Tried & Tested Q&A | Microblading at Makeup by Edilyn

Had enough of filling in the perfect eyebrows every morning? So did our GM Nikki Rutherford, who recently had a brow-over with Makeup by Edilyn!

We are sure you’ve heard of Microblading; a new(ish) procedure that’s sweeping the UAE right now. The technique can build up brows and add definition giving you a set of natural-looking perfect brows, which have the power to transform how you look and feel. Nikki tried & tested getting her dream brows and here’s what happened…

Q: Why did you want to do it?

A: I love the full eyebrow look, I think it really frames your face, and my natural eyebrows are a bit pathetic, to be honest! I’ve always had to draw them on in the morning which can be a real pain when you have to leave for work and you’re spending half an hour making sure they look symmetrical!

The beauty of semi-permanent makeup is that it offers you the ability to look and feel beautiful and confident 24/7–in the gym, in the pool, all the time! Even if you’re struggling with patchy, sparse, scarred, misshapen, uneven, or nonexistent brows. I think all women could benefit from semi-permanent makeup. It’s like having the flexibility of regular makeup, allowing you to problem-shoot a small area (i.e. cover up scars, blend into your existing brow), or go the full extent and create an entire brow from scratch. It’s an art, not a science!

Q: Why did you choose Makeup by Edilyn to do it?

A: I’ve known her for a long time and I trust her work. Not only that, I knew she would make me feel comfortable as it was the first time I’ve ever done it and I was a bit nervous!

Q: How does it work?

A: Semi-permanent makeup involves having pigment implanted into the epidermis using a fine needle – similar to a tattoo but the process is less painful, the “ink” used is usually mineral based and the results are not permanent. You feel kind of a scratch-like sensation

Q: Is it customised?

A: Absolutely! Edilyn sat with me beforehand to choose the perfect shape and shade to match my face and skin tone. The end goal is for you to look your best, natural self.

The first session included a consultation, she analyzed my natural brow shape and colour, and asked about my eyebrow preferences (like thick or thin, arched or more subtle?). Then she mapped out the shape, measured it out based on my facial symmetry, and finally draw the eyebrow on. Once both us were happy with the results after a look in the mirror, the tattooing began.

Q: How long did it take?

A: I had 2 appointments with Edilyn, one at the beginning and a top-up appointment 6 weeks in to make sure they are looking good (Edilyn is a real perfectionist!) Each appointment is 2 hours long, and we chatted away for the duration to keep my mind off it!

First she carefully analyzed my facial shape, structure and features, pinpointing how my natural features can be enhanced by the procedure. Then, she advised me on the most suitable shape and colours to match my skin and hair tone. Finally, using a cosmetic pencil, she began to create a design by reshaping my existing brow to help me envision my ideal end result. Only once I was 100% happy did she begin to proceed to numb me with the topical anaesthetic for 20 minutes. Each procedure normally lasts approximately 45 minutes. Lastly, she reviewed aftercare instructions with me and scheduled my follow-up visit.

Q: Did it hurt?

A: I would be lying if I said it didn’t hurt at all, it definitely stings a bit (think threading or waxing), but Edilyn was great at using her magic cream (high-grade topical anaesthetic) to manage the discomfort, and the relaxing music and stress ball also helped. Most of the time I felt what I would describe as a “tweezing” sensation. My skin is perhaps sensitive so it may require longer numbing but the sensation is certainly tolerable.

Q: How long will it last?

A: I think around 6 months, possibly longer. The “permanence” of the brows depends from person to person because there are a myriad variables at play that affect the longevity of your permanent makeup. It will fade over time. It’s called “Permanent Makeup” because the particles from the pigment stay in your skin forever, although the saturation dissipates eventually causing fading/visibly perceived complete dissipation. Factors such as natural elements, skin type (i.e. Oilier skin can fade faster), age, skincare regimen (i.e. anti-ageing creams), facials, peels, sun exposure, tanning beds, sweating, exercise habits… are all at play when it comes to affecting the lifespan of your brows. On average, it may last anywhere from 1-3 years! However, it will start to fade the moment I get them because as the skin cells shed and regenerate, the pigment will surface and eventually fade out. Edilyn recommended to get touch-ups to freshen up the PMU to maintain its natural look every 6 months to a year.

Q: What were the immediate results?

A: At first they are a little dark but don’t worry, they gradually fade over about 4-5 days and you are left with the perfect colour to suit your skin tone, apparently the intensity softens 30%-40% after one week. Be prepared for a little scabbing, and avoid the sun and sweat for the first few days and use vaseline and you’ll be fine. I didn’t have any issues at all with the aftercare, probably because I went to a professional who I knew I could trust.

Q: Are you happy with the results?

A: Beyond happy, I’m ecstatic! It saves me so much time getting ready and I get compliments all the time. I would definitely recommend it, and I would certainly recommend Edilyn to do it!