If you’re seeking a fresh way to elevate your appearance, consider eyebrow tattoos as a viable option. With a variety of eyebrow styles to choose from, you can select the one that best suits your unique taste. This blog will delve into the diverse options of eyebrow tattoos, their longevity, the procedure itself, and essential tips for healing and post-care. If the idea of an eyebrow tattoo intrigues you, continue reading to learn more!
What Are Eyebrow Tattoos?
Eyebrow tattoos are a type of cosmetic tattooing known as permanent makeup, where pigment is implanted into the skin. This process is akin to traditional body tattoos, but eyebrow tattoos are more delicate and utilize a finer needle to mimic the appearance of natural eyebrow hairs.
There are many different styles of eyebrow tattoos, from microblading to ombre brows, so you can find the perfect look for your brows. This can be done using a variety of different techniques, including microblading, powder brows, and nano brows.
Eyebrow microblading is a technique that can enhance and define your brows, providing a long-lasting, polished appearance. Each form of semi-permanent eyebrow enhancement offers a unique outcome, utilizing various methods. What are the different varieties of semi-permanent eyebrow procedures available?
What Are The Different Types Of Permanent Eyebrows?
There exists a variety of options for eyebrow tattoos, each offering its own distinct advantages.
- Ombre Brows: Using a shading technique, ombre brows achieve a soft, powdery finish, taking inspiration from the ombre trend that transitions from light to dark. The progression of color is noticeable, starting with the lightest shade at the beginning of the brow, gradually darkening towards the arch, and reaching its darkest point at the tail. This style of eyebrow tattooing is ideal for those seeking a more natural appearance.
Ombre brows, also known as ombre powder brows, differ from powder brows in their shading technique. They are ideal for individuals with oily skin, alopecia, or large pores, making them a preferable choice over microblading.
Ombre eyebrows have a lifespan of 2 to 3 years. - Henna Brows: Using a semi-permanent makeup dye that tints the skin, Henna brows are crafted, providing a brow shading solution akin to brow tinting. This option is ideal for those seeking to experiment with a different eyebrow shape or color without committing to more permanent makeup methods like microblading or powder brows.
The remedy utilized is a natural pigment that resembles brow powder, giving the appearance of fuller brows that accentuate your facial features.
Anyone can be considered a suitable candidate for henna brows, although it is essential to be aware that individuals with dry skin may experience increased dryness due to the exfoliating properties of the process. Conversely, those with oily skin may notice a quicker fading of the henna color.
This type of eyebrow tattoo can last up to 6 weeks. - Powder Brows: Powder brows are quickly becoming the most popular form of permanent eyebrows and is the recommended method of our brow specialists at Effortless Arches. This form of eyebrow tattooing is created using a shading technique that gives the brows a soft, fluffy, powdery finish. This type of eyebrow tattoo is perfect for those who want a very natural look.
Powder brows are used with a machine and a needle with a shading and dot technique to get a makeup look. It’s also called fluffy brows as it gives the appearance of brow hairs but with a powder makeup finish. The result is effortless natural brows. Everyone is a good candidate for powder brows because it goes with any skin tone and is the most versatile eyebrow tattoo that is not invasive and is the best alternative to microbladed eyebrows.
It lasts 2-3 years. An annual touch up is recommended as the brows will fade over time and keep your desired results. - Microblading: Microshading is a form of semi-permanent eyebrow tattooing that involves the use of fine needles to implant small dots of pigment into the skin, resulting in fuller brows with a subtle makeup-like effect. This technique is similar to powder brows in that it addresses sparse areas, but the key distinction lies in the inclusion of hair strokes and the option to use either a manual tool or a machine for the procedure. Unlike powder brows, which are exclusively applied using a machine, microshading creates a softer, more diffused look that is suitable for all skin types.
This type of eyebrow tattoo can last up to 3 years. - Nano Brows Using a specific tattooing technique, Nano brows are crafted with ultra-fine needles to mimic eyebrow hairs that are thinner than those used in microblading. This method results in delicate hair-like strokes that closely resemble real hair, making it difficult to distinguish between natural hair and pigmented strokes. Nano brows are particularly beneficial for individuals lacking eyebrow hair due to conditions like alopecia or undergoing cancer treatments, as well as for those with dry to normal skin types.
The longevity of this type of eyebrow tattoo can reach up to 2 years, with an annual touch-up recommended to maintain the color vibrancy as it naturally fades over time. - Combination BrowsCombination brows also known as combo brows or hybrid brows, is a form of two different techniques used to get a traditional tattoo look. The two main techniques that are used for combo brows are microblading and microshading but sometimes powder brows are used.
This can be done with manual hand tools and machines which will insert pigment into the skin which leaves tiny, natural looking hair strokes with a little bit of a powder finish. Combo brows are great option for people with oily skin as the shading part will not blur out the hair strokes as much as microblading does.
This type of eyebrow tattoo can last up to 2 years.
How Long Does An Eyebrow Tattoo Last?
