garin-chadwick-RiZr1-ndmcY-unsplash

Once upon a time, we set out on a quest to determine whether or not [microblading is really worth the hype](https://aedit.com/aedition/microblading-treatments-for-fuller-thicker-eyebrows). After speaking with an array of patients about their experience with the brow-defining treatment, the answer was a resounding yes. Everyone was smitten with their newly emphasized arches, and, across the board, the ‘regret’ (if you can call it that) was not trying microblading sooner.

For the uninitiated, [eyebrow microblading](https://aedit.com/procedure/microblading) is a semi-permanent makeup technique that creates the illusion of fuller, more defined brows. It involves using a cosmetic tattoo pen to make small incisions that deposit pigment into the skin in hair-like strokes that mimic the natural brow. Unlike regular tattoos, microblading is considered ‘semi-permanent’ because it only penetrates the superficial layers of skin. Results typically fade over the course of one to three years, depending on a myriad of factors.

Waking up to expertly manicured brows every morning is a dream come true for many, and microblading can offer that. Even so, a positive outcome is not a given. As with any aesthetic treatment or procedure, you need to do the proper research, establish you are a candidate, and find the right provider. Since you likely stumbled upon this article as part of your research, we’re here to explain five things to consider before booking a microblading appointment.

## **1. Microblading Isn’t for Everyone**
Let’s not forget that microblading is a semi-permanent face tattoo. Just like traditional tattoos aren’t for everyone, neither is microblading. For starters, you’ll want to consider your skin type. “While microblading can be an excellent option for almost anyone, certain skin types definitely benefit more from this procedure than others,” says Shaughnessy Otsuji, a celebrity cosmetic tattoo artist and founder of [Studio Sashiko](https://studiosashiko.com/). 

As she explains, those with normal to dry skin that “isn’t very reactive or sensitive” are the “perfect” candidates for microblading. “This skin type often yields the most crisp healed results,” Otsuji notes. If you are someone with [oilier skin](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-oily-and-acne-prone-skin), the treatment can still work – though there are some things to keep in mind. “If you have oily skin and larger pores, microblading can heal softer, more diffused and may fade quickly due to a higher cell turnover rate,” she says.

Certain skin conditions also need to be taken into account. “Skin with [rosacea](https://aedit.com/concern/rosacea), irritation, and allergies should be approached delicately, as to not overwork the area and cause more damage with tattooing,” Otsuji cautions. Her advice? “It's always a good idea to check in with your dermatologist or health professional if you have any skin concerns before proceeding with microblading.” Furthermore, if you are pregnant, nursing, taking [Accutane](https://aedit.com/procedure/accutane) or blood thinners, now is not the time for microblading.

Just as you should consider your skin type, you’ll also want to evaluate the [state of your natural brows](https://aedit.com/concern/eyebrow-and-eyelash-hair). “It’s a very important fact to consider,” says Hibba Kapil, a microblading specialist and founder of [Hibba Beauty Studios](https://hibbabeauty.com/) in New York City. Microblading alone may be enough for some to achieve their dream brows, but, for others, alternative treatments or a combination of modalities may yield the best results. “If you have a good amount of brows of your own and you're just looking to enhance them, then powder brows are a good idea,” Kapil shares. “It’ll give you an illusion of fuller brows.” On the contrary, “if you have no brows, a classic case of alopecia, or are [post-chemo](https://aedit.com/aedition/permanent-makeup-after-chemotherapy-cancer), we have to do a combo of powder and microblading,” she continues.

## **2. Microblading Is an Art**
In a lot of ways, our recommendations for finding the right microblading technician are similar to our [advice for finding the right plastic surgeon](https://aedit.com/aedition/finding-the-right-plastic-surgeon-dermatologist-or-cosmetic-dentist). It’s a multifactorial process that includes vetting training, credentials, and experience (more on that below) *and* finding someone that shares your aesthetic. Like aesthetic medicine, microblading is an art form. Each cosmetic tattoo artist will have their own unique style and technique. With that in mind, “one of the most important things to look for in a microblading artist is a body of work that you love,” Otsuji says. 

