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Microblading vs. Eyebrow Tattooing: Which Is Right for You?

If you’ve been looking for ways to have perfect brows, you’ve more than likely come across a microblading or eyebrow tattooing service. Microblading and eyebrow tattooing both promise beautifully shaped brows that we all desire, but finding the right treatment for you can feel somewhat like a maze. After all, they may sound the same, but they are worlds apart.

As beauty trends move towards fuller and more defined brows, it comes as no surprise that people are opting for semi-permanent treatments. However, while both procedures may seem to promise perfect brows, they are not the same. If you don’t know what the differences, benefits, or drawbacks between microblading and eyebrow tattooing could be, you could find it difficult to choose.

Whether you are after soft, feathery-shaped brows or long-lasting and defined arches, you need to know what makes these two techniques different from each other. In this blog, we will provide you with all you need to know about microblading vs eyebrow tattooing so that you can confidently choose which treatment is right for your beauty goals, skin type and lifestyle. Let’s get into it!

What is Microblading?

If you want to achieve fuller and more natural eyebrows, microblading has been a complete game changer. Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic procedure where a technician uses a handheld tool with very fine needles to tattoo hair-like strokes onto your skin. It can be easier to visualise if you think of it like an artist who comes in to draw in very fine “hairs” one by one to replicate your natural hairs.

One of the biggest differences between tattooing and microblading is that tattooing drives the pigment deep into the dermis while microblading keeps the pigment more superficial. This difference between microblading and tattooing allows for a softer finish for the brows while saving you from the look of harsh lines or blocky colours that result from tattooing. With bold strokes in mind, think of microblading as beautifully formed signposts that look as if they were always part of you.

The benefit of microblading is that the results generally last anywhere from 12 to 18 months, providing you with the same confidence, but with a difference in how long they last. The results can fade sooner depending on your skin type (those with oily skin have a tendency to fade faster), daily habits, and if you have followed recommended aftercare. If you treat your brows with love and manage your maintenance appointments (as well as possibly some touch-ups), the microbladed brows can last more than a year looking defined and beautiful, providing you with continued confidence.

What is Eyebrow Tattooing?

Eyebrow tattooing, which is often called permanent makeup, is the original treatment that enhances brows and has actually been around much longer than you realise. Eyebrow tattooing uses a special machine to implant pigment a little deeper into the skin, giving a fuller, natural, filled-in brow as opposed to a softer, feathered effect given by microblading.

Since advances in techniques and pigment have evolved, eyebrow tattooing has now come quite some way from the days of overly harsh or blue brows that were associated with it. These days, eyebrow tattoos can be defined and structured, so you can have a bold brow that does not budge for years. One of the biggest draws to eyebrow tattooing is the longevity of the results. With proper care, results can last a few years before a major refresh is needed.

Although, because the pigment sits deeper under the skin, these tattoos can fade gradually and even change colour over time without the proper maintenance, this may not be an issue for someone who likes a bold, classy brow and minimal touch-ups. This is a treatment intended to be more of a wake-up and go option, without a brow pencil, looking polished every day.

Microblading vs Eyebrow Tattooing: Key Differences

One major component when comparing microblading and eyebrow tattoos is the process. Microblading is more hands-on and uses a small blade to make tiny strokes that look like real, natural hairs in the same direction as your natural eyebrow hair growth. Eyebrow tattooing uses a machine with a needle to deposit pigment deeper in the skin, creating a more solid, filled-in, or powdered effect.

The permanent colour of microblading stays within the surface of the skin (epidermis), sitting in the superficial layer of your skin, which is why it looks feathered and natural. Eyebrow tattooing goes deeper into the skin (dermis), which is effective for longevity and definition, but can fade or change in colour if not properly maintained.

In terms of longevity, microblading generally lasts 12 to 18 months while eyebrow tattoos can last much longer (typically between 2 to 5 years), depending on skin type and aftercare. Microblading offers a very natural, lightly pigmented look that can blend with your own hair; however, eyebrow tattooing is a more solid, makeup-like semi-permanent solution and can be a better fit for those seeking a bolder, defined brow shape.

In terms of pain, microblading is often described as mild to moderate, while tattooing can be a bit more uncomfortable as it goes deeper into the skin. The healing time is different, as microblading typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to heal, while eyebrow tattoos usually only take 7 to 10 days.

In terms of price, microblading generally has a higher price point initially due to the more detail-oriented, manual method, and eyebrow tattooing tends to be less expensive to start. However, microblading has touch-ups every 12 to 18 months, whereas brow tattoos have less frequent upkeep, and work well for individuals who do not want to have to make a yearly trip to maintain their look.

