How many times have you lusted after Deepika Padukone and Cara Delevingne’s eyebrows? Be it the density or an enviable arch, a good brow game can make a world of a difference to your entire look. Unlike these divas, we all don’t have a make-up team on standby. Enter microblading eyebrows, a process that’s recently got the attention of the beauty industry. A non-invasive procedure, can this semi-permanent treatment be the answer to all your brow woes? We got Mumbai-based dermatologist and laser surgeon, Dr. Apratim Goel, Cutis Skin Solutions, and Delhi-based dermatologist, Dr. Kiran Lohia of Lumeire Dermatology, to give you the lowdown on microblading.
What is Microblading?
Unlike tattooing, microblading is a semi-permanent procedure done with a pen that has ultra-fine blades which deposit colour on your skin, explains Goel. Since the pigment is not deposited on the deeper layers of the skin, microblading is not considered permanent but a technique that helps enhance the natural colour and density of your brows. “I love it so much, I just started it in my clinic permanently, says Lohia. “The results are beautiful and astonishingly natural, even when you start with no brows at all!”
Who Is It Ideal For?
Unlike Botox or other procedures, there is no age limit when it comes to microblading. Since eyebrows are such a big trend, more and more women consider microblading as a viable option, says Goel. Anyone of us who have scars, gaps or sparse brows can opt for microblading. A lot of us who have alopecia or are recovering from chemotherapy consider this option too.
Microblading: What happens in a session?
An average session lasts for about two hours. After a basic session of counselling, the expert usually starts by stencilling with a surgical blade. A numbing cream and spray are usually applied to the area to avoid discomfort. After this, a dermatologist would make small cuts in and around your eyebrows and plant the pigment.
While the procedure is not too painful, you may experience swelling soon after. Doctors usually advise you to avoid alcohol and aspirin before opting for this procedure (it can lead to excessive bleeding). Since the area will be tender, avoid vigorous rubbing and keep it hydrated with a swab of petroleum jelly. You may be advised to use a topical cream to ensure there are no infections.
How long does it last?
Your eyebrows might seem a bit dark immediately after the procedure.The colour will tone down to the natural colour of your brows about 7-10 days after microblading. While touch-ups might be required every 6-8 months, the effect of this semi-permanent treatment lasts up to anywhere between 1-3 years, says Goel. The only con, says Lohia, is that you do need to repeat the treatment every 18-24 months to maintain results. However, there is no other treatment that lasts longer and gives beautiful results, she adds.
If you’d like to get it removed, you’d have to opt for a laser tattoo removal session.
For best results, do your homework and choose a dermatologist that is certified in microblading.
In the meantime, here are some of the best eyebrow products you need to have in your make-up kit
1. M.A.C Great Brows (Rs 2,850)
2. Nykaa Brow Chika WOW Eyebrow Pencil – Coven Cocoa 01 (Rs 399)
3. Clinique Just Browsing Brush-On Styling Mousse (Rs 1,650)
4. Smashbox Brow Tech To Go (Rs 2,100)
5. Milani Stay Put Brow Color (Rs 1,025)
Images: Shutterstock