This will require you to be clear about your style, too. “If you prefer clean, sharp, defined brows, choose an artist who specializes in this style,” she explains. “If you are a fan of big, fluffy, natural-looking brows, be sure to go with someone who is skilled in this technique.” Kapil agrees. “If you want natural brows, make your artist aware of it,” she says. “If you want the ‘makeup’ look, let them know.” The treatment can usually be catered to your preferences. “Oftentimes, we dilute the ink for a softer look,” Kapil notes. “For the makeup look, we won't dilute it.”

This is not the time to skip the research step. Otsuji recommends looking at many artists' portfolios before deciding on someone – and not just any [before and after photo](https://aedit.com/aedition/importance-of-before-and-after-photos-in-plastic-surgery) will do. “Check their portfolio for healed brow pics,” Kapil says. “Everything looks great right away, but, in three weeks, we know the actual truth.” You can also read client testimonials and reviews. “This person will be tattooing your face, so it is important to choose someone who you admire and trust,” Otsuji emphasizes. 

## **3. Credentials & Experience Matters**
So, you’ve found a microblading artist whose aesthetic you love. What’s next? “It's important to [research the studio and artist](https://aedit.com/aedition/expert-guide-to-permanent-makeup-cosmetic-tattoo-microblading) you will be seeing so that you are familiar and comfortable with their tattoo style and level of expertise,” Otsuji shares. As she explains, artists should be skill certified, health certified, insured, and licensed as per their city or county's requirements. Health board regulations and tattoo licensing requirements are readily available to the public. Furthermore, “make sure your artist has received adequate skill training as well as sterile procedures and blood borne pathogens training appropriate to their area,” she adds.

Specialization also matters. “Just like in traditional tattooing, cosmetic tattoo artists will each have different styles and techniques that they specialize in,” Otsuji says. Needless to say, the techniques in their repertoire should factor into your decision. “It's good to know in depth what technique they are good with,” Kapil explains. “Some people are experts in microblading, while others are experts in powder.” 
 
From there, it’s all about experience. “The artist's tattoo experience is helpful information to know,” Otsuji notes. “The more clients they have worked with, the more variety of skin types and concerns they have dealt with.” This expertise doesn’t happen overnight. “It takes many years for any tattoo artist to master every skin type,” she says. “So, if you are concerned if microblading is right for you, reach out to an experienced professional for a consultation first.”

During a consultation, Kapil says you can also learn what type of ink they use, their preferred needle size, and how topical anesthetics factor into treatment. It’ll also give you a better sense of bedside manner. “It’s also a personality thing,” she shares. “It’s always a nice idea to look for pleasant personalities because the mapping part requires lots of patience.” 

## **4. Plan Ahead to Maximize Microblading Results**
You’ve determined your a candidate for [microblading](https://aedit.com/procedure/microblading/cost), found the perfect provider, and either booked your appointment or are getting ready to – congratulations! In order to have the smoothest experience and get the best results, there are a few things you can do ahead of time to prepare:

- **Stay Hydrated**: “It is recommended to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol, too much caffeine, and blood thinners prior to your appointment,” Otsuji says. 
- **Schedule Strategically**: Kapil says it is best to avoid Botox®, laser treatments, and trips to the sauna prior to your microblading treatment. 
- **Go Au Naturel**: “It's good to leave the brows fuller and let the artist shape them,” Kapil shares.
- **Bring Inspiration**: “During your microblading appointment, your artist will work with you to design and create the style of brows that works best for you,” Otsuji explains. “It's a good idea to bring reference images of eyebrows that you like to aid in the consultation process.”
- **Build Your Recovery Kit**: Aftercare instructions vary by artist, but you may need to pick up some [gentle skincare](https://aedit.com/aedition/skincare-after-facial-plastic-surgery-procedures). “Aftercare can be wet or dry depending on the artist,” Kapil says. “I do wet healing where my clients wash with Cetaphil and put on an ointment.”
- **Factor in a Follow-Up**: “After six to eight weeks, a second session or touch-up appointment can be done to build the brow's density further and add more pigment to areas if needed,” Otsuji notes.

## **5. Final Results Take Time**
Microblading results are not immediate, so make sure you build the healing process into your timeline — especially if you are planning to debut your new brows at a special event. Healing can take anywhere from four to six weeks, during which you may experience minor redness and swelling (particularly in the first 48 hours). “It is important to frequently blot away any excess moisture, oil, and lymph fluid that builds up in the brow area to prevent too much scabbing,” Otsuji explains. “Mild dryness and peeling will occur, but it is essential that you do not pick or scratch the area during this time.” 

