Semi-permanent makeup for eyebrows has blown up in the last few years. People are looking for ways to enhance their brows, and there are tons of techniques out there.
One popular method is microshading. Microshading is a semi-permanent eyebrow tattoo technique designed to give your brows a fuller, more defined look, like you’ve filled them in with powder. Think soft, shaded brows that look effortlessly polished.
Unlike microblading, which creates individual hair-like strokes, microshading uses a stippling method to deposit tiny dots of pigment into the skin.
This article is your complete guide to microshading, covering everything from getting ready for your appointment to what to expect during the procedure, how to heal properly, and the best aftercare tips.
What is microshading?
Microshading is a semi-permanent cosmetic procedure in which a technician uses tiny dots of pigment to create a soft, shaded look for your eyebrows. The result is a powdered or filled-in effect that gives the eyebrows more definition and structure.
Microshading vs. microblading
The primary difference between microshading and microblading is that microshading uses dots, while microblading uses strokes that mimic individual hairs.
Microshading works well on all skin types, but it’s especially good for oily or sensitive skin. The goal of microblading is to simulate the look of natural hairs, while the goal of microshading is to create the look you’d get with makeup.
Microblading lasts for about 18 to 30 months. Microshading lasts a bit less, usually around 12 to 24 months.
Preparing for your microshading appointment
Proper preparation is key to getting the best results from your microshading appointment. Here’s what you need to do:
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and blood thinners
These substances can interfere with the procedure and the healing process. Don’t drink alcohol or caffeine for 24 hours before your appointment. Stop taking blood thinners two days beforehand.
Avoid retinoids and exfoliating agents
These products can make your skin more sensitive and affect how well the pigment is retained. Stop using skin care products with active ingredients (like retinol, AHAs, and BHAs) two weeks before your appointment.
Don’t wax, thread, or tint your eyebrows beforehand
You want your natural brow shape to be visible so the artist can work with it. Stop removing brow hairs two weeks before the procedure.
Hydrate and moisturize
Keeping your skin hydrated helps it absorb the pigment better.
Wash your face
Wash your face and remove all makeup and skincare products one hour before your appointment.
Eat a good meal and drink water
Make sure to eat a good meal and drink plenty of water before the procedure.
What to expect during the microshading procedure
Microshading is a multistep process that typically takes one to two hours, depending on how full you want your brows to look.
- Consultation and brow mapping: Your technician will talk with you about the brow shape and color you want. They’ll also “map” your brows, carefully measuring and drawing an outline to make sure they look symmetrical.
- Numbing cream: A topical numbing cream will be applied to your brows to minimize discomfort.
- Microshading: Using a special tool, the technician will create tiny, pin-point dots of pigment in the skin of your eyebrows.
Microshading healing and aftercare
The healing process after a microshading appointment is key to making sure you get the results you’re after. Here’s what to expect, and how to care for your brows.
How long does microshading healing last?
Full healing takes about 4 to 8 weeks, but the first two weeks are critical for pigment retention.
Stages of the microshading healing process
Here’s a timeline of what you can expect:
- Initial darkening. Right after the procedure, your brows will look darker than you expect.
- Scabbing. As your skin heals, scabs will form.
- Peeling. The scabs will flake off on their own, revealing a lighter color underneath.
- Color fading. Over the next few weeks, the color will continue to soften.
What to avoid during the healing process
To make sure you heal well and that the pigment stays put, here are some things to avoid:
- For two weeks, avoid excessive moisture, including swimming, saunas, and hot tubs. It’s also best to limit sweating during this period.
- Avoid direct sun exposure.
- Do not pick or scratch at the scabs.
- Avoid makeup on the brows for at least 10 days.
- About 24 hours after the procedure, wash your brows with a gentle cleanser, but don’t get them wet in the shower or use hot water.
- Blot your brows dry with a towel or let them air-dry completely.
- Apply an esthetician-approved moisturizer with a clean applicator.
- For two weeks, sleep on your back, and change your pillowcase often.
- Limit alcohol intake for two weeks.
- For four weeks, avoid exfoliating ingredients like AHAs and retinol.
- For four weeks, stay out of the sun and use sun protection.
- Don’t touch your brows until they’re completely healed.
Microshading: Touch-ups and Longevity
Like any cosmetic tattoo, microshading will fade over time. To keep your brows looking their best, you’ll need touch-up appointments. Touch-ups help to maintain the color saturation and the shape of your brows.
How often will you need to go? Most people schedule a touch-up every one to two years. The average cost is around $162.
Several factors affect how long your microshading lasts, including your skin type, lifestyle, and how well you follow the aftercare instructions. With proper care, microshading can last anywhere from one to three years.
Who is microshading right for?
Microshading is a good option for people who:
- Have sensitive or oily skin. Because the technique is gentler than microblading, it’s less likely to blur.
- Have thin or sparse eyebrows.
- Want their brows to look soft, powdered, or filled-in.
- Want a low-maintenance solution.
If you have any chronic conditions, talk to your doctor before getting microshading. Also, make sure to tell your esthetician about your health history.
How much does microshading cost?
In the United States, the average cost for a microshading procedure is $362, but it can cost anywhere from $254 to $557. Your location, the artist’s experience, and the look you want will all impact the price.
Keep in mind that you’ll probably have to pay extra for touch-ups, which typically cost around $162.
To Conclude
Microshading offers a fantastic way to achieve naturally beautiful, long-lasting, and customized eyebrows. However, like any cosmetic procedure, the best results come from doing your homework.
Proper preparation is key, as is following aftercare instructions carefully. Find a qualified and experienced microshading artist for personalized advice and treatment. Remember, microshading is a semi-permanent solution, so you’ll need to plan for touch-ups to maintain your perfect brows.