Differences Between Microblading & Powder Brows

I'm often asked if I do microblade and what the differences are between the two. If you are curious too, please read on to learn more!

Appearance & Technique

Microblading aims for a natural appearance by adding strokes that mimic hair. Microblade is a process in which a hand tool with a blade is used to cut strokes into the skin. Then pigment is deposited into the cuts.

Ombre powder provides more structure and definition. They offer a powdery, "filled in with makeup" appearance, hence the name. Powder brow process uses a tattoo machine pen with an ultra thin needle to deposit ink. This process is much less traumatic to the skin than microblading.

Suitability

Microblade is ideal for normal to dry skin. This is not recommended for oily and those with big pores. If the artist does not take the skin type into account, the strokes will not heal crisply and the lines will blur or not take at all.

Powder brows is suitable for all skin types, even oily and acne prone skin.

Pain & Healing

The pain factor,  whether numbing cream is used or not, is higher with microblading as you're cutting into the skin and go deeper into the epidermis layer.

With powder brow technique, the needle deposits the ink on the top and is less traumatic to the skin.

As for healing, microblading will take longer to heal and has higher risk for infection and scarring with the cutting technique. Powder brows will heal faster and typically has better healed result.

​Longevity & Touch-Up/Color Boost

Microblade will require a more frequent touch up routine. Generally, microblade lasts nine months if you've completed one session, and anywhere between 18 to 36 months if you've completed both your initial and touch-up sessions.

I had a client who touched up her microblade work every six months before getting them covered up and corrected with powder brow. If you'd like to schedule a free consult to see if cover up is an option for you, please email me at slaybbllc@gmail.com to schedule. 

Powder brow will last up to three years without a color boost, depending on skin type, lifestyle, medication used, and skincare routine.

Brow Goals

What you're ultimately trying to achieve will determine which process you want to go with. Do you want a more natural look or a more powdery look? 

I'm often asked if powder brows will make the client look overly made up with super bold brows. I always aim for a more natural appearance and work with the client to achieve their desired shape. After brows fully heal, I'm usually asked to go darker and more structured at touch-up!
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Another thing. Let's normalize having different brow shapes and sizes again! Though stunning, not every woman wants the popular, powerful, thick, statement brows that we see all over social media. A waif and dainty brow is also nice. Ultimately, you want brows that fit your features and your face. Don't feel forced into getting a style that you are not a fan of. I want to help you achieve what makes you feel beautiful and confident. ​