Numbing Before beginning the procedure, many artists apply a topical numbing cream to the treatment area to minimize the client’s discomfort during the microblading process. If the artist and the client agree that it is best to numb the area, carefully selecting a numbing agent that includes ingredients that are safe for the client’s skin type and sensitivity level is recommended for maximum effectiveness. Pain tolerance varies from person to person, and if clients feel any discomfort—given the sensitivity of the eyebrow area—additional applications of topical anesthetics can be administered after each pass, up to two to three times (Skin Supply Store, 2023). Pigment selection and pigment mixing Pigments are rich, specially formulated inks made of colorants and carriers that are implanted into the skin during the microblading procedure (KillerBeauty, 2021). Pigment selection is a major part of the microblading process because it contributes greatly to the quality of the final result. When choosing pigments for microblading, consider the client’s skin tone, natural hair color, natural eyebrows, and desired outcome to achieve a harmonious and natural- looking result. Common pigment colors include: ● Light brown : Ideal for blondes or those with fair skin and light hair. ● Medium brown : Suitable for individuals with medium skin tones and hair colors. ● Dark brown : Suited for darker hair colors and deeper skin tones. ● Ash brown : Provides a cool-toned option; ideal for neutralizing red undertones. ● Taupe : A versatile shade that can complement various hair colors and skin tones. Blade selection Microblades , also known as microblading needles, are specialized tools used in the microblading process to create fine, precise incisions in the skin. These blades consist of ultra-fine needles arranged in various configurations, such as single needles, multiple needles, or blades with different shapes and sizes. During the microblading process, the microblade is dipped into pigment and then carefully applied to the skin’s surface, allowing the artist to implant pigment into the upper layers of the skin. Generally, microblades come in one of four shapes: Ushape, angled, small angle, and big angle. Below are descriptions of each. Ushape blades are a rounded shape with a longer middle section, sloping gradually toward both ends. They are particularly effective for creating curved strokes and utilizing back-and-forth filling techniques. Microblading Now that the client’s input on all steps of the process has been considered and approved, the microblading process can begin. Using a handheld tool, or the most commonly used digital machine, the microblading artist creates small hairlike strokes that deposit pigment into the skin’s superficial layers to mimic the natural growth pattern of eyebrow hairs, giving the appearance of real eyebrows (Artisan Beauty, 2019). Each stroke should align with the predetermined design, to maintain symmetry and balance.
While the majority of microblading artists choose to use numbing cream, others do not. Numbing creams can change the texture of the skin and can affect pigment retention and the overall look of the brows. Artists who avoid numbing agents say color retention and the overall look of the brows are better as a result. Clients who decline the application of numbing cream also reduce their likelihood of having an adverse reaction. Some clients may discover their sensitivity to numbing agents only when they are administered on the day of the procedure. If you are planning to use a numbing cream, do a spot test on the skin the day before (Ngo, 2019). ● Black : Typically used for darker hair colors or those desiring a bold, defined look. ● Blonde : Designed for individuals with very light or blonde hair, creating a soft, natural appearance. ● Warm brown : Adds warmth to the brows; suitable for those with warmer undertones in their skin and hair. Whether choosing organic or inorganic pigment types, pigment selection should be given the utmost attention, as it impacts the lasting effects of the procedure. Additionally, assessing factors such as pigment stability, hypoallergenic properties, and color retention will help to guarantee client satisfaction and long-term success overall. There are times when an artist might have to combine two or more pigments to get the correct or requested color for a client. Pigment mixing happens when an artist blends pigments to create a custom shade that matches or blends with the client’s natural hair color and skin tone. By combining pigments, the artist can create colors that complement the client’s features. Angled blades have a flat edge that narrows into a point on one end and are available in two variations. Small-angle blades are optimal for touch-ups and short strokes, while big-angle blades are designed for longer strokes and are particularly suited for outlining and filling. Cluster blades consist of a cluster of needles arranged in groups of three or more with a rounded edge, making them ideal for shading and creating a powdered effect. Flat double blades feature a straight design with two layers of needles stacked on top of each other, making them well suited for shading techniques. For achieving precise and natural-looking results, the artist must carefully choose the appropriate blade combination based on the client’s skin type, desired eyebrow shape, and hair density. Different blade types offer varying degrees of precision and thickness, and choosing the right blades or needles is essential to tailoring the treatment to meet the client’s specific needs. Layering the pigment to create depth and dimension, and adjusting as needed to achieve the desired look is critical to creating natural-looking brow enhancements. Throughout the process, the artist should communicate with the client to remain aware of their comfort level. When the procedure is completed, it leaves the client with beautifully enhanced eyebrows that perfectly frame their face and boost their confidence.
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