It’s no secret that the 90s and early 2000s were not kind to the eyebrows. Thin, straight, elegant eyebrows were the top trend, and we embraced it with a pair of precision tweezers. Now, times have changed, and full, shapely eyebrows are in style, and it doesn’t look like they’re going anywhere. In today’s culture, no makeup look is complete without well-defined eyebrows. Unfortunately, for those with naturally thin eyebrows, alopecia, or hair that refuses to grow back after years of over-plucking, it’s a struggle to achieve perfectly sculpted brows.
Medical aesthetician Chelsea Grimes at The West Institute in Chevy Chase, MD, has established a cult following for her eyebrow-shaping abilities using microblading, an advanced technique that requires hours of training and hands-on experience. Continue reading to learn how microblading is performed and how long the results can last.
What Is Microblading?
Microblading is the current gold-standard technique for semi-permanent eyebrow tattooing. Using a pen-like device equipped with a disposable microblade, thin, hair-like strokes are achieved to mimic the appearance and nature of your natural eyebrows.
During this procedure, color is deposited into the skin’s surface through ultra-fine needles, leaving clean, crisp hair strokes with no diffusion under the skin. Unlike a traditional tattoo, which deposits ink deep within the dermis, microblading only penetrates the first layer of skin, which is what allows those thin, realistic hair strokes. Each set of brows is designed by Chelsea according to your unique facial measurements and hair color.
How Is Microblading Performed?
Every microblading treatment starts with eyebrow mapping, where Chelsea measures and outlines your desired eyebrow shape and fullness. After ensuring you’re satisfied with the shape, a numbing cream is applied to the area.
Once the skin is thoroughly numb, Chelsea will begin making tiny hair-like strokes with the microblading device that closely follows the natural pattern of your hair growth. Once complete, the eyebrows and skin will be cleansed of any free ink, and you’ll be free to resume your daily schedule.
Redness and slight swelling are normal after microblading but should dissipate after 24 hours. It’s essential to keep the treated area clean of any skincare or cosmetic products during the short healing process.
How Long Does Microblading Last?
Because microblading only affects the surface of the skin, its results are temporary and will fade gradually over time. Depending on certain factors, such as the patient’s skin type, hair color, and care, the effects of a single microblading session can last one to three years.
Things You Can Do to Prolong Your Microblading Results
Aftercare instructions are relatively simple but important to follow.
- Do not get your brows wet for 10 days after a microblading session. There are microblading face shields you can purchase to help protect your new brows while you shower.
- Do not pick, scratch, or peel any scabs that form over the brows during the healing process.
- Avoid excessively touching the brows except for washing and applying any aftercare treatments.
- Apply makeup, lotions, or creams only after the skin has completely healed.
- Avoid exercises or activities that produce perspiration until the skin has completely healed, as sweat can cause infection and delay healing.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure. The sun can cause the pigment in the skin to fade faster. Apply your favorite sunscreen or shield your face with a hat when outside.
Schedule Your Microblading Consultation at The West Institute in Chevy Chase, MD
Like any precision procedure, microblading results largely depend on the expertise of the practitioner. Our experienced medical aesthetician Chelsea Grimes has undergone extensive training hours to earn her certification and performs microblading sessions weekly. Her skilled approach provides precision lines that create fuller eyebrows and a shape that will flatter your entire facial structure.
To learn more about microblading and determine whether you’re a candidate for this aesthetic treatment, schedule your consultation by calling (301) 986-9378 or emailing us at Info@WestSkinLaser.com.