With so many brow techniques available for permanent makeup eyebrows, including microblading techniques & permanent powder brows, how do you know which is the right one for you?
Luckily, our clients are not required to have prior knowledge, but I do encourage them to learn about their options and why certain techniques may be more appropriate than others. In this blog post, I will provide an overview of the most popular techniques and the factors we take into consideration when selecting a brow technique for you.
Powder Brows are created using a tattooing machine to create a soft, powdered effect on the eyebrows that gives the appearance of fuller, thicker and shaped eyebrows whilst still remaining soft & subtle.
Pros: Typically offers a softer, more natural look that can be easily adjusted to your preferences. A great option for those wanting subtle, fuller looking brows without appearing over-done.
Cons: Will fade out over time and requires 1-2 yearly maintenance
Find Out More - Blog: What are Powder Brows?
Microblading or Machine Nano Brows offer a realistic hair-like appearance either using a manual tool (microblading) or a machine with a small needle (nano brow).
Pros: Can give a real hair-like appearance and give definition to the brows. Great for "filling" in patchy brows.
Cons: Is not suitable for all skin types including; older skin, oily or compromised skin. Can heal poorly and looked grey & blurred on some skin types.
Find Out More - Blog: What's the difference between Microblading & Nano Hairstroke?
Combination Brows is a combination of both hair strokes and powder shade to give a fuller, more defined brow and a longer-lasting result.
Pros: Offers a defined shape to the brow area. Great for brows with little to no hair or customers looking for a bolder look.
Cons: Hairstrokes will fade faster than the powder shade and can leave a soft powder like affect.
When it comes to choosing the right brow technique, we do not expect you to know the answer. During your consultation we will discuss with you all the options and there are a few factors we consider.
1. What is your desired Look? Do you want a more natural or bold brow?
Each technique offers a different outcome and this helps us determine which look you are hoping to achieve for your final result.
2. What is your skin type? Is your skin sensitive, dry or oily?
Some techniques are better suited to certain skin types. Example: Microblading is not suitable for oily or mature skin as it can create a blurred and grey appearance once it is healed and the hair-like strokes will no longer look crisp. Instead on these skin types we would opt for a powder shade that will heal better without causing any trauma and discolouration after healing.
3. How old are you? Are you older with thinner skin?
Similar to skin type, your age will affect how you heal and therefor affect the final results. Older skin tends to be thinner and some techniques will create too much trauma and poor healing whilst also running the risk of applying the pigment too deep. In addition, the appearance of colour changes when hairstrokes such as nano brows or microblading are applied to older skin as the light reflects differently on thin skin with age lines, creating a less than ideal result.
4. What is the current state of your brow hair? Do you have sparse or patchy hair, or are some areas completely missing?
Some techniques will look "weird" if you have a lot of hair in some places and no hair in others. Ultimately our aim is to give you the most natural looking appearance without it being obvious you have a tattoo. We will choose a technique that "blends" with your natural hair pattern and the amount of brow hair you have. This will also determine how thick the brow tattoo can be without it looking fake.
5. Do you usually apply makeup to your eyebrows? Or do you prefer to leave them untouched?
Some techniques are more bold and obvious and are not well suited to someone who has never drawn their brows in or added makeup. This helps us determine what look you will be comfortable with.
6. Have you had previous microblading or permanent makeup brows?
This will definitely affect the options you have for your brow technique. Is the old pigment faded enough to cover. Is it heavily saturated and difficult to add pigment to? Is it discoloured and need colour correcting? Some techniques are not suitable for these situations and your options may be limited. All our eyebrow appointments for new clients that have existing pmu or microblading require a thorough consultation to determine the options.
In the world of eyebrow aesthetics, it's important to have a thorough consultation to help us as your technician choose a technique that will give you the best outcome and brows you desire. While all techniques have their advantages and disadvantages, the ideal technique for you will be a very individual approach.
When choosing to have your eyebrows enhanced with permanent makeup or microblading, be sure to do your research and find a reputable artist who offers a variety of techniques to ensure you achieve your desired look. As the saying goes, "your brows are the frame to your face," so choose wisely and make them shine!
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or Read More About our Brow Techniques HERE
Navigating the Permanent Makeup industry is a tough task for both customer & artist. I hope through my permanent makeup Blogs I can assist fellow PMU artists by sharing my experiences and personal growth, whilst educating consumers with useful information about permanent makeup & microblading.
- Stephanie Wilson