Is Micropigmentation Better Than Microblading?

There are several differences between micropigmentation and microblading.

Micropigmentation and microblading are both popular semi-permanent makeup treatments performed by a professional. Micropigmentation delivers pigment deeper into the skin compared to microblading. The results of micropigmentation last twice as long as microblading.  So, while it is still a semi-permanent technique, the results last much longer. Microblading is usually done to enhance the eyebrows and lasts for an average of 1 to 1.5 years. Micropigmentation can be done for the eyebrows, other parts of the face or body and the scalp. It lasts for an average of 3 years.

The results of both micropigmentation and microblading are cosmetically satisfactory and they are safe procedures. However, microblading is a relatively safer technique. This is because, in microblading, the pigment is only deposited in the superficial layers whereas in micropigmentation the pigmentation is deposited into the deeper layers of the skin. There is also a higher risk of an allergic reaction to the pigment and infection with permanent makeup. In microblading, the pigments used are much safer. Both procedures can result in pain, swelling, redness, bruising and scabbing after the treatment, which usually resolves in a week. Since microblading doesn’t last as long as micropigmentation, first timers may try microblading initially to get a feel for the new eyebrows before going in for a longer lasting procedure.

Microblading is a noninvasive technique that uses a fine needle pen to deposit pigment into the superficial layers of the skin. It is typically used to enhance the appearance of eyebrows in those who have very thin eyebrows or who lose eyebrows due to medical conditions or aging, which creates cosmetic concerns. The tip of the needle is so fine that the hair strokes created by it look like real hair. The patient experiences mild pain, which is similar to getting a tattoo. A numbing cream can be applied before the procedure to minimize pain.

A touch-up is usually required a month after the initial treatment. The pigment can last anywhere between 1 to 3 years, but it may start fading after 1.5 years. Using skin exfoliating agents like retinol, glycolic or salicylic acid over the eyebrows may hasten fading.

Micropigmentation is sometimes referred to as semi-permanent makeup. It is also a noninvasive semi-permanent makeup treatment. It may be performed to enhance the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, eyelids for eyeliner and lips (to color correct). Micropigmentation can also be used to camouflage or improve the appearance of scars, even out skin tone and restore color to areas of skin that have lost color because of conditions like vitiligo. It reduces the time spent on applying makeup and, in the long run, it reduces the cost of buying makeup. Microblading is typically done using a manual blade while micropigmentation is performed using a tattoo device to deliver pigment into the deeper layers of the skin. Micropigmentation has the option of natural colors.

Micropigmentation may be used for the following

• Minimizing the appearance of scars
• To replace hair in cases of thinning hair or baldness
• To enhance the appearance of eyebrows, replace the loss of eyebrows due to aging or medical conditions
• To camouflage depigmentation (lack of color) of the skin due to vitiligo
• To recreate an areola (the pigmented area around the nipple) following breast surgery
• As semi-permanent makeup (eyeliner, lip color, semi-permanent foundation)

In permanent tattoos, the carbon ingredient in the color causes the pigment to get oxidized over time and the color may appear different. In semi-permanent makeup, there is iron oxide, which does not cause a change in color but causes the pigment to fade over time. Micropigmentation usually lasts about 3 years, which is considerably longer than microblading.