Brow lamination vs. other brow treatments — what’s right for you?
Whether brow lamination or microblading, various treatments promise to take your brow hairs from sparse to abundant. Each technique has its unique benefits and considerations — learn how brow lamination compares to other brow treatments and if it’s the right choice for you.
What is brow lamination?
Brow lamination is a treatment that gives your brows a polished, fuller look. The process involves applying several solutions to soften the bonds in your hairs, sculpting your brows into a desired shape and setting them into place. Think of it like a perm for your brows, but with a keratin-infused solution that straightens and sets your brows.
This treatment is ideal for those looking to tame unruly hairs or add a lifted appearance. Typically, results last from 4 to 6 weeks depending on your hair growth cycle and aftercare.
Benefits of brow lamination
Brow lamination offers several benefits, including:
Instant results: Brow lamination offers immediate transformation, giving you your desired look right after treatment (which only takes 45ish minutes).
Versatility: This technique works for various brow types, allowing you to achieve everything from a fluffy, natural appearance to a more structured, polished look.
Minimal maintenance: Laminated brows require little aftercare and upkeep, aside from conditioning and brushing them up in the morning if you’re feeling extra fancy.
Long-lasting: Brow lamination lasts for 4 to 6 weeks, which is ideal for clients with upcoming holidays or special events or those who prefer semi-regular upkeep.
Brow lamination vs. microblading
What is microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic tattooing technique that creates the illusion of fuller brows. A cosmetic tattoo artist uses a specialized tool to deposit pigment under the skin, mimicking the appearance of hair strokes. This treatment is particularly popular for those with sparse or over-plucked brows.
Technique and purpose
Brow Lamination focuses on reshaping and setting existing brow hairs for a fuller appearance. Microblading involves tattooing to fill in gaps and create the look of additional hairs.
Longevity
Brow lamination typically lasts 4 to 6 weeks. Microblading lasts up to 1 to 3 years, depending on skin type and aftercare.
Time
Brow lamination is a quicker process, usually taking about 30 to 45 minutes, whereas microblading may take closer to 3 hours. Brow lamination doesn’t have any downtime, whereas microblading has more involved aftercare (similar to a tattoo).
Does brow lamination make sense for you?
Brow lamination is ideal for those seeking a quick and non-permanent solution for brow grooming and shaping. At a significantly lower price point than microblading, brow lamination is also a more approachable treatment to start with. While brow lamination gives lift and volume for most brows, it works especially well for:
Blondes: Lamination can enhance light brow hairs for a more defined look. This is especially true when combined with a soft blonde tint.
Sparse brows: If you have thinning brow hairs, lamination can help create the illusion of fullness by setting your hairs in a lifted position.
Unruly brows: Lamination helps tame curl-prone brows or brow hairs that refuse to vibe in the same direction.
Microblading is more suitable for those looking for a long-term, semi-permanent solution. By adding pigmented hair strokes rather than working solely with your existing brow hairs, microblading allows your artist to precisely map and shape your brows according to what works best for you. Many brow lamination clients find that, after several brow lamination treatments, they’re ready to try a more permanent option.
Exploring other brow treatments
Many brow grooming methods, whether professional treatments or at-home techniques, are great on their own or can complement semi-permanent treatments.
Tinting
Brow tinting involves applying a semi-permanent dye to enhance the color of your brows. This can be an excellent treatment either on its own or to complement both lamination and microblading.
Brow shaping
With precise waxing, trimming and plucking, your brow artist can enhance your brow shape. This option is great for maintaining tidy and defined brows.
Brow gels
Brow gels provide hold and tint (clear varieties are available, too!) for day-to-day use. A few flicks add volume and definition to sparse/thin brows or direct full but unruly brows into a defined shape.
As an alternative to conventional cosmetic brow gels, soap brows can achieve a similar result. This method involves using a wet spoolie brush to apply a glycerin-based soap and brush hairs into place.
Choosing a brow treatment
When deciding on the right brow treatment for you, consider these factors:
Desired look: What’s your end goal for your brows? Are you looking to fill or define chronically sparse brows, or do you want to simply fluff up your existing brows?
Maintenance level: How often are you willing to get treatments done? Plan to visit your artist every few months or so if you want to maintain the look.
Cost: Temporary treatments have a lower cost point, making them less of a commitment but potentially a more significant expense over time. Microblading is a bigger upfront investment with more long-term results.
Frequently asked questions
How does brow lamination cost?
Studio Meraki brow laminations are $110 before tax. This service includes brow tinting and shaping.
How long does a brow lamination last?
Brow lamination lasts around 4 to 6 weeks.
Can sparse brows be laminated?
Brow lamination is a great way to add definition to sparse brows, especially when combined with tinting and/or microblading.
How should I prepare for a brow lamination?
For best results, avoid trimming or plucking brows for a month prior to brow lamination. Avoid using retinol for about a week or let your artist know if you’re actively using it since retinol-treated skin is more prone to damage.
