I think I have heard the word “microblading” at least once a day for the last two weeks.  It is THE hot trend in beauty and I wanted to find out why.  I sent some questions to OC’s microblading specialist, Jen Hyland, and here is what she told me.

*What is microblading?

Microblading is a semi-permanent, manual method of filling in the eyebrows.  It is a form of a cosmetic tattoo.  It is done by using a very fine blade with little pins in it to deposit pigment into the epidermis.The procedure impacts color closer to the surface, the strokes appear crisp and very fine. Giving a natural looking hairlike strokes, regardless of the amount of actual hair present.

*Does it hurt?

The degree of discomfort will depend on several factors, such as if you opt for anesthetics, location of the treatment, and your pain threshold. It is a scratchy feeling that is usually very tolerable.

*How permanent is it?  How long does it last? 

Microblading usually lasts 12 to 24 months.  It is a two-step procedure. After the initial procedure, clients will have a follow-up appointment 4 to 6 weeks later.

*Is there anyone that should avoid microblading? 

• If you are pregnant or nursing
• If you have any skin diseases
• Epilepsy, seizure disorders, prone to fainting
• Immune disorders
• Prone to scarring (Keloid)
• Diabetics type 1 or 2
• If you have thyroid or Graves disease

*Do clients decide what their brows should look like or do you follow a certain shape? 

Some clients do bring in pictures of what type of brow shape they like. However, no one is exactly the same, and what we see as ideal brows might not be what you want. Our goal is to obtain symmetry and to communicate realistic expectations. We can’t make you look like your favorite celebrity. We are Brow Artists, not plastic surgeons!! We can do beautiful brows to fit the features of your face. Be your own Beautiful!!

*Is there anything special we should look for when choosing who to see for microblading? 

When looking for a microblade technician make sure they have been professionally trained and certified, including safety and sanitation, and blood borne pathogen certified. They should have plenty of experience and check out as many before and after pictures as you can find.

Thanks, Jen!  You can see Jen’s work HERE.  If you live in or around the Orange County, California area and want to connect with Jen, you can contact her at 949 922-8855 or via email at Jenhhyland@yahoo.com.