A Complete Guide To Microblading

By Your Beauty Plug
December 17, 2023

If you’re tired of filling in your sparse or uneven brows every morning, you might want to consider microblading, a semi-permanent form of cosmetic tattooing that creates natural-looking hair strokes on your brows. Microblading can save you time, money, and hassle, while giving you the brows of your dreams. But before you book your appointment, there are some things you need to know about this popular procedure. In this blog post, we’ll answer all your questions about microblading, from how it works, to how much it costs, to how to take care of your brows after the treatment.

How do you microblade step by step?

Microblading is a two-step process that involves a consultation and a treatment. Here’s what to expect at each stage:

Consultation: During the consultation, your microblading artist will assess your brow shape, color, and density, and discuss your goals and expectations. They will also perform a patch test to check for any allergies or sensitivities to the pigment or the numbing cream. They will then draw an outline of your desired brow shape with a pencil, and tweak it until you’re happy with the result.
Treatment: During the treatment, your microblading artist will apply a numbing cream to your brow area, and wait for it to take effect. They will then use a handheld tool with tiny needles to make small cuts on your skin, and deposit the pigment into them. The pigment will match your natural brow color, and the cuts will mimic the direction and length of your natural hair growth. The whole process will take about two hours, and you may feel some discomfort, pressure, or scratching sensations.

How long until microblading is fully healed?

Microblading is a form of tattooing, so it requires some time and care to heal properly. The healing process varies from person to person, but it usually takes about four to six weeks for the skin to fully heal, and the pigment to settle into its final shade. During this time, you may experience some changes in your brows, such as:

Swelling, redness, or tenderness: These are normal reactions to the microblading procedure, and they should subside within a few days. You can apply a cold compress or an ice pack to soothe the area, but avoid putting any pressure on your brows.
Scabbing, flaking, or peeling: These are also normal signs of healing, and they should occur within a week or two after the treatment. You may be tempted to pick or scratch your scabs, but don’t do it, as it can damage your skin and affect the outcome of your microblading. Let the scabs fall off naturally, and avoid touching your brows as much as possible.
Fading, blurring, or patchiness: These are common occurrences during the healing process, and they don’t mean that your microblading has failed. The pigment may fade or blur as your skin heals, and some areas may look lighter or darker than others. This is normal, and it will even out once your skin is fully healed. You may also need a touch-up session to fill in any gaps or adjust the shape or color of your brows.

Can I wash my eyebrows after 7 days of microblading?

Yes, you can wash your eyebrows after 7 days of microblading, but you need to be gentle and careful. Here are some tips on how to wash your brows without affecting your microblading:

Use a mild, fragrance-free, and alcohol-free cleanser, such as Cetaphil or Cerave.
Wet a cotton pad or a soft cloth with lukewarm water, and squeeze out the excess.
Gently wipe your brows from the inner to the outer corner, following the direction of your hair growth. Don’t rub, scrub, or tug on your brows.
Rinse your brows with clean water, and pat them dry with a clean towel or tissue. Don’t rub or wipe your brows.
Apply a thin layer of healing ointment or cream, as recommended by your microblading artist. Don’t use any products that contain alcohol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or retinol, as they can irritate or fade your brows.

What are the rules for microblading?

Microblading is a cosmetic procedure that involves breaking the skin, so there are some rules and precautions that you need to follow before and after the treatment, to ensure the best results and avoid any complications. Here are some of the most important rules for microblading:

Before microblading, you should avoid any activities or substances that can thin your blood or increase your sensitivity, such as alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E, caffeine, or smoking. You should also avoid any treatments or products that can irritate or exfoliate your skin, such as waxing, threading, tweezing, chemical peels, facials, or tanning. You should also consult with your doctor if you have any medical conditions or medications that may affect your healing or pigment retention, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, blood disorders, or antibiotics.
After microblading, you should avoid any activities or substances that can interfere with your healing or pigment retention, such as water, sweat, sun, makeup, skincare, or hair products. You should also avoid any treatments or products that can damage or remove your pigment, such as laser, microdermabrasion, injections, or creams. You should also follow the aftercare instructions provided by your microblading artist, and contact them if you have any questions or concerns.

