What is microblading?
'Microblading is a type of eyebrow architecture. It is all about creating the best shape for each face – a totally bespoke approach for each client,' explains Jalaf.
'The process is very precise thanks to the tool that is used which is effectively like a pen with the nib being a sloped blade with 10-12 little needles at the end - needles that don’t penetrate the skin but just delicately scratch the surface, much like a paper cut.
'The needle very finely implants featherweight strokes with a medical grade pigment on the epidermis layer for the skin, creating fine, realistic and natural hair strokes.'
How is microblading eyebrows different to having your brows tattooed?
'Microblading, unlike tattooing, is not in the deep layer of skin, but more on the surface. This is also not permanent, and the colour fades within 18 months.
'The hair strokes are far more natural and finer than any tattoo, as a handheld needle/blade is used – there is no electrical gadget that permeates deep in this technique. There is therefore more of a scratching noise, rather than a buzz of a tattoo gun which pierces the skin so deeply.'
What is microshading and how is it different to microblading?
Yes the names might sound confusingly similar but microblading and microshading are totally different, we promise.
Both forms of semi-permanent make-up for your eyebrows, they have a few subtle but important differences. Compared to microblading's super precise, individual hair look, microshading has a much softer finish. Think of it like using a brow pencil compared to a brow powder or pomade.
Where microblading tattoos hair-like strokes in your existing brows, microshading tattoos tiny dots along your brows for a less defined finish.
Not sure which technique is for you? Fear not, because often technicians combine both methods to create the most realistic and natural finish.
Can you be allergic to microblading?
'There are people who are sensitive and allergic to some pigments, but in my experience this is extremely rare. I will always perform a patch or scratch test to check you are not allergic prior to the treatment.'
How much does microblading cost?
'A Suman microblading treatment costs £500. This includes a consultation, the initial treatment as well as a top up treatment after 6-8 weeks.'
What actually happens when you get your eyebrows microbladed?
1. 'I shape the brow area by threading the hairs, cleaning up the area and preparing it for the treatment.'
2. 'Numbing – this takes 40mins using a topical ointment. While this is working its numbing magic, I'll show the client colour swatches and discuss together the best shade for their desired look.' 3. '10 minutes before the numbing cream has got to a stage of working, I'll use my tools to begin measuring the area around the brows, taking into account face shape, symmetry, facial features etc.'
4. 'Then I begin the needling process - gently implanting the pigment via featherweight strokes. Each stroke is a superficial line in the skin where the colour pigment seeps in and settles then. If there is any discomfort at this stage we add another quick layer of numbing cream to the area which will become effective after 5 minutes.'
5. 'I add on a final layer of pigment that stays on for 5mins, clean the area and et voila – beautiful brows!'
6. 'In 6-8 weeks there's a top-up session to fill in any gaps where the pigment hasn't taken or healed properly.'
How long does microblading last?
'Microblading lasts anything between 12-18 months, but the longevity of the pigment will depend on your skin type.
'People with slightly more oily skin will tend to last around the 12 month mark before needing a top up, but those with normal skin can last up to 18 months.
'Your brows will eventually fade away if you don’t continue with top ups every 18 months or so. There is no scaring or discolouration with the pigments used, so you wouldn’t know if you left them to fade out.'
Does microblading hurt?
'It doesn’t hurt as such, it is more a sensation. The process itself is not painful thanks to the numbing ointment that is applied. It's sometimes the sound of the blade which people find worse – a small scratching sound.
'The whole process is very quick – it's actually the numbing which takes most of the time (50mins), you aren’t under the needle for the whole 2 hours.'
Can microbladed eyebrows be undone/removed?
'Yes – the pigment used leaves no scarring or discolouration, and I can use a salt/saline solution to remove microbladed brows.
'It is very important to know and understand that brows will be up to 40% darker in shade for the first 7-10 days during the healing process where scabs can form and flake off.
'Clients can sometimes leave the studio, and two days later be terrified that their brows are too dark, but please be patient – as this is totally normal! After 7-10 days, you will begin to see the final colouring.'