Microblading Eyebrows: Your Questions Answered

Appealing and stylish eyebrows are the most prominent attraction of a person’s face, and they have the power to transform your face geometry and draw attention to the eyes. If the brows look naturally well-defined, it’s added a feather to your crown!! Unfortunately, not everyone is blessed with lush, perfectly formed brows. For this reason, the queen of eyebrows treatments known as “Microblading Treatment ” has become the talk of the town. It can be an easy solution for full, perfectly groomed, natural-looking eyebrows.

Microblading treatment is always top of the trend in the fashion world. Women, especially models and actresses, are crazy about microblade brows. It aims to make your brows appear fuller and thicker. However, the outcome does not appear right away. You must go through the healing process and adhere to all recommended aftercare directions as closely as possible in order to obtain the desired result. The microblading before and after the result will shock you!!

However, while the term “microblading” is pretty common these days, the in-salon procedure (and what happens to your brows afterwards) can still cause a lot of confusion. What exactly is brow microblading? Does brow microblading last indefinitely? Will you have Instagram brows? The questions are limitless. In this article, we will try our best to vaporise all your confusion and describe to you the ins and outs of microblading.

So, let’s dive in!!!

What is brow microblading?

Eyebrow microblading is a semi-permanent tattoo procedure where a special handheld microblading eyebrow pen is used to draw on strokes that mimic the appearance of natural brow hairs. It is used to create the illusion of fuller brows aimed to fill in the gaps between your brows. Microblading eyebrows appear like natural eyebrows, and with this method, you can create almost any look: from a very natural light finish to a beautifully bold brow. An esthetician uses a microblade tool to apply colour pigments that look like natural hairs. The colour effect will fade over time, so touch-ups may be necessary to maintain the desired look. 

Is Microblading a tattoo?

Yes, but also, sort of, no. Microblading is a type of semi-permanent tattooing because the hairlike strokes aren’t as deeply ingrained into the skin compared to strokes created by a tattoo gun. The pigment used in microblading differs from that used in tattooing because your body eventually metabolises it, and it fades away. Furthermore, the dye particles in microblading ink are less concentrated, giving your brows a softer, more realistic appearance.

Microblading Treatment

To create a Microblading eyebrow, First, as a beauty expert, you should consult with clients about the best brow shape for their face and choose a colour that matches the natural hair colour and skin undertone. The brow area is then cleaned and numbed for the treatment. Next, instead of using a tattoo machine, you should use a little handheld tool to draw hair strokes manually. Lastly, you should apply an ointment like the Eyebrow Doctor Aftercare to help with the healing process.

This all can take up to 30 to 40 minutes, depending on how full you want your brows to look. Clients are encouraged to schedule a follow-up appointment four to six weeks after to make sure they are happy with the results or need little tweaks. Results can last anywhere from one to three years, depending on your skin type (the ink fades faster on oily skin), products, and lifestyle. 

Who can do microblading?

The best part about this treatment is that a skilled microblading artist can create the appearance of naturally full brows on any skin tone and in any shade range. Also, if you have alopecia and have lost your brows, you are still a candidate for microblading. You can create a custom colour using several shades that match your hair colour, so your brows will look multidimensional and natural. 

How much does microblading cost?

Your geographical location, the artist’s skill level, and how much microblading actually needs to be done to your eyebrows can all impact the final cost of your procedure. It can range anywhere from $250 to $1,500. 

Providing a fixed microblading price is not possible because there are several factors that determine how much the artist charges for the services. Here are some of the key factors that affect the final price of eyebrow microblading.

Microblading Prices Factors:

• Location: The higher-end the location is and location like the city centre could increase the microblading artist charges’ price. Many times the overhead of a business could also mean higher prices.

• Tools: in general, microblading tools and supplies work pretty the same, but the quality of these materials affects the service results. The microblading artists who use more expensive precise tools and high-quality pigments are sure to provide you with the best microblading results at a reasonable cost.
• Experience: while it is not the sole indicator, the experience of the microblading artist may determine the microblading price. This can be due to the reason that more years of experience performing microblading does create more defined and precise brows. Additionally, those who have taken more courses do have a higher level of education which demands a higher cost to perform. An experienced and highly trained artist may cost a bit more than a newbie.

• Reputation: Any business has to earn its reputation through hard work, and microblading is no exception. This is why the kind of reputation that the clinic has also had a bearing on the microblading cost.

