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Microblading FAQs: 50+ Questions Answered

Microblading FAQs: 50+ Questions Answered

Considering microblading? Get expert answers to 50+ common questions about cost, pain, healing, safety, results, and maintenance.

Microblading FAQs: 50+ Questions Answered

Considering microblading? You probably have questions—lots of them! This comprehensive FAQ guide answers the most common (and some uncommon) questions about microblading, from basics to specific concerns.

General Microblading Questions

What exactly is microblading?

Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic tattooing technique that uses a manual handheld tool with tiny needles to create hair-like strokes in the eyebrow area. Pigment is deposited into the upper layers of skin, creating the appearance of natural eyebrow hairs. Unlike traditional tattooing, microblading is superficial and semi-permanent, lasting 1-3 years. Learn more in our complete microblading guide.

How is microblading different from regular eyebrow tattooing?

Key Differences:

  • Tool: Microblading uses manual blade; tattoos use electric machine
  • Depth: Microblading is superficial; tattoos go deeper
  • Appearance: Microblading creates hair strokes; tattoos create filled-in look
  • Longevity: Microblading lasts 1-3 years; tattoos last 5+ years
  • Fading: Microblading fades naturally; tattoos can change color

For a deeper dive, read our microblading vs eyebrow tattoo comparison.

Who is a good candidate for microblading?

Ideal Candidates:

  • Sparse or thinning eyebrows
  • Asymmetrical brows
  • Over-plucked brows
  • Hair loss from medical conditions
  • Anyone wanting defined, low-maintenance brows
  • Normal to dry skin types

Not Suitable:

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • Those on certain medications (consult your practitioner)
  • Active skin conditions in brow area
  • Keloid scarring tendency
  • Some medical conditions (consult your practitioner for personalised advice)

Not sure which technique suits you? Consider nano brows or combo brows as alternatives.

How long does microblading last?

Average Longevity: 12-24 months

Factors Affecting Duration:

  • Skin type (oily skin fades faster)
  • Lifestyle (sun exposure, skincare products)
  • Aftercare compliance
  • Natural metabolism
  • Touch-up frequency

With regular maintenance touch-ups, you can maintain results indefinitely. See our maintenance guide for tips.

Is microblading permanent?

No! Microblading is semi-permanent. The pigment gradually fades over 1-3 years. This is actually beneficial—it allows you to adjust your style as trends and your preferences change, and if you're unhappy with results, they will fade naturally.

Pain and Comfort Questions

Does microblading hurt?

Pain Level: 2-3 out of 10 for most people

With topical numbing cream, most clients experience only mild discomfort described as:

  • Light scratching sensation
  • Slight pressure
  • Similar to eyebrow threading
  • Tolerable and manageable

Everyone's pain tolerance varies, but the vast majority find it much less painful than expected. Results may vary. Read our full microblading pain guide for more detail.

What does microblading feel like?

Most people describe it as:

  • Scratching or scraping sensation
  • Pressure on the brow area
  • Like cat scratches
  • Similar to tweezing multiple hairs
  • Slightly uncomfortable but not painful

The numbing cream significantly reduces sensation, making it very tolerable for most clients.

Can I take pain medication before my appointment?

Consult your practitioner about any medications or supplements before your appointment. They will advise you on what is safe to take and what to avoid ahead of your session.

Will it hurt more during my period?

Yes, sensitivity can be heightened in the week before your period. If possible, schedule your appointment for the week after your period ends when pain sensitivity is lowest.

Cost and Pricing Questions

How much does microblading cost in Melbourne?

Price Range:

  • Budget: $300-450 (often new artists or deals)
  • Mid-range: $500-700 (experienced artists)
  • Premium: $750-1,000+ (master artists, CBD locations)

Melbourne Designer Brows: From $600 — see our full pricing page.

For a detailed cost breakdown, read our microblading cost Melbourne guide.

What's included in the microblading price?

