Filling in the eyebrows is a crucial step in most people’s makeup routine, whether it’s helping even out their shape or adding more dimension back to the face after applying concealing products. However, for those with sparse, uneven, or hard-to-maintain eyebrows, daily eyebrow pencil application can get tedious, and many people opt for permanent eyebrows to make their morning routines easier and their results more predictable. If you’re considering permanent eyebrows, also known as eyebrow microblading, here’s everything you need to know to feel confident before your appointment.

It’s Not the Same as Tattooing

Despite their name, permanent eyebrows are not fully permanent. Rather, they’re a semi-permanent makeup technique that lasts 1-3 years. It’s achieved by depositing pigment into the upper layers of the skin using tiny needles. While this technique is similar to tattooing, traditional tattoo needles penetrate much deeper into the skin, creating a permanent result. The tool used for permanent eyebrows creates much more superficial and precise strokes that replicate individual hairs. The pigments used are also specifically designed to match natural eyebrow hair colors.

There May Be Some Discomfort — But Not Much

We often get two types of clients during permanent eyebrow appointments: those who don’t expect any discomfort and those who are concerned about significant pain. The reality is that while the process isn’t entirely painless, most clients find the discomfort to be very minimal and easily manageable.

Before the procedure, a topical numbing cream is applied around the area to minimize discomfort. The sensation that you’ll experience is similar to a slight scratching or tingling feeling, which some people describe as similar to light papercuts. The entire process takes one to two hours, but your technician can take breaks throughout to ensure that you feel comfortable.

Your Skin Type Can Affect Results

It’s important to know beforehand that factors like skin texture, pore size, and oil production can affect the results of your permanent eyebrows. For example, oily skin tends to blur the pigment more quickly, resulting in less crisp, hair-like strokes than those with dry or normal skin. People with very oily skin may also require touch-ups more frequently. If you’re concerned about your skin’s oiliness and how that may affect results, your technician can provide personalized advice and give you an idea of what you will achieve with your unique skin type.

Proper Aftercare is Crucial

In addition to skin type, the results and longevity of your permanent eyebrows will depend on your willingness to follow proper aftercare instructions. Immediately after the process, your eyebrows will appear very dark and defined. Over the following week, they will go through a healing process where the color will soften and become more natural. Performing proper aftercare during this period is crucial for achieving optimal results.

Firstly, avoid getting the area wet for the first few days after your appointment. Stay out of direct sunlight, avoid strenuous activity that may cause sweating, and avoid applying any skincare or makeup products around your eyebrows. Your technician may recommend an ointment to assist healing; apply a thin layer as often as directed. After 4-6 weeks, you’ll likely revisit your technician so they can assess the results after healing and make any tweaks to perfect the shape and color.

Permanent eyebrows are a great option for those looking to enhance and define their natural features without the hassle of daily eyebrow pencil application. Whether you want to treat yourself to permanent eyebrows, eyeliner, lip liner, or eyelash extensions, your local nail salon in Newport Beach can provide permanent makeup solutions that make your daily beauty routine easier and leave you feeling more confident day-to-day. To learn more or book an appointment, contact Newport Nails online or visit us at Bayside or one of our other convenient locations today, and let us know how we can service your permanent makeup needs.