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Microblading

Latest update: November 26, 2024
Medically reviewed by: Jennifer Trent MD, FAAD
Microblading is a semi-permanent, cosmetic tattoo procedure. It helps to create fuller and more evenly shaped eyebrows. This technique is beneficial for clients who may have sparse, patchy, and thin eyebrows. 

Microblading is most suitable for patients with normal skin and small pores. Oily skin may make it difficult for the tattoo pigment to last a long time.

The process starts by mapping out the desired shape. Then the tattoo artist uses a handheld device to insert the pigment into the surface layer of the skin. The technician will blend the client’s existing eyebrows with pigment to create a natural look. There are different types of microblading techniques that achieve various looks. The 1D Eyebrow technique creates hair strokes in only one direction. 3D Eyebrow tattoos result in more dark and thick hair strokes. It is essential to choose a professional and experienced provider.

They will be able to select the right shade of pigment for your skin tone, as well as the shapes and strokes that match your features.

A typical microblading session will take a total of 2 hours. First, patients should sit down with their providers to explain their goals. The eyebrow technician will first clean up the existing eyebrows by threading them. Then a topical numbing cream is applied to the area. Your provider will measure your face and draw a symmetrical eyebrow shape using a removable ink pen. With this outline, the technician will use a handheld tool to scratch the surface and deposit the pigment using hair-like strokes. The device that is used in microblading differs from traditional tattoo guns. It is not electrically run and has to be directed manually into the skin for precise strokes. Bleeding and pain should be minimal. Clients will only feel a scratching sensation.

Clients will have to return 4-8 weeks later to fill in the gaps where the pigment did not adhere to the skin. The eyebrows may look very dark and bold initially, but they will fade over time to look more natural. 

The eyebrows will take 10-14 days to heal. During this period, the skin around the area will be sensitive and begin to scab. Clients should not pick the scabs and instead allow them to flake off by themselves.

Excessive moisture should also be avoided when working out or in the shower. 

Risks to this procedure include bleeding, infection, scarring, keloids, reactivation of herpes, or allergic reactions.
  
Microblading results can last 18-30 months. Patients can return for touch-ups every 12-24 months.
Anesthesia
Topical
Operation Time
1
Inpatient Period
n/a
Number of Appointments
1
Recovery Period
2 weeks
Invasiveness
no

I Tried Microblading My Eyebrows For The First Time | Macro Beauty | Refinery29

Refinery29 follows Taelyn Lewis as she goes to get Microblading done on her eyebrows. Taelyn talks about how she first heard about the procedure and why she wants to get it done. Lindsey Ta, the founder of Microblading L.A. explains her background and talks about her passion for the industry. She discusses the preparation she does with the client, including examining their facial anatomy. She explains the process as the video shows it.

Microblading Procedure - Before/After

Joanna Stuhl, a medical aesthetician, explains what Microblading is. She talks about the process and how she performs the procedure. She explains the balance between what she does and what the patient wants. She explains how long the procedure takes and how many sessions are needed for the patient to have the best possible results.