Microblading is one of today’s top beauty trends, although it really just became popular in the last few years. So many celebrities like Mandy Moore, Adele, Lorde, and Lena Dunham talking about their experiences with Microblading have really brought it to the forefront of the beauty and media industries.
Since microblading is such a new beauty procedure, many clients still have A LOT of questions about the process. So in this post we want to address a few questions and common misconceptions about Microblading to help you research before making the decision to have the procedure.
Here are a few of the most common questions I receive in consultations:
What is Microblading exactly?
Microblading is a technique of cosmetic tattooing performed specifically on the eyebrows. Like earlier methods of cosmetic tattooing, it is done by manually depositing pigment into the second layer of the skin (dermis). But what makes it truly unique is the hand tool used. The unique formation of needles allows the artist to create the look of real eyebrow hairs by tattooing very fine hair-like strokes in the skin.
Do you have to shave off your eyebrows to get it done?
No! Microblading is done to enhance what you already have to make the eyebrows look as natural as possible. Microblading is a great solution for people who have over-plucked their eyebrows, or who have naturally very thin/light eyebrows and want to accentuate the look of eyebrows on their face. It is not necessary, nor recommended for a client to get rid of any natural hair he or she may already have.
Does Microblading Scar?
No. Microblading itself will not cause scarring. What can cause scarring after a microblading procedure is picking at the healing skin. This is why it is extremely important to make sure you know NOT to pick at any scabs or flaking skin after they have had a microblading procedure. Picking could result in the loss of pigment as well as scarring.
What Can I Expect After a Microblading Procedure?
The healing process after a microblading procedure varies from client to client based on many factors. This could include, but is not limited to: the artist’s technique, pigments used, aftercare instructions, whether or not shading was done, as well as just overall how someone’s body and skin reacts to the procedure. Some of the most common things clients can expect after a microblading procedure are:
-Tenderness in the area
-Pink or redness around the affected area
-Swelling
-Thickening and darkening of the area
-Moderate to thick scabbing 3-4 days after the procedure
-Scabs will begin to flake off between days 5-10
-After scabs flake off, pigment color and strokes will look light, grey, and blurry
-After area is fully healed after 4 weeks, the pigment will return to full color
How Long Does Microblading Last?
It really depends on the client and the health of their skin, but microblading procedures should last anywhere from 1 to 3 years. Microblading is not supposed to last forever and will require touch-ups when the pigment begins to fade.
Microblading is a form of semi-permanent makeup and is subject to fading over time due to exfoliation, sun exposure and skincare products that may increase exfoliation of the skin. Microblading should last anywhere from 1 year to 3 years before requiring a touch-up.
How Long Does Microblading Take to Heal?
Just like a typical skin wound, microblading takes about 10 – 14 days to heal before it can get completely wet without disturbing the skin or the healing process. This includes heavy exercise and sweating, showering, and face down swimming. The area will be fully healed 30 days after the procedure was done.
Does Microblading Hurt?
Because you are numbed prior to the procedure, the level of pain experienced can be minimized, but in all honesty, there is definitely some discomfort involved. The best way to describe the discomfort felt during a microblading procedure would be similar to that of a continuous cat scratch.
Who Should Get Microblading Done?
Many factors decipher whether or not a person is a good candidate for microblading. The most crucial deciding factors depend on the client’s skin condition and health. If they have any pre-existing health conditions or are on any medications, it may be best for the client to wait for a microblading procedure.