Microblading eyebrows

Microblading eyebrows is a technique that can enhance the appearance of your brows, by creating realistic-looking hair strokes with pigment. Microblading eyebrows can benefit anyone who wants to improve the shape, color, density, or symmetry of their brows, or anyone who suffers from hair loss due to overplucking, aging, or medical conditions. Microblading eyebrows can also save you time and money, as you won’t need to use any brow products or tools to fill in or shape your brows every day. Microblading eyebrows can give you the confidence and convenience of having beautiful brows that last for up to two years.

Microblading healing process

The microblading healing process is a crucial part of the microblading procedure, as it determines the final outcome and longevity of your brows. The microblading healing process consists of four stages:

Inflammatory stage: This is the first stage of the healing process, and it lasts for about two to three days after the treatment. During this stage, your brows may be swollen, red, or tender, and the pigment may appear darker or thicker than expected. This is normal, and it means that your body is reacting to the microblading and starting to heal. You can apply a cold compress or an ice pack to reduce the inflammation, but don’t put any pressure on your brows.
Scabbing stage: This is the second stage of the healing process, and it lasts for about a week or two after the treatment. During this stage, your brows may start to scab, flake, or peel, and the pigment may appear lighter or patchy. This is normal, and it means that your skin is shedding the excess pigment and forming new skin. You should let the scabs fall off naturally, and don’t pick or scratch them, as it can damage your skin and affect your microblading. You should also avoid touching your brows as much as possible, and keep them clean and moisturized with a healing ointment or cream.
Recovery stage: This is the third stage of the healing process, and it lasts for about four to six weeks after the treatment. During this stage, your brows may look healed on the surface, but they are still healing underneath. The pigment may still fade or blur, and some areas may look lighter or darker than others. This is normal, and it means that your skin is still adjusting to the microblading and settling into its final shade. You should avoid any activities or substances that can interfere with your healing or pigment retention, such as water, sweat, sun, makeup, skincare, or hair products. You should also avoid any treatments or products that can damage or remove your pigment, such as laser, microdermabrasion, injections, or creams.
Touch-up stage: This is the final stage of the healing process, and it usually occurs about six to eight weeks after the treatment. During this stage, your brows are fully healed, and you can see the final result of your microblading. However, you may notice some imperfections, such as gaps, unevenness, or fading, that need to be corrected. This is normal, and it means that you need a touch-up session to refine and perfect your brows. A touch-up session is similar to the initial treatment, but it is shorter and less invasive. A touch-up session can also adjust the shape or color of your brows, according to your preference.

Powder brows vs microblading

Powder brows and microblading are two different techniques of cosmetic tattooing for your brows, but they have some similarities and differences. Here are some of the main points of comparison between powder brows and microblading:

Technique: Powder brows use a machine with a fine needle to create tiny dots of pigment on your skin, creating a soft and powdery effect. Microblading uses a handheld tool with tiny blades to create hair-like strokes of pigment on your skin, creating a realistic and natural effect.
Appearance: Powder brows have a more solid and filled-in look, similar to makeup. They can create a gradient effect, with a lighter front and a darker tail. They can also create a more defined and arched shape, depending on your preference. Microblading has a more natural and realistic look, similar to hair. They can create a more subtle and soft shape, following your natural brow bone and hair growth.
Suitability: Powder brows are suitable for all skin types, especially oily, mature, or sensitive skin. They can also cover up any scars, gaps, or previous brow tattoos. Microblading is more suitable for normal, dry, or combination skin, as oily skin may cause the pigment to fade or blur faster. They can also enhance your natural brow hair, but they may not work well on very sparse or overplucked brows.
Longevity: Powder brows last longer than microblading, as they have more pigment saturation and less skin trauma. Powder brows can last for up to three years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and exposure to sun. Microblading lasts for up to two years, but it may require more frequent touch-ups, especially for oily skin.
Cost: Powder brows and microblading have similar costs, ranging from $300 to $800 per session, depending on the location, experience, and reputation of the microblading artist. However, powder brows may be more cost-effective in the long run, as they require less maintenance and touch-ups than microblading.