Typically Includes:

  • Initial consultation
  • Brow design and mapping
  • Initial microblading session (2-3 hours)
  • Aftercare products
  • Follow-up support

A perfecting session is recommended 6-8 weeks after the initial appointment ($250).

How much are touch-ups after the initial healing?

6-8 Week Perfecting Session: $250 at MDBrows

Annual Maintenance: Contact us for current maintenance pricing. Touch-ups are recommended every 12-18 months to maintain colour and shape.

Is microblading worth the cost?

For most people, yes! Consider:

  • Saves time on your daily brow routine
  • May replace ongoing spending on brow products and services
  • Confidence boost is priceless
  • Waterproof, smudge-proof convenience

Results may vary. Consult with your practitioner for personalised advice. Read our full is microblading worth it analysis.

Process and Appointment Questions

How long does a microblading appointment take?

Initial Appointment: 2-3 hours

  • Consultation: 15-30 minutes
  • Design and mapping: 20-30 minutes
  • Numbing: 15-20 minutes
  • Microblading: 60-90 minutes
  • Aftercare instructions: 10-15 minutes

Perfecting Session: 60-90 minutes

What should I do to prepare for my appointment?

Before Your Appointment:

  • Avoid tanning and sunburn
  • No brow waxing/threading/tinting for at least 2 weeks prior
  • Consult your practitioner about any medications or supplements before your appointment

Read our full preparing for your appointment guide for more tips.

Day Of:

  • Eat a good meal
  • No eye or brow makeup
  • Bring inspiration photos
  • Arrive relaxed and on time

Can I see what my brows will look like before the procedure?

Yes! Your artist will:

  1. Map your ideal brow shape using measurements
  2. Draw the proposed design with removable marker
  3. Make adjustments based on your feedback
  4. You must approve before microblading begins

You'll know exactly what shape you're getting before any permanent work is done. See our eyebrow shape guide for inspiration.

Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?

Most artists allow one support person, but check first. However:

  • Must be able to sit quietly for 2-3 hours
  • Can't be disruptive
  • Young children generally not recommended (you need to stay still and focused)

Healing and Aftercare Questions

What is the microblading healing process like?

Complete Timeline:

  • Days 1-3: Brows very dark and bold (40-50% darker than final)
  • Days 4-10: Scabbing and flaking phase (looks patchy)
  • Days 11-28: "Ghost phase" (brows appear very light)
  • Days 29-42: True color emerges
  • Week 6-8: Perfecting session
  • Week 10-12: Final healed results

See our before and after expectations for photos of each stage.

How long does it take for microblading to heal?

  • Initial healing: 7-14 days (scabbing phase)
  • Complete healing: 4-6 weeks (ready for perfecting session)
  • Final results: 10-12 weeks (after perfecting session heals)

What can't I do while my microblading heals?

First 7-10 Days:

  • Get brows wet during showers
  • Swimming, sauna, steam rooms
  • Heavy exercise/sweating
  • Picking or scratching scabs
  • Makeup on brow area
  • Sun exposure without protection
  • Facials or chemical peels

Follow our complete aftercare guide for the best results.

Can I wear makeup during healing?

On Brows: No makeup for 10-14 days Rest of Face: Yes, but carefully avoid brow area

After complete healing (4-6 weeks), you can apply makeup over microbladed brows, though most find they don't need any!

Will my microblading fade during healing?

Yes! This is normal. Brows will:

  • Start very dark (Day 1-3)
  • Lighten dramatically during flaking (Day 8-14)
  • Almost disappear during "ghost phase" (Day 15-28)
  • Color gradually returns (Day 29-42)

Final healed result is 30-40% lighter than day 1. Don't panic—this is expected!

Why do I need a perfecting session 6-8 weeks later?

The perfecting session is essential because:

  • Allows artist to see how your skin retained pigment
  • Fills in any areas that didn't take well
  • Perfects color intensity
  • Adjusts shape if needed
  • Ensures longevity of results

First session is the foundation; the perfecting session completes and perfects your brows. A perfecting session is recommended 6-8 weeks after the initial appointment ($250).

