Grooming our eyebrows runs the gauntlet of the body-modification spectrum. We tint them, tweeze them and even tattoo them. But similar to permanent lip liner, inking your face doesn’t always give you the most natural-looking result. And it doesn’t matter whether you like your brows straight and bold or arched and feathered, your eyebrows are an important facial feature. If you’re not happy with the ones you currently have, there are a lot of ways to update them, including brow pencils, tattooing and microblading.

If you’re not familiar with the microblading, you need to know that it’s nothing like the Sharpie-esque result you get with permanent makeup. Microblading involves trompe l’oeil strokes that look exactly like real hairs. Microblading is the perfect choice for those who want to fully define, cover gaps or reconstruct eyebrows that have fallen victim to a pair of overzealous tweezers. Microblading is also a good option for those who just want to add a slight arch to their brows.

How does microblading work?

During the microblading technique, a special microblading pen is used to draw individual strokes one by one. Since it’s a meticulous process, it usually takes around two hours to complete. The first part of the process involves the technician drawing the desired shape with a removable pencil. It’s during this time that you can customize your eyebrows.Before the microblading procedure begins, a local anesthetic is applied to the brow area to minimize discomfort.

How is it different from eyebrow tattooing?

Microblading involves implanting pigment into the membrane that divides dermis from the epidermis to create fuller eyebrows. Eyebrow tattooing is performed with a motorized device and microblading is done using a pen. Furthermore, microblading artists use pigment to create your dream brow. Pigment has a much thicker consistency than ink. Results from microblading typically last between one and five years before it starts to fade. Naturally, as the pigment exfoliates off of the skin, the pigment will lighten.

What is the recovery period?

The best part of the process is that there is no downtime. You can show off your new brows on Instagram immediately following the procedure. Your technician will tell you when you need to return for a follow-up visit. Unlike eyebrow extensions, microblading is extremely low maintenance. You should avoid rubbing your eyebrow area for at least seven days after your procedure. Following the recovery period, you can follow your usual cleansing routine and even go swimming with your new brows.