
Eyebrows that Last: Microblading Gives you Gorgeous, Permanent Brows
If you would deposit a penny each time you shape your eyebrows, I bet you will be a millionaire by now! Shaping your eyebrows each time you step out of the house can be a menace for sure. When there is a problem, there is a solution to it. Semi-permanent makeup has taken the beauty industry by surprise, thanks to the gorgeous pictures of eyebrows that are floating o Instagram and facebook!!!
So what exactly is semi-permanent makeup for eyebrows?
It is commonly known as microblading or “feather touch” or “microstroking”. It allows deposition of a non-reactive pigment in and around the eyebrows in a way that simulates eyebrow hair. Done with a specialised hand held tool with a blade attached at the end. This blade is of different shape and sizes and has a series of needles attached to it that superficially grazes on the skin surface depositing pigment at the same time. Don’t be scared with these “blades” and “needles’ as they don’t really penetrate the skin but rather delicately scratch the skin surface much like a paper cut.
But is microblading different from eyebrow tattooing?
Yes, of course the two are different, why else are they named differently! Below are the key differences:
- Tattooing is permanent while microblading can last upto 1-3 years only.
- Tattooing uses different pigment compared to the one used in microblading.
- Tattoo pigment are placed deeper while microblading pigment is placed rather superficially so that your body eventually metabolises it. Hence, a touch up is required every 2- 3 years.
- Microblading gives more subtle and natural appearance to the brows compared to tattooing which is opaque and bright.
- Over time, the pigment on your brows will also lighten a shade or two from its original color, whereas a tattoo on your body can have a blue-green tint on the edges when it starts to fade.
We don’t want to scare you but few things can go wrong with a microblading procedure and you must be aware of it.
- Asymmetrical eyebrows: This is more often a problem if there is lack of experience of tattoo artist. Also, you might have minor asymmetries of your eyebrows which can be pronounced post microblading.
- Unnatural appearance: If not done properly, microblading can lead to unnatural appearance. Always inform your tattoo artist what do you want when it comes to microblading. A thorough understanding of your desires will help the tattoo artist give you the results you are aiming at.
- Dissolution of pigment: This is related to the depth of pigment deposited. Too superficial placement of pigment leads to early dissolution due to removal of pigment along with the skin crust. Too deep deposition of pigment results in eating up of that pigment by macrophages. The ideal placement of tattoo pigment is in the upper layers of the skin (or papillary dermis).
- Allergic reaction to tattoo pigment: If you are allergic to any components of the pigment, and you find this out post microblading, immediately consult a board certified dermatologist as they will help you with early resolution of this reaction with steroids and other anti-inflammatory medicines.
- Keloid or scarring: If you have keloidal tendency, never opt for any unnecessary invasive procedures like microblading.
- Granulomatous reaction: This is a rare side effect. Consult your dermatologist if you develop this side-effect.
- Infection: If there is any breech of asepsis, you might develop infection. So make sure you visit a centre that is reputed and is headed by a doctor to avoid such side-effects.
- You are allergic to the pigment
- You have active rash/pimples/infection near your brows
- You have keloidal tendency
- You have “super” sensitive skin
- You are pregnant or breast feeding
- You are on blood thinners/NSAIDS/Accutane
- No intense workout
- No water application
- Use Cetaphil cleanser or any other gentle face cleanser twice daily
- Use paraben free moisturiser twice daily
- No makeup application
- No sun exposure
- Do not peel off skin
- No facewash/soap application on the face for 7 days
- No steam/sauna/swimming X 2 weeks
- Waxing/threading after 6 weeks only