What is Microblading and How Long Does Microblading Last?

Full, thick eyebrows have been trending for years now, but what about those of us not blessed in the brow department? Having thin, patchy, or non-existent eyebrows can be frustrating. You may spend time every morning filling them in or sometimes, drawing them on (and getting it wrong at times!). If these are issues you’ve experienced, you may want to consider microblading your eyebrows. 

What Is Microblading?

Microblading involves using small, fine point needles to make light scratches on the skin’s surface that deposit medical grade pigment into the skin. The fine needles create thin, hair-like strokes that resemble natural eyebrow hairs. Microblading leaves clients with full, natural-looking eyebrows.

Is It Tattooing?

The answer is yes and no. While the procedure involves implanting a pigment on the skin the same way tattooing does, there is are a few key differences. Firstly, microblading does not use the permanent ink that tattooing does. The effects are semi-permanent and will fade away after a while. Secondly, tattooing uses much bigger needles to penetrate the skin whereas microblading uses multiple, fine needles in a lighter, featherlike technique. It scratches the surface and deposits pigment in the upper layers, resulting in a procedure that is less painful and less invasive when compared to tattooing.

How Long Does Microblading Last?

Microblading effects are semi-permanent and the effects fade over time. Depending on your skin type, microbladed eyebrows will last anywhere from 12-18 months. If you need them to stay for longer, you can organize for a follow-up visit and get them touched up. The visit can happen anywhere from 6 weeks to 12 months.

Who Performs The Treatment?

With the trend picking up, many people are claiming to do the procedure. Since it is invasive, make sure to do your research and be careful who you choose to perform your microblading. Most estheticians have been cleared to perform the procedure. The condition, however, is that they have a tattoo artist’s license. These are things you can ask for before you trust them with your brows.

How Long Does the Process Take?

The entire process takes about two hours. First, the esthetician sits down to talk about what your desired result is. Then the esthetician will pick up different swatches and show them to you, so you pick out the shade you want your brows in. After this, a numbing cream is applied to your brow area and stays on for around 40-50 minutes. Ten minutes before treatment starts, the shape is drawn on, after which the procedure starts.

Care After Treatment

Microblading after care is similar to tattooing after care.

The first week after treatment is the most confusing one for many. The brows will go from looking full to scabbing, then fading. You need not worry; they will balance out in a period of 30 days. Wash your face with antibacterial soap. Apply coconut oil or rosehip oil to the brows after washing. Do not use makeup close to the brows for at least a week after treatment. When the brows start scabbing, you should resist the urge to pick at the scabs.