Another tip? Don’t plan to head from your microblading appointment to the beach. Otsuji says to avoid sweating, swimming, suntanning, saunas, and steam rooms for two weeks while the microblading heals and settles into the skin. “Excess moisture to the area can cause premature pigment loss and undesirable results,” she cautions. 

At the end of the day, a bit of patience is key. “Go in with the understanding that it will take two weeks to heal and will go through its phases,” Kapil says. “And don’t forget the touch up!” 

Expert Opinion

Waking up to expertly manicured brows every morning is a dream come true for many. Here’s what you need to know to ensure a successful microblading treatment.

How To Ensure A Safe And Effective Microblading Treatment

5 Things To Consider Before Booking A Microblading Session

shutterstock 1120052276 (1)

When I first learned about microblading back in 2018, I thought it sounded too good to be true. The art of achieving perfect brows is a difficult one, and the thought of having them tattooed onto your face sounded, well, just plain weird! Wanting to dig deeper into the matter, I listened to three women’s experiences with the treatment to determine, once and for all, if microblading is really worth the hype. 

## **Microblading 101**
First things first, let’s review what exactly [eyebrow microblading](https://aedit.com/procedure/microblading) is and how it works. Microblading — not to be confused with [microneedling](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling) — is a semi-permanent makeup technique to create the illusion of fuller, more defined brows. The technique involves using a cosmetic tattoo pen to make small incisions that deposit pigment into the skin. 

### **Technique**
The tip of the microblading pen is so delicate that its strokes actually mimic individual hairs, and there are a variety of tips in different diameters to control the thickness of each hairlike stroke. By choosing a diameter that closely matches the thickness of the native brow hair, the technician can make the outcome look more natural. In addition to the diameter, you are also able to choose from a range of colors to match your natural hair as closely as possible. Because each hair is hand drawn, technicians are able to customize the eyebrow shape, color, and thickness with each hair stroke. 

### **Cost & Appointment Schedule**
Depending on the location and salon, a microblading treatment is usually an investment of $300 to $1,000. In terms of timing, there is an initial session and then a touch-up appointment six to eight weeks later to make any necessary adjustments to the color, shape, and/or fullness. 

### **Recovery & Results**
There is no downtime after a microblading treatment, but there are some aftercare instructions. For instance, you should keep your brow area as dry as possible for around 10 days after the procedure. This means avoiding heat and any activities that are likely to get your face wet. There are also medicated and over-the-counter creams that can be applied to help with the healing process.

- **Downtime:** None
- **Initial Results:** 2 to 3 weeks post-procedure
- **Final Results:** 4 weeks post-procedure
- **Lifespan:** 1 to 3 years

Speaking of the healing process, most microblading clients experience darkening in color followed by lightening in color (anywhere from 20 to 50 percent) and scabs for the first seven to 10 days post procedure. By week two or three, however, the eyebrows appear closer to their final state. About a month in, you’ll be enjoying the full effect of the treatment. 

Unlike regular tattoos, microblading is a semi-permanent tattoo because it only penetrates the superficial layers of skin. Results typically last anywhere from one to three years, depending on your skin type. In a way, microblading lasts an ideal amount of time considering how often beauty trends last. While you may be in love with your microbladed brows this year, you may be lusting after a different look down the road.

## **Patient Perspective**
While the treatment certainly sounds promising, the only way to truly understand the results is to speak to patients who have experienced it first hand. We caught up with three women to get their thoughts on their microbladed brows. 

### **Carrington, Houston, TX**
*Carrington, the brains behind fashion and lifestyle blog [Chaos & Coffee](https://chaos-and-coffee.com/my-experience-with-microblading/), opted to get her brows microbladed after being unhappy with the results she was achieving filling them in with pencils, powders, and gels. She spent months researching the procedure and finding the right technician before giving it go.*

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6VvaYBp3uhmFjd1Q4yN0WL/997a594e824857181b20fe87922d1d5b/Carrington.png}>
  A before-and-after look at Carrington's microbladed brows.
</CaptionImg>