Brow lamination vs microblading

Brow lamination and microblading are two different techniques of enhancing your brows, but they have some similarities and differences. Here are some of the main points of comparison between brow lamination and microblading:

Technique: Brow lamination is a temporary treatment that straightens and lifts your brow hairs, giving them a fluffy and voluminous look. It’s like a perm for your brows, but instead of curling them, it makes them lay flat and smooth. Brow lamination can also make your brows appear darker and fuller, as it coats them with a thin layer of keratin. Microblading is a semi-permanent tattoo for your brows, where a technician uses a handheld tool with tiny needles to create hair-like strokes of pigment under your skin. Microblading can fill in the gaps, add definition, and reshape your brows, making them look more natural and realistic.
Appearance: Brow lamination gives you a more dramatic and defined look, as it makes your brows stand out and look thicker. However, it may also make your brows look too stiff or unnatural, especially if you have very fine or sparse brows. Microblading gives you a more subtle and natural look, as it mimics the appearance of real hair. However, it may also fade or change color over time, especially if you have oily or sensitive skin.
Suitability: Brow lamination is ideal for people who have unruly, curly, or sparse brows, and want to achieve a more groomed and polished look. It’s also great for people who want to try a new brow shape or style, as it allows you to manipulate your brow hairs in different directions. Microblading is perfect for people who have thin, overplucked, or uneven brows, and want to restore their natural shape and density. It’s also suitable for people who have lost their brow hair due to medical conditions, such as alopecia or chemotherapy.
Duration: Brow lamination lasts for about 6 to 8 weeks, depending on how you care for your brows and how fast your hair grows. Microblading lasts for about 1 to 2 years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and exposure to sun.
Cost: Brow lamination is cheaper than microblading, as it ranges from $100 to $200 per session. Microblading is more expensive, as it costs from $300 to $800 per session. However, microblading may be more cost-effective in the long run, as you don’t need to repeat it as often as brow lamination.
Procedure: Brow lamination is a non-invasive treatment that involves applying two solutions to your brows: one to break down the bonds of your hair, and another to set them in place. The whole process takes about an hour, and it’s painless and safe. Microblading is a more invasive treatment that involves making tiny cuts on your skin and depositing pigment into them. The whole process takes about two hours, and it may cause some discomfort and bleeding. You also need to follow strict aftercare instructions to prevent infection and scarring.

How much does microblading cost?

The cost of microblading varies depending on several factors, such as:

Location: The cost of microblading may differ depending on where you live, as different regions have different standards of living and demand for the service. Generally, microblading is more expensive in big cities and urban areas, than in small towns and rural areas.
Experience: The cost of microblading may also depend on the level of experience and skill of the microblading artist. Generally, microblading is more expensive when done by a licensed, certified, and reputable professional, than by an amateur or a beginner.
Reputation: The cost of microblading may also reflect the reputation and popularity of the microblading artist or the salon. Generally, microblading is more expensive when done by a well-known, highly-rated, and sought-after expert, than by a less-known, low-rated, or new entrant.
Quality: The cost of microblading may also correlate with the quality of the service and the products used. Generally, microblading is more expensive when done with high-quality tools, pigments, and hygiene standards, than with low-quality or substandard ones.

The average cost of microblading in the US is about $500, but it can range from $300 to $800, depending on the factors mentioned above. You may also need to pay extra for a consultation, a touch-up, a tip, or a tax, depending on the policies of the microblading artist or the salon.

