What is Microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent makeup tattoo that offers a solution to thinning or lost eyebrow hair due to over-waxing, over-tweezing, alopecia, medications, illness or age, to name a few. Microblading can correct or reconstruct lost eyebrow shape and structure. But isn’t only for those with sparse or thin brows! Microblading can also help those with healthy amounts of brow hair to achieve darker (for those with very light hairs), fuller, fluffier or an overall even and more attractive shape. Microblading gives waterproof, fuller and thicker eyebrows that can ultimately give the appearance of a younger looking you!
How does microblading work?
Microblading is semi-permanent makeup. During the procedure a hand tool is used with sterile, precise needles to gently etch natural and realistic looking “hairs” into the skin by implanting pigment beneath the surface of the skin. Pigments are selected based on skin tone and natural brow hair color.
How long does microblading last?
Microblading will typically last around 1-3 years depending on age (mature/young skin) and skin type (normal/dry/oily). Each client’s individual color retention will vary. Clients who tan or use products with Glycolic Acid will fade and/or change faster. Sunlight exposure will incredibly soften the look of your eyebrows especially right after treatment, so sunscreen needs to be made use of (as soon as recovered) to prolong your enhancement. To maintain color richness, a touch up is advised every 12-18 months after the initial procedure.
How long does the procedure take?
The initial microblading session is approximately 1.5 – 2.5 hours.
During this session we will:
- Talk with you and address your requests and concerns
- Draw a shape that complements the bone structure and facial features with brow pencil
- Get your approval on shape and symmetry of the drawn brow shape
- Numb the brow area
- Microblade the eyebrows
The follow-up session is required for minor touch up and color retention and should be about 6-8 weeks after the initial procedure. This session will take roughly 1 hour.
Who shouldn’t have this procedure done?
Unfortunately, not everyone is a good candidate for semi-permanent makeup. It is not recommended for any clients who are or have:
- Skin with moles or skin cancer
- Cancer/Chemotherapy (please consult your doctor)
- Diabetic (please consult your doctor)
- Keloid scarring disorder
- Viral Infections and/or Diseases
- Healing disorders, on blood thinners, uncontrolled high blood pressure or had mitral valve disorder.
- Pacemaker or major heart problems
- Epilepsy
- Thyroid disorders may not retain pigment well
- Pregnant or nursing
- Transmittable blood conditions like HIV or Hepatitis
- Hypoglycemia
- Those with allergies to makeup, colors or hair-dye
- Skin irritations such as: psoriasis, eczema, rashes, sunburn, acne, etc. (near the treated area)
- Those on any skin medication such as retinoids or steroids which thin and cause the skin to be overly sensitive
- Medical cosmetic injections or fillers within the past 2-6 months
- You are allergic to any topical numbing agents
- If you are using retinoids, it must be stopped 6 months prior to the procedure
Preparing for Appointment
- Please make sure you are not pregnant or breastfeeding
- No Chemical Peel, Retinol or Glycolic Acid on your brow area from now until your service date.
- No aggressive facial treatments like IPL, BBL, Halo Laser or any other lasers, Hydro Facials.
- Cannot be sunburned
- No medical cosmetic injections or fillers on the brow area within 2 months prior to the appointment.
- No Microneedling 2-3 weeks prior to your service.
- At least 5 days after having brow waxing
Aftercare Instructions
Absorb (Day of)
- After the procedure, gently blot the area with a clean tissue to absorb excess lymph fluid.
- Do this every 5 minutes until the oozing has stopped.
- Removing this fluid prevents hardening of the lymphatic fluids.
Wash (Days 1-7)
- Wash daily to remove bacteria, buildup of product and oils, and dead skin. (Don’t worry, THIS DOES NOT REMOVE THE PIGMENT!)
- Gently wash the area each morning and night with water and gentle soap or an unscented cleanser like Dial Soap, Cetaphil, or baby shampoo. With a very light touch, use your fingertips to gently cleanse the area.
- Rub the area in a smooth motion for 10 seconds and rinse with water ensuring that all soap is rinsed away.
- To dry, gently pat with a clean tissue. DO NOT use any cleansing products containing acids (glycolic, lactic, or AHA), or exfoliants.
Moisturize and hydrate (Days 1-7)
- Apply a tiny, rice grain amount of Aquaphor or Grapeseed Oil on 3 times a day with a cotton swab and spread it across the treated area.
- Be sure not to over-apply, as this will suffocate your skin and delay healing. The product should be barely noticeable on the skin.
- NEVER put the product on a wet or damp tattoo.
Important Reminders
- Use a fresh pillowcase while you sleep.
- Let any scabbing or dry skin naturally exfoliate away. Picking can cause scarring or loss of color.
- No facials, medical cosmetic injections, chemical treatments or microdermabrasion for 4 weeks.
- Avoid hot, sweaty exercise for one week.
- Avoid direct sun exposure or tanning for 4 weeks after the procedure. Wear a hat when outdoors.
- Avoid long, hot showers for the first 10 days. Limit your showers to 5 minutes so that you do not create too much steam. Keep your face/procedure area out of the water while you wash your body, then, at the end of your shower, wash your hair. Your face should only be getting wet only at the end of the shower. Avoid excessive rinsing and hot water on the treated area
- Avoid sleeping on your face for the first 10 days.
- Avoid face-down swimming, lakes, and hot tubs for the first 10 days,
- Avoid topical makeup and sunscreen on the area.
- DO NOT rub, pick, or scratch the treated area.