Brows, brows, and more brows! It seems to be the hottest trend out there right now when it comes to things we need to do to complete our look. But how do we know which process is right for us? I mean, it would be nice to wake up with beautiful brows, and it would be a HUGE timesaver when getting ready right? The art of semi-permanent brow artistry can be the answer for those who have minimal brows due to over tweezing/waxing (especially those of us from the Pamela Anderson days), uneven shapes and color, gaps or scars, or just simply to enhance what you already have. As long as you can find an experienced permanent makeup practitioner who has skills in a variety of permanent makeup application techniques, this could be one of your best beauty decisions ever!

Let’s break it down in laymen’s terms for you:

Microblading - Completed with a hand-held tool; is a relatively new technique where a very fine blade is used to deposit pigments into the epidermis while creating simulated hair strokes that appear crisp and very fine. The results are natural, fuller looking brows but will fade in the first two weeks after application, so you will want to go back for the touch up; usually 4 – 6 weeks later. Microblading can last 12 months to three years depending on a variety of factors that can affect the duration (sun exposure, skin type, sweating, etc). Not everyone is a candidate for microblading so be sure to talk to the practitioner about things like eczema, psoriasis, oily skin, rosacea, and other skin conditions. The cost can vary depending on your location and the level of expertise of who is doing them. Plan on anywhere between $350 to $800 but most importantly, make sure you choose someone who has experience and is reputable.  

Soft Tap – Also known as Powder Brows is completed with a hand-held tool; a little less invasive than microblading. This technique may be ideal for someone who has a fair amount of brows but wants to achieve a light penciled-in look.  Brows look dark and solid immediately after the procedure, heals soft and natural looking with some areas lighter and some darker creating a very natural multi-dimensional look; 25% to 50% lighter after healing. Pigment is tapped into the skin creating a softer look resembling powdered brows; most require two sessions. SofTap® is the brand name and trademark for SofTap® Inc., the permanent makeup supplier company offering the highest quality education, hypoallergenic pigments, and 100% disposable SofTap® hand tools to permanent cosmetic professionals. Some brow practitioners claim that this method can last 1 – 5 years! The cost is similar to microblading and can vary between $300 to $700.

There are so many opinions on which one is better but ultimately, each technique can be right for one person and not right for another. There are plenty of videos and images of before and after’s that you can find, but the best way to determine the right option for you is to get a consultation (or two, or three) and let a professional help you decide.