What is Microblading? | Allee Ashlock, Medical Esthetician

Microblading is a form of semi permanent make up which is done by using pigment, and a small hand held tool comprised of anywhere from 7 to 16 micro needles on the tip (hence the name microblade).
 
What makes it different than tattooing your eyebrows?
Microblading is the artistic process of implanting pigment into the basal layer, (the area that divides the epidermis from the dermis) to create fuller looking brows. Eyebrow tattooing is done with a motorized device whereas microblading is done using a small, hand held tool. In microblading, the hand tool is used to make small simulated hair stokes in the brows using pigment. Tattooing uses ink which is more watery in texture and stays in the skin longer, where pigment is thicker in consistency and tends to only last 1-3 years. Microblading allows you to have a finer stroke because the pigment is thicker and will not spill under the epidermis (ink bleeds because of it’s low viscosity). Pigment, unlike ink, will naturally lighten as it exfoliates out of the skin.
 
Does it hurt?
Before the microblading begins, a topical numbing cream consisting of lidocaine, tetracaine and benzocaine is applied to the area to minimize discomfort. A secondary lidocaine gel is applied throughout the process. You might feel a slight discomfort, but microblading is virtually painless for most patients.
 
What can I expect during my first appointment at NBDPS?
Your first appointment will be about 2 hours and in that appointment time we will have a consultation, custom shape your brows, custom match your pigment and have you walking out with stunning brows. After the consultation, and the pigment is selected, we map your ideal brow shape based on your face shape; using your eye placement, bone structure and forehead muscles. Once you have obtained your perfect shape and pigment, we will numb you with a first anesthetic cream. Once the microblading begins we will keep you comfortable through out the procedure with a secondary numbing gel. When it is complete you are able to show off your new brows right away. The pigment will initially be darker in color, but will soften in about 2 weeks. Depending on your skin type, you will come back in 4 to 6 weeks for a complimentary touch up. Touch ups help extend the life of your microblading and allow for additional strokes to be added in for dimension. Oily skin may require more touch ups as it has a harder time holding the pigment.
 
How long does it last?
Microblading generally lasts about 18 months to 2 years. You can extend the life of your microblading by getting regular touch ups and using proper after care. This includes: no swimming or excessive sweating for 10 days post treatment, keeping the area dry, and once healed, applying sunscreen to help keep the pigment from fading.
 
What makes it so special? 
Brows frame your face and trends change. Microblading gives people the ability to achieve their ideal brows, while making them look natural. It saves the time of penciling in your eyebrows, and it will not come off in water, so you’ll always have great brows. Since microblading is semi permanent, it also gives clients the option to change their style or look with no long-term commitment.
 
What are the contraindications for microblading?
While almost everyone is a candidate, there are a few contraindications: someone receiving treatment for cancer, hepatitis, or hemophilia would need to have approval from their treating physician before getting the treatment. We are also unable to perform microblading on women who are pregnant or nursing.

Results may vary.