10 Things to Know Before Trying Microblading
Microblading is a type of eyebrow architecture. It is all about creating the best shape for each face – a totally bespoke approach for each client. But, doing microblading the right way isn't a piece of cake. It needs skill, knowledge, and a few insider tricks. Whether you're just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll share the top 10 tips that every artist needs to know.
1. There are things to avoid before microblading.
Avoid scheduling your appointment 30 days before or after any injectable filler treatments. Avoid any sun exposure, as well as tweezing, waxing or threading your eyebrows for at least one week prior to your appointment. Please avoid any alcohol, Advil or caffeine for one day prior to your service. These thin the blood, which can affect pigment retention. If you are feeling fluish it is best to avoid treatment. Clients may be more sensitive during their menstrual cycle.2. It uses the same technique as a traditional tattoo, but they’re not the same.
Similarly to getting a tattoo, microblading uses a small needles to deposit pigments on your skin. Microblading is a micro tattooing technique designed to create natural hair-like strokes. The difference between microblading and traditional tattooing is generally the depth of pigment placed in the skin. When done correctly, microblading pigments are designed to break down over time, allowing them to completely fade away. Traditional tattooing is done using a machine and is generally designed to work deeper in the skin, creating a brow that will last longer over time.
3. It’s a two-part process.
The initial appointment is generally two to two-and-a-half hours long. Following the initial appointment we ask our clients to come back for their first touch up appointment six to eight weeks later to see how the skin has healed (as everyone heals differently). At that point we can make any adjustments needed such as color and density. The touch up appointment is usually one to one-and-a-half hours long.
4. Pain levels differ.
Pain levels differ from person to person, however, most of clients find the procedure to be quite comfortable, even had many clients fall asleep during their microblading or permanent eyebrow session. Most clients would compare the feeling to tweezing or threading. Topical numbing cream is applied prior to any permanent makeup procedures, and a secondary numbing cream is applied throughout the treatment.
6. Your skin type can affect results.
Microblading can definitely benefit certain skin types better than others, so it’s important to do your research and find the right technique for you. Drier skin types have the best results as the skin tends to retain pigment the best and keep the crispest strokes. Oilier skin types will work as well, but tend to heal a little softer and less crisp, possibly due to more oils in the skin.
7. Choose quality machines and needles
The right tools and pigments are to a artist what paints and brushes are to a painter – absolutely essential. Your choice can make a world of difference in the quality and longevity of your microblading results.
- High-Quality Pigments: Select pigments that are not only vibrant but stable. They should maintain their color over time without fading into unwanted tones.
- Precision Tools: Your needles should be of top quality to ensure clean and crisp strokes.
- Quality machines: Remember, the more comfortable you are with your tool, the more control you'll have. This means better results for your clients.
- Keep It Sharp: Always use fresh needles or blades for each client to provide the best results and prevent cross-contamination.
- Sterilization Is Non-Negotiable: Follow strict sterilization protocols for any reusable components of your microblading tools.
8. Your microblading artist can make or break your look.
When deciding on an artist, it’s important to do your research. When researching an artist, there are a few other important factors to keep in mind—and safety is an important one. In addition to credentials and cleanliness, we recommend researching your artist’s work. It’s important to see not only before and after, but healed photos, as well. Choosing a well-trained artist is not only important for safety, but also for your entire microblading experience.
9. Depth and pressure techniques
Achieving the perfect depth and applying the right amount of pressure are skills that set the best artists apart from the rest. The pigment needs to be deposited at an optimal depth in the skin for color retention and to prevent scarring or blurring.Understanding Skin Layers:
The ideal depth for microblading is in the upper dermis. Too shallow, and the strokes won't last; too deep, and you risk scarring.Perfecting Pressure:
- Consistency is Key: Apply consistent pressure throughout each stroke to ensure even color application and healing.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Use practice skins to refine your technique. Pay attention to how different angles and pressures affect the stroke depth and appearance.
10. Follow after-care instructions for best results.
We generally advise our clients to apply the supplied healing ointment very minimally for one week. You want the area to be lightly moisturized. The treated area is basically an open wound, so you want to protect it from any bacteria. Avoid sun exposure, makeup, sweating, steam, swimming pools and even touching the area for one week other than applying ointment (with clean hands or a cotton swab). Always avoid laser treatments over the area, as this can destroy the pigments and cause burns. After the area is healed (7-10 days), you want to keep the pigment fresh by protecting it from the sun (shading the area or wearing SPF). You will also want to avoid using any retinol based products, as these will fade your cosmetic tattoo.
