Considering Microblading? Here's What to Know

Posted by Rayanne on May 25th, 2021

Many ladies hate that they have to do their brows every morning as a part of their makeup routine, and they would be happy to skip it. Brows frame your face, and they can transform how you look. If you don't like the work involved in shaping your brows, opting for microblading is a great idea. Whether you love natural looks, wavy eyebrows, or spot rainbow arches, microblading has got you sorted.

1. What Is Microblading?

It is a cosmetic procedure where the beautician uses a microblading eyebrows machine to create intricate strokes and apply a pigment. Unlike a tattoo gun, the microblading equipment has tiny needles that draw the strokes manually. The result is realistic-looking brow hairs that don't wash off.

2. Microblading Is Not A Tattoo

Although the technique looks like a tattoo, it isn't. tattoos last forever, while microblading doesn't. The latter is a semi-permanent tattooing technique since the strokes are not deeply ingrained into the skin like tattoos. The pigment used for microblading is different from what is used for tattoos because your body metabolizes it, and the stain is not visible on the skin. The dye particles in the microblading ink are less concentrated, giving you a soft and more realistic look.

3. Microblading Is Suitable for You If…

If you don't like drawing your brows or if your brows are sparse, this technique might be perfect for you. People who lost their brows because of alopecia are also candidates. The specialist can customize the brows to suit your facial features and match your skin tone because a range of shades is available.

4. You Should Find the Right Salon

Microblading, just like any other type of permanent cosmetics training, requires a minimum of 100 hours in class. Most beauticians offering microblading are cosmetologists or estheticians. Unfortunately, microblading is loosely regulated, which means that you may have to rely on recommendations. Although the technician might present their certificate, it may not signify much. So, ensure the salon you visit has a good reputation.

5. One Must Prepare Adequately

Ensure you don't spray tan or wax the skin before a microblading appointment because it might cause severe irritation. There's also a possibility of tarnishing the results. Avoid alpha hydroxy acid products, exfoliating treatments, and retinoids for two weeks before the procedure because they might irritate the area. Experts recommend avoiding alcohol, blood thinners, and aspirin at least a week before your appointment. Excess bleeding might prevent proper absorption of the pigment, and blood thinners may not allow for adequate blood clotting.

6. Does It Hurt?

The procedure starts with a painless drawing of the strokes on the existing brows. This gives you a feel of what to expect after the semi-permanent ink sets in. However, the final look might have less color because the color fades to provide a more natural look. If you want natural-looking strokes, ask the technician to use your existing brows as a guideline instead of drawing a new outline. The beautician will apply a numbing cream before starting the microblading process to minimize the pain. One might feel some discomfort when the cream wears off.

7. How Long Do the Results Last?

The period depends on your skin type, and it can be anywhere between one and three years. Oily skin types usually fade the fastest. After four weeks for a touch-up, one should go back to the salon and ascertain that they are happy with the results. Usually, the second procedure costs less than the initial one. You may also need to have another touch-up a year after the second appointment.

8. Special Aftercare Is Required

Excessive sun exposure might deter the healing process. One should apply a thin layer of coconut butter, Neosporin, or Aquaphor on the brows until they heal fully. Avoid contact with water to prevent fading. Excessive sweating might also cause the pigment to fade. So, it would help if you kept off the gym until your brows are well healed. Consider sleeping on your back for a few nights after the treatment to avoid irritating the skin because it is very tender at this point.

Microblading is not a very big commitment like permanent makeup because the small amount of dye leads to quick fading. Before settling for the procedure, ensure you understand everything it entails. The technician you hire for the service also determines the quality of the outcome.