frequently asked questions

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Microblading is a procedure categorized under permanent makeup, but unlike traditional cosmetic tattooing, it is less invasive and is considered semi-permanent. The procedure is done by using a hand held disposable sterile blade with ultra- fine needles, where fine lines are bladed just below the epidermis layer, with pigment creating fine, realistic and natural hair strokes to provide the finest definition and dimension possible. This procedure can dramatically correct or fully reconstruct lost eyebrows and is excellent for those who have the wrong brow shape, thinning brows from age or over tweezed and those wanting to enhance their brows. Clients with oily skin have the potential of not retaining pigment as well. *I will go over everything during your consultation.*

Blade & Shade is done by combining both techniques, Microblading + Shading. Shading is done by the use of microblading, as described above, and a hand held disposable sterile blade with ultra-fine shader needles which make small pin-point dots making a "powdery" background, similar to an "ombre" effect. This creates a super natural look of filled-in brows without making them look tattooed. 

The level of discomfort is mild to none, the feeling of the procedure has been described as light paper cut to not feeling anything. The first pass of strokes are done WITHOUT numbing cream. Before the second pass of strokes, I apply a topical numbing cream and let it sit for about 15 minutes, once numbed I will begin the second pass and can apply numbing cream multiple times throughout the remainder of the procedure if needed. Topical anesthetics used may contain lidocaine, tetracaine and epinephrine. Caffeine consumption prior to appointment can also affect how well you numb.

Remember microblading is a multistep process. In the first session, the brow is shaped to the client’s preference and approval, pigment color will be confirmed and I will create hair like strokes, this can take up to 3.5 hours. Your touch-up will be no sooner than 4 weeks, and no later than 6 weeks, this appointment can take anywhere up to 2.5 hours to complete. 

After the procedure, the microbladed area can appear dark in color, and could have slight swelling and redness which is normal! The first few days after the treatment the eyebrows will be much darker but they will get lighter after the eyebrows are fully healed, your brows will look 40% darker and up to 15% thicker during the first 7 days. The epidermis goes through light peeling/ scabbing phase (do NOT pick). True color can take up to 45 days to come out. You can also click the tab "after your brows" for more information.  

Everyone heals differently so therefore the outcomes vary. Sometimes it is necessary to adjust the color and brow thickness by adding more stroke since areas may not retain much pigment during the first session and will need to be refilled. A touch-up session may be an opportunity to build the brow once you feel more comfortable with the process and your healed brows. In the touch up session, the final adjustments are made to assure the client’s satisfaction. 

Generally microblading lasts anywhere between 1-2 years, different skin types such as normal, oily, or dry and age (young and or mature) can also have an effect on how long microblading will last. Remember, it is not permanent like a tattoo, because the pigments reach right below the epidermis layer. Skincare products can also effect the duration of the pigments such as, products with AHA (alpha hydroxy acid), Glycolic Acid, Salicylic, Mild acne creams, any Retin-A's or Retinol's could make it fade faster. A touch up is suggested anywhere between 6-18 months if pigment fades faster. 

Proper procedures and precautions are used to ensure safe procedures. Either sterilized tools or disposable tools are used in a sanitized environment. When pre and post care instructions are followed the risk of complications are minimal. Allergic reactions to pigments are very rare, but sometimes occur. For this reason, a pigment patch test for those with sensitive skin or to topical makeup product such as gold, silver, nickel, or hair dyes should be patch tested prior to the procedure.

Selecting your microblading artist is an important decision. Once you have selected an artist, discuss your expectations and desired outcome, including the shape, style, and color you wish.

Also, remember that faces are never perfectly symmetrical. Adjustments may be made during touch up, such as pigment discoloration and color correction,and  more hair like strokes can be made. Finally, remember that microblading is not permanent and your brows will eventually fade away if touch ups are not done.