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What attracted you to microblading in the first place?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Carrington}>
    I have always had extremely thin eyebrows, and, since I have strawberry blonde hair, my eyebrows are very light colored. I filled them in everyday, but, to be honest, I wasn't always the best at getting them even. Half the time I looked like I was questioning everyone that day. I also really wanted to be able to not wear makeup and still look like I had eyebrows, since you couldn't really see them unless I filled them in.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Did your microblading experience meet your expectations?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Carrington}>
    Yes, I absolutely love my eyebrows now, and I couldn't be happier with the results I received. I did a lot of research beforehand though to make sure I went to the right person and received the best results possible. I found [Alex Hein](https://www.instagram.com/alexheintx/) in Houston and couldn't find a bad review from a client, so I booked an appointment and decided to take the leap. I'm so happy I did!
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Is there anything you would have done differently?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Carrington}>
    I'm honestly so happy with the way they turned out. I don't think I would change a thing. The way Alex does her appointments, she has the initial appointment where she does the microblading. Then you go back six to eight weeks later for a follow-up where she does touch-ups and makes sure they are exactly like you want them — dark enough, right shape, thick enough, etc. I decided to go a little darker and thicker at my follow-up appointment and now they are 100 percent exactly like I want!
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Do you feel like it was worth the time and money?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Carrington}>
    Microblading is pricey, I'm not going to lie. But I'm so happy with the results and feel confident now — with or without makeup — with how my eyebrows look. For me, it was worth the money. I could have gone to a different technician and had it done for cheaper, but I researched a lot of microblading technicians and Alex was hands down the best. Her rates are fair, and you get what you pay for. I didn't want to take a chance since it's my face! I was willing to pay more to ensure I got a quality level of service and a quality outcome with microblading.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How do you feel after microblading?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Carrington}>
    I do feel more confident! I used to hate not wearing makeup because I really looked like I didn't have any eyebrows. As you can probably imagine, it looked a little odd. Now, I feel confident without makeup and am happy with how even my eyebrows look 24/7. I was never really great at drawing them on or filling them in. I wanted them to look natural, and they never did. Now, they're always even and I never have to worry about wiping one off during the day because I forget I have them filled in or worry if one is higher than the other. I know everyone likes to say ‘they're sisters, not twins,’ but, for me, they needed to be twins! I'm very happy with the results of my microblading and plan to continue it for years to come.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

### **Chaneya, Georgia** 
*Chaneya, the fashion and lifestyle blogger behind [Savvy Singer](http://www.savvysinger.com/), grew tired of the time and energy it took her to fill in her brows everyday before deciding to get them microbladed. While it was an investment, she believes it can be a more cost-effective and efficient option in the long run.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What attracted you to microblading in the first place?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Chaneya}>
    I love my eyebrows. It’s one of the most important features on my face. I honestly got tired of the daily routine of filling them in and it taking me 10 minutes alone just to do them. I wanted a way that, during the work week, it would cut back time spent doing them. Microblading was the way to go.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Did your microblading experience meet your expectations?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Chaneya}>
    My experience with microblading definitely met my expectations and more. I knew it would enhance the way that my brows looked, but I never knew just from the first session how much more confident I would feel having them done when I woke up every morning.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Is there anything you would have done differently?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Chaneya}>
   Honestly, no. I loved my experience just how it was. I wish I would’ve done it sooner than I had, but I love them. Luckily, my technician is a close friend who owns a salon and does them. He has great brows, and I felt great and confident in him doing the best job.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Do you feel like it was worth the time and money?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Chaneya}>
    I definitely feel it’s worth the time and money. When you think about how many brow products there are out there and the amount that they can cost, you’re consistently investing in a $20 eyebrow pencil every month, which quickly adds up. I saved time and money in the long run.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How do you feel after microblading?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Chaneya}>
   I’m definitely more confident. I love that I can wake up every morning and have full brows. That’s just one part of my face that is super important to me, so to have them look great makes me feel a lot better!
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

### **Katy, Cleveland, OH**
*Katy, the Cleveland-based lifestyle blogger behind [Sugar & Chiffon](http://www.sugarandchiffon.com/2019/09/my-microblading-and-microshading-experience/), decided to get her brows microshaded after growing tired of filling in her self-described “small, sparse, and patchy” brows on a daily basis. She chose a technician after looking at lots of before and afters on Instagram and is happy with her results.*

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/789fsYEliK7Rooeg2TT50I/210ef175f40085e575b321b6d0f8ba88/Katy.jpg}>
  A before-and-after look at Katy's microshaded brows.
</CaptionImg>

