Reviewed by Dr. Chad Gilliam PA
Reading time: three minutes
Tired of spending precious time every morning trying to perfect your brows? Imagine waking up every day with effortlessly flawless eyebrows—no pencils, pomades, or powders needed. That’s the magic of semi-permanent brow treatments.
But here’s the big question: Should you go for microblading or microshading?
Both techniques deliver gorgeous, low-maintenance brows, but they each have their own style and best-fit candidates. Let’s break it down so you can confidently choose the one that’s perfect for you.
Key Takeaway
If you have normal to dry skin and want soft, natural-looking brows with hair-like strokes, microblading is the best choice. If you have oily skin or sensitive skin and prefer a bold, filled-in look that mimics makeup, microshading is the way to go. Can’t decide? Combo brows blend both techniques, giving you the best of both worlds with defined strokes and soft shading.
What Is Microblading?
If you dream of naturally full, feathery brows that look like real hair, microblading is your best bet. This technique mimics individual eyebrow hairs, making it a go-to for those who want soft, natural-looking definition.
How Microblading Works
- Brow mapping: Your brow artist outlines the perfect shape for your face.
- Numbing cream: Because beauty should never be painful.
- Precision strokes: Tiny, hair-like strokes are created using a handheld tool with a fine blade and pigment.
- Final touch: Your brows are perfected, and you’re ready to slay.
How long does it last? 12 to 18 months, with a touch-up recommended at 2 to 4 months.
Who Should Skip Microblading?
- If you have very sensitive skin, psoriasis, eczema, or active acne in the brow area.
- If you’re pregnant or have certain medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes.
What Is Microshading?
Want brows that look like they’ve been perfectly filled in with brow powder—but without the daily effort? Then microshading (aka powder brows) is your best option. This technique creates a soft, ombré effect with tiny dots of pigment.
How Microshading Works
- Brow shaping: Your artist outlines a structured brow shape.
- Numbing cream: Because comfort is key.
- Stippling technique: Small dots of pigment are applied to the skin using a handheld tool with ultra-fine needles, building a powdery, filled-in look.
- Soft finish: Your brows heal into a seamless, natural gradient.
How long does it last? 1 to 3 years, with a touch-up at 8 weeks.
Who Should Choose Microshading?
- If you have oily, sensitive, or combination skin.
- If you love the bold, filled-in makeup look.
- If you want longer-lasting results with fewer touch-ups.
Microblading vs. Microshading: Which One Is Right for You?
| Feature | Microblading | Microshading |
| Technique | Fine, hair-like strokes that mimic natural hairs | Stippling dots for a powdery finish |
| Appearance | Natural, feathery brows | Soft, filled-in makeup look |
| Best For | Normal to dry skin, individuals with sparse brows | Oily or sensitive skin, individuals who want a thicker brow look or a filled in look |
| Healing Time | 7–10 days | 4–6 weeks |
| Touch-Ups | Every 12–18 months | Every 1–3 years |
Not sure which one to pick? Combo brows blend microblading’s fine strokes with microshading’s soft shading for a custom look.
How to Prepare for Your Brow Transformation
Want the best results? Here’s how to prep for your appointment:
- Avoid retinols and exfoliants for 24 hours before.
- Skip alcohol and caffeine (they can thin your blood).
- Inform your brow artist if you have any skin conditions or medical concerns.
Aftercare: Keep Your Brows Looking Fresh
Your brow artist will give you a more comprehensive aftercare rundown, but here are a few things you should know going in:
- Keep brows clean and dry—no heavy sweating or swimming for a few weeks.
- Apply a thin layer of ointment twice daily.
- Avoid sun exposure and makeup on the brows until fully healed (about four weeks).
- No picking! Let any flakes fall off naturally.
Curious about other semi-permanent cosmetic tattoos? Check out our lip blush tattoo guide and learn about lip blush healing stages.
Get the Brows of Your Dreams in Madison, AL
Still unsure which treatment is right for you? Our expert brow artist is here to help. Whether you want fluffy, natural-looking brows or a bold, defined look, we’ve got you covered.
To book a consultation at our medical spa in Madison, AL, call (256) 248-9199 or visit us at 844 Slaughter Rd. Suite A, Madison, AL.
FAQs About Microblading vs Microshading
It depends on your skin type and the look you want. Microblading creates fine, hair-like strokes for a natural, effortless look, making it a great choice if you have sparse eyebrows or no eyebrows. Microshading, on the other hand, offers a fuller brow with a soft, ombre brow effect, making it a better fit for those who prefer a polished, filled-in style. If you have oily skin, microshading tends to last longer and heal more evenly than microblading.
Microshading generally lasts longer, especially for those with oily skin types, as it holds pigment better than microblading. Microblading typically lasts 12 to 18 months, while microshading can last 1 to 3 years. Touch-ups help maintain both styles, but personal factors like skincare routine and sun exposure can affect how long they last.
If your goal is to keep your brows looking as close to natural eyebrow hairs as possible, microblading is the better option because it mimics real hair. Microshading gives a softer, airbrushed appearance, similar to a fuller brow created with makeup. For the best of both worlds, a combination of both techniques can enhance your brows while still looking natural.
