Choosing a brow tattoo technique
8 points to consider when booking semi-permanent brows
Above all else, it’s important to know that the outcome of your tattoo largely comes down to your skin. It can’t be stressed enough how important it is to be realistic about what’s best for your skin type. The truth is that some individuals have ideal skin to work with, and others present a challenge. Choosing the right technique greatly increases your chances of having a beautifully-healed result.
Microblading is best suited to normal or dry skin that isn’t too thin, delicate or sensitive. It’s loved by many because it creates a high level of realism and retains a degree of negative space. If it works for your skin, it can be stunning.
Keep in mind that what looks good right away does not always translate to what looks good healed, or even as the years pass. Fresh microblading can look fantastic in an after photo, but if it’s on the wrong skin type or incorrect pressure is used, it can heal patchy, blotchy or too dark.
Excessively oily skin types or delicate skin (this often refers to mature or very fair and freckled) usually aren’t ideal candidates for microblading. Mature/delicate skin is prone to splitting, whereas oily skin can blur hair strokes rapidly. A combo brow with microblading only in the fronts and shading in the tails can be a great option for some individuals in this category. The head of the brows is often stronger and can support hair strokes as it has more fat sitting behind it.
Hair strokes will always blur over time. This happens to varying degrees, but it is inevitable. If you’re keen to try hair strokes and it’s appropriate for your skin, keep in mind that as they blur and soften — they’ll almost appear like a shaded background when you perform annual touch ups.
Combo is a good option for brows that have a distinct delineation between full and sparse areas. The pairing of strategically-placed hair strokes and shading helps to ease the transition.
Microbladed hair strokes often last longer and turn ashier over time. They generally sit ever so slightly deeper in the skin than powder. While the difference in depth is barely detectable, it makes a difference over time.
Powder brows are often the best option for delicate or sensitive skin and are least likely to cause trauma and blotchiness and will fade out the softest and most consistently over time. While they lack some of the negative space of hair strokes, they can still look quite natural. If edges are kept hazy, they won’t appear drawn on or intimidating. Instead they’ll look like a soft, subtle structure.
