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Permanent Makeup vs. Microblading

Permanent Makeup vs. Microblading

If you've been paying attention to the beauty industry, you've probably heard the terms 'microblading' and 'permanent makeup' thrown about often. Although they are both cosmetic tattoos and seem similar, several differences set them apart. To get a better understanding of what they are, here's a quick breakdown of the two procedures:

What is Microblading?

Microblading is currently one of the most popular cosmetic procedures today and focuses specifically on enhancing your eyebrows. This relatively new technique uses a hand tool similar to an Exacto knife to scrape along the brow and inject ink in a natural-looking way. This process makes it semi-permanent, fading and quickly wearing off after six months to a year. 

Microblading is ideal for anyone tired of drawing on their eyebrows each morning. You won't worry about any of your makeup sliding off from sweat or water throughout the day, as your eyebrows will always be in place and appear full. 

Clients sing high praise of microblading, as the blade on the tool allows the permanent makeup artist to follow the eyebrow's direction and closely resemble hair. However, you're actually cutting the skin to deposit the pigment, which risks severe infection and scar tissue. You'll have to get retouched regularly, which means repeatedly cutting your skin and causing permanent scar damage. Typically most professionals in the industry suggest that microblading only be done 3-4 times over a lifetime. Also with microblading you have more risk of those beautiful crisp lines migrating and end up looking as if you only had shading. See Illustration.

What Is Permanent Makeup?

On the other hand, permanent makeup implants pigment into your skin with an electronic machine and needle similar to that of regular tattoo artists. This type of tattoo is also known as intradermal pigmentation, permanent cosmetics, and micro-pigmentation. It encompasses any part of your face. You can get makeup tattooed on your eyes, lips, and brows. 

It aims to enhance your natural features and simplify your everyday makeup routine without leaving scar damage. The machine quickly pierces, implants pigment, and exits your skin to give you a natural appearance--no cutting involved! It also lasts much longer than microblading. You typically need to retouch it after one to three years. 

Some people prefer microblading as it is only semi-permanent and fades quickly, but you can always get a light tattoo to begin with. It will eventually fade after time, as well. Regardless, it will save you an extra fifteen minutes of your day. How long do you spend every morning trying to get the perfect winged liner? 

Permanent makeup is incredibly favored in other countries around the world. It has been slow to pick up amongst Americans, presumably because of the anxiety of having something 'permanent.' However, you can choose from many different styles, colors, and shapes to give you a completely natural look.
eyebrows

Which Procedure Should You Get?

There is quite a significant risk that comes with getting microblading done. Since the procedure has been gaining rapid popularity, many inexperienced aestheticians take advantage of the hype and offer poor services. The pigments for microblading are not FDA-regulated, and a non-certified technician might make mistakes and cause a severe infection.  

It's better to find a permanent makeup artist that specializes in permanent makeup, as using a tattoo machine is much safer and provides higher quality results. There is less scarring and risk of infection, and it lasts longer. Always do your research, find a certified professional near you, and receive a consultation before undergoing any procedures!
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