What is Microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent brow tattoo performed with a small handheld tool, using a feather stroke technique to produce the appearance of fuller eyebrows or enhance the face’s natural features. Microblading is a softer/more subtle cosmetic tattoo than some older methods. Body tattoos use ink, while cosmetic tattoo procedures involve pigments. These pigments are designed to fade over time gently. Fading is desired as it allows the artist to change color and shape over the years as the client’s natural coloration and facial changes occur.
How long is the appointment?
Three hours on average. During your appointment, we will consult with you the entire time to ensure we are on the same page. Much of the time is spent measuring and drawing on a symmetrical set of brows and agreeing on your perfect shape and color. The actual procedure itself takes an hour to an hour and a half. The touch-up appointment will take about two hours.
Is the follow up appointment included?
In order to ensure that the brows perfectly heal, two treatments are usually needed 6-10 weeks apart on average. This first touch-up is included as it gives us the ability to correct any areas that possibly faded or allows the client to make suggestions if they want adjustments with the shape or color.
How long does Microblading last?
The treatment is considered semi-permanent and will fade over time. Touch-ups are recommended every 1-2 years to maintain shape, color, and detail. How often depends on a number of factors, including:
Skin type (oily skin fade faster)
Pigment color used (lighter colors fade faster)
Sun exposure (over time can cause fading and discoloration of the pigment)
Use of daily anti-aging products. These products increase your cell turnover rate and will shorten the life of your cosmetic tattoo.
Does it hurt?
We do all that we can to ensure that the process is as comfortable as possible. Before the Microblading begins, a topical anesthetic is applied to the area to minimize discomfort, followed by a secondary anesthetic during the procedure. Some clients may feel slight discomfort, but it’s relatively pain-free for most. (PLEASE NOTE: that if you are a frequent smoker or have your appointment during your menstrual cycle, the pain level could be intensified.)
Can I exercise after getting Microblading?
You must avoid working out for 7 days following your microblading appointment. Light exercising is allowed (minimal sweating), but you must clean the tattooed area with lukewarm water as soon as you are done exercising. The salt in sweat will fade the pigment very quickly and give poor results.
Can I get tattooed if I am pregnant?
As a precaution to avoid any complications, we do not perform cosmetic tattooing on pregnant women.
What kind of results can I expect?
Immediately following your procedure, the tattooed area will appear to be darker and bolder in color and more sharply defined. This will last 3-4 days. Do not panic! It is normal.
Swelling and redness is minimal with most clients and will disappear within 24-48 hours. In some cases, it may last around the eyebrow area for up to 3 days but will not prevent working or socializing. The treated area may feel a bit like a sunburn afterward, but there should only be minimal discomfort.
The complete healing process takes about 6-8 weeks, at which time the true color of the tattoo is evident. During this process, your tattoo will soften and lighten. Be patient, even if you think too much color has been lost, as your skin is still regenerating and naturally exfoliating. Please wait at least 6 weeks to see the actual color, as it seems to take on new strength. It is only after 6 weeks that your touch-up/adjustment can be done. Keep in mind that microbladed brows healed up to 30% softer than the initial color.
Please note that final results can not be guaranteed as each unique skin type will hold pigments differently and break down at different rates. The tattooed hair strokes tend to have a more crisp look once healed on dry skin compared to more blurry strokes on oily skin. We will re-evaluate how your skin has received the pigment at your touch-up appointment and make any changes necessary. Healed results will vary with each individual client, and using a pencil or powder may still be needed. Additional sessions (charged accordingly) may be required to obtain optimal results.
What can I do to maintain my new eyebrows?
Exposure to the sun over time can cause fading and discoloration of the pigment. Once completely healed, you may apply sunscreen on the treated area. Wear large sunglasses and a hat for further protection. Rinse and dry the area thoroughly when in contact with chlorine.
Face peels and exfoliation must be kept away from the tattooed area as continued use could lighten the pigment.
If you have laser resurfacing or laser hair removal after your tattoo has healed, please inform the laser technician. Laser procedures may darken, lighten, or discolor the tattooed area.
For questions call Aloha Monkey Tattoo 952-882-8868