Different Types of Microblading: The Top Options For Flawless Brows
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Dreaming of fuller and perfectly looking brows? Then you are not alone.
According to a report from The Art of Beauty Academy, the number of people getting different types of microblading services tripled between 2009 to 2016.
This figure is not surprising, considering the advantages of having this semi-permanent makeup solution to achieve your desired brows.
If you plan to get your first eyebrow makeover but need to familiarize yourself with the types of microblading to choose from, read the rest of the article below.
Table of Contents
- 1 What Is Microblading?
- 2 Microblading Techniques: A Quick Comparison
- 3 Types of Microblading Procedures In Detail
- 4 Why Should You Consider Microblading?
- 5 How to Prepare for Microblading
- 6 How to Pick the Right Microblading Salon
- 7 Frequently Asked Questions
- 8 The Bottomline: Which Among the Different Types of Microblading Should You Get?
- 9 Authors
What Is Microblading?
A study shared by the National Library of Medicine defined microblading as a technique used in permanent cosmetics treatment to restore eyebrows.
This treatment is a type of superficial micropigmentation where the ink pigment settles on the deepest layer of the epidermis, just before the dermis, using a manual device.
Microblading is a huge improvement from the old-fashioned eyebrow tattoo. The traditional procedure looks unnatural and fades into a greenish/bluish color over time.
However, the effects of microblading are temporary and only last for at least one year to three years for most people. So it would help if you considered having a retouch once in a while to extend the effects of this procedure.
Microblading Techniques: A Quick Comparison
| Type of Microblading | Effect | Works Best For | Ideal Skin Type | Tools Used |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Microshading |
|
| For sensitive and oily skin | Manual microblade, machine-operated, microblade, or both |
| Nanoblading |
|
| For thicker and oily skin types | Ultra-sharp nano needles called conventional needle devices |
| Pixel Blading |
|
| For any type of skin, including oily, dry, mature | Special blades that taps pigments in the skin |
| Digital Blading |
|
| For people with oily, sensitive, and mature skin | Machine with ultra-fine tips |
Types of Microblading Procedures In Detail
To know more about microblading styles, these are the things you need to know.
Microshading
If you are the type who sweats a lot, then microshading could be the top option to enhance your brows.
The main difference between eyebrow microblading and shading is the techniques used in both procedures. In microblading, the aesthetician will create individual hair strokes.
On the other hand, the microshading expert creates tiny pin-point dots repeatedly on the client’s brow area. As a result, the pigment can attach better to oily or sweaty skin.
Some of the most popular variants of microshading include the following:
- Combination brows
If you want to achieve the benefits of the first two eyebrow treatments, then you must get the microblading and shading combo.
This eyebrow enhancement technique makes your brows look more defined and denser than single treatments. As a result, your brows will look slightly made up despite their natural looks.
. - Ombre brows
If you like to achieve make-up-enhanced brows with a gradient, powder-like finish, ombre microblading with shading is the top option for you. Ombre powder microshading goes from light to dark.
If you have oily, dry, or combination skin types, then you are a qualified candidate.
Nanoblading
It’s the latest trend in microblading that uses an extremely fine blade to transfer pigment to the skin.
In this microblading procedure, the brow technician uses 0.18 mm blades, known as nanoblades, instead of the usual 0.20 to 0.22 mm blades.
The eyebrow expert will create “strokes” into the brow arches between your natural hairs. As a result, you will get subtle but significantly noticeable brow improvements.
If you prefer finer, more refined strokes or if you have thick and oily skin, then go for this type of microblading technique.
Pixel Blading
This manual microblading technique draws strokes by poking the skin within the brow area using a “wispy” blade.
It differs from traditional microblading methods that drag the blade into the treatment area.
Brow artists claim pixel blading is the gentler version of traditional microblading since they tap the pigment into the skin.
However, only a few brow professionals have mastered this tricky technique.
This is the top microblading for you if you want fuller-looking brows with a soft and powdery effect.
Digital Blading
If you want a microblading treatment with results that last longer, ask your brow expert to do the digital blading technique on your eyebrows.
With this technique, the pigments are deposited using a digital pen with a single needle or a bunch of needles that vibrate to create finer strokes that mimic the looks of brow hair strands.
Since brow experts insert the pigments into the deepest layer of the epidermis, you can expect to enjoy your fuller brows for up to two and a half years.
Go for the digital blading technique in microblading if you like to achieve more prominent brows that last longer than all the other microblading methods.
Why Should You Consider Microblading?
Now that you have an idea about the differences between microshading vs ombre and powder brows vs. microshading, it will be easier to decide if this semi-permanent cosmetic procedure is right for you.
If you still need some convincing, these reasons may help make up your mind.
Reason #1: Microblading Saves Time
You do not have to spend several minutes in front of the mirror just to ensure that your brows look good if you choose to do a microblading treatment.
With this semi-permanent makeup, your brows will retain your ideal shape and size for up to two years. It will also save you time and effort since you do not need constant threading, plucking, or waxing for proper grooming.
With any of your chosen microblading styles, you can enjoy well-defined brows for up to three years.
Reason #2: Microblading Helps Save Money
Eyebrow cosmetics like pencils, gels, fixers, and brushes can be pricey. Since you must use these items daily, you may spend a significant amount to enhance the looks of your brows.
While microblading may cost you several hundred dollars, but you only need to shell out money for the treatment once every two years.
As a result, you may save some cash by not having to buy eyebrow cosmetics all the time.
Reason #3: Microblading Requires Minimal Recovery Time
The microblading healing process may take some time, but it does not require the same hassles as the traditional eyebrow tattoo procedure.
