Microblading 101: Everything You Need to Know About the Ever-Popular Brow Fix

If you have been trying every trick under the sun for lush and thick eyebrows and haven’t got the desired results then microblading is what you could consider. The brow treatment has taken Instagram by storm and there are enough before and after brow photos out there to make you curious. To answer all your questions we chatted up with Dr Mikky Singh, Dermatologist at Bodycraft, who specialises in brow lifting, microblading and other brow treatments. Here’s what she has to say. 

What is microblading?

“Microblading is a semi-permanent procedure that is done to make eyebrows that are naturally thin, over-plucked or over-threaded, look darker, denser and thicker. Currently, with bold, defined eyebrows being on trend, one can even change the shape of their eyebrows. The desired shape and colour is decided following a consultation to ensure that the results look natural.”

How does it work?

“Microblading procedure may seem like it is similar to getting a tattoo. While in the case of a tattoo where you might just get your eyebrows filled up, the procedure is only done by a certified microblading expert doctor and involves a lot more skill along with an understanding of facial aesthetics. A consultation is done where the doctor will go over your medical history while also accessing the right shade of the pigment that will match your natural eyebrows. The entire face is cleansed after which the doctor will draw on the eyebrow shape using a special measuring tool in order to maintain the shape, size and symmetry. Once finalised, the area is cleaned and an anaesthetic cream is applied. The pigment, which is derma tested and organic, is then manually applied using a sterilised instrument. The instrument dipped in the pigment is used to draw extremely fine strokes that look like hair. Once the procedure is done, a pigment mask is applied for a few minutes after while the area is cleaned thoroughly.”

How long does it last?

“The results last between 12 to 18 months. A touch-up can be done when it starts to fade. But the fact that microblading is a semi-permanent procedure that will fade can be beneficial, especially because we see eyebrow trends changing constantly & the shape of the eyebrow might naturally change due to ageing.”

What is the aftercare routine?

"There is no downtime required post this procedure. A skin ointment will be prescribed which must be used as directed by the doctor. Keep the treated area dry and avoid using cleansers or creams for at least seven days. The treated area will normally go through three phases post treatment: healing, peeling and fading. An itching sensation is normal post the procedure. Do not scratch or rub the area especially during the healing and peeling phase as this might cause pigment loss. Avoid direct exposure to the sun and any facial treatments for at least three-four weeks post the procedure.”