Microblading is a popular eyebrow enhancement technique that improves the shape, definition, and thickness of the brows.
However, if you’re new to microblading you might be wondering: What is better an eyebrow tattoo or microblading?
In this article, I will cover some key information about eyebrow tattoos and microblading, including the differences between the two and which is better.
Keep reading to find out more.
Eyebrow enhancement techniques have become increasingly popular over the last few years, with people opting for microblading, eyebrow tattoos, and most recently brow lamination for a fuller brow look.
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What is the difference between eyebrow tattoo and microblading?
Tattoo ink vs microblade pigment
Tattoo ink differs from microblade pigment in the way that it fades over time. Tattoo ink is notorious for developing a blue-green colored tint as it fades, especially around the edges of the tattoo.
Black tattoo ink is renowned for turning blue or green, as the red pigments that keep it dark fade faster. As your eyebrows frame your face, if the ink fades then there’s no hiding the fact that your eyebrows will appear blue.
Microblading pigments, on the other hand, come in organic or inorganic varieties and in a range of several colors. This makes it a much more natural choice, as it can be seamlessly blended into your natural brows.
As microblading ink slowly fades it does get lighter, but the tone stays the same. You won’t have to worry about blue ink on your eyebrows!
Permanent vs semi permanent
The most significant difference between microblading and eyebrow tattoos is the longevity of the results each provides. Eyebrow tattoos are permanent.
Once the ink is tattooed onto the skin it is there for life, whereas microblading typically lasts around 6 months to a year. However, while tattooing is permanent, the colors may fade and lines may blur over time.
Needling vs blading
Eyebrow tattooing is done with a machine with needles that penetrate deeply into the skin, making eyebrow tattoos generally more painful than microblading.
In addition to this, the depth of the punctures encourages the use of more ink than needed, which causes color to bleed into the surrounding area.
Microblading is done with a hand tool which cuts only into the uppermost layer of the skin. The process, then, is less painful than tattooing, and also causes less damage to the skin, resulting in a quicker recovery process.
Natural v filled brows
Trained microblading artists are skilled at hand-drawing fine lines which mimic the natural look and shape of each individual eyebrow hair.
These lines blend in with your natural eyebrows to create a look that’s often indistinguishable from the real thing.
Even highly-trained tattoo artists find it difficult to achieve the fine lines of microblading with a tattoo gun. This primarily comes down to the fact that tattooing doesn’t lend itself to the same precise technique.
Tattooed brows, therefore, often have more of a solid look, and appear as brow filler as opposed to imitating natural brow hairs.
So eyebrow tattoo’s or microblading?
The answer to this question depends on a few things, but it mainly comes down to your budget and the look that you’re going for.
In terms of price, tattooing eyebrows tends to be less expensive than microblading. While microblading can cost from anywhere between $700 and $800 per treatment depending on the studio, eyebrow tattooing is usually cheaper.
In addition, there’s also less maintenance, as tattoos are permanent, meaning you can save more money.
However, the issue with eyebrow tattooing is that once you’ve committed to the shape and they’re tattooed on your face, you can’t change your mind.
As brows go through different trends in society, you might find it frustrating not being able to change your shape as you wish in the future.
In addition, if the tattoo ink fades to green/blue, you could be left feeling more self-conscious than you did about your brows in the first place.
The microblading technique creates individual hair-like strokes that are identical to the hair growth pattern of the surrounding eyebrow hair. Microblading creates a more natural end result compared to eyebrow tattooing, which results in brows that appear drawn on and flat.
Some people might find the maintenance of microblading expensive. However, knowing that microblading is only semi permanent and that the treatment only lasts for a year or so significantly outweighs the permanency of getting your eyebrows tattooed on.
Giving yourself the room to change your mind is important, especially if you’re in any way doubting the process. After all, you’re only human!
Whichever treatment you decide to opt for, make sure that you research the artist before you commit to letting them do your brows. While microblading is only semi permanent, you still need to like the shape for a significant amount of time.
Tattooing, on the other hand, is permanent and you will need to like the shape for the rest of your life!
Always ask to see an artist’s portfolio of work before you book in for a consultation to discuss your eyebrows. In addition to this, make sure that you look at customer reviews before going ahead with either treatment.
In summary
Both microblading and eyebrow tattooing have their positives and negatives. In my opinion, microblading offers a more natural result and would be the preferable choice as it provides you the flexibility of being semi permanent.
Your brows will fade over time if you don’t like the look of them, meaning that you’re free to make a different choice in the future. Eyebrow tattooing, however, is permanent and can leave you with blue eyebrows that you won’t be able to hide.
However, the choice is up to your personal preference. It’s important to do as much research as you can and go from there. Once you’ve made your decision, select a technician that specializes in microblading, or a tattoo artist that focuses specifically on eyebrows and permanent make-up.
Kaija has been in the beauty industry for over ten years, with certification in Microblading. She has also been certified to do permanent makeup and brow lamination for five years.
She recently ventured out and got certified in lash extensions, lifts, and tints. Kaija strives to make her clients feel beautiful and enjoys sharing her beauty tips and tricks with those wanting to learn the ins and outs of the ever-changing beauty industry.