You do not have to worry about swollen or inflamed brow areas after the procedure. You also do not have to wear unsightly bandages over the treated area until they heal completely.
Microblading techniques are also not as painful as other brow treatments. You only need to comply with the aftercare tips as instructed by your brow stylist.
How to Prepare for Microblading
There are several pointers to remember before undergoing any microblading procedures.
These tips include the following:
Tip #1: Prepare Your Skin
Before the actual microblading treatment, you must ensure that your skin is clean to achieve the best results.
So before you head to the brow salon, you must eliminate excess oils, grime, and dirt. A gentle cleanser may help eliminate all the impurities around the treatment area.
Tip #2: Moisturize the Area
Keeping your skin moisturized before having your microblading treatment will help protect it from untoward accidents.
If you apply a good moisturizer, it will serve as a barrier to prevent irritation. You may also use petrolatum-based moisturizers to keep the brow area primed and hydrated.
Tip #3: Consider Your Diet
Drinking alcohol or caffeinated drinks before the procedure can alter results. It may cause excess bleeding, which may have a direct effect on your skin’s color retention. Alcohol and caffeine should be avoided at least 24 hours before the procedure.
How to Pick the Right Microblading Salon
There are plenty of microblading professionals nowadays, but finding the right one can be tricky.
The experts in different types of microblading techniques know all the tricks to make your brows look better than ever. So always choose the best professional to do the job right.
When searching for a good brow salon, you must check online reviews or read feedback from past clients.
You may also browse the salon’s social media pages or Google reviews to know what to expect.
It is also best to ask for their certifications or licenses to ensure that they have adequate knowledge and training in their craft.
In addition, they must also have an idea about the latest trends and techniques used in microblading procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Microblading Procedures Painful?
One of the reasons why some people are afraid to get microblading treatments is the possible pain from the procedures. Nonetheless, the brow artist will apply a numbing cream before starting the treatment to reduce the pain.
However, the level of discomfort you may feel during the microblading treatment may vary depending on your pain tolerance.
Can You Shower After Microblading?
If you’re following the dry healing method, no, you can only start washing your microbladed eyebrows by day 5.
If you need to clean your face or shower, you should cover the treated area to prevent it from getting wet.
On the other hand, if you’re following the wet healing method, be sure to commit to washing it with sterilized/purified water with mild soap every three hours as early as day 1. However, when taking a shower, getting it wet with shampoo and other chemicals should be prevented.
On days 2 to 7, wash them every morning and evening only.
Can You Sleep on Your Face After Microblading?
Your brow specialist would advise you to not sleep on your face, side, or stomach after the microblading procedure.
If your face touches the pillows immediately after the treatment, the pigment may get smashed and affect the healing process.
It would be best to use a travel pillow to force yourself to sleep on your back until the treated areas are completely healed.
Can You Work Out After Microblading?
Since you must always keep the treated brows wet for at least 24 hours after having your chosen microblading type, you should skip your workout schedule a day post-treatment.
Your sweat may affect the outcome of the microblade pigment. So avoid strenuous workouts or stay away from the sun for at least one day after your schedule with the brow salon.
In addition, water sports like swimming, surfing, or diving should be avoided a day before and after your scheduled brow salon appointment to prevent complications.
Who Should Avoid Microblading?
If you are pregnant or nursing, you must delay your microblading procedure until you give birth or after your baby weans. The pigment used may affect the child in the long run.
It is also essential to get a doctor’s clearance if you are diagnosed with diabetes or any autoimmune disease to prevent complications.
Those undergoing significant treatments like chemotherapy must also have a medical expert’s opinion before pushing through with this aesthetic procedure.
People with epilepsy, major heart ailments, eczema, psoriasis, or other skin conditions are also unqualified to get this aesthetic treatment.
In addition, you should check with your doctor if you have blood thinner or other medical prescriptions before setting an appointment with a brow salon.
Is Microblading the Same as Brow Tinting?
Some people get confused about the differences between microblading and brow tinting. Most of the time, they think these procedures are the same.
There are several stark differences between microblading versus eyebrow tinting:
First, microblading results last longer than tinting. The pigment used in the former can remain on your brows for up to three years, while the longevity of brow tints only lasts for eight weeks.
If you want to get the most out of your money, choose the longer-lasting microblading procedure rather than the brow tinting technique that will fade in a couple of months.
The Bottomline: Which Among the Different Types of Microblading Should You Get?
Getting your brows fixed can be the best decision you can make if you want to look great without spending a lot of time doing your makeup. You will always look your best every day with the right eyebrow enhancement.
So whether you choose to get a microblading treatment or experiment with other styles like microshading, combo powder brows, or the more adventurous ombre brow style, you need to ensure that you will get the right treatment from the experts.
Ask your trusted brow professionals for advice to help you determine the kind of microblading to choose for your needs. These experts have enough training and experience to help you figure out what works best for your facial shape.
Once you learn which among the four popular microblading styles to get for your brow enhancement, you should do all the necessary preparations and follow the aftercare tips to ensure the procedure’s success.
If you follow the proper steps to take care of your brows, you can ensure that your semi-permanent cosmetics investment will last for a long time. As a result, you will get what you pay for and enjoy fuller, denser, and more defined natural-looking brows for years.
Get to Know More About Eyebrow Aesthetics Here:
- A Complete Guide To The Microblading Healing Process
- 11 Ways To Remove Microblading: What’s The Best Treatment?
- Henna Eyebrow Tints: The Ultimate Henna Brows Guide