Differences Between Microshading vs Microblading for Stunning Brows

Photo by Наталья Кленова on Unsplash

If you find yourself frequently touching up your brows, you might want to explore a semi-permanent solution. While it's OK to set aside 10 minutes every morning to perfect your arch, microblading or microshading might save you time and provide you with the brows of your dreams for years to come. However, don't just sign up for one or the other. There are a few key differences between microshading vs microblading, and you'll want to choose the one that's right for you.

Contents

1. Technique

2. Appearance

3. Microshading vs Microblading

4. What to Expect

5. Final Thoughts

Key Points

• Microshading and microblading are both semipermanent cosmetic tattooing treatment options to give your brows a clean, full appearance 
• Your skin type, desired look, and general lifestyle will determine which treatment will work best for you 
• Both treatments have similar costs and recovery times

Technique 

Both procedures are classified as cosmetic tattooing. They cost nearly the same depending on location (prices range from $500 to $2,500, including touch-ups), and they use a semi-permanent pigment that lasts two to five years. Both procedures try to make your brows look fuller and more defined and will take a few hours from start to finish.

Microblading involves a handheld instrument with super-fine needles to mimic the look of real brow hairs, whereas microshading uses a machine with pins to make small spots and fill out your brows.

Appearance

Microblading will appear more natural, whilst microshading will appear more like cosmetics but will be smoother and more exact. It's also important to think about which parts of your brow you want to enhance or fill out using the procedure. Microshading is very useful in the arch and tail sections. It may also provide the illusion of a brow lift by concentrating and darkening specific regions of the brows.

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Microshading vs Microblading

The most important aspect when choosing microshading vs microblading will be your skin type. Overall, their results are pretty similar, however, experience shows that microblading is better for dry skin and microshading is better for oily skin. If you have oily skin, microblading may result in a more rapid color fading, requiring more regular touch-ups. Microshading may also be better for someone with more sensitive skin because the dotting technique involves less damage than creating hairlike strokes.

What to Expect

Regardless of the path you choose, the procedure will be nearly the same. Things will always begin with a consultation—and don't be afraid to speak out all your concerns and questions during your appointment. Now is the moment to ask all the questions, get out the inspiration photos, and express your vision in minute detail.

The first step is to clean the client's brows and "predraw" the form on the face for them to view and adjust. Then it is time to apply a numbing cream, wait a bit, then start tattooing. Both treatments should not be unpleasant, but you may feel some discomfort during the procedure.

• Before: Prior to your microshading or microblading session, there are a few skincare items and activities to avoid. Avoid waxing or threading before the procedure so that your technician can focus on the shape. Exfoliants, retinol, and glycolic acid should be avoided around the brow region for at least 72 hours before your treatment.
• After: Beware, the brow color you start with will not be the color you finish with. Your brows will remain a much darker color for around two weeks after treatment before starting to fade. It's also likely that when the skin heals, you'll see a pink cast. That, as well as some swelling and flaking, is quite typical. You should also continue to avoid skin thinning products, over exposure to UV, and excessive sweating until your eyebrows are fully healed

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Choosing the right cosmetic technician is crucial because, while minimal, these are still invasive treatments that require precautions to prevent the transmission of blood-borne diseases. Seek advice from friends and relatives, and do your own research by reading reviews on reputable sources.

Also, when you find a potential artist, inquire about the technician's work portfolio. Don't be afraid to ask about their qualifications and experience and check to see that they have proper licensing.

To discover a makeup professional in your region, you can go to the Society of Permanent Makeup Technicians' website.

Final Thoughts

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In the choice between the two treatments, your target outcome will make up a significant portion of your decision. Microblading creates a natural, hair-like appearance, whereas microshading, also known as powder or ombré brows, looks like makeup. Practicality is also important. Those with oily skin, large pores, aged skin, busy lives, or who are exposed to a lot of UV rays or chlorine may choose only microshading vs microblading, or a combination.

If the appearance of your eyebrows is something that causes you stress,  microshading or microblading might bring you some much wanted relief. Both treatments are generally safe and effective. They are procedures that are widely available at many locations, however, it is important that you do your research so that you get the exact results you want.

Written by Kiana St. Onge

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SOURCES:

1. https://inthemirra.com/blogs/news/microblading-eyebrows?_pos=1&_sid=f3e4e7462&_ss=r
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/all-about-eyebrow-microshading#finding-a-qualified-technician
3. https://www.spcp.org/find-a-permanent-makeup-technician/