Andrew Bogges | PMU Artist
Andrea Boggess
PMU
Brow Questions
WHAT IS MICROBLADING?
Microblading (also known as 3D eyebrows and eyebrow embroidery) is a form of tattooing which color pigment is manually implanted beneath the surface of the skin by means of sterile, disposable needles to produce the appearance of tiny individual hair strokes to enhance the eyebrows. Due to the pigments not implanted as deeply as traditional tattoos, results are designed to gently fade over time. Fading is considered a positive occurrence as it allows the artist to make changes to color and shape over the years as client’s natural coloration and facial changes occur. The pigments used are iron-oxide based and are specially formulated to be heavy metal free making them safe for MRIs. They are also cruelty free.
DOES IT HURT?
Pain varies from individual to individual but every effort is made to make the procedure as pain free as possible. A high quality numbing gel may also be provided after the first pass of the procedure. Many have described the pain level of the procedure being comparable to tweezing or threading of the brows. Those who are experiencing their menstrual cycle at the time of their procedure, have autoimmune disorders, smoke before their procedure, or have caffeine will also be at an increase risk of being more sensitive.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
Procedure times can vary from person to person, but typically a session will take approximately 2 hours. The bulk of the appointment time is placed on the consultation and shaping of the eyebrows.
WHY DOES IT TAKE 2 APPOINTMENTS?
Due to the procedure being a gentle process in addition to the healing process, the pigments will fade significantly, possibly up to 50%, over the first 4 weeks. Because of this, multiple sessions are made to build color, dimension, and shape. At your 2nd session, we will again assess the brows and discuss any changes that you may want. We will touch the brows up accordingly to create as much depth and boldness as you seek. Following the second session, pigment retention should be greater. However, IN SOME CASES, MORE than two appointments MAY BE NEEDED in order to achieve your desired results. Artist cannot predict healing results and microblading is an investment. Results will vary per individual and the more closely you follow the after care instructions, the better the results will be.
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE?
Clients may be denied services due to the following reasons. (However, it may be possible even with these reasons to qualify for microblading services after further discussion. A written note from a doctor clearing the procedure may be required.) Pregnant or Nursing, Diabetes, Prone to Keloids, Hemophilia, Cardiac Disorders. If you have used antibiotics in the past 30 days, Accutane in the past year, are on blood thinners or received botox within the past 2 weeks you will need to reschedule.
HOW LONG WILL MY RESULTS LAST?
Microblading can last 3-5 years; however, due to environmental factors and skin types, typically it will last 1-2 years. There are a number of factors that can impact the lasting of your results which include how well the post care instructions were followed, pigment color (lighter shades tend to fade quicker), amount of sun exposure (UV rays fade pigment), frequency and amount of products used on the skin (chemical peels/acids/anti-aging and anti-acne products all fade results). Results and how long they last vary from individual to individual. ARTIST CANNOT PREDICT HEALING RETENTION RESULTS. Some individuals may need more than two sessions to receive desired results. This is an investment. Be sure you are committed before you make this decision.
WHAT SHOULD I DO BEFORE MY APPOINTMENT?
You should read our pre and after care instruction page on my website prior to your appointment. These instructions include:
• It is very important to refrain from all alcohol, aspirin, or aspirin products, such as blood thinners.
• Please refrain from Ibuprofen and Aleve for 24 hours prior to your appointment.
• The only product for aches and pain that will not make you bleed is Tylenol.
• Also refrain from Vitamin E and fish oil capsules for 7 days prior to your application.
• ALL of these make you bleed excessively. Excessive bleeding during the procedure will negatively affect the longevity of your semi-permanent makeup application. In some cases, the application will need to be prematurely stopped.
• Please avoid energy drinks & coffee for up to 24 hours prior to your appointment. Not having caffeine in your system will help you to relax much more easily, as well as help to relax the facial muscles in the areas we will be working on.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MICROBLADING & COMBO BROWS?
Combo Brows are microshading + microblading which gives a more natural and filled in look. Whereas Microblading is just hair strokes and no pixelated shading.