Results and Appearance Questions

Will microblading look natural?

When done by a skilled artist, yes! Microblading creates individual hair-like strokes that mimic natural eyebrow hairs. The result should be:

  • Realistic texture
  • Dimensional appearance
  • Blends with existing hair
  • Not obviously "done"

Results may vary depending on skin type, lifestyle, and aftercare. Browse our gallery for real results.

Can microblading look bad?

Unfortunately, yes—if done poorly. Bad microblading often results from:

  • Inexperienced or untrained artists
  • Wrong shape for your face
  • Too dark or unnatural color
  • Overly perfect or harsh lines
  • Poor technique or cheap pigments

This is why choosing a qualified, experienced artist is crucial! If you need a fix, ask about our brow corrections service.

What if I don't like my microblading results?

  • Before perfecting session: Communicate concerns; adjustments can be made
  • After healing: Microblading will fade naturally over 1-3 years
  • Want faster removal: Saline or laser tattoo removal available
  • Prevention: Choose experienced artist and approve design beforehand

Can I still shape my natural brows after microblading?

Yes! You can:

  • Tweeze stray hairs outside the microbladed area
  • Trim overly long hairs
  • Groom naturally growing hair

Don't: Pluck within the microbladed area or it may disrupt results. Our brow shaping service can help maintain your look.

Can I wear makeup over microbladed brows?

Yes, once fully healed (4-6 weeks)! You can apply:

  • Brow pencils
  • Brow powders
  • Brow gels

However, most clients find they need minimal to no additional brow makeup.

Specific Concerns and Conditions

Can I get microblading if I have oily skin?

Yes, but with considerations:

  • Hair strokes may not last as long
  • Strokes might blur slightly
  • May need more frequent touch-ups
  • Consider ombre powder brows or combination brows instead (better for oily skin)

Read our ombre powder brows guide to learn more.

Can I get microblading if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

Most artists recommend waiting until after pregnancy and breastfeeding because:

  • Hormones affect healing and retention
  • Numbing cream safety concerns
  • Medical professionals generally advise against it

Always consult your doctor first.

Can I get microblading over old eyebrow tattoos?

Sometimes! It depends on:

  • How dark the old tattoo is
  • How much coverage is needed
  • Time since tattooing
  • Artist's skill with corrections

Very dark tattoos may need laser lightening first. Consult with an experienced artist who does brow corrections.

I have alopecia or no eyebrow hair at all. Can I still get microblading?

Absolutely! Microblading works beautifully even with zero natural hair. The artist creates a complete brow from scratch using hair-stroke technique. Many clients with alopecia achieve wonderful results.

Can men get microblading?

Yes! Men's microblading is increasingly popular. The technique is the same, but the design approach differs:

  • Straighter, more angular shape
  • Fuller, more masculine appearance
  • Natural, never obvious
  • A growing number of microblading clients are male

Can microblading help with scars in my eyebrows?

Often yes! Microblading can camouflage scars by creating hair strokes over the scar tissue. Results depend on:

  • Scar type and depth
  • Location and size
  • Skin texture
  • Consult with experienced artist for assessment

Does microblading damage your natural eyebrow hair?

No! Microblading does not affect your hair follicles. Your natural brows will continue growing normally. The hair strokes are placed between existing hairs or where there's no growth.

Safety and Health Questions

Is microblading safe?

Yes, when performed by licensed, trained professionals using proper protocols:

  • Sterile, single-use tools
  • Proper sanitation procedures
  • Quality, tested pigments
  • Licensed studio environment

Risks are minimal when safety standards are followed. Learn more about us and our qualifications.

What are the risks of microblading?

Possible Risks (Rare):

  • Infection (if aftercare not followed or poor hygiene)
  • Allergic reaction to pigment (very rare)
  • Scarring (usually from picking scabs)
  • Poor results (choosing wrong artist)
  • Dissatisfaction with color or shape

Serious complications are extremely rare with qualified artists.

