Manual Microblading Versus Machine: My Professional Advice

I'm often asked, 'Do I do microblading?' 'Hairstrokes?' I ask. 'Do you know the difference?' Let me help you understand it better as we compare manual microblading versus the machine.

Manual Microblading Is a Form of Tattoo

What's the difference between microblading and a tattoo machine for carrying out a permanent makeup procedure? Many clients don't even realise that manual microblading is a form of tattooing! Nor that both are classed as permanent makeup and as a tattoo.

Any service that places pigment or ink in the skin is tattooing. Period. Therefore, we should not refer to it as semi-permanent but as permanent, as we are tattooing! Very often it fades, perhaps as it should or as you would wish it to, but I often see clients with old tattoos that are not going anywhere! There is nothing semi-permanent about that! This can be for several reasons, the ink used, the depth pigment is deposited in the skin, skin thickness, the list goes on. Read more about manual microblading here.

Manual Microblading

Sorry, I digressed!... The differences are that manual microblading is done using a handheld tool, with no electric power supply. It is just guided by the hand of the artist for pressure and depth, and lightly drawn through the skin, creating the microblade hairstroke. There is nothing to stop the blade (which is actually a row of tiny needles) from going too deep, which will cause blurred or greyish strokes. Microblading is also not an ideal choice for many clients. Careful selection is important to ensure you are happy with your finished result and that it ages well. So, for example, oily skin and mature skin are not good candidates for microblading as a rule. A microblade also has no mechanical noise to it, like a machine.

Machine Microblading

Whereas, a machine procedure using a digital precision handpiece is powered by an electric supply. There are various needles or cartridges and configurations for different areas and desired effects, with interchangeable heads. The depth of a machine can be pre-set, reducing the possibility of going too deep. The micro hairstrokes with a machine, some might argue, are created with much less trauma. This is because the machine is pulsating the needle up and down very fast and not cutting through, but puncturing the skin's surface repeatedly using a reciprocating motion to deposit the pigment where required. The machine method has a slight buzz to it, though no play, and is incredibly smooth and precise with adjustable speed to suit.

Make an Informed Decision

I hope this helps you to understand a little more about some of the differences, and it helps in your decision-making. It is certainly down to personal preference. After all, it comes down to your own personal brow journey and happiness!

Stay safe, stay dry, and a very happy bank holiday to everyone of you! Oh, and don't forget, if you would like to book in for permanent makeup, I'm just at the end of my contact page here!

Love Caz, Lady MakeUp. xxx