Microblading (aka eyebrow embroidery, microstroking, and Japanese makeup method) is a semi-permanent tattoo that lasts 2-3 years. Unlike traditional tattoos that often turn blue-green, it fades to a natural shade.
Cosmopolitan beauty editor Beth Gillette spoke to a cosmetic tattoo specialist, brow artist, and dermatologist to learn more about the technique—including how painful it is, how much it costs, and what happens after you get it done.
Optimize Your Tools
Best microblading Long Island NY requires special tools to ensure the best results. Investing in quality equipment and supplies can help you set your business up for success while satisfying your clients.
Choosing the correct needle size and configuration can significantly affect your results. When making this decision, you will want to consider skin type, desired hair stroke thickness, and client preferences.
You will also need plenty of gloves, preferably latex-free, for your clients’ comfort. Disinfecting wipes is another essential item, especially if your client has a latex allergy.
Lastly, you will need pigment cups and rings. These are essential tools for microblading because they help you mix custom colors, allowing you to cater your services to each client’s unique needs. Opt for disposable or sterilizable cups to avoid contamination and save time between procedures. You will also need a universal holder, the primary tool to hold the microblade.
Optimize Your Technique
After graduating from microblading training and obtaining your certification, you must fine-tune your technique for the best results. The more you practice, the better you’ll get at shaping and coloring your brows. Some tricks and shortcuts can help you take your skills to the next level.
For example, some microshaders prefer to do the first pass with a dry needle before applying numbing cream. This allows them to work more quickly and gives them a stronger numbing sensation. However, you should only use this trick if your client is comfortable. Otherwise, you might accidentally scratch the skin and leave scars that can’t be corrected.
Other technicians like to start with the dominant side of the eyebrow (left for right-handed people). This helps them avoid making mistakes and makes the entire procedure more comfortable for clients. They may also use a topical ointment to keep the area hydrated and protected after the treatment.
Optimize Your Technique for Your Skin
Your skin type significantly determines whether microblading will look good on you. For example, if you have oily skin, the pigment could fade quicker, and you may need touch-ups more frequently than someone with dry skin.
An excellent microblading artist will take the time to chat with you before your appointment about color options, brow shape, and inspo images. They will also go over the procedure, which involves applying a topical numbing cream to your eyebrows and then drawing on your new brow shape with a pencil.
Your results will vary from person to person, but you can expect your brows to last up to one year or more before needing a touch-up. Some clients opt for touch-ups annually, while others choose to have the entire procedure redone when the pigment begins to fade. The proper technique will depend on your preferences and the amount of natural brow hair you have.
Optimize Your Technique for Your Clients
Just because you have mastered the microblading patterns and are very good at what you do doesn’t mean clients will automatically knock on your door. Building a solid client base and getting referrals from happy clients is essential.
One way to do this is by consistently posting attention-grabbing photos on social media. These can be before-and-after shots, images from Pinterest or beauty bloggers, and even stock photos if they have something unique about them. Learn how to edit so your eyebrow or makeup-related images stand out and catch women’s attention.
Another way to get referrals is by being very attentive to your client’s needs and desires. Take notes during their initial consultation and ask questions to understand their wants. This will help you give them the desired results and make them happy with their choice to go with you as their default artist. It will also help you understand if they are a good candidate for the treatment.