Microshading vs microblading

Microshading and microblading are two similar techniques of cosmetic tattooing for your brows, but they have some differences. Here are some of the main points of distinction between microshading and microblading:

Technique: Microshading uses a machine with a fine needle to create tiny dots of pigment on your skin, creating a soft and powdery effect. Microblading uses a handheld tool with tiny blades to create hair-like strokes of pigment on your skin, creating a realistic and natural effect.
Appearance: Microshading has a more solid and filled-in look, similar to makeup. It can create a gradient effect, with a lighter front and a darker tail. It can also create a more defined and arched shape, depending on your preference. Microblading has a more natural and realistic look, similar to hair. It can create a more subtle and soft shape, following your natural brow bone and hair growth.
Suitability: Microshading is suitable for all skin types, especially oily, mature, or sensitive skin. It can also cover up any scars, gaps, or previous brow tattoos. Microblading is more suitable for normal, dry, or combination skin, as oily skin may cause the pigment to fade or blur faster. It can also enhance your natural brow hair, but it may not work well on very sparse or overplucked brows.
Longevity: Microshading lasts longer than microblading, as it has more pigment saturation and less skin trauma. Microshading can last for up to three years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and exposure to sun. Microblading lasts for up to two years, but it may require more frequent touch-ups, especially for oily skin.
Cost: Microshading and microblading have similar costs, ranging from $300 to $800 per session, depending on the location, experience, and reputation of the microblading artist. However, microshading may be more cost-effective in the long run, as it requires less maintenance and touch-ups than microblading.

Microblading aftercare

Microblading aftercare is an essential part of the microblading procedure, as it affects the healing and the outcome of your brows. Microblading aftercare involves following some dos and don’ts for the first 10 days after the treatment, such as:

Do apply a thin layer of healing ointment or cream, as recommended by your microblading artist, twice a day, or whenever your brows feel dry or tight. This will help to soothe and moisturize your brows, and prevent infection and scarring.
Do wash your brows gently with a mild, fragrance-free, and alcohol-free cleanser, and a cotton pad or a soft cloth, once a day, starting from the second day after the treatment. This will help to remove any dirt, oil, or bacteria from your brows, and keep them clean and healthy.
Do protect your brows from sun, sweat, water, and makeup, for the first 10 days after the treatment. This will help to prevent any damage or interference with your healing or pigment retention. You can use a hat, sunglasses, or an umbrella to shield your brows from the sun, and avoid any activities that can make you sweat, such as exercise, sauna, or steam. You can also use a waterproof bandage or a cling film to cover your brows when showering or washing your face, and avoid applying any products or tools on your brows, such as makeup, skincare, or hair products.
Don’t pick or scratch your scabs, flakes, or peels, as they are part of the healing process, and they will fall off naturally. Picking or scratching them can damage your skin and affect your microblading. You can use a cold compress or an ice pack to relieve any

itchiness or irritation on your brows, but don’t put any pressure on them.
Don’t expose your brows to any chemical treatments, such as dyeing, bleaching, or waxing, for at least a month after the treatment. This will help to preserve the color and shape of your brows and prevent any irritation or damage. You can also trim or pluck any stray hairs to maintain your brow shape, but be careful not to overdo it.

Following these microblading aftercare tips will ensure that your brows heal properly and look amazing for a long time.

Nano brows vs microblading

Nano brows and microblading are two similar techniques of cosmetic tattooing for your brows, but they have some differences. Here are some of the main points of distinction between nano brows and microblading:

Technique: Nano brows use a machine with a single needle to create ultra-fine hair strokes of pigment on your skin, creating a very realistic and natural effect. Microblading uses a handheld tool with multiple blades to create hair-like strokes of pigment on your skin, creating a realistic and natural effect.
Appearance: Nano brows have a more natural and realistic look, as they create very thin and crisp hair strokes that blend in with your own brows. They can also create a more subtle and soft shape, following your natural brow bone and hair growth. Microblading has a more natural and realistic look, but it may create slightly thicker and less defined hair strokes than nano brows. They can also create a more subtle and soft shape, following your natural brow bone and hair growth.
Suitability: Nano brows are suitable for all skin types, especially oily, mature, or sensitive skin. They can also work well on very sparse or overplucked brows, as they can create more density and coverage. Microblading is more suitable for normal, dry, or combination skin, as oily skin may cause the pigment to fade or blur faster. They can also enhance your natural brow hair, but they may not work well on very sparse or overplucked brows.
Longevity: Nano brows last longer than microblading, as they have more pigment saturation and less skin trauma. Nano brows can last for up to four years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and exposure to sun. Microblading lasts for up to two years, but it may require more frequent touch-ups, especially for oily skin.
Cost: Nano brows and microblading have similar costs, ranging from $300 to $800 per session, depending on the location, experience, and reputation of the microblading artist. However, nano brows may be more cost-effective in the long run, as they require less maintenance and touch-ups than microblading.

