What Is Microblading?
Microblading, aka “microstroking,” “3-D brows,” and “eyebrow embroidery” is a technique that uses a tool and small blade to manually implant pigment into the skin. The tool used is NOT a machine as with traditional tattoo, but rather a hand tool that allows the artist to create delicate hair strokes that mimic real hair. It is classified as a permanent cosmetic procedure. Since the procedure is done manually, the injection of pigment does not reach the dermis layer of the skin, but only the epidermis, making it less invasive than traditional tattoo. This allows the pigment to retain its true color and the look of natural hair is achieved.
How long does it last?
Microblading typically lasts 1-3 years depending on factors such as skin type, age, skin care routine, overall health and sun exposure. Because the pigments are not implanted into the skin as deep as with a traditional tattoo, the area will gradually fade over time. To maintain fresh-looking brows, a touchup is recommended once every 9-12 months after your initial procedure.
What’s the healing process?
Immediately after your appointment the tattooed area will look extra dark and strokes will be sharply defined. Skin around the brow may also be red and slightly swollen. Over the next 2-3 days brows will appear even darker as scabs begin to form. Depending on your skin, it can take anywhere from 7-14 days for scabs to form and completely flake off. During this 7-14 day scabbing phase you will need to keep the brows as clean and dry as possible. This means no getting them wet, no makeup or products on them and no working out/sweating.
Your goal is to keep the scabs dry and on your skin for AS LONG AS POSSIBLE. The longer the scabs stay on, the more crisp and even your strokes will be. As the procedure area heals the color will lighten and sometimes seem to disappear. Brows can appear patchy as scabs begin to flake off in different areas and can take pigment with them. At about 2-4 weeks post procedure pigment will start to reappear but may still be patchy in areas and brows will be approximately 40-60% lighter than after your initial appointment.
Is anyone NOT a good candidate for permanent makeup?
If you currently have any of the following you are likely not a candidate for permanent makeup: epilepsy, keloids, Diabetes, active Cancer, Hepatitis, AIDS, HIV, Hemophelia, thyroid disorder, healing disorders, uncontrolled high blood pressure, pregnant, nursing, skin disorders/conditions in the brow area, Accutane within the past year, taking prescription or OTC blood thinning medications or supplements. Clients should also discontinue Retin A, chemical and laser peels, microdermabrasion and AHAs at least 6 weeks before the appointment (and avoid them on brow area after procedure to prevent premature fading). Any blood thinners should be discontinued (if allowed by clients doctor) at least a week before appointment.
Do I really need a touchup appointment?
Absolutely! The initial appointment is laying the foundation for the final outcome. Microblading is not a science but rather an art and just like with traditional tattoo where you may have to go in for multiple sessions and come back for touchups, in order to perfect your brows, we need to see how your skin reacts and retains the pigment after the first appointment. When you return for your touchup, we can make sure all strokes contain pigment and fill in any gaps or light spots. A touchup also helps your results to last longer.
Can I get a touchup sooner than 6 weeks?
No. We need to see how your skin holds the pigment and how it looks fully healed. We don’t want to make any new strokes over skin that is not entirely healed and ready to accept additional strokes. You may come back no sooner than six weeks and no later than eight weeks.
Is it painful?
The pain level associated with microblading is very mild. A topical anesthetic is applied before the procedure as well as through out your appointment. With that said, each person’s experience is different depending on their natural pain tolerance and their body’s responsiveness to numbing. Different topical anesthetics that may be used include lidocaine, benzocaine, tetracaine, prilocaine and epinephrine. Clients may take Tylenol after the procedure if needed (but not ibuprofen or asprin).
Are there any risks?
I take all infection control procedures extremely seriously and am mindful always of cross contamination and making sure everything is cleaned, disinfected and sterilized in the highest standards possible in my studio. All blades are disposable/single use. When clients follow the prep and aftercare instructions there is minimal risks or complications. Allergic reactions to pigments and anesthetics are rare but could be possible for certain individuals, specifically those sensitive to topical makeup products, gold, silver, nickle and hair dyes. If you are concerned about sensitivities, feel free to contact me for a complementary patch test at least five days before your appointment.
What if I don’t like it?
We will work together throughout your appointment to set realistic expectations for your shape, color, fullness, tone, etc. The first step in the appointment is the brow design. We don’t proceed any further until I show you the brow design in a hand mirror, talk through it with you and you approve it. Changes can absolutely be made if you desire. Every effort will be made to achieve your desired outcome. I will never rush through any appointment or put my own idea of the “perfect” brow over my clients. As with all cosmetic procedures, it is recommended that you do your research and take your decision seriously! Please also keep in mind that no face is perfectly symmetrical and in general, brows are “sisters and not twins.” But please know, I’m gonna do everything in my power to make them twins! Any unevenness in shape or color can be corrected at your touchup.