• Touch-ups: typically, the cost of microblading already includes a consultation with the artist to discuss things with you and decide on the best brow shape and colour that suit your skin tone. This consultation considers your personal preferences and lifestyle before settling in the style and thickness of your eyebrows. Apart from a dedicated consultation with the artist, microblading also includes touch-ups or follow-up sessions where the artist can correct any irregularities that might happen after your brows have healed.

Touch-ups also allow you to change or modify the look of your microbladed brows if you wish so. They are usually scheduled about 406 weeks after the actual procedure. If the cost of the touch-up is not a part of the initial price of your microblading package, it can cost you between £50 to £100 per touch, depending on where you get your brows microbladed.

How long do microblading eyebrows last?

The effect of microblading lasts anywhere between 18 and 30 months. Once pigment from the procedure begins to fade noticeably, you’ll need to go back to your practitioner for a touch-up application. Touch-ups can be necessary every six months or every year, depending on your skin type and preferred look. Because the technique involves depositing pigment under the skin, several factors, including the client’s skin type, affect how long the brows last.

• Skin Type and Skincare Routines 

Skin type is one of the most significant factors affecting how long microbladed brows last. Microbladed brows on oily skin, for example, do not last as long as they do on other skin types. This is because when the skin secretes a high amount of sebum, it makes it difficult for the pigment to stay. Skincare routines also affect microblading’s lasting effect because some facial products such as those with Glycolic acid and procedures such as exfoliating and tanning would make the pigment fade faster.

• Sun Exposure 

The amount of sun a client is exposed to would definitely affect the lasting effects of their microbladed brows. In addition, more sun exposure results in a shorter lifespan.

• The Healing Period 

Following or not following care instructions during the healing period would significantly affect how long the results last.

I’ve included a list of recommendations that can help make your brows last as long as possible: ​

• Make sure to follow ALL of the aftercare instructions
• Avoid sunlight during the healing process
• Make sure to come in for your touch up within 6 weeks (do NOT forget this part, it is crucial for long term results)
• Avoid placing any makeup over your brows while healing
• Make sure to continue with waxing every 6-8 weeks to maintain your brow shape after your procedure
• During the healing process, make sure to eat as healthy as possible and consume as much water as possible to maintain hydration of the skin (you can also consider supplements to boost the healing process as well).

By following these simple rules, you can dramatically increase the longevity of your results. On the other hand, if you don’t follow these rules, then you will still have results, but they may fade sooner than you anticipate.

Does Microblading ruin your eyebrows?

There is a common misconception that microblading can ruin your natural eyebrows. But, as long as you are working with a skilled professional, there should be no harm to your natural eyebrows.

For microblading to ruin your natural brows, the needle will have to be inserted into the dermis layer where the hair follicle grows from. If the needle does not go that far, there should be no harm to hair growth. Some people have found that their natural hairs were cut off either by the professional or the procedure. But that should not ruin your natural eyebrows because the roots are still attached and will grow back eventually.

The best thing to do to make sure your natural eyebrows don’t get ruined is to speak to different professionals and reach out to people to share their experiences. Voice your concerns and find someone who knows not to go into the dermis layer.

What are the negatives of Microblading?

1. Microblading can trigger an allergic reaction in some people.

There are some individuals who are allergic to some of the pigments that a technician uses to style the architecture of your eyebrows. Another group of people are exceptionally sensitive to them. It tends to be rare, but if you do have a significant number of allergies that you juggle every day, then testing the service first is a good idea. You would want to have a small patch in an unnoticeable location for the test to see if you can go through with the process or not.

2. There is a cost consideration to factor in with this procedure.

Microblading is not the cheapest beautification procedure that you will ever choose to do. The price range in the United States is from $400 to $1,000 for this service, with some premium providers charging over $1,500. Your geographic location will have a tremendous impact on which end of the scale you fall on with this potential disadvantage.

The price of microblading includes your initial consultation with the technician, the first treatment that you need, and then a follow-up appointment in 6-8 weeks that will finalize the looks of your eyebrows.

3. You will need to do some of the work before your appointment.

Even though the purpose of microblading is to give your eyebrows better shape and architecture, there is some work that you will need to do before your appointment for a successful experience. Your technician will require that you shape the brow area by threading the hairs there, cleaning it up and preparing it for the overall treatment. Although some salons might do this work for you with an additional fee, most of them will want you to prepare at home for the experience.

4. The pigment doesn’t always set right.

After 6-8 weeks have passed after your microblading session, your treatment provider will want you to stop by for another appointment. The cost is included in the overall price for the procedure with most facilities. Your return is necessary because there might be gaps in your eyebrows where the pigment did not take very well. In addition, some individuals do not heal as fast as others, so a review of the needling work is necessary as well. This session is an opportunity to fill in those gaps, add further strokes, or use a darker pigment if desired.

5. Infections are still possible with microblading.

Because a single microblading session can require more than 100 unique cuts, the equipment used for the procedure must go through proper sterilization procedures. If you are working with an inexperienced technician, this step may not occur to the extent it should. When the needles go too deep, the scratches from the needles can also create more swelling and the potential for infection. That is why it is essential to browse through a provider’s public reviews before booking an appointment. When you have the initial consultation, ask them to show you their sterilization procedures. If they open new equipment each time, then have them do that in front of you.

6. The results do not look realistic to everyone.

If you look closely at someone’s eyebrows, you can begin to tell who has gone through a microblading procedure and who has not. The look is thick and full, even if you’re used to thin and feathery brows, which come to an exact point above your eye. Some people think the look is “painted” on, reducing the impact of natural brows. This disadvantage is especially noticeable if the quality of the work you receive is suboptimal. Then there is the issue of removal if you don’t like the work, which can lead to scars if the pigment was set too deep.

7. Not everyone should get microblading work done, even if they can.

There are times when someone should avoid this procedure whenever possible. It can have a direct impact on your health if there are some specific conditions that currently apply. If you have received a prior permanent tattoo for your eyebrows, for example, then microblading can interfere with the pigmentation that is already in your skin.

8. Aspirin and microblading do not make a good combination.

Because a technician will be making over 100 cuts as part of this procedure, bleeding can happen without warning. This disadvantage will not apply to most people unless they are taking aspirin or blood-thinning medication. Always make sure that you tell your service provider about any medicine you’re taking because it could impact the achievable results from the procedure. Microblading can cause your bleeding to be excessive if you regularly take something to thin your blood.

9. This procedure is not approved by the FDA in the United States.

As with all tattoo procedures performed in the United States, the semi-permanent nature of microblading is not regulated or approved in the country. That means you are taking certain risks into your own hands when deciding to go through with this option. In just one year of reporting, the FDA received over 150 reports of adverse reactions to permanent and semi-permanent make-up shades. You may not know if there is an allergy to these substances until the procedure starts.

10. There is a risk that keloid formation could occur.

Keloids are scars that begin to grow beyond their normal boundaries. If you are prone to developing them in your past, then microblading may increase the risk of their future formation. They can form at any time when there is trauma or an injury to your skin – especially this occurs where there are thin layers situations above a bony prominence. You might increase your risks even further if you decide that the look provided by microblading doesn’t suit you because of the techniques used during the removal process.

11. You may experience adverse side effects during an MRI.

Some people have reported to the FDA that they felt a burning sensation or experienced swelling around their eyebrows after receiving a microblading procedure. This disadvantage occurs more often with permanent makeup and only occurs rarely, but it could interfere with the overall quality of the images taken as well. Therefore, you will want to tell your doctor about your microblading work before receiving this imaging procedure to ensure that an adverse reaction does not occur.

Who shouldn’t Microblading?

There are multiple medical conditions that, if you have them, you should not get microblading done. This is for a variety of reasons. Depending on the condition, you may have trouble healing, be severely allergic to certain products/tools used while microblading, etc. The conditions are:

• You are under 18
• You get Keloid scars
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You have been on Accutane within 1 year of the procedure.
• Diabetic
• Have HIV or Hepatitis or any other viral infections and/or diseases
• Undergoing Chemotherapy
• Epilepsy
• A Pacemaker or major heart problems
• Had an organ transplant
• Sick (cold, flu, etc. Will affect the healing process, please reschedule)
• You have irritation of the skin of any kind, such as blemishes, pimples, rash, psoriasis, eczema, rosacea, sunburn on the procedure area
• You are on Retin-A or Retinols. Be off 7 days before appointment and avoid 30 days after
• You generally don’t heal well and develop infections easily

Do and don’ts of Microblading?

