PERMANENT
MAKE-UP
In October 2019 I gained my permanent make-up qualification in Microblading and again in December 2020 for AirbrushFX brows. These are also known as Ombré brows or Powder brows.
Microblading and Ombré/Powder Brows are forms of cosmetic tattooing. Pigment is implanted into the skin in the desired way to mimic the look of either hair strokes or powder. By doing this you can enhance your eyebrows to look like you have more hair and a fuller natural shape, or to give the look of a powdered, more filled in eyebrow - as if you've filled them in with makeup.
Usually, Microblading is better suited to skin types under the age of 40, whereas ombré brows are suitable for all skin types and ages. However, those over 40 can still opt for Microblading, but the end result may not be as crisp. Individual skin quality is what determines the outcome.
What is the difference between
Microblading & Ombré/Powder Brows?
The first main difference is the way the procedure is carried out. Microblading is carried out with a handheld tool, whereas Ombré/Powder brows are achieved by using a tattoo machine.
Both are cosmetic procedures to create the look of fuller eyebrows and are perfect for those who wish to add to sparse brows, fill in any gaps and also create a more defined eyebrow shape.
During a Microblading procedure, tiny hair like incisions are made into the skin around the eyebrow area. Pigment is implanted into the incisions to create the effect of eyebrow hairs. Ombré/Powder brows give more of a shaded in eyebrow look by implanting tiny dots of pigment over the brow area. Both procedures soften as they heal.
Your initial appointment is carried out over two separate appointments 6-8 weeks apart. This allows the skin to heal and for the technician (myself) to carry out any tweaks or changes to the brows that you may wish to make after your first appointment.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does it hurt?
Most clients say it doesn't hurt and almost every client says it's much more comfortable than they imagined. I was once told that eyebrow threading is more painful than Microblading.
Do you numb the area?
Yes. I use a topical numbing cream beforehand (the same thats used when having injections) and also stop throughout to re-numb the area if needed.
Is there anything I need to do before/after?
I will send you copies of my consultation form, as well as a medical questionnaire on booking for you to read through and make sure you are fit for the procedure. It will explain everything in full detail. After the procedure I will give you a copy of my aftercare instructions to enable your eyebrows to heal as best they can.
How long does the whole procedure take?
From the moment you walk through the door, to the moment you leave it usually takes around 2.5 hours. That includes numbing the area for 30 minutes beforehand, the consultation and aftercare briefing. I book you in for a 3 hour time slot to make sure I never rush and that you are relaxed.
How long does Microblading last?
On average it lasts 12-18 months, but with regular top up appointments it can last a lifetime. The timescale of semi permanent make-up can vary person to person and other factors such as aftercare, skin type and lifestyle can make a difference.
Is it like a tattoo?
It isn't as permanent as a tattoo (hence semi permanent) as the pigment isn't implanted as deep as the ink would be for a tattoo. The pigment for microblading is implanted into the upper layers of the dermis layer of the skin, whereas a tattoo is implanted into the lower layers of the dermis layer of the skin.
Why do I need two appointments?
Two appointments are crucial as it allows me to see how your skin heals and also allows you to make changes to the shape and colour, if you wish, on the second appointment. All skin heals differently which means some implanted hair-strokes may migrate out of the skin during the first healing stage. The second appointment perfects the brows.
PERMANENT MAKEUP IS FOR THOSE WHO ARE 18 YEARS OR OVER. YOU CANNOT HAVE IT DONE IF YOU ARE PREGNANT, BREASTFEEDING, ON BLOOD THINNERS OR UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL.