Best Time to Get Eyebrows Tattooed as a Cancer Patient

If you're navigating a cancer diagnosis and considering permanent makeup for your eyebrows, first—take a deep breath. You're not alone, and every question you're asking is valid, especially when it comes to timing your procedure around chemotherapy.

Let’s walk through it together.

Before Chemotherapy: The Ideal Time

Whenever possible, I recommend having your eyebrows tattooed before starting chemotherapy. Here's why:

We can work with your natural brow shape. Before treatment, your brows are still visible, making it easier to map and recreate your natural look with precision.

You’ll feel more like yourself. Losing your brows can be a sudden and emotional experience. Having them in place beforehand helps maintain a sense of normalcy.

Healing is easier. Your immune system hasn’t been compromised yet, which allows for faster, more predictable healing.

Timing tip: Aim to schedule your appointment at least 2 to 3 weeks before your first chemotherapy session. This window gives your skin enough time to heal and settle.

After Chemotherapy: Still Possible—With Extra Care

If you weren’t able to get your brows done beforehand, please know it’s still possible to have them tattooed after treatment. However, there are a few extra things to keep in mind:

Wait for medical clearance. Most artists (myself included) require a note from your doctor confirming it's safe to proceed—usually once your white blood cell count has returned to a healthy range.

Expect gentler techniques. Post-chemo skin can be more delicate, so I take a conservative, low-impact approach using soft color application and organic pigments.

You deserve to feel confident again. Many clients tell me getting their brows back post-treatment helps them reclaim a part of themselves—and that alone is reason enough to do it.

Here’s What I Want You to Know

Whether you’re preparing for treatment or rebuilding afterward, you deserve to feel beautiful and seen. Eyebrow tattooing is more than a cosmetic service—it’s a confidence restorer. And for every client I work with who’s walked through cancer, I approach your brows with the care and respect your journey deserves.

If you're unsure when the best time is for you, I offer free consultations to walk you through your options and create a plan that works with your treatment.

Because here, you’re not just another client—you’re family.