MICROBLADING
Everything you need to know before your first brow tattoo appointment.
Microblading is a semi-permanent tattoo technique used to create the illusion of fuller brows. "With this method I can create almost any look: from a very natural light finish to a beautifully bold brow," says Paulette. First, she consults with clients about the best brow shape for their face and chooses a color that matches the natural hair color and skin undertone. The brow area is then cleaned and numbed for the treatment. Instead of using a tattoo machine, she uses a little handheld tool to manually draw hair strokes. Lastly, she applies an ointment to help with the healing process.
The Treatment
This all can take up to 30 to 40 minutes, depending on how full you want your brows to look. Clients are encouraged to schedule a follow up appointment four to six weeks after to make sure they are happy with the results or for if they need little tweaks. Results can last anywhere from one to three years, depending on your skin type (the ink fades faster on oily skin), products, and lifestyle.
Side Effects
When you go to a trusted and experienced brow artist, there shouldn't be any major side effects. Infection is possible if you don't follow proper aftercare procedures.
A common misconception is that every microblading artist is the same. She warns that a lot of people only take a two-day course to get certified. " I personally make sure that I go to a few conventions and conferences every year to ensure I’m using the latest technology and techniques," she says. Before your appointment, read reviews, look at images of before and afters, and choose your artist wisely.
Post Care
The most important product you can use after a microblading treatment is sunscreen. Like with other tattoos, sunscreens helps extend the longevity of your brows and prevent against fading from the sun.
She also says to be off any Retin-A or retinol products about a week before an appointment and 30 days after getting your brows done, as those ingredients can cause pigments to fade prematurely. Don't wet the brows for a week or two while they heal and don't use any makeup on the area for at least a week. Once the skin is completely healed, she says it's okay to go back to a normal skin and makeup routine.
So those looking for a more permanent solution to improving the appearance of their brows and not afraid to use a needle to do, microblading is most certainly worth a shot.