Move over teeny, tiny early 2000’s brows, defined brows are here to stay! If you spend hours every morning using makeup to beef up your brows there might be a more long-lasting solution in your future. Microblading is a semi-permanent treatment to perk up your brow look and cut down your primp time. Here’s what the brow-tattoo trend is all about. 

What It Is

In short, microblading is basically tattooing individual hairs onto your browline. Unlike the butterfly on my ankle, (we were all 21 once right?) this kind of tattoo only penetrates the first layer of skin making it semi-permanent for about three years. Microblading can cost from $90 to $540.

How It’s Done

You’ll start by deciding with a beauty pro what size and shape of brow works best for your face. Your technician will mark your face where they’ll make the cuts so you can make the final approval. Don’t forget to advocate for yourself and make sure the brows are exactly what you want. It’s your face after all! 

From there you’ll sit back as your stylist applies your dream brows. Your pro will take a disposable blade dipped in pigment and delicately make small lines that resemble your natural eyebrow hairs.

Does It Hurt?

The idea of someone making cuts on your face may sound less than ideal and even a little scary. But as far as pain goes, this procedure is mild. Before getting started, your technician will rub some numbing cream on the area so you are unlikely to feel a thing. Those who do feel something describe it as more of a “sensation” than a stabbing pain. When the process is done you feel a slight stinging but it shouldn’t feel worse than a mild sunburn. If you’ve ever had a brazillian wax, you’re probably tough enough to be completely unfazed by this. But if the pain does persist for days after, it’s a good idea to check in with a professional. 

How Long Does It Last?

It usually takes two full 30-40 minute sessions to complete this look and when you’re done you can go up to 18 months without a touch up—far longer than less permanent brow treatments such as henna brows. Talk about some long-term brow perks.  

Microblading Aftercare

In the days after your treatment, be extremely gentle with your new brow babies. You’ll want to avoid heavy workouts, saunas, or steam rooms to avoid getting them wet. Don’t wax or pluck that area and gently massage coconut oil on top of it every night. It’s also a good idea to avoid using retinol face treatments for a week or so after, since burning brows and harsh chems don’t mix. 

Risks

Anytime you make a cut in your body you’re susceptible to infection, whether it’s a semipermanent lip blush or a papercut, so it’s important to keep the area clean. All in all your risk is low if you go to a vetted professional. For additional peace of mind, you can check that the person handling your microblading is accredited by the American Academy of Micropigmentation, Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP), or similar. 

Ready to take the microblading plunge? Browse brow-professionals and book an appointment today on StyleSeat.