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What attracted you to microblading in the first place?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Katy}>
    I was initially attracted to microblading/microshading because my natural brows are very small, sparse, and patchy. I didn’t really have any arch. And I’m terrible at filling them in, so doing that every day (or at all) wasn’t a viable option for me. 
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Did your microblading experience meet your expectations?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Katy}>
    My experience totally met my expectations. My brows look so much better now. They have a defined shape and arch, but they still look pretty natural. When I had my appointment, I told [Stephanie Garcia](https://www.instagram.com/enhancedbeautyandacademy/) (the woman who did my brows) that I wanted ‘natural Instagram brows,’ and she totally nailed it.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Is there anything you would have done differently?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Katy}>
    I think, if I could do it again, I would have them done just the tiniest bit fuller and bolder.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Do you feel like it was worth the time and money?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Katy}>
    I definitely think it was worth my time and money.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How do you feel after microblading?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Katy}>
    I feel so much more confident now that my brows actually frame my face and don’t look so weird and patchy. I feel like it has helped me look more put together, which is important to me because I’m a stay-at-home toddler mom, so I am definitely not put together most of the time. I am still so happy with them almost a year later, and I recommend it to everybody!
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

## **The Takeaway**
So, are microbladed eyebrows worth the hype? The answer certainly seems to be a resounding yes. While I doubted that an eyebrow tattoo could naturally mimic real hair, a natural and bespoke result is possible at the hands of an experienced technician. I, for one, am seriously considering giving my brows a microbladed makeover. 

Patient Perspective

The semi-permanent makeup trend may be all the rage right now, but can the results really replace your brow pencils and gels? The AEDITION spoke to three women who have tried the tattoo treatment to get their honest assessment.

All About Microblading Treatments For Fuller, Thicker Eyebrows

Is Microblading Worth The Hype?

shutterstock 717461320

Like everything else cosmetic, eyebrows also have their own trends. From full and natural to pencil-thin and arched, brows are constantly evolving. While their fullness, shape, and style change over the years, the one thing that remains the same is their importance in framing the face. Because of that, many consider the eyebrows to be the most important facial feature. In fact, symmetrical and tamed eyebrows can make someone look polished even on a makeup free-day. 

If you’re [not entirely satisfied](https://aedit.com/aedition/8-non-invasive-cosmetic-treatments-that-save-you-time) with your natural brows, fortunately, there are a number of ways to refresh them. [Waxing](https://aedit.com/procedure/waxing), tweezing, and [threading](https://aedit.com/procedure/threading) have long been popular options to tame and shape eyebrows. On the other hand, eyebrow pencils, brow gels, and powders have been an inexpensive way to thicken and fill out brows for those with more sparse brows. [Electrolysis](https://aedit.com/procedure/electrolysis) and eyebrow tattoos have also been popular for people looking for more permanent solutions. 

So, how does everyone in Hollywood have perfect eyebrows? I’ll give you a hint: It's not because of their makeup artists! It is because of a semi-permanent treatment that leaves you with natural-looking and beautiful brows called [microblading](https://aedit.com/procedure/microblading). Like electrolysis and eyebrow tattooing, it requires a little bit of an investment but microblading will last you for one to two years.  

## **What Is Microblading?**
Eyebrow microblading is a semi-permanent makeup technique that uses a super-fine pen to deposit pigment into the skin. Because the tip is so fine (the tip is actually made up of a bundle of 12 to 15 tiny little needles), it can create hair-like strokes so natural looking that it can be hard to tell real hair apart from the ink. While the process sounds like a traditional cosmetic tattoo, it is actually quite different because the microblade needles only penetrate the superficial layers of the skin, making the technique semi-permanent, unlike tattooing which is permanent. 

![shutterstock 1106099276](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2mRv7gOBzemEaQU4EkOmo8/25755d083eb60f639ad0b859f4b52fe0/shutterstock_1106099276.jpg)

## **What Does the Microblading Process Entail?**
Microblading is done manually with a handheld tool, not by an automated machine. Technicians meticulously draw the strokes on one by one and pay close attention to detail. During the first hour, technicians draw on the eyebrows with a removable pencil to determine what the ideal shape and fullness should look like. Afterward, they take a photo and line it up with a grid to make sure the eyebrows are perfectly symmetrical – you don’t want mismatching eyebrows, right!? Once the eyebrow shape has been determined, technicians will apply a topical numbing cream and a liquid anesthetic to minimize any pain. Depending on the client’s preference, the technician will choose a needle from a variety of diameters to control the thickness of each hair stroke. The diameter is customizable to each client because it is important that the microbladed hairs match the width of the native brow hairs to make the eyebrows look as natural as possible.