The duration of an eyebrow tattoo’s existence is determined by the method of eyebrow tattooing employed. Typically, microblading eyebrow tattoos endure for 1-2 years, while powder brows, nano brow, and combination brow tattoos can persist for 2 years.
How To Prepare For An Eyebrow Tattoo Appointment?
Before undergoing an eyebrow tattoo procedure, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and locate a reputable professional in the field of eyebrow tattooing. A skilled brow artist will provide a complimentary consultation where you can meet them, communicate your desired outcome, and receive expert advice on the most suitable eyebrow tattoo style for you. Additionally, it is essential to properly cleanse your eyebrows before your scheduled appointment.
Before your appointment you should avoid :
- eyebrow waxing or tweezing for at least 2 weeks
- sun exposure for at least 2 weeks
- using any retinoids or glycolic acids on your brows for at least 2 weeks
Is An Eyebrow Tattoo Painful?
During an eyebrow tattoo session, some individuals may feel a certain level of discomfort; however, the majority find the pain to be bearable. For those with sensitive skin, a numbing cream is typically applied to help alleviate any potential pain. It is important to take into consideration that pain sensitivity may increase during menstrual cycles. If you have an appointment for an eyebrow tattoo during this time, be aware that the procedure could be more uncomfortable, so you may want to consider rescheduling for a later date when your menstrual cycle has ended.
Eyebrow Tattoo Healing Stages
After getting an eyebrow tattoo, it is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your eyebrow tattoo artist. During the healing process, you may experience some redness, swelling, and scabbing. This is normal and part of the healing process.
The eyebrow tattoo will go through three stages during the healing process:
Stage 1: During this stage, which typically lasts for 3-5 days, the eyebrow tattoo will be slightly raised and will appear red and swollen. You may also see some scabbing. It is important to not pick at the scabs, as this can damage the eyebrow tattoo.
Stage 2: During stage 2, which typically lasts for 5-7 days, the eyebrow tattoo will start to peel and flake off. The eyebrow tattoo will also become lighter in color during this stage.
Stage 3: Stage 3 is the final stage of the healing process, and typically lasts for 7-10 days. During this stage, the eyebrow tattoo will continue to lighten in color and any residual scabbing will fall off.
After the eyebrow tattoo has finished healing, it is crucial to shield it from the sun with either sunscreen or a hat. Sun exposure can lead to premature fading of the eyebrow tattoo.
It is advisable to schedule touch-up sessions 6-8 weeks following the initial appointment to ensure proper healing and desired color outcome. Attending these sessions allows the eyebrow artist to make any necessary color adjustments and provide recommendations for achieving the final desired look.
Eyebrow Tattoo Touchup
It is crucial to adhere to the post-treatment guidelines given by your brow technician to promote proper recovery and prevent infections. Following the aftercare routine typically includes maintaining cleanliness, refraining from using cosmetics and skincare products, and applying a prescribed healing balm. It is recommended to cleanse the eyebrows gently twice daily with a mild cleanser throughout the healing phase.
Eyebrow tattoos are not recommended for people with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, autoimmune diseases, or skin disorders. If you are pregnant or nursing, you should also avoid eyebrow tattoos. In addition, eyebrow tattoos are not recommended for people who have taken Accutane in the past year.
If you don’t like your permanent eyebrows, there are a few things you can do. If it’s been less than 24 hours since your eyebrow tattoo was done, you can apply a cold compress to the area to help reduce swelling and redness. More than 24 hours, you can try using makeup to cover up the eyebrow tattoo. If you’re still not happy with the results, you can always go back to your eyebrow artist and have them make adjustments. Remember, it’s important to communicate with your eyebrow artist if you’re not happy with the results so they can make the necessary changes.
If you don’t want to keep your permanent brows you can have it removed. Go to a eyebrow removal specialist to see what type of removal process they would recommend.
To remove permanent eyebrows you can either have a saline tattoo removal or a laser tattoo removal. Saline tattoo removal is a process where the eyebrow tattoo is injected with saline solution, which then breaks up the pigment. This can be painful and may not remove all of the pigment.
Laser tattoo removal is a process where light beams are used to break up the pigment of the eyebrow tattoo. This can be expensive and may require multiple sessions.
If you are not happy with your permanent eyebrows, talk to your eyebrow tattoo artist about possible options for removal or revision.
Not all eyebrow tattoos are suitable for all skin types. If you have oily skin, you may be more likely to experience eyebrow tattoo fading. If you have dry skin, you may be more likely to experience eyebrow tattooing irritation.
Your eyebrow tattoo specialist will provide recommendations on the most suitable eyebrow tattooing technique based on your skin type. However, it’s important to note that specific eyebrow tattoo styles are more compatible with certain skin types than others.
- Dry Skin Types – Microblading, Henna, Nano Brows. Powder Brows, Ombre Brows, Microshading
- Oily Skin Types – Combo Brows, Powder Brows, Ombre Brows, Microshading
- Normal Skin Types – Powder Brows, Henna, Combo Brows, Nano Brows, Microshading, Ombre Brows
- Mature Skin Types – Powder Brows, Ombre Brows, Microshading