Benefits of Microblading

Considering micro-blading? Here are some of the reasons it’s super popular:

Natural Finish: The hair-like strokes look very natural.

Low Maintenance: Minimal upkeep is required after the initial healing.

Customisable: Shape, colour and density can be designed specifically to your face.

Best for Normal to Dry Skin: It was done best on less oily skin types.

If you love a soft, no-makeup makeup look, microblading could be your brow BFF.

Benefits of Eyebrow Tattooing

Eyebrow tattooing has advantages such as:

Long-lasting: Good if you are looking for a more permanent option.

Suitable for oily skin: Tattooing will hold better on oily/combination skin.

Bold definition: Good for those who enjoy a strong, statement brow.

Many different styles: You will have endless options from ombré shading to full powder brows.

If you want bold, stylish brows that will not move for years, eyebrow tattooing may be for you.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing

1. Skin Type:

Oily skin may hold pigment better with tattooing.
Normal/dry skin usually results in more natural, longer-lasting results with microblading.

2. Desired Look:

Microblading for a natural and soft look.
Tattooing for a bold and defined look.

3. Pain Tolerance:

Microblading is usually less painful since the blade does not penetrate as deep.
Tattooing is typically more painful, more similar to a traditional tattoo.

4. Lifestyle:

If you have an active lifestyle, regularly swim and engage in sunbathing, then either option might fade more quickly. But if you are very active, tattooing may hold up better over time.

5. Commitment Level

Microblading involves a bit more touch up touch-up in the beginning, but will allow you a little more freedom in case you want to change your shape later.
Tattooing will last longer, but removal is even more complex if you change your mind.

What Happens During the Procedures?

Microblading

Consultation: Discuss your desired brow shape and colour.
Mapping: Brows are measured and mapped out.
Numbing: A topical anaesthetic is applied.
Microblading: Very tiny strokes are drawn into your skin.
Healing: The healing process takes about 4-6 weeks, and you will experience some scabbing.

Eyebrow Tattooing

Consultation: Decide the shape and style (solid, ombre, powder, etc.).
Mapping and Numbing: The process is the same as microblading.
Tattooing: A machine penetrates pigment deeper into the skin.
Healing: Initial healing is usually faster, but the final settling takes longer.

Aftercare Tips for Both

No matter what method you choose, the aftercare is very important!

Keep the area clean and dry for at least 7 days.

No heavy exercise or sweating for 7-10 days.

Use healing balm as instructed.

No makeup around the brow area throughout the healing process.

Avoid direct sunlight and heavy exfoliation.

Doing a good job of aftercare will provide better pigment retention and faster healing.

Common Myths About Microblading vs Eyebrow Tattooing

Both are permanent – Microblading is semi-permanent!
Tattooed brows look fake – Modern methods produce natural-looking results.
Microblading hurts too much – It is normally mild discomfort at worst.
Only women do their brows – More men are getting both procedures these days.

Pros and Cons Summary

Microblading Advantages

Ultra-natural finish
Minimal downtime
Customisable

Microblading Disadvantages

Shorter lifespan
Not suitable for oily skin

Eyebrow Tattooing Advantages

Longer lasting
Compatible with all skin types
Bold, defined look

Eyebrow Tattooing Disadvantages

Risk of colour changes over time
More difficult to remove if you change your mind

How to Choose the Right Technician

Selecting the proper professional is as vital as selecting the treatment!

Verify their portfolio: Glance through before-and-after photographs.

Read testimonials: Reviews may say a great deal about the quality.

Inquire about experience: Particularly so for microblading, which is done with the hand being in a very firm position.

Ensure certification: Confirm they are authorised and well-trained.

Don’t make a hasty decision – your brows want the best!

Final Thoughts on Microblading vs Eyebrow Tattooing

Ultimately, the choice between microblading and eyebrow tattooing depends on your personal style, lifestyle, and skin type. Both procedures can deliver stunning brows, but the best one is the one that will fit perfectly into your schedule and express your personal style.

If you’re still unsure, consult a qualified professional who can assess your skin and goals. After all, your brows frame your entire face!

Conclusion

Selecting microblading or eyebrow tattooing doesn’t have to be daunting. If you like the natural, feathered effect of microblading or the long-lasting, defined appearance of eyebrow tattooing, the best option depends on your skin type, lifestyle, and what you want to achieve with your brows.

At Skincare at Apollo, our skilled cosmetologist, Dr. Snehi K Sharma, is dedicated to assisting you in making the right choice with personalised consultations and safe, proven treatments that best bring out the natural beauty within you.