You’ve most likely heard of microblading, and you may even know that it’s some type of eyebrow treatment that makes your brows appear fuller and nicely shaped. But what is microblading, and is it something you should look into? This guide explains.
What is Microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent solution to sparse or poorly shaped eyebrows. Also called 3D eyebrows, eyebrow embroidery or micropigmentation, microblading uses several very tiny needles to add a semi-permanent pigment to your skin. The pigment can create or improve your eyebrows’ definition, as well as cover gaps where you’re missing hair, or even reconstruct eyebrow areas that have little or no hair.
Can You Choose the Color, Style and Shape of Your Brows With Microblading?
All the aesthetics are up to you with microblading. You’ll choose the color and talk to your doctor about the style and shape you want to achieve. Your doctor will map out your desired brow shape before beginning the procedure, and you’ll have all the input you need.
How Many Microblading Treatments Do You Need?
Your initial treatment comprises two parts: The first application and a touch-up application in about four weeks. Your touch-up will help fill in gaps and tweak the color of your eyebrows so they appear more natural. You can follow up in 18 to 24 months to freshen the overall look of your eyebrows.
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How Long Do Microbladed Eyebrows Last?
Microblading typically looks the most “fresh” between 18 and 24 months. Although it’s commonly marketed as a semi-permanent solution, some of the color is permanent. How long your microbladed eyebrows look “fresh” also depends on the quality of ink your doctor uses, how much exposure you get to ultraviolet rays, whether you use skincare products with acid in them, and whether you’re on certain types of medications. You may need a touch-up on the color every year-and-a-half to two years.
What Does Microblading Do to Your Face?
Microblading is very similar to a tattoo, but it’s done by hand without a machine. Your provider will use individual tattoo strokes (called “feathers”). After the procedure, it’ll feel similar to a tattoo – and you’ll care for the treated area in much the same way.
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Does Eyebrow Microblading Hurt?
Because it uses several tiny needles to inject color into your skin, eyebrow microblading can be uncomfortable – but your doctor will use a topical anesthesia to minimize your discomfort. Many people report only feeling minor pressure and some discomfort rather than pain.
Is Microblading Better Than Tattooing?
Microblading is similar to tattooing in the way that it works – but the similarities end there. There are many, many small needles involved in microblading, which results in a far more natural look than you can achieve with a standard tattoo gun. Microblading is generally less painful than tattooing is, too, and it causes less damage to the skin. Additionally, your provider needs to use a lot less pigment than you’d need for a tattoo, which can help prevent the color from bleeding over into nearby skin cells (and keeps your eyebrows looking much more natural).
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Do Microbladed Eyebrows Look Natural?
Microbladed eyebrows, when done by a professional provider, look natural. In fact, generally speaking, they look far more natural than tattooed eyebrows look. That’s because by using several small needles and a feathering technique, your doctor can create the appearance of fine eyebrow hairs – and you can’t get that with standard tattooing.
Does Hair Grow On Your Eyebrows After Microblading?
When done correctly, your eyebrow hair should continue to grow normally after microblading. The technique shouldn’t affect your hair growth (although in some cases, it stimulates hair growth – but you can reshape your brows with tweezers if that’s the case). Just like a tattoo, you can continue to grow hair over treated areas.
Ready to Talk About Microblading in Ann Arbor?
Our Ann Arbor med spa can help you get the look you want, from clear and youthful skin to fat reduction. Call or text us at 734-249-8722 or fill out the form below to get in touch.
