Eyebrow enhancement has become increasingly popular, with two of the most sought-after techniques being microblading and eyebrow tattooing. Both methods aim to create fuller, defined brows, but the procedures, results, and longevity differ.
In this guide, we will compare the two in detail, examining each aspect so you can make the best choice for your beauty needs.
Let’s get straight to the point
Microblading and eyebrow tattooing are popular methods for enhancing brows, but they differ in longevity, appearance, pain, and maintenance. Microblading is semi-permanent (lasts 8-16 months) and creates a natural, hair-like look, ideal for those who want subtle brows and are willing to do regular touch-ups.
Eyebrow tattooing is permanent, providing a bold, defined look but may change color over time and require fewer touch-ups. Choose microblading for a realistic appearance with flexibility or tattooing for a long-lasting, dramatic effect with less maintenance.
What Is Microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic procedure that uses a hand-held tool with multiple fine needles. These needles create hair-like strokes on the skin, depositing pigment into the upper dermal layer. The goal of microblading is to mimic the appearance of natural eyebrow hairs, giving a more realistic and subtle look.
How It Works
- A hand-held tool with fine blades is used.
- Pigment is deposited close to the skin surface.
- It is semi-permanent, lasting 8 to 16 months depending on skin type and lifestyle.
What Is Eyebrow Tattooing?
Eyebrow tattooing, often referred to as permanent makeup, uses a tattoo machine to inject ink deep into the skin’s layers. Unlike microblading, the strokes are less refined and result in a more filled-in, solid brow appearance. The tattoo is permanent, although touch-ups may be required to maintain colour.
How It Works
- A machine with needles deposits ink deeper into the skin.
- The result is more solid and bold compared to microblading.
- It is permanent but may require touch-ups as the ink fades or changes colour over time.
Differences Between Microblading And Eyebrow Tattoos
1. Longevity: Semi-Permanent Vs Permanent
Microblading is a semi-permanent solution. The pigment is placed in the upper dermis, causing it to gradually fade over time. Most people need a touch-up within 12 to 18 months, but this can vary depending on skin type and lifestyle.
Eyebrow tattoos, on the other hand, are permanent. The ink is deposited deeper into the skin, making the results long-lasting. However, over time, the ink may change colour, requiring touch-ups or even removal.
Summary:
- Microblading: Lasts 8 to 16 months, requires touch-ups.
- Eyebrow Tattoo: Permanent, may change colour over time and need occasional touch-ups.
2. Natural Look Vs Bold Appearance
One of the most significant differences is in the final appearance. Microblading is designed to look more natural, with individual hair-like strokes that blend with existing eyebrow hairs. The strokes are fine and mimic real hair, making it perfect for those who want a more subtle enhancement.
Eyebrow tattoos, however, give a more bold and solid look. The ink does not mimic individual hairs as effectively, resulting in brows that can appear more filled-in or drawn on. This is ideal for those seeking a more dramatic or defined look.
Summary:
- Microblading: Mimics natural hair, subtle and realistic.
- Eyebrow Tattoo: Bold, solid appearance, less natural.
3. Pain And Comfort Level
Both procedures involve breaking the skin to deposit pigment, but the depth at which this is done differs. Microblading is generally less painful because the pigment is placed in the upper layers of the skin. Numbing cream is usually applied to minimise discomfort, and most clients describe the sensation as similar to tweezing.
Eyebrow tattoos involve deeper penetration of the skin, making the procedure more painful. While numbing agents are also used, the process can be more uncomfortable due to the use of a tattoo machine.
Summary:
- Microblading: Less painful, described as similar to tweezing.
- Eyebrow Tattoo: More painful, deeper skin penetration.
4. Healing And Downtime
Healing time varies for both procedures, but microblading generally has a shorter recovery period. It involves fine cuts that scab lightly, and the area typically heals within 7 to 10 days. During this time, the brows may appear darker before fading to the final result. Aftercare includes keeping the area dry and avoiding excessive sun exposure or sweating.
Eyebrow tattoos, being more invasive, require a longer healing period. The deeper ink deposits cause more scabbing and swelling, and the healing process can take up to two to four weeks. The brows may look darker and harsher immediately after the procedure, but they soften as they heal.
Summary:
- Microblading: Heals in 7-10 days, less scabbing.
- Eyebrow Tattoo: Heals in 2-4 weeks, more swelling and scabbing.
