What is microblading and does it hurt?

BY PHOEBE MCRAE

Eyebrows are having a serious moment. From Kendall Jenner to Lily Collins and from Rihanna to Meghan Markle, everyone wants a natural-looking brow that flatters their face. It's hard, though, to know what route to go down to achieve this look. Tweezing, waxing, threading, and microfeathering are all popular options; however, more recently microblading has been on the rise. If you, like us, are considering undergoing the procedure, you probably want to know exactly what it is and, more importantly, whether or not it's painful.

Microblading is a semi-permanent eyebrow tattoo, giving you fuller looking eyebrows. Speaking to Good Housekeeping, Karen Betts, permanent make-up artist and microblading expert, explained, "Microblading is a long-lasting eyebrow tattooing treatment in which you create tiny precision hair strokes by hand, using tiny microblades. The microblades create channels that allow you to implant specialist pigment into the dermal layer of the skin to create the very finest of 'hair' strokes." You'll work with a technician to achieve the correct eyebrow shape and color for your face in your initial consultation.

Microblading can last up to 24 months

According to brow expert, Cynthia Chua, the effects can last up to 24 months, provided you care for them correctly. You'll need a touch up after six to eight weeks to make sure everything is as it should be and to give technicians a chance to make minor changes if needed, she explained to Marie Claire. After that, though, your brows should be good for a couple of years until the pigment gradually fades away, when you'll then decide if you want to undergo the treatment again.

In terms of how much it hurts, it really depends on your pain threshold. Hibba Kapil, founder of Hibba Beauty Studio and microblading expert, told Bustle, "It's not painful but it's uncomfortable. Most places, including Hibba Beauty Studio, will numb the area beforehand to prevent discomfort. If you don't numb you can feel the scratches. I find that for most people its the screeching noise that is the biggest problem." Ensure you talk to your technician before undergoing the procedure if you're worried about pain.

Like many beauty treatments, when it comes to choosing your salon, we strongly recommend doing your research. Look them up on social media to get a good idea of their work and reach out if you any questions or doubts. Unfortunately, once applied, the wrong eyebrow shape is hard to fix.

SOURCE: THELIST