If you haven’t been intrigued by the idea of perfectly-shaped eyebrows created by microblading, we applaud you. But if you’re like us, your eyebrows have had bad days and, to never repeat those days again, you’re probably obsessed with microblading.
Microblading is known for its drastic before and after results. This semi-permanent cosmetic fix is the secret to achieving fuller eyebrows that look naturally beautiful. It’s also the perfect solution for people who are tired of spending so much time, effort and money on loading up their brows with pencils and gels — only to have them melt off your face a few hours later.
Many people are for this semi-permanent eyebrow option, but there are others who are hesitant despite the promising before and after results of microblading. Their questions are plenty: will the process hurt? How long does it take to heal? How much does microblading cost? Will the results fade easily?
If the idea of microblading seems scary to you, don’t sweat it! Not only does the process hurt less than you think, but the results also aren’t permanent. The healing process isn’t that long but the service can be a bit pricey.
So, if you’re considering dipping your toes in the world of microblading, here’s everything that you need to know.
What Is Microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic service that uses a small tool (with tiny needles) to manually draw hair strokes on sparse eyebrows. Similar to tattooing, microblading deposits pigment under your skin. As a result, you enjoy fuller and realistic-looking eyebrow hairs that don’t wash off.
Microblading doesn’t use the traditional tattoo gun. As mentioned above, it uses a small yet precise tool that looks like a pen with a sloped blade. The needles do not penetrate your skin. Instead, they delicately scratch the surface. Think of it as a paper cut.
How is it different from having your eyebrows tattooed?
Technically, microblading is sort of like a tattoo. ‘Sort of’ because unlike tattoos, which last forever, microblading is a semi-permanent form of tattooing. While the microblading pen does penetrate your skin, the hairline strokes aren’t deeply ingrained into your skin.
Also, the dye used in microblading is less concentrated compared to traditional tattooing. With a microblading service, the ‘before and after’ results aren’t as glaring. You enjoy softer and fuller brows that look natural.
One of the best things about microblading is that it improves the appearance of brows on any skin tone. Most microblading shops create custom colors and several shades to match your skin and hair color. This way, your brows will look real and multidimensional.
How Long Does Microblading Last?
In general, the results of microblading can last from a year to three years, but it depends on your skin type. If your skin is oilier, your microbladed eyebrows will fade the fastest. To keep your eyebrows looking full, get a touch-up after four weeks. After those first four weeks, you won’t need another touch-up for a year.
How Much Does Microblading Cost?
At first glance, microblading looks like an expensive cosmetic fix — and it is. Depending on your location and where you get your brows done, the prices range from $500 to $2,000. In some cases, the total cost already includes the touch-up or follow-up appointments.
The price range is pretty hefty, but if you calculate the prices of the brow products you keep using to fill your brows, choosing to microblade your brows might be worth the cost.
What Happens When You Get Your Eyebrows Microbladed?
Every microblading appointment starts with a consultation. Your esthetician will ask you about the shape that you want. If you don’t know which shape is right for you, ask your esthetician. Once you’ve decided on a shape, you’ll lie down on a sterile bed.
Once you’re on the bed, the microblading process beings:
- Your esthetician will shape your brow area by cleaning it up, threading the hairs and preparing it for treatment.
- Next, they will numb your brows. Estheticians will apply a topical ointment on the area and let it sit for 40 minutes. While the ointment numbs your skin, the esthetician will show you color swatches and decide on other options to help you achieve the best eyebrow look.
- Ten minutes before the numbing cream fully works, your esthetician will measure the area around your brows and take into account your facial features, face shape and symmetry.
- Once you’re fully numb, the needling process begins. Your esthetician uses featherweight strokes to gently implant the pigment. Each stroke is a superficial line on your skin, which lets the pigment seep in and settle. If you feel some discomfort during this process, ask your esthetician to add another layer of numbing cream. You’ll feel numb again after five minutes.
- After adding a final layer of pigment, you finally have your beautiful microbladed brows.
- Once the session is over, your esthetician will require another follow-up session in four to eight weeks to fill in any gaps where the pigment is a bit faded.
While you’re waiting for your follow-up session, you must follow care instructions (which will be discussed later) to let your eyebrows heal.
How Long Does it Take for Microbladed Eyebrows to Heal?
The microblading healing process takes 25 to 30 days. Start counting the days right after your procedure ends. However, the speed of your skin’s healing depends on a variety of factors:
- Skin type
- Age
- Overall health
During the first ten to 14 days, your eyebrows will vary in appearance. The texture, definition and color will change every day.
If you feel a tingling sensation in your skin, that’s normal. After the procedure, your face will feel painful, tight and tender. You’ll eventually experience flaking and itchiness, which will eventually subside.
Generally, the results of microblading last between 18 to 30 months. To maintain a fuller and more natural eyebrow look, get touch-ups every 12 to 18 months. Each session involves some healing time, too.
Microblading Aftercare
If you decide to get your eyebrows done, this is an important first step in the aftercare: a week after your appointment, avoid touching your brows. Also, avoid getting your brows sweaty or wet. This means avoiding your at-home workouts and other strenuous activities. If you are a professional athlete or must work out, apply some ointment on your eyebrows to keep the cuts clean and protect the pigment.
For the first 24 hours after your microblading, use an antibacterial ointment. For a week, use a Vaseline-like ointment. Avoid picking on your scabs or using any retinoid or acids while your eyebrows heal.
Does Microblading Hurt?
It’s more of a sensation than pain. The microblading process itself isn’t painful due to the numbing ointment. The ‘worse’ part is the small scratching sound of the blade but that’s just about it. The entire process is a quick one. You won’t be under the needle for two hours.
So, if you want fuller and more natural-looking eyebrows — without spending too much on eyebrow products — consider microblading. The before and after results will surprise you, plus it will be worth your while.