As with other tattoos, there is no downtime for microblading, although it can take about two weeks for scabs to fully heal. Microblading patients are encouraged to avoid heat and sun exposure, eyebrow makeup, swimming, and facials for one week following the treatment. Additionally, many salons offer creams or skincare products to use post-procedure to help the healing process. 

## **Types of Microblading**
There are a few different types of microblading options and similar treatments in the broader family of semi-permanent eyebrow enhancements. 

### **1. Microfeathering™**
Created by the Los Angeles-based celebrity brow artist Kristie Streicher, Microfeathering™ is a technique to create less bold and more natural-looking brows. Microfeathering™ is not for statement brows or to recreate an entire eyebrow, but instead, it is to fill out existing brows for a soft and subtle look. The goal is to achieve eyebrows that look completely natural and untouched by tweezers or waxing. Because it is not a typical bold eyebrow, there will likely be some skin showing in between the hairs after the procedure. The best part of the treatment is that you can not only have everyday brows but also you can have full “Instagram brows” with the addition of a pencil, gel, or powder. 

Unlike traditional Microblading, Microfeathering™ requires the patient to already have natural eyebrow hair. The technique is to work with the native hair and mimic the hair’s natural growth pattern for the utmost natural look. The goal is to fill in gaps within the existing eyebrow rather than creating an entirely new one. Because of this, after the initial appointment, most clients are instructed to have a grow-out period of four to six months to ensure they have enough natural hair for best results. 

Compared to Microblading, Microfeathering™ has similar maintenance. The treatment is a two-part process, with touch-up’s one to two months after the first session. Because Microfeathering™ has finer strokes compared to microblading, it lasts slightly less as long. It is expected to last around eight to 12 months depending on the person.

### **2. Microshading**
Microshading is the ideal technique for those looking for filled in, thick, ‘boy brows’. Like Mircofeathering™ and microblading, microshading also uses a handheld or manual tool to create customizable brows. The big difference is that, unlike microblading and Microfeathering™, Microshading does not draw on hair-like strokes. Instead, it uses a stippling method of dotting the pigment into the skin. This creates more of a powdered eyebrow that you would achieve with eyebrow powder. Think Kim Kardashian or Kylie Jenner.

### **3. Ombré Brows**  
This type of microshading has a two-tone effect — à la ombré hair. The tails of the brow are darker and fade into light color as it reaches the start of the eyebrow. It is a better option for someone looking for a trendier brow or someone with a darker skin tone. 

Microshading is expected to last just as long as microblading with a touch-up a month after the treatment and annual touch-ups. Many people opt for a combination of both microblading and microshading if they have thinner brows.

## **Who Is the Ideal Candidate for Microblading?**
The treatment is a great option for someone looking for smudge-proof, low maintenance, and natural-looking eyebrows. Aside from the initial investment of around $700 or $800, you would also need to sacrifice about two hours for the procedure and a brief touch-up once a year. If you are looking to entirely reconstruct, fill in gaps, or add definition then microblading can be the answer to achieve those picture-perfect brows you have always been dreaming of!

Overall, a microblading procedure is relatively safe and shares the same safety precautions as any type of tattooing procedure. Minor complications can include misapplication, migration, or discoloration of the pigment. Since there has not yet been a formal testing or certification specifically for microblading (only for general tattooing), prospective microblading patients should ask the appropriate questions around safety to minimize risk. While it is unlikely, blood transmitted diseases, such as HIV or Hepatitis C, are always a risk with any form of tattooing. 

## **The Takeaway**
Gone are the days of painted on, Sharpie-looking eyebrows. Missing or sparse brows can be a result of genetics, over-plucking, waxing, or illness, but regardless of the reason why, almost anyone can instantly enhance their beauty with the semi-permanent microblading technique. Eyebrows help frame the entire face creating symmetry and everyone deserves to be the best version of themselves!

Beauty

From microfeathering to microshading, here is everything you need to know about the semi-permanent brow technique that is taking Hollywood — and the world — by storm.