Micropigmentation – Machine v Microblading

Micropigmentation – Machine v Microblading?   There is a lot of confusion around micropigmentation treatments. I thought I’d take the opportunity to explain the differences.

There are so many different names for what is essentially all micropigmentation.  ‘Micropigmentation’ refers to methods that involve implanting pigment into the skin with the use of specialist micro needles.  These needles can be hand held or machine and come in many different needle configurations, depending on the treatment.

Firstly, I’ll start by saying that I offer machine based micropigmentation and not microblading.  There are pro’s and cons to each, but I’ll explain why I don’t offer micro later in this article.

Microblading

This method involves implanting pigment into the skin with the use of a hand held tool. Essentially, the Technician creates ultra fine slices in the skin and implants pigment into these micro cuts. Microblading used to be the best option for those that wanted to have the illusion of ultra fine ‘fluffy’ hair strokes.  However, the needles for machines have advanced so much in recent years, that you can now create equally fluffy  hair strokes with a machine.  That said, there are some beautifully fluffy microbladed brows around!   Microblading will need more regular touch ups, as less pigment is implanted at a more shallow level.  You should also be aware that microblading can cause scar tissue, as the surface layers of the skin are being traumatised by the slicing. Over multiple treatments, it’s not unusual to see a build up of scar tissue.

Microblading isn’t for everyone, some skin types are not suitable for treatment. I wouldn’t recommend this treatment for oily or mature skins.

Machine Brows 

Machine brows are carried out with the use of a specialist machine that has been designed for permanent makeup treatments. The machines used differ from traditional tattoo machines and most use specialist membrane cartridges to ensure there is no risk of cross contamination.  Machine method implants pigment slightly deeper than the microblading, therefore requiring less frequent touch ups. The machine is also implanting pigment, so there is no slicing of the surface layers of the skin during the treatment, which ensures that the integrity of the skin remains in tact and does not create scar tissue (when carried out correctly!).   There are now an absolute array of needle choices, allowing machine Technicians to achieve many different styles. From ultra fine hair strokes through to a ‘barely there’ powder brow – the options are pretty much limitless these days!

Machine brows are suitable for most clients, save for contraindications.  Certain styles may not be suitable for you, but your Technician will explain your options to you at a consultation.  Hair stroke brows tend not to hold very well for oily skin, alopecia totallis and thin, mature skin, for example.

Both of these methods involve using specially formulated pigments for permanent makeup. These are not the same as traditional tattoo inks. A pigment will be carefully selected for you at your treatment, ensuring that it’s suitable for your skin tone, hair colouring and the style that you’d like to achieve.  The pigments are designed to fade and leave the skin over time – I know some clients wish this wasn’t the case, but it is really important. Our skin tone, face shapes and styles change over the years, usually with our skin cooling as we mature and gravity taking hold! As the pigments fade out, it allows us as Technicians to be able to adapt the colour and style as you mature – your beautiful bold brows from your 30’s might not look so appropriate in your 60’s!

So to answer the question Micropigmentation – Machine v Microblading?

Well the choice really is yours, I’d recommend researching any Technician and going along to meet them first.  There are pro’s and con’s to every treatment, so it’s about making an informed decision.

The reason that I trained in the machine method is first and foremost, because it doesn’t create scar tissue.  As I specialise in treatments for scars and burns, it felt morally wrong to offer a treatment that was creating scarring for my clients!  It’s not just that though – I love that I can create many different styles with my machine and I can offer my services to a wide variety of clients because of this.

So my parting advice is to RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH your options and your Technician! If you have any questions the please feel free to get in touch, or click HERE to read more about my machine brow treatments.