The Ultimate Guide To Permanent Makeup

Microblading, the most popular form of permanent makeup, is a fancy name for an eyebrow tattoo. Instead of the shockingly dark brows, you may have seen on members of the Silent Generation, the modern technique simulates individual hair strokes for a natural look. Cosmetic tattoo artists use a super-fine pen to deposit pigment directly under the skin. You may also hear names like brow feathering or micro shading. "People will claim different techniques for marketing purposes," says Bray. Other techniques still fall under the umbrella of natural-looking hair strokes, and the important part is to study examples of your artist's work and make sure you are a fan before booking an appointment.

 

Who does it work for?

If filling in your brows is a crucial part of your beauty routine, you might want to investigate microblading. To its credit, the procedure is dermatologist approved. "I think it is an ideal treatment for restoration of the eyebrows,". There is one major pro to getting your work done at a dermatologist's office: "They can be prepared for the unforeseen complications and act or react accordingly,".

 

Even if you choose to go with a cosmetic tattoo artist without a medical degree, talk to your dermatologist to make sure your skin is amenable to a tattoo. They turn away potential clients with oily skin or large pores. "Microblading only looks great when you can achieve fine details," says Bray. "People with oily skin won't heal with the crisp strokes you need to achieve a natural look."

How long does it last?

Like any tattoo, micro-blading does fade over time. Expect to return to your artist after 12 to 18 months for a touch-up. Exactly when to come back is up to you: The pigments are designed to slowly fade over time, so it is a personal preference when to come in for maintenance once the colour starts to lose concentration. "Some people fade a little bit, and they want more; others let it almost all fade out before they come back." At a maintenance appointment, the artist will add colour concentration to the existing work.

 

What are the potential risks?

Infection is a potential risk for any semi-permanent makeup tattoo (as well as just about any type of body tattoo). With all of these, they are opening the skin and blood-borne pathogens can be spread, so you want to make sure technicians are using disposable, single-use tools. Your technician should open the single-use tool in front of you. Infection can also occur if clients do not follow the proper aftercare, which means keeping the area dry and staying out of the sun for about 10 days. Your artist should also schedule a follow-up appointment after six weeks or so to ensure the skin has healed properly and that you are happy with the results. Aside from the medical risks, there is also the chance that you will be unhappy with the finished work and stuck with brows you do not love for over a year. Research your artist to ensure their work resonates with your style.

Cost

Tattooed brows will run you about $600 to $1,000, depending on the artist.