Do’s

• Do your research when choosing a microblading artist. Remember, this is your face, and you’re putting your trust in the hands of another person. We have seen many people take a 2-day course in microblading and immediately start taking on clients by themselves. Not only is this illegal (since the apprenticeship for microblading is a required 6 months), you’re trusting your brows to an inexperienced person likely taught but another inexperienced person! Make sure to check the artist’s before and after pics! And remember, you get what you pay for!

• Do take the time to schedule a consultation with a microblading artist. They will do a wonderful job of explaining exactly what you’re going to experience in the actual session and help you decide the shape of your brows that best compliments your facial features.

• Do take the time to read through the pre/post-care and contradiction paperwork we give you before your appointment. Following them will ensure the best results. If you do not follow the instructions, we will refuse service for safety concerns!

• Do tell us of any medication or underlying medical issues you may have. Certain medications compromise the integrity of the skin or the blood. Certain medical issues can complicate the healing process of microblading.

• Do give up to 4 weeks for the microblading to heal after treatment. This means no dirt, sweat, or picking scabs!

Don’ts

• Don’t take any blood thinners.

• Don’t take any anti-inflammatory medicines like Advil, Aleve, Motrin, Aspirin, or Excedrin.

• Don’t take any oil supplements like fish oil, vitamin e oil, or primrose oil.

• Don’t take any magnesium.

• Don’t consume any alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine, as it will interrupt the healing process.

• Don’t take any over the counter herbs without consulting with your microblading artist.

• Don’t use any acidic lotions or topicals. They are found in most makeup and skincare products. Any topical products that contain mineral oils, retinol, AHA, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid should be avoided.

• Don’t get microblading done if you have any of the following conditions: Diabetes, pregnancy, cancer (though we will happily take you when you are in remission), are a smoker/drinker and are not willing to stop for 2 weeks before and 4 weeks after, Keloid scarring (test spot required), and vitiligo.

• Don’t get microblading done if you are on Accutane, antibiotics, or iron supplements.

• Don’t get microblading done if you have an open wound in the treatment area.

• Don’t get microblading if you have excessive sebum or oily skin.

• Don’t get microblading if you plan on or are obligated to sweat or wet the treatment area until the wound closes.

• Most importantly, do not lie to your microblading artist about any of these conditions!

What is the alternative to Microblading?

There are several inexpensive alternatives to microblading that give you fuller brows and allow you to avoid this time-consuming cosmetic procedure. This microblading alternative differs from one another, and the results can last for a long time depending on your lifestyle. Furthermore, the cost of each alternative varies depending on a variety of factors.

1. Microshading

Microshading is also well-known for creating powder brows. This technique is similar to microblading in some ways, but the results are slightly different, and it is also less invasive. Instead of blading the pigment, this technique focuses on creating shade. Small, tiny dots are formed in the epidermis layer of the brow’s skin, giving the pigment a powdery appearance. At first glance, your brows appear arched.

Furthermore, if you have sensitive skin, microshading is for you. It creates powdery, fuller brows, which some people dislike because the pigments appear too dark. Don’t worry; the pigment will fade in a few days, and your brows will look almost natural. It costs about the same as microblading and is dependent on the artist’s skill and a few other factors.

2. Brow Lamination

Brow Lamination is another excellent alternative to microblading, and it can resolve almost all brow-related issues. Furthermore, the results are immediately visible. Brow lamination is also an option for those who do not want to undergo any invasive procedures. If you have thin or unruly brows, brow lamination can help you easily, and you can get smoother, fuller brows almost immediately.

Many people prefer micro lamination because of its low cost and excellent results. Brow Lamination is not for those looking for a long-term solution to their coarse or pesky sparse brows. Furthermore, brow lamination will not produce extraordinary results in terms of taming unruly hairs or giving them a fuller appearance. 

3. Micro Feathering

Microblading is best suited for people with thin and light-coloured brows, but if you have fuller brows and want to make them more perfect, Micro feathering is the way to go. Microfeathring is the older sibling of microblading. Micro-incisions are made in the epidermis, and a custom pigment is used to match the colour of the client’s brow hairs. Micro feathering brows require less aftercare and low maintenance, so perfect for all those who don’t want to go for micro feathering. Undoubtedly micro feathering is a non-invasive way to charm your coarse or thin eyebrows into a thick one.

We hope you now have enough information about microblading to get the desired shape and colour of your brows. Furthermore, you can now make a more accurate comparison of which treatment will produce the desired results for you.

STAY BEAUTIFUL!!!!