by Jared Guichard, MD

Behind the Popularity of Microblading

December 24, 2021 | Permanent Makeup

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Microblading is a semi-permanent tattooing procedure, typically used on the eyebrows. Nonsurgical cosmetic procedures, such as microblading, have increased by 44% in the last five years. So what's behind the popularity of microblading for men and women? In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive explanation of what microblading is, how long it’ll last, why it’s so popular, and more.

If you’re tired of penciling in your brows every single day and hesitant to commit to tattooed brows, microblading is an excellent alternative. At JAG Medical Spa, we have estheticians trained in providing you with natural-looking, beautiful brows! We encourage you to reach out if you have any questions about our microblading services or would like to schedule your first appointment! Without further ado, let’s see why microblading is among the most popular cosmetic procedures!

What is microblading?

Microblading is performed using a handheld tool with several tiny blade-like needles attached to the tip. Using these needles, microblading specialists make shallow incisions and impart pigment into the epidermis. This pigment is imparted deep enough to last for at least one year, but not imparted so deeply as a permanent tattoo. These micro-blades are thin enough to give the appearance of hair strands, which is how microblading achieves its natural look.

Who has microblading done?

Those with fair complexions and light hair often struggle with their brows. There might be a small number of eyebrow pencils in the shade they require. On those days they don’t want to fill in their brows, they might struggle with their appearance. For these people, microblading offers an opportunity to darken their brows, thus making their brows stand out more. Likewise, those who have over-tweezed or over-plucked their eyebrows in the past might find that their hair hasn’t grown back. In this case, microblading offers an opportunity to correct their mistakes. Microblading can also be used to fill in sparse patches on eyebrows which have grown unevenly, and to give shape to eyebrows which unruly brows.

What can microblading do?

There are a few different kinds of microblading. The first and most recognizable kind of microblading is traditional microblading. Traditional microblading consists of making hair-like stripes to fill the entirety of the brow and give a more uniform appearance to the brows. Microshading is a technique which gives the brows a slight gradient (i.e. darker to lighter). This is achieved by applying micro-dots of pigment, rather than the hair-like strokes of microblading. Microshading is considered to be less painful than microblading. Micro-feathering uses the same technique as microshading but, instead of creating a gradient, merely serves to fill empty patches. This option is great for those whose eyebrows have grown unevenly.

A combination brow refers to a technique which combines microblading with microshading to achieve a dense, thick brow look. Finally, ombre refers to a popular trend within the microblading community. Ombre, similar to ombre hair, has a very defined gradient. According to beauty experts at Forbes, ombre is a “technique that has gained its popularity all over the world because of its soft finish and amazing healed results.” Depending on your goals, you can use any of these techniques (or a combination of these techniques) to achieve your desired look!

BEFORE & AFTER Microblading

How long do the results of microblading last?

Many are hesitant to undergo microblading because, “What if I don’t like my results?” Well, not to worry! Microblading can last between one and three years, depending on how deep the pigment is deposited into the skin. This might seem like a long time, but it’s actually one of the factors behind the popularity of microblading  it's the perfect length of time! If you enjoy your results, you won’t need to have them redone for at least a year. If you do not enjoy your results, around the year mark, your microblading will begin to fade. If you have your microblading performed by a licensed professional, chances are you will love your results, as microblading professionals are trained to give your brows the same appearance as when you fill them in yourself!

How much does microblading cost?

Most microblading services run between $375 up to $1,000. While you probably won’t recoup this amount in the money you’ll save on eyebrow pencils and pomades, you’ll likely recoup this money in the amount of time you’ll save on having to do your brows!

Another reason behind the popularity of microblading is that many people can forgo the rest of their makeup routine, so long as they’ve done their brows. Tidy, full brows can give you a sensation of being “put together” and ready to tackle the world. While you’re likely to save between three to five minutes doing your eyebrows everyday, there’s no price for bolstered self-confidence!

Is microblading painful?

Most people describe microblading treatments as light scratching. Microblading, in terms of sensation, is not comparable to tattooing, as tattoo artists must puncture much deeper into the skin. Most microblading practitioners numb the area before-hand, as well. While an initial microblading treatment can last between one and three hours, subsequent touch-ups are much quicker.

Are there side effects from microblading?

Like any wound, in the days after, your brows will scab. This will make your brows appear much darker than they actually are, but you shouldn’t panic. As these scabs dissipate over a period of ten to fifteen days, your brows will lighten to their final color. You should keep your brows as dry as possible during this time and avoid swimming, excessive sweating, and washing your brows. Those with oily skin might find the pigment has not set as much as they might have wanted. In this case, additional touch-ups may be necessary. Similar to other cosmetic procedures which puncture the skin, you’ll want to discontinue any blood-thinning medications (such as NSAIDs) at least a week before your appointment to lessen your risk of bruising. Additionally, in the week after your procedure, avoid tweezing or waxing your brows. Your skin will be sensitive and more prone to irritation.

Natural-looking, semi-permanent brows? How could microblading not be popular?! With a million little things on our plates, not having to worry about your brows is a small relief. Further, thick brows have become their own statement piece. We hope we provided an adequate basis for why microblading is such a popular cosmetic procedure. If you’ve been considering having microblading done for a while, this is your sign!

At JAG Medical Spa, we’re happy to help you achieve the brows you’ve been wanting for forever. If you’re interested in learning more about microblading or setting up an initial consultation, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to answer any questions you may have.

About the author, Jared Guichard, MD

Dr. Jared Guichard is owner and medical director of JAG Medical Spa. With over 10 years’ experience in anti-aging medicine, he is committed to providing clients with the best in Aesthetics care and Anti-Aging treatments. He has a passion for all areas of medicine and continues to practice as a medical doctor in local hospitals in the Charleston area.

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