Microblading 101
What Is Microblading?
Let's get down to the basics! If you’re new to permanent makeup, you may be wondering what “microblading” really means, and that’s okay! We’re here to help you understand all things encompassing the art of microblading.
Microblading is a semi-permanent makeup technique in which a special hand-held tool and color pigment are used to etch hair-like strokes in the Epidermis layer. Microblading can fill in sparse brows or create an entire brow from scratch. If you have light, fine or sparse brows and desire a natural stroke look, microblading may be the perfect answer for you!
Another plus to take into consideration is the fact that there is no downtime required following your microblading procedure, you just need to follow the aftercare properly to maximize pigment retention and healing!
Although there is no downtime following your appointment, it may take approximately 4 weeks for your brows to heal and for the pigment to settle. Towards the end of the 4-week mark, you will notice that the color is much lighter and some strokes might have been lost during the healing process, therefore, the required 6-8 weeks touch-up after the initial procedure is important to finish and perfect the brows.
How Long Does Microblading Last?
Now that we’ve covered the technique of microblading, you may be wondering ‘How long will this last’? Is it a permanent, long-lasting solution to thicker, fuller brows, or is it temporary?
Generally speaking, it is hard to determine the length of retention per individual but Microbladed brows can last up to 2-3 years at best case, depending on your skin type and how well you care for them!
Skin type factors, environmental factors as well as internal factors play a huge role in the length of pigment retention per individual. For instance, oily skin types require more frequent touch-ups than normal or dry skin types and that is due to their skin oil overproduction.
Microblading is not a technique intended to result in permanent application like traditional brow tattoos, the focus is to intentionally create more of a semi-permanent application to allow room for future changes or adjustment to the brows and for the overlook of the face as time goes by due to aging or trend change.
Is The Microblading Procedure Painful?
No need to fear! Because microblading is a cosmetic invasive procedure, topical anesthetics have been developed especially to reduce the discomfort to almost 0% in some people! These topical creams and gels are applied to the desired area before and during the procedure to assure you of the most comfortable experience possible.
Some people describe the microblading sensation as “tingling”. Others have shared that the sound of each stroke made is more annoying than the actual feel of it. However, just as every individual has a different pain tolerance, some may still experience a small amount of discomfort during the procedure, depending on how well their skin can absorb topical anesthetics.
If you’re like us, you’ll want to be fully prepared for what to expect. We totally understand, and that’s why we're going to be completely transparent with you! On a scale of 1-10, you will usually be somewhere between a 0-3. Rarely is anything stronger than Tylenol necessary for the discomfort experienced and you won’t have to miss work or take time off to recover!
The Bottom Line
Whether you want to accentuate your natural brow hairs or supplement your sparse areas with natural-looking strokes, microblading is the perfect procedure for you! At Brow Me Pretty, we are dedicated to specific custom design the most natural-looking brows for your face and help you feel confident and beautiful in your own skin! With over 16 years in the industry, our artist and instructor Eveline Benjamin is eager to get you in the chair and give you the brows of your dreams!