How do I know if a microblading artist is qualified?

Look For:

  • Certification from recognized microblading academy
  • Bloodborne pathogen certification
  • Portfolio of healed work
  • Professional studio environment
  • Positive reviews and testimonials
  • Answers questions thoroughly
  • Uses sterile, single-use tools

Check out our reviews to see what clients say.

Can microblading cause cancer?

There is no scientific evidence linking microblading to cancer. The pigments used are tested and regulated cosmetic pigments, not harmful materials.

What if I have an allergic reaction?

Allergic reactions to microblading pigments are extremely rare. If concerned:

  • Request patch test before full procedure
  • Discuss any known allergies with artist
  • Symptoms would appear within days (redness, swelling, itching)
  • Contact artist and doctor if reaction occurs

Lifestyle and Maintenance Questions

Can I swim after microblading?

Not for the first 10-14 days! After complete healing, yes. Swimming before healing can:

  • Cause infection
  • Pull out pigment
  • Affect retention

Once healed, swimming is fine, though chlorine exposure can gradually fade pigment over time.

Can I exercise after microblading?

Avoid heavy exercise for 7-10 days after microblading. Sweating can:

  • Push out pigment
  • Slow healing
  • Increase infection risk

After healing, exercise freely!

Can I go in the sun after microblading?

During Healing (First 4 weeks): Avoid direct sun exposure

After Healing: Sun is fine, but:

  • Always wear SPF 30+ on brows (prevents fading)
  • Excessive sun = faster fading
  • Protect your investment!

How do I maintain my microbladed brows?

Daily:

  • Apply SPF sunscreen over brows
  • Gentle cleansing
  • Avoid harsh skincare products on brows

Monthly:

  • Avoid strong active ingredients directly on brow area
  • Moisturize gently

Annually:

  • Schedule touch-up every 12-18 months
  • Maintains color and shape

For full details, read our maintaining microbladed eyebrows guide.

What skincare products should I avoid?

Certain active ingredients and exfoliants can fade microblading faster. Consult your practitioner about which products to keep away from your brow area. As a general rule, avoid applying strong active serums or chemical exfoliants directly on the microbladed area.

How often do I need touch-ups?

  • 6-8 weeks after initial: A perfecting session is recommended ($250)
  • 12-18 months: Annual color refresh recommended
  • Frequency varies by: Skin type, lifestyle, sun exposure, skincare routine

Comparison Questions

Microblading vs. powder brows: which is better?

Depends on Your Needs:

Choose Microblading If:

  • Want hair-like strokes
  • Have normal to dry skin
  • Prefer very natural look
  • Have some existing brow hair

Choose Powder Brows If:

  • Want filled-in makeup look
  • Have oily skin
  • Prefer defined, bold brows
  • Have little to no natural hair

Consider Combination Brows: Best of both worlds! Read our combination brows guide and nano brows vs microblading comparisons.

Is microblading better than daily makeup?

Pros of Microblading:

  • Saves time daily
  • Waterproof, smudge-proof
  • Consistent results every day
  • Cost-effective long-term

Pros of Daily Makeup:

  • Can change style daily
  • No commitment
  • Lower upfront cost
  • Full control

Most people find microblading more convenient and worth the investment.

Ready to Get Microblading?

Have more questions? Melbourne Designer Brows offers free consultations where we answer all your questions and help you make an informed decision.

Microblading: From $600 A perfecting session is recommended 6-8 weeks after the initial appointment ($250).

Book Your Free Consultation

Contact Melbourne Designer Brows:

Book Your Free Consultation:

  1. Ask unlimited questions in comfortable, no-pressure environment
  2. See extensive portfolio of healed results
  3. Discuss your specific concerns and goals
  4. Get honest recommendations for your needs
  5. Only book when ready — no pressure!

Still have questions? Book a free consultation and get all your answers from an experienced professional. Your perfect brows are just a conversation away! Results may vary. Consult with your practitioner for personalised advice.