Digital Brows vs Microblading?

PMU Digital Brows vs Microblading?

With permanent make-up becoming increasingly popular and with an array of ever-changing terminologies used, there can be a lot of confusion when understanding the difference between Microblading and digital brows.

Both methods abrade the skin with a needle, which is a form of a tattoo.

Permanent make-up (above) is a digital machine with adjustable speeds and a wide variety of needle options to suit each individual skin type. The digital machine using vibrations to implant the pigment into the skin and works well on all skin types as it causes less trauma to the skin, as well as providing longer lasting results as the needle carries the pigment into the dermis layer of the skin. The innovation of the digital machine means it can be used to create fine, crisp hairstrokes, as well as shading for brows, lips, eyes and medical treatments. Though the digital machine can be used on all skin types, there is an exception as a very oily/thick skin type won’t hold a crisp hairstroke look as in time the hairstrokes will thicken and blur, therefore your technician might advice an ombre/powder brow look instead to achieve the best, long lasting results for that particular client.

Microblading (below) is a manual blade which is used to scratch the skin, implanting pigment into the basal layer of the epidermis to create the appearance of hairstrokes. It is not suitable for every skin type as the microblade puncture the skin, making it unsuitable for skin types such as oily skin, thin skin or skin prone to redness or hyperpigmentation. Crossing hairstrokes also must be avoided as this can cause additional trauma to the skin. Microblading will require retouching more often, simply because there is less pigment implanted into a more superficial layer of the skin.

Permanent Make-up at a glance:

• Carried out with a digital machine that implants pigment at 1.5 - 2mm in to the skin.

• Good for light fluffy hair strokes as well as powder techniques.

• Lasts for 12-18 months before a colour boost is required.

• Suitable for all skin types as the needle and machine speed can be adjusted depending on skin type.

• Causes less trauma to the skin as the surface layers of the skin are kept in tact while the pigment is implanted.

• Good for different types of eyebrow styles, combination brows, lip blush, as well as scalp and areola micro-pigmentation.

Micro-blading at a glance:

• Performed with a handheld tool with a bespoke blade.

• Lasts 6/12 months before a colour touch-up is required.

• Pigment is implanted around 0.8 - 1mm into the skin.

• Great for filling in gaps within the natural brows.

• Not suitable for all skin types - avoid if you have oily skin, alopecia with thick skin, dry skin or mature skin.

• Will require more frequent colour boosts.

• Risk of scar tissue due to slicing in to the surface layers of the skin.

The main thing is to do your research, ask questions and go to a technician that you trust to create the look that you desire. Ensure your chosen technician has the correct qualifications, is fully insured and possesses a special treatment license.

Lastly, if you're thinking about it, go for it! Great eyebrows don't happen by chance, they happen by appointment!

Molly x