Today’s blog post is WAY OVERDUE but it’s better late than never, because I always get a ton of eyebrow questions on Instagram! So without further ado, I’m sharing MY microblading experience, answering the most FAQ and sharing some incredible before and after photos! To sum it up, YES this is worth it, and I’m never turning back! 😉
before // after
Exactly a year ago, I had my very first microblading experience. To be honest, at the time, I had little to no knowledge on the topic, and was actually more curious than nervous to get it done! Fast forward to today, and microblading seems to be getting more and more popular, and for good reason!
First things first: I had my eyebrows microbladed by the very talented and oh-so-sweet Kamren, from Microblading Santa Barbara (see her IG here)! She is a TRUE artist and SO trustworthy, precise, and professional about her work, I highly recommend going to her! My mom and countless other friends that I know have gone to her and are truly obsessed with their results!
What’s the process like?
- Perfect brows take time and patience. You set up a total of two appointments for the entire process to be considered complete. During the first appointment, you’ll get your photos taken of your brows and Kamren will sketch on a preliminary frame for your shape. She is so precise with this and actually uses measurements to determine your eye/face/eyebrow shapes! She basically finalizes your perfect brow shape by combining elements of the golden ratio and your unique features. You will then numb for 15 minutes (and relax!). After which I begin microblading which takes around 45 minutes.
- The second appointment, which is about 6-8 weeks after your original procedure appointment, is a 1-hour touch-up. Because everyone heals differently, and there may be some peeling, this appointment is almost always necessary and to be expected. The microblading procedure is not considered complete until you get your touch-up!
What is microblading?
- Microblading is a unique form of cosmetic tattoo that creates natural-looking brows with a handheld microblade. Each individual “hair” is drawn on in a unique design to flow with your natural brow hair.
Does it hurt?
- Nope, not at all for me, but it depends on your skin’s sensitivity! Kamren uses a topical anesthetic, which means you won’t feel much during the procedure. She makes you feel comfortable from the minute you walk in, until the minute you’re done! There’s just a little weird buzzing sound from the tool during the procedure, that’s it.
How much does Microblading cost?
- This will range and depend on what artist you go to and also where you are located. Kamren has an entire page dedicated to her pricing that you can find here.
When do you need to go back for another appointment?
- Your consultation and first appointment can be on the first day.
- Then you re-book for 6-8 weeks later for a touchup!
- Then 1-3 years later you’ll need to re-book for a color boost or touch up!
How long do they last?
- Microblading only lasts anywhere between 1-3 years depending on your skin type, age, and lifestyle. The dryer the skin, the longer it will last. It tends to fade very quickly with extremely oily skin, in which case I recommend a powder brow. Sun and anti-aging products will also make microblading fade faster. I recommend annual color-boosts to keep them looking crisp and perfect.
- After about 12 months, you can go back for a color boost which is cheaper and is not as involved since the shape will still be there! I’ve been back for this procedure since my original appointment back in 2017.
Do you still need to touchup and fill in your eyebrows?
- You don’t need to whatsoever! That’s the point of getting microbladed- your eyebrows keep their color and shape on their own without needing any daily touch ups! Microblading makes your makeup routine quicker, more efficient, and WAY easier!
- I do add this brow gel daily, since my eyebrow hairs are naturally very light blonde. I use the color medium and love it!
What if I have blonde/light colored eyebrows?
- My eyebrows are literally WHITE you guys, and I used to dye them weekly! Without touching them they are literally nonexistent and microblading has made a world of difference for me! My eyes stand out more, the eyebrows now frame my face in a flattering way. It’s literally life changing!
What’s the aftercare like?
- It wasn’t as bad as I thought honestly! Essentially: you’re NOT supposed to get your brows wet! I was still able to workout (just dabbed the sweat from my forehead), I was careful in the shower when washing my hair (tilted my head back), and wiping makeup off at the end of the day consisted of using makeup wipes (not washing my face with cleanser).
- You can read more details about the important before and after care here!
Would you recommend getting them done?
- YES YES YES! I promise you won’t regret your decision!
Is it worth it?!
- 1000% yes!! I recommend it to anyone and everyone! I’m SO HAPPY with the results and love the pigment, love the shape, and am completely satisfied! Like I mentioned before, I bought the service for my mom for Christmas last year and she loves it!
How do you find someone qualified?
- Make sure you check out their certifications on their site! Also, be sure to check their website or Instagram for previous work samples they have completed on clients!
- Kamren has a ton of photos and images on her website and Instagram that are SO impressive, I felt confident going to her!
Huge shoutout to Kamren @microblading_sb for her amazing services! You’re the best 🙂