Powder Brows
Powder Brows vs. Microblading: Key Differences
One of the most popular permanent eyebrow treatments are powder brows. However, the popularity of microblading eyebrows doesn’t seem to fade, neither. It developed a few variations and upgraded versions. Therefore, you can choose the treatment that suits your skin type best.
Let’s take a look at the differences between microblading and powder brows in order to understand the treatments better – who are they for, the technique they use, the effects and more.
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What are Powder Brows?
Powder eyebrows are a semi-permanent makeup technique that consists of the pigment insertion into the surface layers of the skin using ‘dotting’ technique. The artist uses specialised tools to create a misty, powdery effect on client’s brows.The procedure consists of the initial insertion of the pigment, and a touch-up that takes place a couple of weeks after the initial procedure.
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What is Microblading?
Microblading eyebrows is another semi-permanent makeup treatment that referes to a pigment insertion into the formerly delicately created scratches on the client’s skin. It’s done by using a tool which looks like a blade consisting of number of tiny needles. The results are thicker, fuller and more natural looking brows. As with powder brows, after initial appointment, there is a following touch-up couple of weeks later.
Want to find out more about microblading? Follow the links:
What Powder Brows and Microblading Have in Common?
What these two treatments have in common is that they are both semi-permanent. This means that they fade away after some time and the treatment needs to be repeated. Both treatments usually last form 1-3 years depending on your skin type, lifestyle, cosmetic products you use etc.
Both powder brows and microblading include inserting pigment into the surface layer of the skin. With traditional tattoo, which is permanent, inserting is performed into a deeper layer of the skin. That is why it lasts much longer, but it does not look as natural as with powder brows and microblading.
What is the Biggest Difference Between Powder Brows and Microblading?
The main difference between these two procedures is the way they are done. With microblading, micro incisions are made manually. A hand tool is dipped into pigment and applied into the epidermal layer of the skin as individual hair stroked. These hair strokes resemble eyebrow hairs.
Powder brows are done differently. A hand tool can be used, but it is more often done with a machine. Powder brows treatment resembles brow tattooing since it involves the application of thousands of tiny dots of pigment, inserted into the skin. The tail of the brow is darker than the head.
When compared, techniques give different results. Microblading gives individual hair strokes, while powder brows result in a soft and powdery makeup look.
Which Procedure is Less Painful?
Both procedures are a little bit uncomfortable, but not painful. A numbing cream is applied onto the area that is about to be treated and you will probably not feel any pain.
Microblading can be a little more unpleasant than powder brows because the incisions are made and there might be some blood.
Which Procedure Takes More Time to Heal?
Healing time and process is also quite similar. They both take 4-6 weeks to completely heal.
Your brows will be dark and swollen after the procedure. Then you need to follow strict aftercare rules for two weeks. Your brows will change color and scabbing is usually involved after both treatments. Unlike microblading scabs that fall off in patches, powder brows scab in one big (or a few big) pieces.
Which Procedure Lasts Longer?
The life expectancy of microblading treatment and its variations is 1-3 years. It is said that powder brows last a little bit longer than microblading. Average microblading lasts around 2 years, while powder brows can last three, and even up to four years.
The longevity of both microblading and powder brows depends on your skin type, as well as your lifestyle and everyday routine. If you do some sport, sweat a lot and are exposed to the sun very often, your microblading/powder brow will fade faster. You can prolong both brow’s effects by booking regular touch ups.
Which Treatment is Cheaper?
There is no much difference in price, but let’s say that microblading is slightly cheaper. The average price of microblading is $400, while it is $500 for powder brows. The price varies and it depends on different factors such as location, the popularity of a salon or an artist, material used etc.
The price should not be the thing that will help you choose the treatment for you. You should consider your skin type and your preferences before you decide for either microblading or powder brows.
For a comprehensive treatment’s cost overview visit Powder brows cost guide and Microblading cost guide.
How Often Do I Need to Have Touch Ups?
Since microblading fades faster, touch ups should be done every six months. With powder brows, you can have touch ups every eight months.
The frequency of touch up varies and depends on how fast your brows fade. Fading depends on your lifestyle and skin type. So, for example, people with dry skin, who don’t sweat a lot might need a touch up once a year.
How Do I Choose Between Microblading and Powder Brows?
Before choosing the treatment, consider the following things:
- Your skin type – people with dry skin are perfect candidates for microblading. The hair strokes really look good and precise on dry skin. Powder brows are recommended for people with oily skin. It will last longer and look better than microblading.
- Your eyebrows – if your eyebrows are thin and patchy, you should go for microblading. It will add natural-looking hair strokes and make your eyebrows thicker and more outstanding. If you already have hair, but want fuller brows, choose powder brows treatment. This is for people who already fill in their brows with a pencil and like that makeup look.
- Your preferences – do you like natural look or you are a fan of makeup look? If you want your brows to look as natural as possible, microblading should be your choice. If you want dense and thick eyebrows to complete your makeup look, choose powder brows.
- Your lifestyle – if you wear makeup everyday, powder brows will perfectly match the look. Also, if you sweat a lot and are exposed to the sun, your brows might fade faster. Therefore, you might one to choose powder brows since they last longer.
If you are still not sure which treatment is right for you, talk with your artist. They will know what to recommend and what suits you best.
Is Microblading Better Than Powder Brows?
Microblading is a little bit more popular than powder brows because it gives more natural results. Natural makeup is quite popular recently, so microblading has a lot of admirers.
However, the powder brows treatment has its fans, too. It cannot be said that one is better than another. It is just a matter of personal preference and taste.
Can Microblading and Powder Brows Be Combined?
Yes, microblading and powder brows can be combined and it is called combo brows. Combo brows are perfect for people who want denser, more defined brows. It is done with a combination of the manual tool and the machine and suitable for all skin types.
MAIN TAKEAWAYS
Both microblading and powder brows are great solutions for having perfect low-maintenance brows every day. If you are still not sure which one to choose, carefully study your options and consult an expert.
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