Most of the time, women wonder how to make themselves look as attractive as possible. Trends change more and more often, and the fairer sex feels obliged from a social point of view to keep up with them. That is why the physiognomy of the face is extremely important for a more harmonious, attractive overall appearance. When it comes to facial physiognomy, eyebrows are extremely important because they can give expressiveness and inspire a variety of emotions.
One of the most common facial beautification techniques is microblading. This technique transforms a pair of ordinary brows into a fabulous, flawless appearance. Women love it because they get rid of the worry of contouring their eyebrows every morning or before leaving the house.
What is microblading?
Microblading is, in itself, a semi-permanent eyebrow tattoo. It is done with the help of a small hand-held tool, using a line drawing technique to achieve the appearance of fuller eyebrows or to highlight the natural features of the face. Microblading is a more subtle cosmetic tattoo than other methods of this nature.
Classic body tattoos use ink, while cosmetic tattoo procedures use pigments. These pigments are designed to fade slightly over time. Fading is desirable because it allows the technician to make changes to their color and shape at the same time as the natural color and facial changes of the client appear.
How long does it last?
The results of the procedure are considered to be semi-permanent. Therefore, they will fade over time. For this reason, touch-up interventions are recommended every 1-2 years. Touch-ups are necessary to maintain the shape, color, and detail of the microblading. Resistance also depends on other variables, both inherited and environmental, such as:
• Skin type and its pH (for example, microblading lasts less on skin that tends to be oilier, producing more sebum);
• The color of the pigment used (lighter colors fade much faster);
• Exposure to the sun (prolonged exposure to the sun leads to discoloration and a decrease in the intensity of the pigment used);
• Skincare routine (daily use of anti-aging products lead to the stimulation of the cell renewal rate and therefore leads to a decrease in the lifespan of the cosmetic tattoo).
Does it hurt or not?
Like any procedure that involves “trauma” to the skin, microblading can be painful for some clients. Finally, the technicians ensure that the process will be as comfortable as possible with minimal pain. Before microblading begins, a topical anesthetic is applied to the treated area to minimize discomfort, sometimes followed by the application of a liquid anesthetic during the procedure. Some clients may feel slight and subtle discomfort, but it is relatively easy to bear, depending on each patient’s pain threshold. Also, the level of discomfort felt depends on other factors: it has been observed that smokers tend to have a much lower pain threshold, as well as at certain times of the month (menstruation).
Can I do sports after the procedure?
It is usually recommended to avoid prolonged and intense physical activity for at least 7 days after the microblading intervention. It is recommended to practice low-impact physical exercises such as yoga, pilates, or stretching, as they do not excessively stress the body and do not cause sweating. However, if you sweat during these exercises, the tattooed area should be immediately cleaned with lukewarm water. Mineral salts from sweat will depigment the tattoo and the results will be of lower quality.
Products and equipment used
As the name suggests, microblading is performed using a manual (not machine) single-use tool composed of very fine needles that resemble the shape of a blade. These are called “microblade” and are used to manually draw each hair and simultaneously implant the pigment into the skin. All products used, from napkins to any other product needed during the procedure, are disposable and will be considered biological risk waste after the intervention.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
To avoid any discomfort both during and after the procedure, here’s how you should prepare for the microblading intervention:
• If you have the ideal shape and color in mind, bring some reference photos with you when you go to the beautician;
• You can even outline your eyebrows as you normally do, to give the technician a much clearer idea of the desired shape;
• If you shape, brush, smooth or dye your eyebrows regularly, it is desirable to do this at least 3 days before the appointment;
• If you have taken Accutane by prescription in the past, you must wait at least one year before considering this procedure;
• You must stop using Retinol 2 weeks before the appointment and avoid using it for at least 2 weeks after the appointment;
• Avoid chemical peels at least 4 weeks before the appointment;
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E, or any blood-thinning medication 24 hours before your appointment;
• If you intend to go on vacation, it is recommended to plan your trip at least 10 days after the procedure, due to the necessary care routine;
• If you are used to undergoing botulinum toxin injection procedures regularly, it is recommended to do this at least 2 weeks before the appointment, to ensure that the eyebrows will be as symmetrical as possible after the Botox effect;
• Avoid direct exposure to the sun and tanning salons for 2 weeks, both before and after the procedure. It is not recommended to go to the salon if you are dealing with sunburn.
That’s all you need to know about the microblading procedure, a modern technique that allows you to get the eyebrows you’ve always dreamed of. To avoid unpleasant situations that may arise, discuss with the technician all aspects related to health, as well as what you want when it comes to results.
