PMU Brows
Microblading vs. Machine Strokes: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to creating beautiful, natural-looking brows, there are a couple of popular techniques to choose from—Microblading and Machine Strokes. Both offer fantastic results, but the method used and the overall look can vary. Here’s a friendly breakdown of each to help you decide what’s best for your brow goals:
Microblading:
Microblading is a manual technique that uses a fine blade to create tiny, hair-like strokes in the skin. The results are soft, natural-looking brows with a more “feathered” appearance. This technique is ideal for those looking for precise, realistic hair strokes, especially if you have sparse or uneven brows.
Best for: People with normal to dry skin and those looking for a very natural, “hair stroke” effect.
Healing: Microblading may take a bit longer to heal compared to machine strokes due to the manual technique.
Longevity: Typically, microblading lasts around 1-2 years (results may vary) before needing a touch-up.
Machine Strokes:
Machine strokes are created using a rotary tattoo machine with a fine needle, similar to the technique used in other types of permanent makeup. This method creates strokes that are also very natural, but the strokes tend to be a little more defined compared to microblading. Machine strokes can be used to achieve more flexibility with shading, and it’s ideal for clients with oily or combination skin, as the machine technique tends to last longer on these skin types.
Best for: People with oily skin or those looking for slightly bolder strokes, or more shading and definition.
Healing: Machine strokes tend to heal a bit quicker and more evenly than microblading.
Longevity: Because of the deeper pigment implantation, machine strokes usually last 1.5-3 years(results may vary) before a refresh.
Which One is Right for You?
Both microblading and machine strokes offer stunning results, but your skin type, brow goals, and personal preference will help guide the decision.
If you prefer a softer, more natural look and have normal to dry skin, microblading might be your best bet.
If you have oily skin, want a more defined brow with lasting power, or prefer a slightly bolder look, machine strokes could be the way to go.
No matter which option you choose, both techniques can give you beautifully shaped brows with a natural finish. Feel free to reach out if you’re unsure which technique suits your needs, and I’ll be happy to guide you through it!
Preparing For Your Eyebrow Appointment
Before getting your PMU (permanent makeup) brows, it’s important to take proper care to ensure the best results and a smooth healing process. Here’s a friendly, easy-to-follow guide to prep your skin:
Avoid Tweezing or Waxing
For at least a week before your appointment, avoid tweezing or waxing the area around your brows. Your artist will need to see your natural brow shape to make sure the PMU design is customized perfectly for you.
Skip the Retinol & Exfoliants
Retinol, AHAs, and BHAs can thin the skin, so it’s best to avoid them for at least a week before your appointment. This will help your skin stay healthy and ensure better pigment retention.
Hydrate Your Skin
Moisturizing the skin around your brows in the days leading up to your appointment will keep the area hydrated and smooth, helping the pigment adhere better.
No Botox for Two Weeks
If you’ve had Botox, try to schedule your PMU appointment at least two weeks afterward. Botox can affect how your skin holds pigment, and it’s better to give your face time to heal.
Avoid Alcohol & Blood Thinners
For 24 hours before your appointment, avoid alcohol, caffeine, and any blood-thinning medications (like aspirin or ibuprofen). This helps reduce swelling and bleeding during the procedure, allowing the pigment to settle in better.
Plan for Aftercare
Ensure you committed to aftercare instructions, plan 7-14 days for healing.
Be Realistic About Expectations
The final result of PMU brows takes a bit of time to settle in fully, as your skin heals and the color softens. The color will look darker initially and gradually fade to your desired shade.
By following these tips, you'll help ensure that your PMU brows turn out just as stunning as you imagined. Let me know if you have any questions or need more details!
PMU Brow Aftercare: Your Guide to Beautiful, Long-Lasting Results
Taking care of your brows after a PMU (Permanent Makeup) session is essential to ensure they heal properly and look their best. Proper aftercare helps avoid infection, fading, or uneven healing, so here’s an easy-to-follow guide for keeping your brows fresh and flawless!
Keep Them Dry for the First 7-14 Days
No water on the brows: For the first week or so, avoid getting your brows wet. This means no washing your face directly over your brows or splashing water on them. Avoid swimming and sweating: Try to steer clear of activities that make you sweat (like intense workouts) or submerge your face in water (pools, saunas, hot tubs) during the initial healing phase.
Avoid Touching or Scratching
Your brows may scab or flake as they heal, but it’s crucial not to pick or scratch them! Touching or picking at the area can lead to infections, scarring, or loss of pigment.
Hands off: Resist the temptation to touch your brows, as bacteria from your hands can cause irritation or infection.
Keep Them Clean, but Gently
I provide you with a gentle, mild cleanser to clean around the brow area, being cautious not to rub or scrub. A cotton pad or swab can help you gently clean the area without irritating it.
Pat dry: After cleaning, gently pat your brows dry with a cotton round—don’t rub.
Apply Healing Ointment as Instructed
I will provide you with a healing ointment use the size of rice grain.
Apply sparingly: Use a thin layer of ointment (don’t over-apply) as directed. This will help prevent excessive dryness and help your skin heal without cracking or peeling.
Avoid Makeup on the Brows
No makeup on or near the brows for at least two weeks. This includes foundation, concealer, or brow products, as these can interfere with healing or cause infection.
Protect from the Sun
Sun exposure can fade your PMU quickly and also irritate healing skin. Avoid direct sunlight on your brows during the healing period.
After healing, wear a sunscreen on your brows whenever you’re out in the sun to prevent fading and protect your skin.
No Exfoliating or Scrubbing
Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating the brow area until fully healed. Exfoliating can cause the pigment to fade prematurely and may irritate the sensitive skin around your brows.
Avoid Certain Treatments
Facials, Botox, or laser treatments near your brows should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks after your appointment. These treatments can interfere with the healing process and cause pigment to fade or shift.
Expect Flaking and Fading
Your brows will likely go through a flaking process, which is completely normal. Do not pick at the scabs, as tempting as it may be. Let them naturally fall off.
The pigment may appear darker right after your appointment, but it will lighten as your brows heal.
Follow Up
After 6 weeks, you’ll come back to perfect your brows and ensure they heal beautifully. This session helps correct any color loss or areas that need touch-ups.
By following these steps, your brows will heal beautifully and last longer. Remember, your brows are an investment in your beauty routine, so taking the time to care for them properly will ensure you enjoy your perfect brows for years to come!
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions during the healing process!