Brow lamination versus Microblading? Which is right for you?

Two very popular brow services are circulating the market right now and they have everyone wondering: which is right for me? In this blog, we will compare Brow Lamination and Microblading, and explore the pros and cons so you can decide which service suits you and your needs. 

Let’s start with understanding exactly what each service is. Brow lamination is a chemical process that involves restructuring the hairs to create the appearance of fuller brows. This is a permanent process in the sense that each hair retains its new shape and structure, but each hair eventually sheds and is replaced with a new one. As this shedding process occurs over and over the course of 4-6 weeks, your brows are back to their original state. So the brow lamination process overall is long-lasting, but not permanent. 

A wax can accompany brow lamination to help further sculpt and define the brows, as well as a tint to color correct, and add depth and definition as well. Waxing physically removes hairs to redefine shape, and tinting colors the brow hairs themselves. 

Microblading takes a different approach to reshaping the brows. There are many different methods of microblading, but the process effectively involves embedding cosmetic grade ink into the skin - yes, similar to tattooing, and is designed to mimic the natural strokes of your brow hairs. Although the process is similar to a tattoo, it is more superficial and thus less permanent with results lasting 1-3 years, 

Longevity 

As mentioned, the brow lamination lasts 4-6 weeks vs microblading lasting up to 3 years or so. Pros of the brow lamination are less commitment to a specific style, while the cons may be more maintenance and more frequent visits to receive your service. 

Because microblading can last up to 3 years, its little to no maintenance and long-lasting qualities are popular pros that draw clients to this service. However, because this service is so much more permanent, potential cons are inability to switch up the style of your brows with ease from trends, to things like matching your hair if you decide to try out a new color. 

So, if you’re looking to reshape your brows and want to try a new look with a little commitment, the brow lamination is perfect. If you’re someone that tends to stick with the same look for a while, microblading can be a great option for you. 

Corrective Qualities

How well does each brow service correct problem areas?

Brow lamination can work wonders to create the illusion of thicker brows, especially when combined with a wax and tint. When the brow hairs are brushed, and then set with the lamination in an upward direction, you automatically thicken the brow. Sparse areas can also be camouflaged and covered by manipulating the direction of the hairs. Waxing and defining the brows, although sounding counterintuitive at first, can create a more full appearance as well by removing any stray and/or baby hairs that tend to wash out the shape of the brow. 

Brow lamination is great for minor corrections to the brow. A well-defined brow also compliments the face in such a way that can create sufficient results. We often pair our brow services with a daily brow growth serum to achieve maximum results.

Sparse areas or total loss of hair, extreme unevenness in shape and/or thickness of the brow, and color correction are some of the top concerns we see among our clients that lean toward microblading. With a semi-permanent tattoo, you can recreate the appearance of brow hair with strokes that will remedy the aforementioned concerns. Microblading is a great service for long-lasting brow correction. 

Everyday Wear

There is definitely versatility in both brow lamination and microblading in the way you can style them for everyday wear. 

A lamination can be made more or less dramatic depending on the way you set the hairs; you can really brush the brows upwards to make them look really fluffy and full, adding the tint to intensify them, or you can keep them more natural by setting the hairs at a softer angle and perhaps skipping the tint, or even going with a lighter shade.  

Microblading, because of its tattoo-like qualities can off-hand have a more bold look, but now there are all kinds of methods to combine traditional microblading with microshading to create a softer, more blended look. 

Investment

What does the cost comparison look like when it comes to brow lamination vs microblading?

The price of brow lamination tends to be about 1/4 of the cost of miroblading. Average brow lamination pricing can range anywhere from $100-$150+, and microblading pricing as little as $300-$750+. Like all beauty services, pricing can vary depending on who you see, their experience and knowledge, the quality of the product they use, and many other factors. All this to say that brow lamination with its 4-6 week shelf life is going to be a smaller, yet more consistent investment vs. your microblading, which will be a much greater cost upfront, and then the following touch-ups.

Both services are great for waking every day feeling like you're already put together and possess enough versatility to create a look that best suits your style and needs. 

So, in short, if you are looking for a new brow service, I hope this blog has cleared up some of your questions for you so that you can feel more prepared when choosing which route you want to take. Both are great services that fit a variety of needs and preferences.

As always, reach out to us with any questions or concerns and we’ll be more than happy to assist! Contact us at: info@rebellashandbrow.com