What is Microblading?
Microblading is a procedure categorized under permanent makeup, but unlike traditional cosmetic tattooing, it is less invasive and is considered semi-permanent. Microblading typically lasts 1-3 years, depending on skin type and lifestyle. The procedure is done by using a hand tool with ultra fine needles and each 'hair' is gently etched into the skin, giving an incredibly natural and realistic look. Microblading can dramatically correct or fully reconstruct lost eyebrow and is excellent for those wanting to enhance their brows or who have little to no eyebrows, thinning brows from age or over tweezed brows. Pigments used are chosen to match the natural or desired brow color and skin tone will also be taken into consideration.
How long does it take to heal?
No down time is required after microblading procedure. It takes approximately 10-14 days for the brows to heal over, and about 1 month for the color to fully set in.
After your appointment, your brows will appear darker than desired for the first few days, however the color will fade about 20-30% as it heals. You may experience some scabbing or flaking accompanied by an itchy feeling. It is important not pick at the scabs as this may damage the skin and the outcome of the microbladed area. After that, you may experience something called "milk skin", a term used to describe an opaque, milky appearance to the pigment causing the brows to look very light in color. This is due to your body's natural response to heal itself from the cuts made into the skin during the microblading process. Those layers of epidermis will exfoliate over the next few weeks, and the desired color will return once fully healed.
Is the touch up session necessary?
Yes! A touch up session after 4-6 weeks is necessary as everyone heals differently and outcome will vary. Certain areas may not pick up during first session and will need to be refilled. Pigment color may need to be adjusted, brow thickness and more strokes can be added. Individuals with oily skin often require a deeper shade during the touch up session as the oils tend to lighten the pigment. Most importantly, your touch up session is when we refine your brows to ensure it looks perfect and retains the color for the whole year!
Can I get my touch up session sooner than 4 weeks?
Touch up sessions should not be done earlier than 4 weeks after initial microblading session as pigment color has not fully settled into the skin. Most importantly, this is to prevent scar damage as the tissue requires time to completely heal.
Is it painful?
Prior to the procedure a topical anesthetic will be applied to numb the area, and also reapplied during the procedure if necessary. Everyone responds differently to anesthetic, however the pain level for the procedure is considered mild to none. Topical anesthetics used may contain lidocaine, prilocaine, benzocaine, tetracaine and epinephrine.
After the procedure, redness and slight swelling in the area is normal. Clients describe the area feeling similar to a light sunburn. Clients can take Tylenol but not aspirin or ibuprofen.
How long does it last?
Microblading typically lasts about 1-3 years, depending on skin type, age and lifestyle. Clients who have oily skin, or excessively sweat will typically fade faster. Each individual's color retention within the skin will vary. To maintain the brows looking fresh, a touch up is suggested every 8-18 months. Clients can let the microbladed area fade over time, but please note a slight shadow may remain.
What are the pre and post care procedures?
In order to achieve the best results, it is best to follow the pre and post care instructions.
Prior to your procedure, clients are advised of the following:
Avoid alcohol and aspirin/ibuprofen and any vitamins that may thin your blood for 48-72 hours. Tylenol is ok
No chemical peels, Botox, or fillers at least two weeks prior to the procedure.
No excessive tanning or sunburn
No Retin-A or retinols on the brow area for 7 days prior
Feel free to come in with their brow makeup on so the artist can see the every day look you prefer. Reference pictures of shapes and colors of brows are always welcomed.
After your procedure, clients MUST follow these instructions:
Try to keep the treated area as dry as possible for 14 days or until the scabs fall off. When showering, make sure to avoid face area. When cleaning or washing face, make sure to avoid brows and clean around it.
No excessive sweating such as intense cardio, hot yoga, etc.
Make sure to apply a light layer of the provided healing balm morning and night to brows for a minimum of 3 days. Do not over apply healing balm
Do not apply other occlusive products to the brow area such as Neosporin, Vaseline, or Aquaphor
Do not put makeup on the brow area for a minimum of 14 days or until the scabs have flaked off.
The brow area may feel slightly itchy as it heals and will start to lightly scab over. Do not peel or pick at the scabs as this can affect the outcome and pigmentation.
Do not go swimming, tanning, or into saunas for at least 14 days.
No face scrubs or chemical peels at least 2 weeks after.
Is anyone not suitable for the procedure?
Microblading is not suitable for the following candidates:
Anyone using Accutane. Accutane usage must be stopped for at least 1 full year prior to microblading.
Have heart conditions or using heart medications
Have diabetes (will require a physician's note)
Have skin disease or irritations on the face
Allergic to lidocaine, prilocaine, benzocaine, tetracaine or epinephrine
Anyone who has any serious medical conditions may require a physician's note.
Pregnant women
Nursing clients who want to microblade can be done at your own discretion. We suggest discussing with your doctor first.
* We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone who we deem not suitable for this procedure or for any other reason.
Risks and complications?
We take all proper precautions for a safe session by using sterilized equipment and new needles in a sanitized environment. Should clients follow our pre and post care instructions, there should be minimal risks or complications. Although allergic reactions to the pigments are rare, it could be possible for certain individuals. We suggest a pigment patch test for individuals who have high skin sensitivities or are sensitive to:
Topical makeup products
Gold, silver and nickel
Hair dyes
Patch tests should be performed 5-7 days prior.
What if I don't like it?
As with all cosmetic procedures, individuals should not make their choices lightly. Every effort will be made to achieve an even appearance, but please realize our faces are never perfectly symmetrical. Brows are sisters, not twins! Uneven appearance can be fixed during the touch up session. Pigment discoloration and color correction can also be fixed during the the touch up session. Microbladed brows will eventually fade away if no additional touch ups are done.
Still have more questions?
Should you still have more questions or inquiries, feel free to give us a shout at
(847) 830-6075 or email us at info@anastasiamakeupchicago.com