Making the decision to get Microblading or having any kind of semi-permanent makeup can be a little daunting. There are several factors to take into consideration, and one of them is 'How long will it last?'.
What is your skin type?
Whether you have normal, dry, combination, or oily skin, all semi-permanent makeup will heal differently and in turn will require either multiple or yearly touch ups.
◉ Normal to dry skin is usually the perfect canvas for Microblading and all other semi-permanent makeup. If the aftercare is followed, the results are incredible and most people only need to come back for yearly touch ups.
◉ Combination to oily skin can be a little tricky. Microblading is fine hair strokes under the first layer of skin. As pigment fades, it tends to blur out a little and so loses that crisp edge of a fine hair stroke. If your skin is combination/oily, this can make the pigment look even more blurred and eventually makes the hair stroke pigment look more like a blurry line. Microblading is not recommended for this skin type but that doesn't mean you can't get semi-permanent makeup!
How do you know if you have oily skin?
There are a few ways to tell if you have oily skin.
- Skin feels shiny or greasy throughout the day
- Day-to-day makeup wears away or slides off
- Visible or enlarged pores & blackheads
What about acne?
Contrary to popular belief, having acne doesn't necessarily mean you have oily skin. Some people have acne but have a drier skin (feels tight and flaky). This is a sign of dehydration and could be a result many things including skin care products or medication. With that said, even if you have dry skin, everyone produces a tiny amount of oil at some point or another.
Microblading normal to dry skin
If your skin is on the normal to dry side, Microblading and all other semi-permanent makeup will last about a year before a touch up is required to keep it looking its best. The pigment could take 5+ years to fade completely, so it's important to find someone that you trust. Research the artists work and experience. When you're at the consultation, make sure they explain everything and answer all of your questions. You should always have a patch test and consultation.
Microblading hair strokes explained
Depending on how you heal (when it's time for your touch up) the hair strokes will never be as crisp as the first time you get Microblading done. The hair strokes will look amazing the first time you get it done and maybe even after your first few touch ups. After that, you have a couple of options. You can either opt for a combination/powder brow, or wait until the eyebrows fade completely. If you decide you'd like to wait until they fade, that could take a few years and cost more money (full price for new set of brows). I can tell you from my experience, most people decide to have the combination/powder brow.
Ombré powder brow
Some people might think that a powder eyebrow looks out dated. Technology has changed so much and there are so many new techniques these days. Ombre powder eyebrows are modern and can look really natural. The shading at the front is much lighter and gradually gets darker as it gets to the end of the tail.
Summary
◉ Microblading can last up to a year or more before a touch up is required (normal to dry skin)
◉ Hair strokes will fade or blur over time
◉ Microblading is not recommended for an oily skin and will not last
◉ Ombre powder brow is recommended for an oily skin and will require frequent touch ups (6-8 months, results vary)
◉ Pigment will take 1-5+ years to fade completely (depending on your skin type and how you heal)
There are so many options with semi-permanent makeup. It's not just a one size or shape fits all. If you decide to get Microblading or any permanent makeup done, it will save you so much time and can look so natural. If you'd like to see some examples of my work, click here. I am located in Chelmsford in-between Tiles & Stone and Mace Playce (which is a soft play centre for children!). There's plenty of free parking!