What's the difference between microblading and microshading?

Some people confuse microblading with microshading and blade and shade. Although these procedures can enhance your eyebrows, they are entirely different in nature.

Difference between microblading and microshading

  • By applying tiny dots of pigment, microshading creates the look of powdered eyebrows.
  • Microblading involves applying pigment beneath the skin with a bladed needle. The technician uses hair-like strokes to fill your eyebrows to mimic natural eyebrow hair.

Advantages of microshading

  • It looks like eyebrow powder.
  • It makes eyebrows thicker and fuller.
  • Suitable for all skin types especially oily or sensitive skin.

Disadvantages of microshading

  • This is a semi-permanent procedure that lasts for 2 years or so
  • Insurance does not cover
  • There is mild discomfort and discoloration may appear after some time

Advantages of microblading

  • Strokes that resemble hair provide the illusion that they are real.
  • It fills and shapes your natural eyebrows.
  • It is perfect for dry skin.
  • The finish is lighter and natural 

Disadvantages of microblading

  • The semi-permanent implants only last 6 to 12 months
  • Insurance does not cover
  • It is mildly uncomfortable and can cause scarring.

What are the average microblading costs?

The average cost of a microblading session is about $300 to $800. It is important to note that rates that are substantially less than this range may indicate poor quality, so do your research. It is also dependent on location as in some areas like California you would need to account for the cost of living.

After knowing the  microblading costs, you may want to know about  microshading costs. Please read on.

What are the average  microshading costs?

Microshading costs, on average, just under $300 – $500, to be exact. Many different artists offer this treatment so you may find the prices ranging from $300 to $1000.

After knowing microshading and microblading costs, you may want to know more about that. Below are more details that you are interested in.

Is microshading painful?

There will be some discomfort – more than when you tweeze or wax, but less than when you get a tattoo. A numbing cream will apply to your eyebrows before the procedure begins.

If the numbing cream wears off, your brows will be sore. An anti-inflammatory drug such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation.

How long do Microshading and Microblading eyebrows last?

After knowing microshading and  microblading costs, you may want to know how long these procedures last.

So, the answer for microshading is about three years while for microblading is 18-30 months .

Compared to the time it takes for microshading, the procedure is relatively short. It lasts about three years after microshading. Although, you probably won’t stick to that style for as long as you would like. In any case, your eyebrows won’t turn green after a while, even if this is the case.

Is Microshading better than microblading?

If you have sparse brows, microshading is the best option, and microblading is better if you already have brows but want to fill in sparse areas. Microblading is the best option if you prefer a more natural look. Microshading is the best way to achieve a light makeup look.

What’s a microshading procedure like?

It takes two sessions to perform microshading. Initial consultations sometimes combined with the initial application, and the second application is the perfecting application.

The First session

In your session’s first part, your makeup artist will measure your face and determine the ideal shape for your eyebrows. You may bring a picture of the look you want.

You and your technician will agree on a shape, and your technician will:

  • Using a pencil, trace the eyebrow shapes.
  • Remove the hair outside the shape.
  • Choose the right pigment color for your eyebrows.

It takes about 3 hours to complete the first session.

You will see darker eyebrows for up to five days after the procedure. Your eyebrows will gradually lighten as they heal.

Within about four weeks, your brows will be the same colour as your natural brows.

The Second session

Approximately eight weeks after your first session, you will return for your second. During this session, you will refine your technique.

As part of this appointment, your makeup artist will adjust the brow shape and thickness if needed.

About 2 hours and a half passed in the second session.

Are there any side effects?

Complications can arise with microshading, but it is generally safe.

It involves applying ink to the upper dermal layer of skin. A needle that penetrates deeper than this layer of skin can cause injury.

Symptoms of skin irritation may also occur after the procedure, such as:

  • itchiness
  • swelling
  • redness

The numbing cream or tattoo ink can also cause a reaction, not to mention the risk of infection from blood-borne pathogens.

You should see a doctor if you develop any of the following symptoms of skin infection:

  • increased pain
  • swelling
  • blistering

Conclusion

Creating thicker, fuller brows with microshading is a great way to achieve a powdered look. There are, however, some risks to the procedure.

What you can expect from the procedure and how it works should be understood.

If you plan to have cosmetic tattooing, be sure to hire a technician with many experience and training.