The Truth About Microblading: 9 Myths Debunked
Microblading uses a semi-permanent ink very similar to tattoos. Because of this similarity, many misconceptions surround the procedure. Here we discuss the myths associated with microblading and explain the differences between eyebrow tattooing and microblading.
If you fell victim to the 1990’s tweezing craze, you’re not alone. The plucking mistakes of the past are haunting many of us today. Now women are looking for ways to bring full brows back.
Some individuals have become artists with their eyebrow pencils in hand. But many women struggle to create a natural-looking brow on their own. The results ore often less than stellar.
Cut to microblading, a true hero to puny eyebrows and friend to those short on time.
Microblading is a cosmetic tattooing procedure that’s used to create fuller eyebrows. It helps achieve semi-permanent results which make brows look thick and full. Let’s take a closer look at the myths about microblading.
Myth #1: Microblading is an eyebrow tattoo.
Truth: Microblading and eyebrow tattooing are two different procedures.
On the surface, microblading is like tattooing. Technicians use a tool to insert color pigments into your skin. Although that’s where the similarities between the two procedures end.
Tattooing uses ink during application. Microblading instead uses a specialized pigment that provides richer color.
In microblading, there are organic pigment options that are safe. Inks used in tattooing are often associated with heavy metals that are toxic.
Tattooing places ink deep into the dermis making it permanent and very resistant to any fade. Microblading only affects the top layer of skin. This means when the pigment fades, it fades into a natural-looking color with no brown or green edges.
Myth #2: Microblading results are permanent.
Truth: Microblading results are semi-permanent.
This myth comes from a poor understanding of the microblading process. As mentioned above, the pigment in microblading is placed closer to the skin’s surface than a tattoo. This means it will fade over time and disappear in a natural-looking way.
Our skin has a turnover rate of 28 days. Every 28 days, old skin cells breakdown and become replaced with healthy new ones. Each time your skin goes through the renewal process, microblading pigment fades.
Microblading results last about 12 – 18 months. That means many less mornings spent wiping off and redrawing dimensionless eyebrows.
Myth #3: Microblading is painful.
Truth: The microblading procedure can be uncomfortable.
If the idea of microblading being painful has you on the fence, don’t worry. Tattoos are far more painful than microblading. There is no comparison in the pain department.
Microblading technicians are educated, trained, and certified. They also use products like numbing cream to ease discomfort. In fact, many women say the experience has the same amount of pain as tweezing.
The day after the procedure, the area may feel tender. Some skin types might feel like they have a sunburn. Others may show signs of light bruising. Both are normal and occur because of the slight pressure of drawing on delicate skin near the eye and should disappear within a few days.
It can take up to four weeks for the skin to heal and for the pigment to settle. During this period, your skin may be more sensitive but never painful.
Myth #4: You can do microblading at home or at a nearby hair salon.
Truth: To be happy with results and avoid side effects, you need to find a reputable service provider.
While microblading is less invasive than tattooing, it still involves skin penetration. Like tattooing, one of the key risks of the procedure is infection. Being diligent about finding a clean and safe establishment is important.
Just like hair or tattoo salons, some places may be better equipped and employ more highly-trained staff than others. Vibrance Medspa is inspected and licensed by the local health department to provide microblading and permanent makeup in our facility.
Microblading is an aesthetic procedure. To achieve desired results, you need to find an experienced microblading artist. Otherwise, you may be unhappy with the shape and color of your brows.
Myth #5: If I go to the same medical spa my friend did, I can get the same eyebrows.
Truth: Microblading results are different for each person.
Every person is unique. So is everyone’s skin and eyebrows. There are several factors you’ll need to keep in mind before your first treatment. These include:
· Initial shape and form of your eyebrows
· Skin type
· Skin renewal or turnover rate
· The color tone of the pigment you choose
· Face symmetry
To begin the process, schedule an initial consultation to talk to a technician. This will help you set realistic expectations about the procedure and outcome. It will also allow you to go over all your skin concerns and discuss any issues.
Myth #6: Microblading is a one-time procedure.
Truth: You will need a touch up 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure
It’s possible to achieve amazing microblading results after one procedure. Although for many women, a touch-up or two is necessary. It takes about 4 to 6 weeks for the pigment to settle and start fading.
Touch-up procedures are very easy and non-painful. During a touch-up, the technician will add pigment to any fading gaps. Once filled in again, your brows will look as perfect as they did after the first treatment.
While it’s called a “touchup”, the procedure is the second stage of microblading. By avoiding it, you could be missing out on optimal results.
Myth #7: Microblading results won’t look natural.
Truth: It’s difficult to distinguish microbladed brows from natural eyebrows.
Unlike tattoos, microbladed eyebrows look much more natural. The technique allows the technician to mimic natural hair growth. The microblading tool allows each stroke to look like real, fine brow hair. While an expert may be able to tell the difference, an average person can’t.
Think of a bulky crayon over a thin, sharp pencil. You’ll see more natural results with the fine pencil, compared to the thick stroke of a crayon. Microblading is like using a permanent, more natural-looking eyebrow pencil. In fact, microblading looks much more natural than using an eyebrow pencil to fill in your brows.
Myth #8: Microblading is for everyone.
Truth: There are some factors that restrict people from microblading.
You can’t have microblading if you:
- Are under 18 years of age
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Take blood-thinning meds
- Have active psoriasis or eczema
- Suffer from hemophilia, epilepsy, active skin cancer
- Have serious cardiovascular issues
- Have uncontrollable blood pressure
- Have diabetes or glaucoma
- Have recently had Botox or aesthetic laser treatments
It’s important to remember that each case is different. If you’re concerned about any health conditions, speak to a microblading expert, your doctor, or your dermatologist.
Myth #9: Professionals cannot remove Microblading Pigment.
Truth: Trained Professionals can safely remove microblading.
If you aren’t happy with microblading results, you don’t have to wait for them to eventually fade and disappear. Trained microblading professionals can safely remove microblading pigment.
It’s imperative to consult a professional before making any attempts to remove microblading. You cannot scrub it off. It takes a trained professional to ensure your skin isn’t damaged during the removal process.
At Vibrance MedSpa, we want every experience to be amazing. Rest assured that our certified aestheticians provide professional expertise and will work with you using FDA-approved and results-oriented techniques.
Our microblading professionals are always ready to debunk fearful myths or any concerns. Consultations are complimentary. For more information about our full spa services, contact us.
