Avoiding Microblading Mistakes: Technician Vetting, Aftercare & Safer Brow Options

Understanding the Risks and Avoiding Microblading Disasters

Microblading has become an extremely popular semi-permanent makeup technique for enhancing eyebrows. However, when not done properly, microblading can go terribly wrong and cause permanent damage. Understanding the risks and finding an experienced, qualified technician is crucial for avoiding microblading mistakes.

What is Microblading?

Microblading is a cosmetic tattooing technique where a handheld tool with microfine needles is used to deposit pigment into the upper layers of skin. This creates hair-like strokes that mimic natural eyebrow hairs. The results can create beautifully shaped, symmetrical brows with excellent definition when done correctly.

Unlike standard tattooing equipment, the microblading tool only penetrates the epidermis, not the deeper dermis layer. This means results last around 1-3 years as skin naturally exfoliates. Multiple maintenance touch-up sessions are needed to keep brows looking fresh as pigment fades.

Benefits of Microblading

There are several benefits that make microblading an appealing eyebrow enhancement option:

• Can create natural, fuller-looking brows
• Semi-permanent results last 1-3 years
• No daily filling in brows with makeup
• Fixes uneven, over-plucked, or patchy brows
• Works for all hair colors and skin types
• Minimally invasive with little downtime

However, while microblading offers many perks when done correctly, the risks of permanent damage from mistakes are very real.

Risks and Dangers of Microblading Gone Wrong

Several risks and complications can occur when microblading is not performed safely and properly by a skilled technician:

Infection

One of the biggest risks is infection, as microblading penetrates skin and could introduce bacteria. Common infections from unhygienic microblading include staph, MRSA, herpes, hepatitis, and HIV if equipment is contaminated.

Scarring

Microblading needles penetrating the skin at improper depths and angles can potentially cause scarring. Scars may appear raised and develop a white halo, marring the appearance of brows.

Allergic Reactions

Pigments used for microblading can cause allergic reactions in some people resulting in itching, swelling, burning, and chronic rashes. Red pigments are common allergens.

Granulomas

Granulomas, raised bumps under the skin, can form if the body rejects pigment particles as foreign matter. This leads to an immune response to isolate the material.

Stroke

A rare but serious risk is an arterial embolism stroke if done incorrectly. Pigment particles could enter arteries and travel to the brain, blocking blood flow.

Incorrect Shape/Placement

Microblading requires great skill to shape brows in proper alignment and proportion to facial features. Inexperienced technicians often create brows unevenly, too close together, arched too high, or oddly angled.

Artificial Looking Results

Choosing poor techniques or colors results in brows appearing too thick, dark, solid, and obviously artificial. This defeats the purpose of microblading for natural enhancement.

While most common microblading mistakes involve poor execution, sometimes the brows turn out badly due to factors beyond the technician's control.

Fading/Discoloration

On some skin types, microblading pigment can fade unevenly or change to unflattering colors over time as it breaks down in the skin, skewing the original results.

Hair Loss

If a person loses eyebrow hair from medication, thyroid issues, stress, or aging after getting microblading, the inked strokes may no longer blend believably with real hairs.

In inexperienced hands, microblading carries risks of serious complications. However, the chances of disaster happening are drastically reduced by selecting an excellent technician.

Choosing a Reputable Microblading Artist

Doing thorough research when choosing a microblading professional is crucial for safe, beautiful results. Here are the top factors to evaluate:

Training and Certification

Make sure the technician completed comprehensive microblading training and apprenticeships, not a quick certification. They should have an active license from the local health department to perform body art.

Portfolio Reviews

Evaluate their portfolio and before/after photos to ensure consistently excellent results on brows with similar features to yours.

Experience Level

Choose an experienced technician who has performed hundreds of microblading procedures, not a newcomer still perfecting their skills.

Client Reviews

Read online reviews from actual clients and ask to contact references to learn about others experiences.

Clean Workspace

Visit the workspace in person to verify pristine sanitation practices are followed and disposable needles are used to prevent infection risks.

Avoid Bargains

Steer clear of deals that seem too good to be true. Quality microblading work deserves fair compensation for the technicians time and skill.

Listen to Your Gut

Make sure you feel completely comfortable with the technician before allowing them to permanently alter your brows.

Taking these steps helps minimize chances of microblading catastrophes.

What to Do if Microblading Goes Wrong

Despite choosing a reputable artist, some clients may still have less than ideal microblading outcomes. Here are ways to address common post-microblading problems:

Uneven Shape

Schedule a touch up session to correct any unevenness in arch, shape, or thickness. Additional strokes can be added to problem spots.

Pigment Too Dark

If brows look far too overfilled, the artist can go over the area to lighten pigment by removing some ink with sterile saline.

Allergic Reaction

See a doctor immediately if irritation or swelling occurs. Topical hydrocortisone and antihistamines provide relief. Further laser removal may be required.

Scarring

Apply a gentle exfoliant like retinol cream to help diminish scarring over time. Silicone sheets, cortisone injections, or laser scar removal are other remedies.

Infection

An infected microblading site should be examined by a physician immediately to obtain antibiotics or antivirals if warranted.

Unsatisfactory Shape/Color

Schedule more touch up sessions with the original artist if available. Otherwise laser removal and later re-microblading with a new technician can potentially salvage brows.

If microblading results do not meet expectations, remain calm and avoid trying quick fixes at home. Be patient and consult the original professional first before exploring other corrective options.

How to Care for Brows After Microblading

Proper aftercare is vital for avoiding microblading problems as the skin heals. Follow these tips:

• Avoid getting brows wet for 10-14 days.
• Use gentle cleanser and apply aftercare ointment as directed.
• No makeup, sun, tanning, facials, peels, or sweat for 2 weeks.
• Do not scratch or pick at dry skin.
• Avoid chemical hair removal or eyebrows for 4 weeks.
• Schedule all follow up touch up visits as needed.

Closely following aftercare instructions reduces chances of infections, poor healing, pigment loss, and other complications after microblading.

Microblading Alternatives for Beautiful Brows

If the risks of microblading seem too concerning, consider these safer options for boosted brow beauty:

Brow Tinting

Brow tinting adds natural-looking color and definition that lasts 4-6 weeks. Ammonia-free vegetable-based tints cause little sensitivity.

Brow Lamination

Brow lamination uses keratin to straighten and set brows in place for 6-8 weeks. No tint is required after for fullness.

Brow Extensions

Individual synthetic hair extensions are adhered to add fullness that lasts around 6 weeks before needing a fill. Zero pigment is deposited.

Regular Brow Pencil/Powder

For the most control, carefully filling brows daily with brow makeup allows easy adjustments as hair growth changes over time.

Avoid Microblading Disasters by Making Wise Choices

Microblading can elevate brows when performed skillfully, but carries risks of permanent damage if errors occur. Prevent microblading catastrophes by thoroughly researching technicians, following proper aftercare, and exploring safer brow enhancing alternatives. With vigilant decision making, your dream brows can be achieved.

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.