Microblading has become a fad in eyebrow beauty. This semi-permanent, minimally invasive procedure creates the illusion of fuller, more beautiful eyebrows. To create “hair,” small strokes are made using micro blades. The pigment is then added to the ends. This procedure is great if you are tired of filling your eyebrows. The technician will also map your face so that your eyebrows are symmetrical.

What is Eyebrow Microblading and how can it help you?

Microblading can be used to fill in or reshape eyebrows. The handheld blade is made up of 10-12 needles and creates fine micro-cuts on the skin to allow pigment to be deposited. Because of the shape of the blades, the effect is very real and looks just like real eyebrow hair. This is best for people with a thin, uneven, or overplucked eyebrow. The consultation will discuss your eyebrow shape and color. Next, it will be mapped and the shape drawn. The procedure then begins. It can take up to an hour for the first appointment. After your skin has healed, you will need another touch-up appointment within four to six weeks.

What is the difference between Microblading & Eyebrow Feathering?

Microblading can also be done as eyebrow feathering. It uses a single blade tool, which creates precise strokes, and not a multi-blade tool. It works in the same way. The pigment is applied to the micro-cuts that the blade makes to create the appearance of real hair. This microblading technique is best suited to people with naturally bushier or fuller brows, but who are looking for some slight reshaping or patchiness. A single blade gives the technician greater accuracy.

Difference between microblading and eyebrow tattooing

Ink is applied to the skin using either a high-vibration gun or a pen. A needle is used to puncture the skin. Eyebrow tattooing is similar to regular tattooing. Microblading and tattooing are distinct because they use ink, not pigment. Ink lasts forever while pigments will fade over time. Microblading and other methods like eyebrow tattoos are becoming more popular. Tattooed eyebrows may look less natural and ‘drawn-on’. They can also fade and show color over time, much like body tattoos. Microblading can sometimes be confused with eyebrow tattooing. Make sure to always verify what you are getting with your esthetician.

Microshading vs. Microblading

Microshading works by creating fuller eyebrows that look like they have been filled with makeup. Microshading is a microblading technique that creates “hair,” but microshading uses an stippling effect to produce soft, powder-like results. The technique is sometimes referred to as “ombre brows” or “powder microblading”. The pigment is then deposited by making small, dot-shaped incisions in the skin. Although the tool appears similar between the two methods, microshading’s needle blades are rounder than the straighter version. This makes it easier to achieve the stippled effect. Microshading suits people with oily skin, mature skin, or those who like the makeup look.

Before and after Eyebrow Microblading

Microblading has instantaneous results. Although you may feel some reddening and tenderness right away, you will be able see the results immediately. Your brows may appear darker initially due to the residual color. However, as your skin heals and the pigment settles, they will look more natural. It is important to schedule a second appointment for touch ups once your brows have healed. This will allow your beauty therapist fill in any missing areas or areas that haven’t settled properly and to inspect the shape.

The Microblading Process

The process of microblading is very simple. The process begins with a consultation in which you and your practitioner discuss the shape and color of your eyebrows. To minimize discomfort, a numbing cream will be applied. They will then map your face and draw the shape of your eyebrows. Sometimes they use a ruler or dyed strings to make sure the eyebrows look symmetrical. After you have approved the shape, they will place you on the bed and get to work. Each eyebrow is treated individually, with the pigment being added and incisions made. The excess dye can be removed and then you are done! This process can take up a few hours from beginning to end. For touch-ups, you will need to schedule a second appointment within four to six weeks.

What is the average life expectancy?

Depending on the type of your skin, microbladed eyebrows can last up to three years. To ensure that the procedure lasts, you will need to follow the instructions for aftercare. It is common for the procedure to require a touch up at 12-15 months depending on how your skin reacts and retains its effectiveness.

Post Care

Your brows might feel tender for a few hours following your appointment. This is normal. Although the initial color may seem dark, it will gradually lighten as the pigment settles and the skin heals. You will notice some scabbing and flakiness around day three or four. As tempting as it may be, you should not pick or scratch at your eyebrows. You’ll need to keep your brows dry and avoid sweating during the first week. Avoid any sport or gym and avoid the eyebrows when washing your face. To remove any blood, oozing or other issues that might occur, you can gently brush your eyebrows with sterile water. You’ll be fully healed in four weeks.

Side Effects and Allergies

The two greatest risks associated with microblading are infection and allergic reaction. It is important to research your potential technician before you hire them. This is a relatively unregulated process and not all areas require a license. You can ask for a license (if necessary), an occupational license, or a health inspection certificate. A reputable practitioner should be able to provide these. Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. You can request a spot test if you are concerned about allergic reactions. It’s normal for the patient to feel tenderness, redness, and a slight amount of blood or lymph fluid after the procedure. If the pain continues, or if it starts to swell, you should seek medical attention immediately. It is important to avoid any infection from reaching your bloodstream.

How do you prepare for a Microblading appointment?

There are a few things you should do before your appointment. Avoid facials, microdermabrasions, skin needling, laser treatments and other activities for a month prior to your procedure. These products can cause skin irritation and could have ingredients that affect the pigments. Avoid plucking, waxing or electrolysis within two weeks of your appointment. Also, don’t do any beauty treatments like botox or injections. You should avoid alcohol, ibuprofen and aspirin 48 hours before your appointment. You might also be more sensitive when you have your period. If you are concerned, avoid scheduling an appointment while you’re having your period.

What is the cost to have your eyebrows microbladed?

The average cost of microblading is between $500 and $1500. A follow-up appointment costs $200-$300 and is usually less costly. It can be worthwhile when you consider the time it will save you and how it can increase your confidence.

Microblading Aftercare

To get the best results, and to prevent infection, it is important to take care of yourself afterward. You should avoid sweating the first week following the session. This means you will need to refrain from doing heavy-duty housework, going to the gym, and taking hot baths, saunas, steam rooms, or any other activity that could cause sweaty skin. Also, you can’t wash your face or swim. Keep your brows clean and avoid touching them. Avoid dusty places and driving with the windows down as airborne particles can cause irritation or infection. You can’t wear makeup for at least a week following surgery, so embrace your natural glow.

Do’s and Don’ts of Microblading

Do

• Avoid certain activities that could affect the outcome of your preparation. These include certain beauty treatments and the consumption of certain food or painkillers.
• Follow the instructions of your technician.
• For touch-ups, schedule a follow up appointment.
• To remove blood or lymph fluid, use a slightly damp cotton pad and sterile water.

Don’t

• If your eyebrows appear darker than you expected, don’t worry. They will fade with time.
• You can not touch, scratch, or pick your eyebrows when they begin to scab or flake.
• After the procedure, get them wet and sweaty, or put on makeup for at least a week.
• Use any cleansers or facial products for more than ten days.
• Place them in direct sunlight.

Microblading: Where can I get it?

The majority of microblading can be done in a beauty salon. This is why it is important to choose the right technician. You want to ensure that you are selecting someone trustworthy, experienced, and skilled at what they do. A license is required for them to perform microblading. They must also be properly trained in the art. Cleanliness is important. All tools must be single-use and technicians should wear gloves. Ask friends and family for recommendations, look online for reviews, and view before, after, or healed photos on their business page. To see their portfolio and check out the cleanliness of the salon, you can request a consultation appointment. Waiting can be beneficial for good brow artists, as they are often booked.