What is it?
Microblading, also known as embroidery, micro stroking, feather touch, and hair-like strokes, is the process of creating a semi-permanent tattoo over the eyebrows that mimics natural hair. It has increased in popularity recently because of the prevalent bold brow look but has been common among Asian cultures for a long time.
A different type of pigment, usually organic, is used for microblading than those used for regular tattoos, which generally contain carbon. The natural dye creates a much softer look to impersonate natural hairs better.
The instrument used to apply the ink is not like other tattooing equipment. The scalpel-type blade is made up of many, ultra-fine, individual needles and is disposed of after each use. Doing this prevents any possible cross-contamination between clients.
Step-by-Step
Consultation- Your microblade artist will ask you relevant questions like, what shape, how thick, and what color you would like your brows. Come ready knowing what you want so that the artist can do their best to make you look fabulous.
Numbing- It is crucial to your artist that this is not a painful experience for you. They will apply topical lidocaine that sits for 20-25 minutes that will almost completely numb the area. Most people feel little to no pain and can relax during the procedure.
Map and Measure- Once the numbing cream is removed, your artist will begin to map out what your brows will look like. Their goal is to make them completely symmetrical, so they use measuring tools and string to mark and create your perfect brows. Once the outline is finished, they will have you approve your brows before continuing.
Microblading- The microblading procedure is simple. Your artist will dip the blade into your chosen pigment and create small incisions into your skin for the ink to reside in. Once each brow is done, they will apply an ink mask over the eyebrows and let it sit so that the pigment can sink into those incisions. Depending on your skin type, your artist will typically do this 2-3 times in one appointment, numbing between each pass.
After-care and Recovery
In order for your ink to set and your brows to heal properly, they should not come in to contact with any type of liquid. This means you shouldn’t sweat or swim, and you will need to take special care in the shower. Your brows will scab and flake as they heal, and it is essential that you let them do this naturally. Do not pick, rub, or itch your brows, as pulling off your scabs may take some pigment with it.
Healing typically takes 2-4 weeks but can vary between each person. Once healed, your brows will be 50-60% lighter than they were just after the procedure, so don’t be alarmed if your eyebrows look too dark at the beginning.
After 4-weeks, your artist will have you come back for a touch-up. This will make the pigment more permanent and will fix any problems that occurred with the initial healing.
Procedures and healing instructions may differ between practitioners, which is why it’s preferred you do your research thoroughly before going to see someone. Always be sure to double and even triple check reviews for valid first-world experiences by actual customers. We like to browse reviews on Google, Yelp, Yellow Pages, etc. Don’t just go with the first place you find online.
If you live in the UK and particularly the Bristol area, we have had a great experience with using our favorite Microblading Bristol Salon for the best results. Not only do they meet the criteria we’re looking for and “check all of our boxes” so to speak, they actually care about their patients. We highly recommend that you find a place like this around where you live.
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