What it is
Pigment is implanted into the upper reticular layer of the dermis using a permanent makeup pen with micro needles. The technique follows the same strict sanitary regulations as tattooing, because that is essentially what it is.
Microblading creates fine individual hair strokes. Powder brows give a softer, shaded finish closer to the look of brow powder. Which suits you depends on your skin type as much as your preference, and your artist will advise at the consultation.
Who it helps most
Beyond wanting to spend less time on your brows, it genuinely helps people who:
- Find applying makeup difficult due to arthritis, Parkinson’s, stroke or multiple sclerosis
- React to conventional makeup
- Have experienced hair loss
- Have vision difficulties that make precise application hard
- Have lost brow definition with age
The process, start to finish
It starts with a consultation and a patch test at least two days beforehand. The first appointment, including consultation, takes around two hours.
A follow-up visit between six and twelve weeks later is part of the process, not an upsell. That is when your artist sees how the pigment has healed in your skin and makes the final adjustments.
After that, most people come back for a colour boost at around twelve months, then roughly every one to two years.
An honest word on results
Final results cannot be guaranteed, because every skin type holds and breaks down pigment differently. Oily skin tends to blur strokes and heal lighter and more powdery. Existing tattooed brows, very sparse brows or very light hair may need additional sessions.
Several things fade the pigment faster: sun exposure, smoking, and lighter pigment colours. Bleeding during the procedure also reduces how much pigment is absorbed, which is why you should avoid blood thinners, ibuprofen, alcohol and coffee beforehand where it is safe for you to do so.