Microblading Techniques
Microblading
Microblading is a technique that uses a hand held tool (usually a bundle of multiple needles) to draw super-fine hairs that mimic natural hair growth. The needles reach into the superficial layers of the skin, which is what makes the method semi-permanent: Microblading can last anywhere from 12-18 months, depending on your lifestyle.
Microshading (Powder Brow)
Microshading corrects sparse or thinning brows using a manual tool that administers tiny, pin-like dots in a gradient pattern, creating a semi-permanent powdered effect. Microshading uses a stippling method as opposed to hair stroke pigmentation in microblading. It creates a denser, thicker brow, using dots of pigment instead of strokes, and the results resemble perfectly-applied eyebrow powder.
Combo Brows
Combo Brows are a combination of microblading and powder brows. Microblading hair-strokes are placed around the border of the brow to give the brow a natural look. While the shading helps deepen the center of the brow.
While these techniques differ in application—strokes versus dots, primarily—they’re all achieved by inserting pigment beneath the skin. Since microshading requires much smaller incisions, it is less likely to cause irritation in people with sensitive skin. Amanda will help you decide which technique is best for your desired results.
We recommend scheduling a complimentary consultation with our Brow & Lash Specialist, Amanda Dunavant, to answer any questions and plan your treatment!
Scroll down for Microblading Care Instructions!
Microblading Care
Pre-Treatment
If you’ve ever hired a professional painter they will tell you that “it’s all in the prep”. Professional painters know that they get the best results when they spend extra time sanding, filling holes, making sure edges are smooth and applying the right primer. Well microblading (shading) is very similar. You will get much better results when you properly prep. It all starts with a good canvas! The eyebrow area must be healthy, strong, non-sensitive and non-irritated. Here’s how to get your skin ready for the procedure:
- Do not pick/tweeze/wax/perform electrolysis 1 week prior
- Do not tan 2 weeks prior or have sunburned face
- Do not have any type of facial/peel 2 weeks prior
- Discontinue Vitamin A/Retinol products one month prior
- Do not work out the day of the procedure
- Do not have Botox or Other Neurotoxin 3 weeks prior
- Do not take Fish Oil or Vitamin E one week prior (natural blood thinners)
- Do not wax or tint your eyebrows 3 days before the procedure
In order to avoid excessive bleeding and poor color deposit:
- Do not drink alcohol 24 hours before your tattoo
- Do not consume coffee before your procedure
- Do not take an aspirin or ibuprofen for pain relief (this thins the blood)
Post Treatment
Now that you know what NOT to do prior to your appointment, it’s time to share Amanda’s secret recipe for amazing results!
The day of the treatment: ABSORB
Gently blot the area with clean tissue to absorb excess lymph fluid. Do this every 5 minutes for the first hour until oozing has stopped. Removing this fluid prevents hardening of the lymph.
Days 1-7: WASH daily to remove bacteria and dead skin. (Don’t worry….THIS DOES NOT REMOVE THE PIGMENT!)
Gently wash your eyebrows each morning and night with water and an antibacterial soap like Dial or Cetaphil. With a very light touch, use your fingertips to gently cleanse the eyebrows. Rub the area in a smooth motion for 10 seconds and rinse with water ensuring that all soap is rinsed away.
To dry, gently pat with a clean tissue.
DO NOT use any cleansing products containing acids (glycolic, lactic, or AHA) or any exfoliants.
Here are some extra tips to help with a smooth and easy recovery:
- Use a fresh pillowcase
- Let any scabbing or dry skin naturally exfoliate away. Picking can cause scarring or loss of color
- No facials, Botox, chemical treatments or microdermabrasion for 4 weeks
- Avoid hot, sweaty exercise for one week
- Avoid direct sun exposure or tanning for 4 weeks after procedure. Wear a hat when outdoors.
- Avoid heavy sweating and long hot showers for the first 10 days
- Avoid sleeping on your face for the first 10 days
- Avoid swimming, lakes, hot tubs for the first 10 days
- Avoid topical makeup including sunscreen on the area
DO NOT rub, pick or scratch the treated area
Important note about showering:
Limit your showers to 5 minutes so you do not create too much steam. Keep your face/procedure out of the water while you wash your body, then, at the end of your shower, wash your hair. Your face should only be getting wet at the very last end of the shower. Avoid excessive rinsing and hot water on the treated area.