Eyebrows frame the face and are one of the most important features of a person. But what if you simply weren’t blessed with Cara Delevingne’s bushy brows? Well, there are options for us eyebrow impaired folks, in this article we’ll discuss the different options when it comes to your brows, specifically focusing on Microblading versus Ombré/Powder brows.
What is Eyebrow Microblading?
The Microblading process is a semi-permanent eyebrow tattooing technique using a small handheld tool, tiny needles are used to deposit pigment to the skin, creating 3D hair like strokes. This technique is best for those who have a decent amount of existing eyebrow hair, have dry skin, and want to enhance their natural eyebrows.
What are Ombré/powder brows?
Powder Brows sometimes referred to or called "Ombre Brows." is a new semi-permanent eyebrow styling technique that uses a machine to place very small pixilated dots of pigment to the skin with no harsh lines. Thus, giving the appearance of a powder brow- hence the name. It is important to note it does not look “blocky” or heavy when done correctly. This technique is buildable from light to dark and is great for all skin types.
What are 3D Combo Brows?
3D Combo Brows is a combination of both Powder brows and 3D hair-like strokes. The shading between the Microblading strokes mimics the density that naturally full brows would provide. Sometimes only adding Microblading strokes will not give a natural result if there isn’t a decent amount of natural hairs to support the strokes. During this situation adding shading blends the natural brow hair with the strokes to make more of a complete look. This is my favorite technique of the three.
Which PMU procedure is right for you?
Powder/Ombre brows is the better choice for the following clients:
- Those with extremely sensitive skin
- Those with oily skin or enlarged pores
- Those with thick skin or thin skin
- Those with extremely blonde and fine eyebrow hairs
- Those with mature skin
- Those wanting to cover old PMU
Microblading is the better choice for the following clients:
- Those with normal to dry skin or small pores
- Those who don't regularly fill in their brows
- Those wanting a subtle shape enhancement
- Those with naturally sparse eyebrows
What should I expect at my appointment?
Both services are relatively similar, they both take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours and both use an anesthetic numbing cream on the eyebrows to prevent any discomfort. Powder/Ombre brows are less painful than Microblading due to the airbrush technique, which causes less trauma to the skin. Some people report feeling like their skin is being scratched over and over again, and others report no feeling at all, it mostly depends on your pain tolerance.
What to do, or not do, before your appointment
The big things you need to avoid before you have your appointment are anything that thins your blood. This includes alcohol, Advil, and caffeine- I know, everything you love in this life! You should avoid tanning and before your appointment as well as waxing or plucking your eyebrows. If you use a retinol cream on your face (and if you’re over 25 you really should be using retinol) you have to stop about a month before your appointment.
Aftercare
For ten days after your appointment, you will want to avoid:
- heavy sweating/exercise
- treatments involving touching the brows
- swimming pools, steam rooms, saunas, and the ocean
- using makeup on the eyebrows (Blush, lipstick, and eye makeup can be used)
- Sunbathing and tanning beds
Who is NOT an eligible candidate for semi-permanent make-up?
Clients with the following are not eligible for permanent make-up:
- Under 18 years of age
- Pregnant and/or nursing
- Type 1 diabetes (Type 2 diabetes must be cleared by your doctor)
- Had Botox in the past 2 months
- History of Keloids or hypertrophic scarring
- Viral / transmitted diseases
- Autoimmune disease
- Visible broken capillaries
- On blood thinner
- Seizer, heart conditions, Pacemaker & undergo Surgery
If you’re not sure if you're a candidate for semi-permanent make-up, schedule a free consultation or call Jackelyn Marie to ask about your specific qualifications. Whoever can get it, should, as it saves so much time getting ready in the morning and leaves your face looking more refined and beautiful. Either way finding a skilled artist is imperative when semi-permanently tattooing your brows. Jackelyn Marie is a certified Microblading artist who specializes in both Ombré and Microblading techniques. She has strong attention to detail and years of experience creating natural-looking brows for her clients. Her high-quality artistry and satisfied client list make her the right person to make all your eyebrow dreams comes true.