Defining Microblading & Machine Work
Needless to say that microblading has become the IT word for permanent makeup eyebrow procedures. I get questions about microblading more than any other service that my salon offers. Knowing the difference between microblading an other types of permanent makeup may help guide you in your research for your perfect procedure and artist.
Microblading
The procedure is ALWAYS done manually. This is the most distinct difference between the two procedures. Just like machine work, it requires the use of needles that implant pigment into your skin. The tool used in this technique is pen-like, with a row of little needles that are at the tip. Shapes and size vary with the artist preference, but the hand-tools are basically the same. The artist uses this tool to implant the desired pigment into the skin, by scratching little hair-like strokes into the area of the brow the brows need enhancing. After the scratches are made, more pigment is rubbed into the scratches and left to "mask" in order to sufficiently penetrates the skin and create the look of a fuller brow. This procedure is not painful, however the level of comfort does vary from person to person. Topical anesthetics are used before the procedure and also during the procedure. The time you can expect to be in your artist chair varies, however about 2 hours is usually sufficient. The procedure does require two sessions, no sooner than 6 weeks apart.
Machine Hairstrokes/Shading
This procedure is ALWAYS done with a machine. This procedure, like microblading requires the use of needles to implant pigment in your skin. These machines are very similar, and sometimes exactly, the type that a traditional tattoo artist will use for body art. This machine can be set at different speeds depending on the style of permanent makeup being performed. Unlike the manual handtool, the machine goes in and out as the artist maneuvers the machine over the surface of the skin. This in and out motion, along with the hand movements are what implant the pigment into the skin. The size of the needles vary, and unlike the hand tool, there are no "scratches" that need pigment masked into. The machine implants the pigment precisely and uniformly so there is no need for a coat of the pigment to be masked. The machine can be used to create hairstrokes, shaded brows or the combination of effects .
The shading procedure creates a soft, powdered effect that resembles your makeup when you apply eyebrow powder. Microblading leaves tiny, natural-looking hair strokes, while microshading leaves small, pinpoint dots that create the powdery effect.
Regardless of the technique, choosing a good permanent makeup artist is the most important thing, as it can make or break your finished brow look. Keep in mind that a good artist has knowledge in the application of the pigment, but also in your skin and what would be best suited for your individual needs.
Image source: liveglam.com
Who is It For?
Microblading
This procedure has been widely publicized and is really renowned for the "hairstroke look tattoo" for eyebrows. Take a look at any red carpet and you will see dozen of celebs rocking this look. Microblading is simply one technique for getting the hairstroke effect and not for everyone. If you are young, have a very dry skin type, and have sparse or lightly-colored brows this procedure may be for you. Keep in mind, however, the outcome will depend greatly on your individual skin type and skill of the artist.
Microshading/Powderbrows
Microshading or powder brows, creates a different effect. If you have bare areas in your brows that you want to slightly fill in, or very light skin and dark hair, then you may want to consider this procedure. There is no need for you to undergo the microblading procedure unless you’re completely unsatisfied with the overall shape of your brows. If you suffer from sensitive or oily skin, this may be the best procedure for you, since it creates a more blended effect than microblading. On oilier skin types, microblading has a tendency to blur and not keep the crispness over time.
The Ombre Brow, A.K.A Combination of the two looks
The Ombre or Combination brow combines the best of both worlds. The hairstroke look along with the shading backdrop! If you are the person who has thinning eyebrows and need reshaping, this procedure might be just for you. Truthfully this is my favorite of all the brow techniques currently trending.
Image source: imglogy.com
How Long Do They Last?
This truly varies person to person. Some contributing factors to fading are the sun, skin care treatments such as chemical peels and retinols, medical conditions such as thyroid or autoimmune disorders. This is all gone over with you as part of your consultation prior to your first treatment. Typically A touchup is recommended every 2 years.
Do These Procedures Hurt?
This is probably the most asked question. Everyone's pain tolerance is different, however with our medical grade anesthetics it is relatively painless for most clients. Assuming there are no allergies, we use a combination topical anesthetic, and then once the skin is open we follow with an epinephrine numbing cream for the duration of the procedure. This is what gives the brows a whitish perimeter that you'll notice in some of our pictures.
To Sum Up
No matter which procedure you choose,, make sure to choose the right artist for you. If you feel uncomfortable or that you still have questions after the consultation, keep researching until you feel comfortable. Permanent makeup should not be decided spur of the moment. It is a big commitment and is worth putting in the time to find the artist that is right for you. Look at the photographs of the brows that they’ve done. Check their experience and certifications. Once you choose your artist, discuss all the options that are best suited for your skin and taste. Together you should not only be comfortable in your decision for permanent makeup, but excited.
Great information
Posted by: Sheila Delorenzo | January 13, 2021 at 10:02 AM