Understanding Ombre': A Graduated Colour Technique for Eyebrows

Ombre' is not a trademarked technique, but rather a way to describe the gradual colour effect that occurs when the front of the eyebrow appears lighter or softer than the rest.

There are several permanent makeup techniques that can achieve Ombre' Brows, but most permanent makeup classes only cover one method.

To serve a diverse clientele, it's important for artists to have a toolbox of various techniques at their disposal. Each client has unique preferences and skin types, and not everyone wants the same look. By possessing a range of skills, artists can successfully treat a variety of skin types, including those that are particularly challenging.

Common Techniques to achieve Ombre' Brows

The most widely used method for training in Ombre' Brows is the Whip Shading or Pendulum technique. By using a single needle, quick hand movements and a slow machine speed, technicians create a spray of dots that heal into a soft, powdery colour. The brow colour is gradually intensified through multiple passes until the desired density is achieved. For a more subtle Ombre' look, less pigment or diluted pigment can be applied to the brow's head.

This technique is best suited for clients with thick, healthy, and smooth but not necessarily suitable for clients with thinner, aging skin or an uneven skin texture. The fast needle movements can drag across the delicate skin and create excess trauma that can lead to poor healing and low retention of the pigment. The single needle can also penetrate the thin skin deeper than a larger or shader needle, and create a cooler shade of grey after healing.

Other Techniques to Achieve Ombre' Brows

A better option to achieve an Ombre' Powder Brow on more challenging skin types can be the Pointillism Technique. Pointillism involves applying individual dots to the skin surface using an up and down movement at a 90-degree angle. By using this technique, needle drag is eliminated, and the depth of each dot can be customized based on the skin's thickness and unevenness. This results in a consistent level of saturation throughout. By adjusting the number of dots applied, you can achieve the desired density for an ombre' effect. This technique is particularly effective for those seeking fuller brows with softer edges, resulting in a more natural appearance.

Ombre' Powder Brows can also be achieved using Traditional Shading. This technique is similar to shading a body tattoo with bigger shading or magnum needles. To achieve an Ombre' appearance, adjust the pigment dilution or use a lighter pigment shade in the area you want to appear lighter.

Knowing the right time and method to utilize these techniques will enable artists to create stunningly shaded Ombre' eyebrows for a wider range of clients and skin types.

Stephanie provides workshops and private training for current artists who want to learn new techniques and be able to work on all types of skin. Her customized Practicum Program is also a great option for artists wanting to learn new techniques or gain experience and practice of their current ones.