Eyebrow tattoo vs microblading

Eyebrow tattoo and microblading are two different techniques of cosmetic tattooing for your brows, but they have some similarities and differences. Here are some of the main points of comparison between eyebrow tattoo and microblading:

Technique: Eyebrow tattoo uses a machine with a needle to create solid blocks of pigment on your skin, creating a flat and uniform effect. Microblading uses a handheld tool with tiny blades to create hair-like strokes of pigment on your skin, creating a realistic and natural effect.
Appearance: Eyebrow tattoo has a more artificial and unnatural look, as it creates a sharp and defined shape that doesn’t blend in with your own brows. It can also create a harsh or unnatural color, depending on the pigment used. Microblading has a more natural and realistic look, as it creates a subtle and soft shape that follows your natural brow bone and hair growth. It can also create a natural and flattering color, matching your natural brow color.
Suitability: Eyebrow tattoo is suitable for people who have no brow hair at all, or who want a very dramatic and bold look. It can also last longer than microblading, as it has more pigment saturation and depth. Microblading is suitable for people who have some brow hair, or who want a more natural and subtle look. It can also look more realistic than eyebrow tattoo, as it mimics the appearance of real hair.
Duration: Eyebrow tattoo lasts longer than microblading, as it penetrates deeper into the skin and has more pigment saturation. Eyebrow tattoo can last for up to five years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and exposure to sun. Microblading lasts for up to two years, but it may require more frequent touch-ups, especially for oily skin.
Cost: Eyebrow tattoo is more expensive than microblading, as it requires more skill and equipment to perform. Eyebrow tattoo can cost from $500 to $1000 per session, depending on the location, experience, and reputation of the tattoo artist. Microblading is cheaper than eyebrow tattoo, as it requires less skill and equipment to perform. Microblading can cost from $300 to $800 per session, depending on the location, experience, and reputation of the microblading artist.

Ombre brows vs microblading

Ombre brows and microblading are two similar techniques of cosmetic tattooing for your brows, but they have some differences. Here are some of the main points of distinction between ombre brows and microblading:

Technique: Ombre brows use a machine with a fine needle to create tiny dots of pigment on your skin, creating a soft and powdery effect. The pigment is applied in a gradient, with a lighter front and a darker tail, creating a 3D and dimensional effect. Microblading uses a handheld tool with tiny blades to create hair-like strokes of pigment on your skin, creating a realistic and natural effect. The pigment is applied in a uniform manner, matching your natural brow color, creating a subtle and soft effect.
Appearance: Ombre brows have a more solid and filled-in look, similar to makeup. They can create a more defined and arched shape, depending on your preference. They can also create a more dramatic and glamorous look, as they make your brows stand out and look thicker. Microblading has a more natural and realistic look, similar to hair. They can create a more subtle and soft shape, following your natural brow bone and hair growth. They can also create a more natural and casual look, as they blend in with your own brows and look thinner.
Suitability: Ombre brows are suitable for all skin types, especially oily, mature, or sensitive skin. They can also cover up any scars, gaps, or previous brow tattoos. Microblading is more suitable for normal, dry, or combination skin, as oily skin may cause the pigment to fade or blur faster. They can also enhance your natural brow hair, but they may not work well on very sparse or overplucked brows.
Longevity: Ombre brows last longer than microblading, as they have more pigment saturation and less skin trauma. Ombre brows can last for up to three years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and exposure to sun. Microblading lasts for up to two years, but it may require more frequent touch-ups, especially for oily skin.
Cost: Ombre brows and microblading have similar costs, ranging from $300 to $800 per session, depending on the location, experience, and reputation of the microblading artist. However, ombre brows may be more cost-effective in the long run, as they require less maintenance and touch-ups than microblading.