal order:
Get your microblading done when the eyebrows are in their most natural state.
If you are exploring Botox for the first time, we recommend waiting until after your microblading appointment (our favourite is POV Medical Clinic if you're local).
If you are getting your Botox in your usual placement and it won’t alter how your eyebrows sit too much, then you can get it done before your Microblading appointment, but wait 10–14 days for it to fully kick in.
Are you looking to elevate your results even more? We also offer brow tinting, maintenance touch-ups, and other cosmetic services to keep your brows bold, balanced, and beautiful.
Learn what to expect from your microblading appointment.
Schedule Your Consultation
Botox and cosmetic tattooing are a powerful combo when it comes to elevating your brow game. The key is getting the timing just right. At The Beauty Block, we specialize in microblading, permanent makeup, and other cosmetic tattoo services that are customized to your face, your lifestyle, and your goals.
We’d love to see you at The Beauty Block in Calgary, located at #102, 1409 Edmonton Trail in Calgary’s Crescent Heights neighborhood—just minutes from downtown with easy parking nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to get Botox after microblading?
Yes, but we recommend that you give your brows time to fully heal first. We recommend waiting at least 2–4 weeks after your microblading appointment before getting Botox. This gives the pigment time to settle and helps maintain your brow shape and symmetry.
How long does microblading last?
Microblading is a semi-permanent treatment, so the pigment will naturally fade over time. Most clients come in for a refresh every 12–18 months to keep their brows looking defined and fresh.
Does microblading hurt?
Discomfort is minimal for most clients. We use a topical numbing cream to keep you comfortable throughout the appointment. Some areas may feel like light scratching, but the process is generally very tolerable.
Do you shave off my existing eyebrows?
No, we work with your natural brow hair, not against it. We’ll only tweeze stray hairs if needed to enhance the shape we’re creating. If you’d like to wax or thread beforehand, we recommend doing it at least 24 hours before your appointment.