I’m so excited about today’s post because I am obsessed with my eyebrows! I was lucky enough to see Julia of HoneyBrow in New Braunfels, TX, and she is a brow magician. She is so precise, takes her time, and maps out the perfect brow shape for your face. I’ve received so many wonderful questions from you guys regarding the entire microblading experience (cost, pain, recovery time, etc.) so I figured I would write this post in Q + A form. Scroll down to see before and after photos and hopefully answer any questions you may have!
If you’re in the Austin area and want to get in touch with Julia, you can find her contact info here.
This photo was taken immediately after my second procedure (redness and is from threading)Step 1: NumbingStep 2: Mapping out my perfect browFinal product!
Q: WHAT IS MICROBLADING?
Microblading is the process of implanting color pigment beneath the surface of the skin using a blade consisting of tiny, sterile, disposable needles to produce the appearance of hair strokes, makeup, or to enhance the natural features of the face.
Q: HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Cost varies depending on the experience of the esthetician and location. Julia charges $600-$650 for both sessions and she offers complimentary threading for 6 months after your procedure. It’s definitely an investment, but totally worth it in my opinion!
Q: DOES IT HURT?
Julia uses a highly-effective, topical anesthetic cream prior and during your procedure to numb the area. Pain threshold levels obviously vary person to person, but every effort is made to ensure you remain comfortable during the procedure. I personally thought it was quite painful, but nothing unbearable. For me, the first treatment was most uncomfortable and then the second touch up appointment wasn’t near as bad.
(*Things to note: try to avoid going during your menstrual cycle! Aka me during my first treatment…)
Q: HOW LONG IS EACH SESSION?
Your initial session can take anywhere from 1.5-2.5 hours depending on how much work needs to be done. Your touch up is much shorter, around 30-45 minutes.
Q: HOW LONG DOES MICROBLADING LAST?
On average, microblading can last anywhere to 12-24 months depending on factors such as skin type, the color of pigment used, and normal lifestyle activities (sun exposure, sweat, etc.). While cosmetic tattoo treatments are considered semi-permanent and will not wash off, they will fade over time and may need to be refreshed every 1-2 years.
Q: IS THERE ANY DOWN-TIME?
There isn’t any “down-time” so to speak, but ensuring you follow the proper aftercare directions is crucial. After the first couple of days, your eyebrows will appear darker and more intense, and this is totally normal (don’t freak out!). Your brows will then become dry and flakey, before gradually lightening during the complete healing process. Redness and swelling is minimal. Oh, and the hardest part is not getting your brows wet for 10-14 days! 😉
Q: HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE NEEDED?
For most clients, a minimum of two treatments is usually needed, at least 8 weeks apart. With most procedures, the color looks dramatically lighter after the first week. Some clients prefer this, while others opt for a bolder look. At the second session, Julia will assess the color retention and make adjustments as necessary. Everyone heals differently and at different rates. If your cosmetic tattoo does not heal perfectly after the first session, do not worry! Julia can always go darker and add more density at your next appointment.
Q: DO YOU RECOMMEND MICROBLADING?
Yes, 100%! I’ve always had sparse eyebrows and I absolutely loathed filling in my eyebrows every morning, so this was a perfect solution for me. If you are wanting to get microblading, I recommend doing your research beforehand and go to someone who is an expert in the field.
If you have any additional questions, leave them in the comments below and I’ll get back to you ASAP!
xo
Sierra says
How did you keep your brows dry while washing your hair / showering?
Kari says
That’s a great question! I put cling wrap over my brows and tapped the corners down so no water could get through. Totally not a great look, but it did the job!
Denise says
Hi your brows look great! I had microblading done about a month ago, and they got dramatically lighter. As if nothing was done! Will the second appointment heal darker? Or will the same thing happen?
Kari says
Thank you so much! It takes approximately 10-14 days for the brows to heal over, and about 1 month for the color to fully set in. They should start darkening up soon, but if they don’t, you can always ask your esthetician to use a darker pigment at your follow up appointment! xo
Denise says
I will do that! My follow up is 12/15 so I will let you know how it goes. Thanks!!
Kari says
Of course! Can’t wait to hear how they turn out!
Kimberly Smith says
Microblading was the best beauty investment I’ve ever made! I had mine done a year ago and I love them too!
Kari says
It is such a game changer! I honestly wish I would have done it sooner!
Annette says
I still haven’t tried microblading. I really think I just need to go for it. Love yours.
Liz says
Wow, they look so good on you! I love the color and shape!
Denise Kokinis says
Yes! They look so good! I had mine done recently as well, and what a changing experience! I did think it hurt a little bit though! Thanks so much for sharing this!
Denise | Fashion Love Letters
Candace says
Microblading definitely is a game changer!! I did it like 3 years ago and I don’t regret it. Totally worth it!
XO
Candace
http://www.thebeautybau.com
Rachel says
I wanted to get my brows microbladed last year, but when I went in for the consultation the tech said I had too much hair and I didn’t need it! I guess that’s a good thing, but I really just wanted to never have to put brow makeup on again! #lazy
Amanda says
Your brows look amazing!! My aunt has been wanting to get hers done so I’ll have to share your post with her.
steph says
getting microblading done was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Good brows makes such a difference and yours look AMAZING!
Cheers,
Steph
@stephnweber|trendyinindy@gmail.com
Lindsay says
Your brows look amazing! I have mine micro bladed too and it’s definitely the best!
Anabelle says
I’ve always wanted to get my eyebrows microbladed! Yours look amazing!
Jami Ray says
Wow, your before and after are amazing! I love the way your brows look!