When you have tried the most popular eyebrow pencils, gels, pigments, powders, pomades, and stencils and you find that your eyebrows are still not how you want them to look, you might want to consider microblading. This is a semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo procedure for thin eyebrows. It’s an open secret of many celebrities and influencers to faking fuller brows that look natural.
If you’re interested in this life-changing brow hack, here’s what you need to know:
What Exactly is Microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent eyebrow treatment that involves placing special pigments underneath your skin’s topmost layer to create the perfect eyebrow shape of your dreams.
This technique is precise due to the tool used for the procedure, which is a special pen with a sloped blade at the end with about 10 to 12 tiny needles that won’t penetrate your skin that much, but just scratch your skin’s surface slightly akin to a paper cut. These needles will implant medical-grade pigment on your skin to create fine and natural looking hair strokes.
What’s the Difference Between Microblading and Eyebrow Tattoos?
Unlike eyebrow tattoo, microblading is a treatment that only deposits pigment on the skin surface and not in the deeper layers of the skin. Microblading is not permanent so expect the colour to fade within a couple of months. Likewise, the strokes are finer and more realistic than eyebrow tattoos.
How Does it Feel Like? Will it Hurt?
According to those who have undergone microblading, the procedure is more like a sensation and doesn’t truly hurt. A numbing agent will also be applied to the target area.
In most cases, it’s actually the scratching sound of the pen as it deposits pigment that people find scary. The entire process is also quick, and it’s waiting for the numbing agent to kick in that takes time (around 40 to 50 minutes), but the process should be done in about two hours.
How Long Will the Results Last?
Results could last up to 18 months, but this will significantly depend on your specific skin type. For instance, those with oily skin can enjoy results up to 12 months, while those with normal to dry skin can enjoy results for up to 18 months.
Expect your newly microbladed brows to change colour, fade a bit, and become flaky in the next week or so following treatment. This is normal since you’ll see the real colour and shape of your brows only after 30 days or so. You’ll also need to go in for top-up sessions after six to eight weeks to maintain the shape and colour or your brows.
After your microblading session, it’s best to care for your new eyebrows to maximise results and avoid infection. First, never pick at your brows. Make sure your pillowcase is clean and don’t do facials, peels, or any face treatment for at least four weeks. Avoid direct sun exposure, exercise, swimming, and other activities that generate excess sweat for a week to 10 days after the procedure. Keep your eyebrows clean and free of makeup and skincare products until they have fully healed.
