FAQ's - Microblading
WHAT IS MICROBLADING?
Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo to enhance the eyebrows. Pigment is etched into the upper layers of the skin by hand. The results are natural looking, hairlike strokes, regardless of the amount of hair present. People suffering from alopecia, trichotillomania or any other condition that causes hair loss benefit greatly from Microblading, as well as people who simply aren't happy with their eyebrows.
WHAT IS MICROSHADING OR OMBRÈ POWDERED BROWS?
Microshading of the eyebrows is performed with the use of a manual hand tool and a round configured needle. This technique creates a soft powdered effect that resembles eyebrow pencil or powder. It is very similar to microblading, but instead of hair-like strokes, a fuller and softer effect is created.
CAN I COMBINE MICROBLADING AND MICROSHADING/OMBRÈ POWDERED BROWS?
Yes, these Iwo lechniques are often used in combination to create a natural-looking effect. The Iwo versatle techniques are complementary and are often recommended for a fuller, more realistic look. These techniques work especially well for thin or sparse brows.
WHAT'S THE PROCESS LIKE?
Microblading is a two-step treatment, consisting of an initial procedure and then a touch-up 4 to 6 weeks after. Don't think of Microblading touch up as something optional. Think of it as a second part of the complete Microbalding treatment, something obligatory. Without it, the first procedure will be a waste of money. We start by taking your before photo, we then shape, measure and draw the outline to be followed. Once you are happy, we mix your colour and get started.
WILL MY MICROBLADING FADE?
A variety of interal & extemal factors will play a role in the rate of fading. These include, but are not limited to, metabolism & homones, skin type & oil production. excessive sun exposure, lightening & exfoliating skin care products. We recommend touching up your brows regularly (1-3 years) to keep the color fresh, the strokes crisp & the shape defined.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
The procedure takes approximately 90 minutes, sometimes less. Please allow a solid 90 minute window for your appointment, as this procedure should not be rushed.
DOES IT HURT?
There is some discomfort associated with the procedure. A topical anesthetic can be used to numb the area. People say the sensation is similar to getting threaded.
SHOULD I PURCHASE AND APPLY ANESTHETIC AHEAD OF MY TREATMENT?
No need to purchase a local anesthetic. We recommend that you arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment and will apply the anesthetic on your brows.
WILL THE SHADE OF MY BROWS BE MUCH DARKER AFTER THE TREATMENT?
Yes, your brows will be up to 40% darker in shade for the first 7-10 days during the healing process where scabs can form and fake off. This is normal. For a full guide on the healing process, please see the post-procedural care document.
DO I NEED TO TAKE A DAY OFF WORK?
No. There's no downtime associated with the treatment. There may be slight redness that will dissipate within an hour after. Your brows will appear darker initially, but not so dark that you will be prevented from going about your daily activities.
HOW LONG DOES HEALING TAKE?
The brows will be fully healed after one month.
I HAVE HAD MY BROWS DONE BEFORE. CAN YOU GO OVER THEM?
We are happy to offer Microblading corrections & tattoo cover-ups for brows that have been done elsewhere but we must see them beforehand to determine that we have a workable canvas. Prices will vary based on your situation so please send us an email to tina@thebrowstudio.co.za with a clear photo of your brows (no makeup).
Corrective work often requires additional sessions & will be charged accordingly. If we cannot improve the previous work, we will advise you appropriately or recommend a suitable treatment for you.
I WANT TO GET BOTOX OR FILLERS DONE TOO. WHICH PROCEDURE SHOULD I DO FIRST AND WHY?
As Botox is in essence a muscle relaxant, if you have Botox before your Microblading procedure, the muscles around the eyebrow area will not be in their natural state and will be constantly moving and contracting as the Botox wears off over the course of 4 to 6 months. For Microblading to be most effective, it should be done when your skin is in its natural state. It is harder for one of our technicians to accurately gauge the natural alignment of your brows when you have had Botox. This means that Botox should take place after your microblading procedure. In fact, it can even be administered the day after your microblading procedure.
Regarding fillers, it is recommended that Microblading be done first, as with Botox. Fillers can be done 3-4 weeks after Microblading.
As Botox is in essence a muscle relaxant, if you have Botox before your Microblading procedure, the muscles around the eyebrow area will not be in their natural state and will be constantly moving and contracting as the Botox wears off over the course of 4 to 6 months.
For Microblading to be most effective, it should be done when your skin is in its natural state. It is harder for one of our technicians to accurately gauge the natural alignment of your brows when you have had Botox. This means that Botox should take place after your microblading procedure. In fact, it can even be administered the day after your microblading procedure.
Regarding fillers, it is recommended that Microblading be done first, as with Botox. Fillers can be done 3-4 weeks after Microblading.
I WANT TO GET MY LASH LINE ENHANCED. CAN I DO IT AT THE SAME TIME?
Yes. Lash Line enhancement is a great treatment to complement Microblading. Lash Line Enhancement is not "eyeliner". The pigment is placed in your lash line, at the base where your lashes grow from. This makes the lashes look thicker and darker, therefore framing and defining the eye.
The line is thin enough that when your eyes are closed, you are not able to see the tattoo line. The result is a natural enhancement. This is a wonderful treatment that can be combined with Microblading.