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WHAT IS MICROBLADING/ MICROSHADING?

Microblading and Microshading are two forms of eyebrow micropigmentation. Both treatments are ideal for people who have patchy, uneven, or nonexistent eyebrows due to over-plucking or medical conditions.

Microblading implants pigment into tiny etches in the skin to resemble hair strokes. On the appropriate skin type, this should blend seamlessly into existing eyebrow hair (if present), creating a soft and "wispy" look.

Microshading (aka Powder Brow) implants pigment strategically in a diffuse fashion, rather than mimicking hair strokes. The healed result is soft and powdery, and can range from being "barely-there" to bold and defined depending on the client's wishes.

Regardless of the technique used, our artists take a conservative approach to create a soft and understated look.

Two sessions are necessary to perfect the design, performed 6-12 weeks apart. If you have an existing brow tattoo, you are required to send clear, makeup-free photos for approval before setting an appointment.

WHICH TECHNIQUE IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Our goal with each client is to create the most natural brow possible, regardless of which technique we choose.  A soft, subtle result is possible with either technique. Several factors will help us determine which technique is right for your unique situation. Clients with oily, thin, large-pored, sensitive or mature skin are better suited for Microshading (aka Powder Brows) in most cases, as Microblading may not heal optimally.  Some clients are good candidates for a Combo Brow, which combines both techniques. If you are not sure which technique is right for you, have no fear! We will figure it out together at the time of your appointment.

HOW LONG DO THE RESULTS LAST?

One of the beautiful things about micropigmentation is that it lasts 1-3 years. Microshading typically last a little longer than Microblading. Either way, a yearly color boost is recommended to keep your brows looking perfect. It would not be ideal for microblading/microshading to last forever. Not only do brow trends change, but gravity draws your eyebrows downward with age. Since these techniques  are designed to fade gradually over time, we can make adjustments over the years to allow your brows to keep a lifted and youthful appearance.

HOW LONG DOES THE PROCEDURE TAKE?

These are very meticulous procedures which require a great deal of attention to detail. Two sessions are required- the initial session, and the Perfecting Session performed 6-12 weeks after the first. Your initial session will last approximately 2 hours. During your initial session, your face will be measured carefully to determine the ideal brow shape for your individual bone structure. The shape will be drawn on carefully and measured again for symmetry, and we will then formulate the perfect pigment color. Your Perfecting Session will last about 90 minutes.

AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE?

Eyebrow micropigmentation is appropriate for a wide variety of skin types. However, some people are not good candidates due to certain contraindications. People with the following conditions are NOT good candidates:

  • history of keloid scarring

  • use of Accutane within the past year

  • skin disease or injury in the eyebrow area

  • poor wound healing

  • use of blood thinners such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil within a week of treatment

  • currently undergoing chemotherapy

  • hemophilia, uncontrolled diabetes, or auto-immune disorders

  • currently pregnant or breastfeeding

DOES IT HURT?

These treatments are generally very well tolerated, though some people may find it uncomfortable at times. A topical numbing cream is used before the procedure to keep you comfortable. Many clients say that the tweezing is the worst part!

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL IT TAKE?

Microblading and/or Microshading is a two-step process that includes the initial appointment and the perfecting session at 6-12 weeks. Both of these appointments are crucial for an optimal result. Touch-ups are recommended yearly. The following circumstances may require additional touch-ups:

  • very oily skin

  • previous tattooing or scar tissue in the eyebrow

  • poor aftercare

  • excess sun exposure

  • use of acids or retinol products or facial exfoliation procedures

  • individual body chemistry

 

For more information on why microblading/microshading requires two treatments, please click here.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING THE HEALING PROCESS?

Immediately after:  Your eyebrows will look darker and sharper, and warmer than they will end up healing.

Days 1-5: The new pigment will continue to appear darker, thicker and more noticeable than the healed result.

Days 5-10: Your eyebrows will look flaky and/or scabby, and start to flake off.

Right after your brows heal, it may appear that the pigment is too light. Your skin forms new layers over the pigment which can make the color look "foggy" temporarily. It will take a few weeks for the pigment to fully resurface, and this is why we wait at least 6-12 weeks before the perfecting session. After the first week, you will be able to wear makeup if necessary to cover any patchy areas between the two treatments.

You can view detailed Aftercare Instructions by clicking here.

DO YOU OFFER TOUCH-UP PRICING ON ANOTHER ARTIST'S WORK?

In many cases, a touch up on another artist's work is actually more challenging due to the unknown factors of the existing pigment, color matching and shape alteration. You could compare it to when your hairstylist needs to do a color correction on your hair- it's more complex and you run the risk of ending up with a muddy, multi-colored result if it's not done properly. For this reason, most artists (including ours) charge regular price for all new clients. 

 

IMPORTANT: If you have an existing eyebrow tattoo, you MUST send clear, close-up photos of your eyebrows without makeup to 817-719-8852 before setting your appointment. In some cases, you will need to also have an in-person consultation in addition to your photographs. Sometimes  an old tattoo cannot be covered without removal treatments, and this is why it's imperative that you consult with your artist beforehand to assess whether you are a candidate. 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Please click here to explore pricing for our services.

CAN'T I BARGAIN SHOP FOR A LOWER PRICE?

Absolutely. However, let's not forget that we are opening the skin... ON YOUR FACE. The importance of proper disinfection protocol and the use of single-use instruments cannot be understated. Micropigmentation has increased in popularity by leaps and bounds, and unfortunately regulations for the procedure are pretty lacking. There are many considerations that go into the pricing of our treatments, including the quality of the tools and pigments used, the importance of continuing education, and the expense of insurance and proper licensure. As artists, we believe what sets us apart is our expertise in skin science and tissue interaction, along with the exceptional training we received specifically for these procedures. Micropigmentation is both an art and a science, and we can honestly say that we love it enough to lay awake at night thinking about it. When it comes to your safety and the integrity of your skin, you shouldn't settle for anything less. 

 

Still not convinced? Check out Whitney's  blog post on this subject. 

HOW DO I BOOK AN APPOINTMENT?

We are pleased to offer a convenient online booking option. Please click here to book your appointment.

Microblading/ Microshading: FAQ

FAQ: Microblading & Microshading

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