5. Pigment Vs. Ink
The type of colouring agent used differs between the two methods. Microblading uses a specialised pigment that is designed to fade gradually and maintain a natural colour as it does so. This means that as the pigment fades, it simply lightens, rather than turning to a different colour.
In contrast, eyebrow tattoos use traditional tattoo ink, which can change colour over time. Often, as the ink fades, it may take on a bluish or greenish tint, particularly at the edges. This can result in brows that no longer match your natural hair colour or skin tone.
Summary:
- Microblading: Uses pigment that fades naturally.
- Eyebrow Tattoo: Uses ink, which can change colour over time.
6. Maintenance And Touch-ups
Because microblading is semi-permanent, touch-ups are required every 12 to 18 months to maintain the desired look. The pigment gradually fades, giving clients the flexibility to update or change their brow style with each session.
Eyebrow tattoos, being permanent, require fewer touch-ups. However, as the ink fades or changes colour, some clients opt for touch-ups or even laser removal to correct unwanted shades. The maintenance for tattooed brows is less frequent, but adjustments may still be necessary.
Summary:
- Microblading: Requires regular touch-ups every 12-18 months.
- Eyebrow Tattoo: Fewer touch-ups needed but may require correction over time.
7. Cost Comparison
The cost of both procedures can vary widely depending on the location and expertise of the technician. Microblading tends to be more expensive initially, with prices ranging from $700 to $1,500. However, due to the need for regular touch-ups, the overall cost may accumulate over time.
Eyebrow tattoos are often less expensive upfront, typically costing between $350 to $550, but since they are permanent, they don’t require frequent touch-ups, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
Summary:
- Microblading: Higher initial cost, regular touch-ups required.
- Eyebrow Tattoo: Lower initial cost, less frequent maintenance.
Which Option Should You Choose?
Choosing between microblading and eyebrow tattooing ultimately depends on your personal preferences, skin type, and budget.
Microblading Is Ideal If
- You want a natural, hair-like appearance.
- You prefer semi-permanent results that allow for changes over time.
- You are willing to maintain the look with regular touch-ups.
Eyebrow Tattooing Is Best If
- You want a bold, permanent solution.
- You don’t want to deal with frequent maintenance.
- You are okay with the possibility of colour changes over time.
Conclusion
Both microblading and eyebrow tattooing offer unique benefits depending on your aesthetic goals, lifestyle, and budget. Microblading is perfect for those seeking a more natural, subtle look that mimics real hair, with the flexibility of semi-permanent results and the opportunity to make changes over time.
On the other hand, eyebrow tattooing offers a more dramatic, bold appearance with a longer-lasting solution, though it may require occasional maintenance to manage fading or color changes. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on whether you prioritise a realistic appearance, less frequent maintenance, or a permanent, defined look.
By considering factors such as longevity, appearance, pain tolerance, healing time, and cost, you can confidently decide which technique aligns best with your beauty needs.
FAQs About Microblading And Brow Tattoo
Which Is Better Microblading Or Permanent Makeup?
Results from microblading typically don’t last as long as those produced by permanent makeup applied using a machine. A depth that is about similar to a dime is where the pigment is deposited in the dermal layer of the skin. Knowing exactly where you are placing the pigment in order to maintain those crisp hair strokes is a very vital element to take into consideration.
What Is The Best Eyebrow Procedure?
- Threading the Eyebrows: When it comes to brow maintenance, most people agree that threading is one of the safest procedures available.
- Microblading is a sort of eyebrow tattooing procedure in which very thin needles with delicate points are used to implant semi-permanent pigment into your skin using very fine and feathery strokes. Microblading is also known as hair stroke tattooing.
What Is Natural Look For Eyebrow Microblading Or Different?
A very natural looking brow can be achieved using a hand-held tool, creating many hair-like impressions by implanting pigment strokes under the skin. Microblading is meant to replace individual hairs, not to fill your brows to look like they’re filled in with pencil or shadow. Pros: Microbladed brows look very natural.
Does Microblading Ruin Your Eyebrows?
To put it simply, no. Even when it appears that your entire brow needs to be reshaped, it does not appear that semi-permanent brow procedures have any kind of lasting effect on the way your natural hair grows. Although there are some factors to take into account, we will go into more detail about these factors in the following section.
What Happens To Microblading As You Age?
The results of microblading might last anywhere from one to three years, depending on how well your skin maintains colour after the procedure. It is imperative that you opt with a treatment that is not as permanent, especially considering the fact that your face will alter as you get older. Therefore, it’s possible that the eyebrows you draw on now won’t look quite correct in another 12 years.