Although microblading is one of the top beauty trends of today, it has really only become mainstream in the last few years. We've noticed various celebrities like Bella Thorne and Mandy Moore talking about their experiences with microblading, bringing it to the forefront of the beauty and media industries.
While people have been using permanent makeup and cosmetic tattooing to enhance their appearance for decades, any new beauty trend is bound to bring up questions. Since microblading is such a new beauty procedure, many clients still have a lot of questions and concerns about the process. We've heard it referred to as microblading, micro-feathering and micro-pigmentation, but these terms are not as interchangeable as one might think. In this post we want to address frequently asked questions and common misconceptions about microblading.
What is microblading, exactly, and how is it different than permanent makeup?
Permanent Makeup is a form of cosmetic tattooing, also known as micropigmentation. It has been around since at least the 20th century, but maybe even longer. There is even evidence that Queen Cleopatra of ancient Egypt had cosmetic tattooing! Permanent makeup is a cosmetic technique where pigment is inserted into the skin to resemble makeup. It is typically achieved using a machine, or manual hand tool to create permanent enhancements to the eyebrows, eyes, lips, and body.
Microblading is a type of cosmetic tattooing performed specifically on the eyebrows. Like earlier methods of cosmetic tattooing, it is performed by manually depositing pigment into the second layer of the skin (dermis) using organic pigments. What makes Microblading truly unique is the hand tool used. The unique formation of needles allows the artist to create the look of real eyebrow hairs by tattooing very fine, hair-like strokes on the skin.
Do you have to shave off your eyebrows to get it done?
No! Microblading is done to enhance what you already have, and is a revolutionary way to create fuller brows that look as natural as possible. Microblading is a great solution for people who have over-plucked their eyebrows, or who have naturally thin/light eyebrows. It is not necessary, nor recommended, to get rid of any natural hair the client may already have.
Does Microblading cause scarring?
No, Microblading itself will not cause scarring. What can cause scarring after a microblading procedure is picking at the healing skin. This is why it is extremely important to make sure the client knows never to pick at any scabs or flaking skin after they have had a microblading procedure. Picking could result in the loss of pigment, as well as scarring.
How Much Does Microblading Cost?
Having a Microblading procedure can be quite costly. A procedure can cost anywhere from $750-$1500, depending on the skill/experience of the artist, where you are located, and on the demand for this procedure in your location.
What Can I Expect After a Microblading Procedure?
The healing process after a Microblading procedure varies from client to client, based on many factors. This could include, but is not limited to: the artist's technique, pigments used, aftercare instructions, whether or not shading was done, as well as how someone's body and skin reacts to the procedure. Some of the most common things clients can expect after a microblading procedure include:
Tenderness in the area
Pink or redness around the affected area
Swelling
Thickening and darkening of the area
Moderate to thick scabbing 3-4 days after the procedure
Scabs flaking off after 5 - 10 days
After scabs flake off, pigment color and strokes will look light, grey, and blurry
After area is fully healed (~4 weeks after procedure) the pigment will return to full color
How Long Does Microblading Last?
There are many factors to consider here, so the answer to this frequently asked question depends on the client and the health of their skin. Microblading procedures should last anywhere from 3 months to 3 years. Microblading is not meant to last forever - it is a different type of dye than other tattoos on the body - and will require touch-ups when the pigment fades. Microblading is a form of semi-permanent makeup, and is subject to fading over time due to exfoliation, sun exposure and skincare products like acids and retinols that increase exfoliation of the skin. Microblading should last anywhere from 3 months to 3 years before requiring a touch-up.
How Long Does Microblading Take to Heal?
Just like a typical skin wound, Microblading takes 10-14 days to heal, and we recommend the client avoid completely wetting the Microbladed area so as not to disturb the healing skin and pigment. This includes heavy exercise and sweating, showering with your face fully in the water, and face-down swimming. The area will be completely healed 30 days after the procedure was done.
Does Microblading Hurt?
Numbing cream is applied prior to the procedure, and as a result the level of pain experienced can be minimal. However, it is important to be clear that there is discomfort involved. The best way to describe the discomfort felt during a Microblading procedure would be similar to that of a cat scratch.
The skin near the front of your eyebrow is thicker, so this area tends to be less painful than the tail of the eyebrow. The tail of your eyebrow sits very close to the temple, where the skin is very thin. The thinner the skin, the more likely you will experience a higher level of discomfort. That being said, everyone's skin and pain threshold is different - but during the procedure, there should not be a point where the pain becomes unbearable.
Who Should Get Microblading Done?
There are many factors to consider when determining whether or not a person is a good candidate for microblading. The most crucial deciding factors depend on the client's skin condition and health. If they have any pre-existing health conditions, or are on certain medications, it may be best for the client to wait for a microblading procedure.
Make sure to speak with brow specialist, Stella, who can determine if Microblading is right for you!
A Note From Stella: Touch-Ups are not included in her permanent makeup applications and are not typically needed, but be advised individual results may vary.