Microblading – A Guide to Unleashing Your Inner Artist
Microblading has become one of the biggest beauty trends lately. It’s a semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo that helps reshape and define the eyebrows and looks natural.
But it’s not a procedure that should be taken lightly. It’s essential to do your research and find a qualified artist.
Take Risks
In the world of art, it’s sometimes said that it’s not the tools you have but how you use them. When it comes to microblading, that’s doubly true. It’s semi-permanent makeup, and your mistakes on a client’s skin will continue for years.
During your training, you’ll need to practice all aspects of the procedure on props – especially mapping and stroke patterns. This will help you master them without leaving your clients with a botched pair of brows they’ll be dissatisfied with.
It’s also essential to practice with different blades to determine which suits your style and is most comfortable for you. Just be sure always to clean up your practice area afterward so there are no build-ups of ink on your skin that can cause infection later.
Lastly, it’s important to practice different spines, too. You’ll often need to follow a client’s natural brow growth pattern, so it’s best to be well-versed in how to do that beforehand.
Be Kind to Yourself
Like any skill, microblading Long Island NY takes a while to master. It’s important to be kind to yourself and practice as much as possible, even if your stroke patterns could be better. It’s also important to remember that every person’s skin is different and requires a slightly different approach.
At a typical microblading appointment, your esthetician will first consult you to discuss the shape and pigment shade of your desired brows (be sure to bring inspo images!). They will then apply a topical numbing cream and allow it to set for about 30 minutes before beginning the process.
During the procedure, your esthetician will use a sterilized single-use “blade” with tiny needles three times smaller than tattoo needles. The blade creates tiny incisions that deposit pigment into the outer layer of your skin, creating a soft and subtle semi-permanent tattoo. Unlike a traditional tattoo, microbladed brows lighten over time and fade naturally.
Celebrate Your Progress
During your appointment, your technician will take you through a full consultation, discussing color options and style preferences (be sure to bring inspo pics!). Then, a topical ointment is applied to the eyebrow area for numbing.
Once the numbing process is over, your artist will begin by outlining your new brows with a fine-tipped tool before getting to work. They will then start filling in the outlines using a microblading pen filled with pigment.
Infections can occur if the tools are not sterile or the pigments get contaminated on the way to your skin, but as long as you find an artist who is trained and sticks to strict health standards, this shouldn’t be a big deal.
You will also be asked to avoid tweezing or waxing your brows for up to a week before your appointment. Additionally, you’ll be told not to exercise or sweat heavily and to apply a thin coat of aftercare ointment several times daily for the first ten days.
Be Patient
While making mistakes when first starting may be frustrating, remember that practice makes perfect. Working with a trainer who can offer guidance and support as you build your microblading skills.
Practicing on props before you work on real clients is a must. Some of the best microblading practice props include banana skin, which mimics brow hairs; an orange peel, which gives you a feel for thicker skin; and the membrane of a boiled egg, which is good for thin skin.
Once you have a handle on your technique, it is crucial to understand the healing process that comes with the procedure. It is essential not to over-pick the area, as this can lead to scarring or pigment removal. Also, avoiding staying in the sun for long periods after a session is essential, as this can cause color shifts or premature fading.