Does Microblading Really Affect Hair Growth or Regrowth with Alopecia

Understanding Microblading and Hair Growth

Microblading has become an increasingly popular semi-permanent makeup technique for enhancing eyebrows. It involves using a handheld tool with ultra fine needles to deposit pigment into the upper layers of skin. Many people with thinning brows or complete hair loss in the brow area due to medical conditions like alopecia find microblading beneficial for improving the appearance of their brows.

What is Microblading Exactly?

Unlike eyebrow tattoos, microblading does not go as deep into the skin. The results are meant to mimic the effect of real hair strokes with a softer, more natural look. A trained esthetician carefully implants featherweight strokes of medical grade pigment just beneath the surface of the skin. The whole process typically lasts between 60-90 minutes.

The results fade within 18 months on average and require periodic touch ups to maintain the desired look. Microblading does not leave permanent pigmentation the way a regular tattoo does because it only deposits color into the top few layers of skin which are constantly shedding and renewing.

Hair Regeneration and Microblading

Since microblading pigment only reaches the upper dermis, it does not damage any hair follicles or disrupt normal hair regrowth. In fact, the microneedles gently poke into existing vellus hairs and never reach the actual roots.

Vellus hair is the fine, wispy almost invisible hair most commonly found on the face in adults. The microblading needles simply move these wispy hairs temporarily out of the way so the pigment can be implanted into the top layer of skin underneath. The wispy hairs then settle back into their original positions covering up the microblading pigment beneath them.

Is Microblading Safe For People with Alopecia?

Microblading is considered extremely safe for those with any type of alopecia. Since there is no actual hair regrowth involved, microblading cannot interfere with the condition or make alopecia worse in any way. The microscopic needles only reach the uppermost layers of skin and cannot damage any existing hair follicles or impact future hair growth.

Are Results Less Permanent in People with Alopecia?

Its a common myth that microblading results will fade faster or be less permanent for those with alopecia. However, several large studies have proven this is simply not true. The longevity of results depends almost entirely on the skill level of the technician and the quality of pigments used rather than any client factors.

In one study, people with alopecia were just as satisfied with their microblading results over time compared to control groups. Fading typically began between 12-18 months and lasted on average between 18-24 months total before needing a touch up.

Reducing Risk of Infection

The only extra precaution needed for microblading clients with alopecia is taking steps to reduce infection risk. Areas of skin that lack hair growth have fewer oil glands. This can leave the skin drier and slightly more prone to micro-tears during microblading.

However, experienced estheticians account for this by adjusting their technique. Using sterile equipment, quality pigments, proper skin prep and quality aftercare products make risks negligible for most.

What About Lash or Scalp Micropigmentation?

Along with microblading, lash enhancement and scalp micropigmentation are two other semi-permanent makeup options sometimes used cosmetically by those with alopecia. All three procedures work essentially the same way - by implanting tiny amounts of inert mineral-based pigment into the upper dermal layer of skin.

Eyelash Enhancement

For eyelash enhancement, a trained permanent makeup artist implants pigment along the lash line using a handheld micro-needling tool. Some compare the look to having semi-permanent eyeliner tattooed along the lashes. It helps create the illusion of darker, fuller eyelashes especially once mascara is applied on top.

Lash enhancement does not affect actual hair follicles either. As with brows, the micro-needling pigment goes only into the epidermis where it eventually fades within 1-3 years. Periodic touch ups can maintain the results long term if desired.

Scalp Micropigmentation for the Appearance of Hair

Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is another advanced cosmetic tattoo technique. It deposits pigment into the scalp strategically so it looks like real shaved hair follicles. It works best for those who keep their head shaved since the illusion of hair stubs gets disrupted once any real hair starts growing back in.

The needles only reach the upper dermis so SMP cannot stimulate new hair growth. However, it also does not interfere with existing follicles or impact the hair regrowth cycle in any way. For this reason, it is considered very safe for all types of hair loss including alopecia.

Should I Get Microblading or SMP for Alopecia?

Deciding whether microblading or scalp micropigmentation is best suited for alopecia depends on your desired outcome. Do you want to recreate the look of real eyebrows, eyelashes or scalp hair stubble?

For recreating brows - microblading is preferable to getting an SMP brow tattoo. The hairstroke technique makes brows look more realistic. SMP works better for achieving the look of a cropped hairline or the appearance of stubble across the scalp or parts of the face.

Combination Treatments

You can also opt for combination treatments to boost efficacy. Many get ongoing scalp micropigmentation to mimic the look of buzzed hair coupled with microblading to recreate fuller brows. Others choose just eyelash enhancement pigment or pair this with microbladed brows too.

A reputable permanent makeup provider can advise on best options for your unique needs and desired outcome.

Trying Semi-Permanent Cosmetics First

If unsure about any permanent or semi-permanent hair simulation option, trying temporary cosmetic products first lets you preview potential results.

For example, colored brow gels and powders, brow stenciling kits and scalp powder fibers can all mimic thicker hair temporarily without needles involved.

If happy with the temporary effects, you can then consider longer lasting solutions like microblading, SMP or lash enhancement pigments.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.