What are the pros and cons of eyebrow tattooing? Important factors to consider

Tired of the daily routine with eyebrow pencils and powders? Eyebrow tattooing – or microblading – may sound like a dream come true. But, while it can be a game-changer (Hello faster morning routine and goodbye patchy brows!), there are pros and cons to consider. Read this before taking the leap.

 

Pros and cons of eyebrow tattooing

Pros

Convenience

For starters, you can say goodbye to filling in your brows every morning by applying makeup. This is a definite pro for those with hectic schedules. Less time spent getting ready each day means more time enjoying your coffee!

Long-lasting results

Depending on the individual and care taken, brow tattoos can last from 1-3 years. Semi-permanent in nature, touch-ups are generally required to keep your microbladed brows looking fresh.

Sweat-proof and smudge-proof 

Perfect if you're a regular in the gym or sweat a lot, or you live in humid climates where applying makeup to the brow area in the morning means a smeared mess by the afternoon. 

No more worries about makeup smudging!

Natural appearance

When done correctly by a cosmetic tattoo artist, microblading can provide very natural-looking eyebrows, mimicking the appearance of hair strokes. The technique used to create hair-like strokes ensures a natural brow appearance that differs from the look of traditional tattoos.

Solution for eyebrow hair loss

For anyone who has lost eyebrow hair due to conditions like alopecia, chemotherapy, or over-plucking, brow tattoos offer a way to restore the appearance of sparse or thin eyebrows.

Uniform shape

You can achieve and maintain a symmetrical and consistent eyebrow look. With the expertise of a tattoo artist, the use of tattoo ink ensures a natural-looking and consistent brow, day after day. 

Feeling confident

There's an undeniable confidence that comes with great brows. 

Not only do they frame the face, enhancing its natural symmetry, but eyebrow tattooing helps you feel put-together, even on makeup-free days. When your eyebrows look impeccable, it's this small detail that makes a significant impact, allowing you to step out with confidence!

Cons

Risk of a mistake with semi-permanent results

Mistakes with the shape/colour can be long-lasting and require time and money to fix. 

We've all seen those overly darkened caricature-like brows on social media that seem more comical than stylish. 

The aesthetics of tattooed eyebrows depend on finding an experienced brow artist who understands facial symmetry and brow shapes best suited for individual faces. 

Pain and discomfort

While pain varies from person to person, some people might find the procedure of getting feather touch brows or any other cosmetic tattoo uncomfortable, even with the application of numbing cream.

Risk of infection

As with any procedure breaking the skin, such as cosmetic tattoos, there's a risk of infection. This is especially the case if the salon or tattoo artists don't follow proper hygiene protocols.

Potential allergic reactions

Some people might have allergic reactions to the pigments used in brow tattoos or aftercare products. If you are allergic to certain pigments, or have skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, it may be best to consult with a doctor beforehand.

Up front costs

The initial procedure for getting your eyebrows tattooed can be expensive compared to makeup. Touch-ups and maintenance for brow tattoos also come with their costs.

Fading and colour change

Over time, the pigment from cosmetic tattooing might fade or even change colour (e.g., turning a shade of blue or pink). Sun exposure, oily skin, and skincare products can affect the longevity and colour stability of the brow tattoo. 

Requires maintenance

While cosmetic tattoos, like eyebrow tattoos, reduce the daily need for brow makeup application, they still require some maintenance. This includes touch-ups and specific aftercare, especially in the first weeks after the procedure.

Variability in skill level

The results of brow tattooing can vary widely depending on the technician's skill level. Repeat after us: “always do thorough research to find a reputable brow artist experienced in creating hair-like strokes for a natural look”.

Bad eyebrow tattoos vs. natural looking eyebrow tattoos

A big factor to consider is the potential difference between bad eyebrow tattoos and those that look like natural brows.

One look at the blocky, excessively dark brows on Instagram should tell you not all results are created equal! Bad eyebrow tattoos can result from various factors, an unskilled tattoo artist, poor equipment, or even an unfortunate mismatch between the tattoo ink and your natural skin tone.

In contrast, real-looking eyebrow tattoos are the epitome of skillful artistry combined with technological advancement. 

Using high-quality pigments and modern techniques such as microblading can result in incredibly realistic brows that closely mimic your natural hair pattern and colour.

The aesthetics truly depend on finding the right artist who understands facial symmetry and brow shapes best suited for individual faces - so do your homework before trusting anyone with your eyebrows!

 

Are eyebrow tattoos safe?

Generally speaking, eyebrow tattoos are considered safe when performed by a trained and competent professional who adheres to strict sanitary protocols.

However, like any cosmetic procedure, there are certain risks and considerations to keep in mind.

Infections: The risk of infection is present if the equipment used is not sterile or if post-care instructions are not followed correctly. Ensuring that the technician uses single-use, disposable needles and tools is crucial.

Allergic reactions: Some people might be allergic to the pigments in eyebrow tattoos. A patch test before the procedure can help identify any potential allergic reactions.

Scarring: If the technician goes too deep or the skin is not handled properly, there's a possibility of scarring.

Bottom line on safety? If you have sparse brows and are hoping to achieve more natural brows, doing your homework before trusting anyone with getting your eyebrows tattooed is a must.

 

Do eyebrow tattoos hurt?

Let's address one of the first questions that pops into almost everyone's mind - do eyebrow tattoos hurt? Some compare it to a light scratching sensation, while others say it's slightly more intense than tweezing.

Overall, the pain level is not exactly a walk in the park, but definitely bearable for most people. Of course, everyone's pain tolerance varies, and it also depends on the skills and techniques used by the professional carrying out the process.

It's worth noting most technicians use a numbing cream before starting the process, which substantially reduces any discomfort you might feel, especially if you have sensitive skin.

 

Eyebrow tattoos before and after

Moving onto the results - that magical 'after' phase where you see your brand new brows! 

The difference between bad eyebrow tattoos and real-looking ones is stark and largely depends on how skilled your technician is. Your brows should enhance your facial features without overpowering them.

We always recommend checking out an artist or salon's eyebrow tattoos before and after photos to see the results you can expect. At Tanya Beauty Care, we're proud of our gallery of eyebrow tattoo before and after photos. Take a look at the stunning results our skilled artists can achieve.

 

If you have any questions, please contact our team. We're here to answer any questions you have, and all our services begin with an in-person consultation.