Is Eyebrow Microblading Safe?

Considering the eyebrows are such a prominent feature, when they look stunning, they can really change your face. Of course, giving them TLC is totally worth it but when you’re filling them out with a pencil, gel, or powder every morning, it’s time-consuming. Not to mention, those Sephora runs aren’t cheap! Thankfully, at Premiere Surgical Arts, we have a semi-permanent, natural-looking solution to thin or sparse brows: eyebrow microblading! Our Houston microblading eyebrows procedure has become extremely popular and it’s because the results are beyond anything you can achieve with a DIY approach or permanent makeup. But is eyebrow microblading safe? It is when you go to a professional like our experienced, eyebrow artist extraordinaire Anna. Today, we’re breaking down the eyebrow microblading process, the benefits, and how we make it safe, so you can avoid microblading regret.

What is Microblading Eyebrows?

Microblading, sometimes called 3D brows, micro pigmentation, or eyebrow embroidery, is a type of tattoo procedure but it differs from permanent makeup. Instead of using a tattoo gun, a microblading technician implants pigment, which has an iron-oxide base, just under the skin with a handheld tool. The tool has a fine blade with micro-needles on it and strokes are made one by one. Because of the type of pigment used, the technique, and the depth, the strokes actually mimic the look of real hairs. While permanent makeup tends to turn an unnatural color as it fades and can make brows look like they were drawn on with a Sharpie, micro-bladed brows have dimension and fade softly and naturally over time.

The Benefits of Eyebrows Microblading Include:

•      Can define, fill in, cover gaps or fully reconstruct eyebrows
•      Semi-permanent results that can last a year or longer
•      Looks 100% natural and fades gradually
•      No downtime and we make the process comfortable
•      Say goodbye to daily upkeep and save time and money on your brow routine

The Microblading Eyebrow Process

Our Houston microblading procedure takes about 90 minutes. That’s because the microblading process is completely customized and requires serious attention to detail. Here’s what goes down:

1. Anna examines your brows and asks you about your goals and preferences for their color and shape.
2. She draws the shape of your new eyebrows using a pencil and ruler for maximum precision and then does color swatching. Your eyebrows are custom designed to look beautiful based on your facial features and brow bone. Anna makes adjustments until you’re completely happy with how your brows will look. You can see her microblading prep process in action here.
3. We slather on medical-grade numbing cream to dull the sensation. We’re often asked to compare microblading pain vs. tattoo pain. We have to say, with the numbing agent and the depth that the tool penetrates the skin, microblading is a lot less painful than a traditional tattoo. Most patients say it feels as if they’re being lightly scratched.
4. When you’re good and numb, Anna dips her microblade into the pigment and makes each stroke individually to deposit the pigment under the skin.
5. That’s it! The results are immediate though the lines might look kind of sharp and more intense at first. This softens as the pigment settles in and the skin naturally exfoliates. Your true color will emerge after a few days.
6. Now, it’s time for the healing process. How long does it take microblading to heal? It depends on your age, skin type and lifestyle but, in general, healing takes four to six weeks. During this time, patches and faded spots can appear. This is normal and it’s why we do a complimentary touchup four to eight weeks after your initial appointment. Microblading lasts between eight and 18 months. We recommend coming in for another touchup about a year after your session to keep your brows looking crisp.

Microblading Safety

Microblading is safe and when you hear about a microblading disaster, it’s typically because the procedure wasn’t performed by an experienced professional. You should always ask about a technician’s training and experience to ensure they have the skill to do it safely and that they’re following the state’s microblading regulations. It also doesn’t hurt to check out their microblading eyebrows before and after pictures. (You can see Anna’s eyebrow makeovers on Instagram.)

With the proper technique and sterilization, there won’t be scarring and the outcome will be fantastic as long as you’re a good candidate. If you are prone to keloid scarring or you have extremely thin skin, it might not be the right treatment for you. It’s also not recommended for people who are pregnant or diabetic. While an allergic reaction to microblading is rare, if you’ve had a reaction to a tattoo or hair dye in the past, let the technician know. Now, does microblading damage hair follicles? No. The microblading tool doesn’t go deep enough to affect your hair growth. Your eyebrow hairs will continue to do their thing (while looking amazing, of course).

At Premiere Surgical Arts, we always discuss your medical history and assess your skin before performing a treatment so that we know you’re a candidate. We also exceed industry standards when it comes to sterilization and training, so you can rest assured your brows will be in good hands. However, safe and effective eyebrow microblading also requires some pre- and post-care on your end. Before you make a decision, it’s important to see microblading eyebrows before and after photos so you can get an idea of what to expect. Here’s how to avoid microblading regret and make the most out of your session:

Before And After Eyebrow Microblading Instructions:

Before Eyebrow Microblading:

• Avoid taking blood-thinning medication, including Aspirin or vitamins like fish oil, for three to five days.
• Wait at least six months after taking anything with Accutane before eyebrow microblading.
• Refrain from using Taxanac or Retin-A for at least two to three weeks.
• Avoid taking antibiotics for at least a week.
• Don’t get Botox or fillers in the brow or forehead area for two to three weeks.
• Stay away from alcohol for 24-48 hours.
• Let your technician know if you’ve had LASIK or glaucoma procedures.
• Arrive at your appointment with a clean face.

After Eyebrow Microblading:

• Don’t touch your skin since the bacteria on your hands and fingers can cause infection. The skin might be flaky, itchy or dry around the treated area but avoid rubbing, picking or scratching it as this can cause unwanted gaps.
• Don’t get your eyebrows wet for seven days after your appointment. Wash your face super carefully without getting water on the treated area. If your brows happen to pick up some dust or dirt while you’re out and about, you can gently wipe the area down with an alcohol wipe.
• Use a clean cotton swab (remember, no fingers!) to carefully apply a thin layer of ointment to your brows once or twice a day to keep them moist. Do this for the first seven days after the procedure.
• For 10 days post-treatment, avoid excessive sweating or makeup in the brow area and stay out of direct sunlight and tanning beds. When going outside, wear a cap to protect your new eyebrows from the sun.

Now that you know all of the details of the microblading process, are you ready to ditch your daily brow routine for gorgeous, semi-permanent results? We’ve got you covered. Book a consultation for Houston microblading at Premiere Surgical Arts. We’ll give you customized, natural-looking eyebrows that make your features pop.