Microblading
What is Microblading?
Microblading is a cosmetic tattooing technique that creates very fine hair-like strokes by depositing pigment beneath the surface of the skin. A disposable hand tool is used to mimic the look of fine hair strokes, creating a natural looking result that enhances your appearance.
Does it hurt?
Highly-effective topical anesthetics are used to numb the area before and during the procedure. While pain thresholds vary from person to person, every effort is made to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. While there may be some discomfort, most rate it as a 1-3 on a 10 point pain scale. If you are a smoker, have fibromyalgia, or frequently need to be numbed more than once at the Dentist, you may experience more discomfort.
Is the studio and equipment safe?
Client safety and cleanliness are top priorities for Beauty Lab. We pride ourselves on having a pristine space to offer our clients beautiful brows. Our artists are bloodborne pathogen trained, annually recertified, and all supplies are pre-packaged, sterile, one time use only. Each tool is properly disposed of in a biohazard container, and the work space is thoroughly disinfected after every service.
How old do I have to be?
In the state of New York, you must, by law, be 18 years of age or older to receive a tattoo regardless of parental consent.
What should I expect during the appointment?
The initial procedure takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. During this time, a consultation is done where we discuss your desired brow look, choose a color, and draw the outline of the procedure area for your approval. Though our faces are not perfectly symmetrical (one side is usually flatter or higher than the other), we do our very best to create as much symmetry as possible. After numbing the skin, the strokes are placed into the upper layers of the skin with a hand tool, and a pigment mask is then applied to absorb the color. Once the service is complete, you will be given thorough aftercare instructions.
How long does it last/ How often do I need a touch-up?
Microblading is considered a semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo. Over time, the pigment will gradually start to fade away. The rate at which it fades will vary from person to person based on a number of factors including: the pigment used (lighter colors fade faster), lifestyle (sun exposure), and if any chemical peels or exfoliating skincare products come into contact with treated areas. Each skin type heals, retains, and breaks down pigment differently. Oily skin types, for example, heal more powdery, and tend to fade quicker than normal or dry skin types. Results will vary from person to person, and if you have a pre-existing skin condition or are on medications, you may still be eligible for a procedure but should adjust your expectations based on your situation. While your brows may last anywhere from 1-2 years, we recommend coming in for annual touch-ups to keep your brows looking their best. Please visit our *pricing page* for more information about the cost and timing of your touch-up appointments.
How many treatments will I need?
Most clients require two treatments to attain the color and density that they desire. During your second session, we will address the color, shape, and retention you have had, and will make any necessary adjustments. The second session (which is complementary) must be booked 6-8 weeks after your initial procedure to ensure that your skin has healed properly. Due to factors beyond our control, everyone’s skin heals differently. Although it is rare, occasionally a third session may be needed for an additional fee.
Microblading vs. Microshading: What is the difference?
Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic tattooing technique which uses a super-fine hand tool that deposits pigment into the superficial layers of the skin with a stroking method. Microblading gives a very natural look that follows and simulates your natural eyebrow hairs. It is best for those who have dry to normal skin types.
Microshading is also a semi-permanent cosmetic tattooing technique, but rather than creating fine hair strokes, a manual hand tool is used to create a soft effect that resembles eyebrow powder by employing a stippling method. It is ideal for those who have large pores, oily skin types, or desire a bolder looking brow.
At beauty lab, we offer both microblading and microshading to best serve all skin types.
Who is NOT a suitable candidate for Microblading?
Microblading is not a suitable option for those who are:
Pregnant or breastfeeding
History of keloids or hypertrophic scarring
Diabetic (requires doctor’s clearance)
Undergoing chemotherapy
Have a pacemaker or major heart problems
Organ transplant
Allergies to makeup, dyes, or pigments
Skin irritations on or near the treated area (psoriasis, rashes, sunburn, acne, eczema, rosacea, etc.)
Sick (cold, flu, etc.)
Have used Accutane in the past year, steroids in the past 6 months, or Retin-A within the past month.
Heart conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, poor general health.
Undergoing any treatment, using medication, or have an illness that compromises the immune system/healing.
Have a history of trichotillomania
Transmittable blood conditions like HIV or Hepatitis
What is the healing process like and how long does it take?
The healing process after a microblading procedure varies from client to client based on many factors. Some of the most common things clients can expect after a microblading procedure are:
Tenderness in the area
Pink or redness around the affected area
Swelling
Thickening and darkening of the area
Itchiness
Moderate to thick flaking 3-10 days after the procedure
After flaking occurs, pigment color and strokes will look light, grey, and blurry
Area is healed (4 weeks after procedure) the pigment will return, and touch-up appointment will be performed at 6-8 weeks after the date of your first procedure.
I have microblading from another artist, can I get my brows done with you?
Microblading can be done over an existing brow tattoo, however the old tattoo must be significantly faded for the hair strokes to show through and look natural. If you currently have microblading or permanent makeup from another artist, we cannot guarantee a successful procedure and ask you to please email a clear, well-lit, recent photograph of your eyebrows and wait for our ‘okay’ before scheduling an appointment.
What should I know about long term care?
Sunscreen should be applied daily AFTER healing, and is required to help keep the color true. As with any tattoo, sun exposure will make the color fade faster.
Fading speed depends on your skin type, lifestyle, sun exposure, the pigment used, and if any chemical peels were done after your procedure.
If you are planning a chemical peel, laser treatment or other medical procedure, please inform the technician that you have had a cosmetic tattoo. Careful application must be taken to avoid affecting the tattooed area.
Henna Brows
What is Henna Brow?
A new era in eyebrow enhancement, Henna Brow is a natural plant pigment made from the Hina tree. It is mixed with water to form a paste that can semi-permanently enhance, sculpt, fill in, and reshape the eyebrows. For those who like well-defined brows, this treatment is a perfect alternative to eyebrow tinting without the use of ammonia or hydrogen peroxide to develop the eyebrow color. Normal eyebrow tinting just colors the brow hair, but Henna enhances both the hair & skin. Henna Brow is a fantastic service to add to your brow wax appointment as it is gentle enough for all skin types, lasts weeks, is painless, and requires no downtime.
How long does it last?
While results can vary from person to person, Henna Brow gives an amazing powdered effect that can last a few days to a week on the skin, and up to 30 days on the hair depending on skin type and post-treatment care.
Is it safe?
Henna Brow is the safest and most effective way to enhance the color and shape of your eyebrows. Made from all natural botanical ingredients, it has been used for centuries to stain the skin and hair. Unlike the harsh chemicals (ammonia and lead) found in tints that can be damaging and strip away natural oils, Henna Brow is a nourishing service that actually moisturizes and strengthens the hair!