FAQ
What is Microblading?
Microblading, also known as Eyebrow Embroidery is a procedure categorized under permanent makeup, but unlike traditional cosmetic tattooing, it is less permanent. Microblading typically lasts 1-3 years, depending on skin type and skincare routine. The procedure is done by using a hand tool with ultra fine needles and each ‘hair’ is gently etched into the skin, giving an incredibly natural and realistic look. Microblading can dramatically correct or fully reconstruct lost eyebrow and is excellent for those wanting to enhance their brows or who have little to no eyebrows, thinning brows from age or over-tweezed brows. Pigments used are chosen to match the natural or desired brow color and skin tone will also be taken into consideration.
Am I a good candidate
for Microblading?
I’d be happy to consult with you to determine if you are a good candidate for microblading. However, I cannot perform the procedure on those that are: pregnant, breastfeeding, diabetic, taking blood thinning medication, or have an autoimmune disorder, or have recently completed chemotherapy.
You may not be a good candidate for microblading if:
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there is psoriasis/dermatitis, eczema, keratosis pilaris, chronic acne, rosacea (mild cases can be okay) on and around the brow area
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you are diabetic *Doctor's note required
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I have epilepsy
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you are prone to keloids
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you have previous microblading or permanent makeup
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you have a heart condition
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you have taken Accutane in the last year
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you are taking antibiotics
Please email or call for more information, and to discuss whether you should book a consultation before your microblading appointment.
How long does Microblading take?
For the first Microblading session, the entire procedure should take about 1.5 – 2.5 hours. During this session, the brow technician will shape and style the client’s brows for client approval. We then follow with pigment color selection. Once the client is satisfied with the choices, we begin the procedure.
The client is to come in for a follow up visit in order to have any minor necessary touch ups. The second Microblading session takes place within 8 weeks of the initial session. This session will take approximately 30 – 45 minutes to complete.
How long does it take
to heal?
The eyebrow area will be slightly red after the procedure and color will appear very dark. This is normal for the procedure and part of the healing process. The color will fade by up to 40%-60% as it heals. In the following days, the eyebrows will continue to be dark and you will notice slight scabbing. Do not pick at the scabs as this may damage the skin and the outcome of the microbladed area. The eyebrows will lighten up in color as it heals. No down time is required after microblading procedure. It takes approximately 7-14 days for the brows to heal over, and about 1 month for the color to fully set in. You’ll notice the color is very light right after the two weeks after healing; the skin will have an opaque milky looking quality to it. This is known as the milk skin and is common in tattooing. This is due to the the tissue still healing from the inside out even though the surface of the skin is healed. True color will reveal itself once healed.
Does Microblading hurt?
The pain level for the procedure is considered mild to none. Prior to the procedure your brow technician will apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area, and also reapplied during the procedure. Everyone responds differently to anesthetic; depending on the client, the feeling of the procedure has been described as light cat scratches to not feeling anything. Topical anesthetics used may contain lidocaine, prilocaine, benzocaine, tetracaine and epinephrine.
After the procedure, redness and slight swelling in the area is normal. Clients describe the area feeling similar to a light sunburn. Clients can take Tylenol but not aspirin or ibuprofen.
How long does it last?
Since microblading pigments are not implanted into the skin as deep as traditional tattoos, the area will naturally fade overtime. Microblading typically lasts 1-3 years, depending on skin type (normal, oily, dry), age (youthful/mature). Skincare routine will also affect the lasting effect of the pigment: patients who tan, uses products with AHA or Glycolic Acid with fade faster as your skin will resurface faster. Each individual’s color retention within the skin will vary. To maintain the brows looking fresh, a touch up is suggested every 12-18 months. Clients can let the microbladed area fade over time, but please note a slight shadow may remain.
What are the PRE CARE INSTRUCTIONS?
7 Days Before Your Appointment:
Discontinue the following (until after your appointment):
-facial acids: retinols, retinoids, glycolic, AHA's, any exfoliating acids
-multivitamins, vitamins c & e, turmeric, ginger, fish oils (you may continue with iron supplements)
-antibiotics (please contact us immediately if currently on antibiotics, 14 day window required between last dose and your appointment in many cases)
-tanning beds
Day Of Your Appointment:
Discontinue the following (until after your appointment):
- No working out the day of your appointment
-CAFFEINE (coffee, DECAF, caffeinated teas, Coke, Diet Coke, chocolate)
-Please lightly and gently exfoliate your brows the morning of your appointment
A Doctors note is required for the following:
-Anyone with an existing cancer diagnosis
-Diabetes (types 1 & 2)
We CANNOT work on you if you are pregnant, have a heart condition, or have seizures, as our website states.
These instructions are ESSENTIAL to follow. They are intended to avoid thinning of the blood, which causes bleeding. In turn this causes pigment to be pushed out of the skin leaving you with imperfect, unideal results. We want you to leave with the best brows possible!
Do I need a consultation?
In most cases, no. Consultation is part of your regular microblading appointment. However, if you have had previous microblading or permanent makeup, skin issues, scar tissues, or medical issues requiring discussion, a separate consultation may be needed. Please contact me directly with any questions.
What is the difference between microblading and shading?
Manual shading is a different technique of depositing pigment into the skin by a hand tool and a needle. It gives an illusion of a “fuller”, more “powdered “ or “coloured in” brow, and helps blend areas with very little hair to areas that have thick dense hair.
How do I know if I need shading or not?
We can decide on it together and add the service the day of your appointment.