Have you heard of microblading?

It’s the semi-permanent solution to creating fuller, even eyebrows. And lots of women love it because:

• They don’t have to pencil in their brows every morning anymore,
• The strokes look more like individual brow hairs,
• ... and the results can last for years.

So what is the procedure really like?

Well, microblading is a form of cosmetic tattooing. So it does involve using a small blade to put lines of semi-permanent pigment under the skin.

Naturally, many women want to know how painful it is.

The answer is that microblading is usually a lot less painful than a traditional tattoo. That’s because of a few reasons...

One, you get numbing cream prior to the procedure.

Two, the strokes aren’t as deep with microblading as they are with a tattoo.

And three, the blade is ultra-fine, to create those hair-like lines. Lots of women describe feeling a “scratching sensation” on their brows during a microblading session.

Afterward, your brows might be red and tender, but they should heal in 10-14 days. During that time, follow the aftercare instructions you’re given by your microblading provider. Instructions usually include applying coconut oil twice per day, avoiding the use of harsh skin products, avoiding direct sunlight on your brows, and avoiding sweating or wetting the brow area for a week.

After that, you should have natural-looking brows, without makeup. Lots of women report feeling more confident in their appearance, as well as enjoying a shorter morning routine.

However, before you give microblading a try, it’s important to make sure it’s right for your skin type...

The best skin types for microblading

Microblading works best for people with normal or dry skin. That’s because the ink strokes will look more like individual brow hairs. People with oily skin can try microblading, too, but the strokes might have a slightly more diffused effect, due to the oil in their skin. The strokes may also fade sooner.

Another consideration is how thick or thin your skin is. The thinner your skin (and mature skin tends to be thinner), the more gentle the approach you need with microblading. So anyone with thinner skin should make sure their brow tech has experience with microblading on thin and/or mature skin.

Finally, there are some people who should avoid microblading altogether. That includes anyone with skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis. These skin conditions affect the texture and condition of the skin, making it too risky to try microblading.

Another reason to avoid microblading is if you’ve had chemotherapy recently. Wait until it’s been at least six months and check with your doctor before booking a microblading service.

So ... if you decide to give microblading a try, how long can you expect for the results to last?

How long it lasts

Usually microblading lasts for one to three years, though most women report it lasting two years.

And that’s a good thing, because it allows you to make adjustments to your eyebrows as your face changes over time (or as your brow preferences change).

Fortunately, when microblading does start to fade, the lines just soften and lighten over time. So you slowly go back to your natural brows.

There are also some steps you can take to make your new brows last longer, though, like applying SPF daily, avoiding harsh exfoliants, and foregoing chemical or laser treatments in the brow area.

Now, if you’re considering microblading, I do want to warn you about one thing...

Make sure you properly research your microblading provider before booking your appointment. This is critical to making your service safe and getting the results you want.

Look for a provider from the American Academy of Micropigmentation or the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals. Be sure to ask to see before/after photos from their portfolio, so you can make sure you like their work.

And if you decide to give it a try, I’d love to hear how it goes for you!