The Ultimate Comparison: Combination Brows vs Microblading

Combination brows vs microblading differ greatly from one another in various ways, including how they are carried out and how to look at their final result. There are many differences between them so let’s talk about them.

What Are Combination Brows?

Combination brows are also a type of permanent makeup eyebrow tattoo, done with pigments. They are a combo of two – hair strokes and hair shading. Use manual tools to create hair strokes, then add shading to fill in the space between the brow’s hair strokes. Combo brow are great for people with oily skin.

What Is Microblading?

Microblading is a form of semi-permanent makeup tattoo. A manual blade can used to make small incisions in which the color is deposited. It is a great way to get natural-looking eyebrows, full and dense brows.

Insert color into the surface layer of the eyebrow’s skin during microblading.That is why it is not permanent so it fades after about 1.5 years.

Combination Brows vs Microblading Last

The average longevity of microblading is 12 to 18 months, but combination brows last longer since there is shading added. People can expect that combo eyebrows will last around 2 years.

The longevity of both combo brows or microblading depends on the skin type. They fade faster on oily skin. Also, the skincare routine can speed up the fading process. After getting microblading or a combination brow, there are some products you should not use.

Image source: Instagram @browhemian.ink

Combination Brows vs Microblading Touch-Up

The first touch-up can be done after 6 to 8 weeks of the treatment and it is mandatory for both treatments. Because after the healing period, eyebrows may look lighter or patchy, there is a need for more pigment to be added.

Combination Brows vs Microblading Cost

The cost of both treatments is pretty similar, but people can expect combination brows to cost a little bit more since some shading is added. The average cost of microbalding and combo eyebrows is somewhere around $600, but of course, people will find artists who charge around $300 or those who charge even more than $800.

Image source: Instagram @combobrows

Combination Brows vs Microblading Pain

Most of the clients remark that both procedures are a little uncomfortable but not painful. The area can covered with numbing cream during the procedure, so you won’t likely experience any uncomforting and pain.

Microblading can be slightly more uncomfortable than combo brows because the incisions are done gradually and the blade is pulled into the brow’s skin. Therefore, although the pain levels of microblading and combo brows are comparable, microblading may be more painful.

How Do I Choose Between Microblading vs Combination Brows?

When choosing between combo brows and microblading, take into account the following:

  1. Skin Type
  2. Natural Brows
  3. Style Preferences
  4. Lifestyle

Firstly, it comes down to client preferences, meaning whether the client wants a completely natural look of hair stroke eyebrows done only with microblading or a more makeup look with a bit of shading.

Secondly, it depends on the client’s skin type. Combination eyebrows are a better choice for people with oily skin and they will last longer.

Image source: Instagram @narjaravieiramicropigmentacao

Combo Brows vs Microblading – Main Takeaways

Microblading gives a more natural look to the eyebrows, while combo brows are a combination of microblading and shading, and they give a shaded look to the eyebrows. Combo brows last a bit longer than microblading and are perfect for people with oily skin.

FAQs About Combination Brows vs Microblading

Here are some questions related to microblading vs combo brows. Must read the following.

1. What Are The Differences Between Combination Brows And Microblading?

The main difference between combination brows and microblading is in the technique to create the brows. Combination eyebrows use a combination of microblading and powder shading to create a more defined and natural-looking brow, while microblading only uses the microblading technique.

Combination eyebrows can be better for those with oily skin or who want a more defined and filled-in look. Microblading is better for those looking for a more natural, hair-like look.

2. Can I Resume My Normal Activities After The Combo Brow Healing Process?

You should avoid activities that may cause your brows to get wet, such as swimming, sweating, or going to the sauna for the first week after the procedure. It’s also best to avoid strenuous exercise or activities that may cause excessive sweating, as this can cause the area to become irritated or infected. You can resume normal activities after the first week if you follow the aftercare instructions provided by your aesthetician.

3. What Can I Expect From Combo Brows Before And After The Procedure?

Before the procedure, your aesthetician will discuss your look of the brow shape and natural brow hair and color. They’ll also check your skin type and adjust the pigment color. A numbing cream reduces pain during the procedure. The expert will create your new brows using microblading and powder shading.

Your brows will be darker after the procedure. The color will appear patchy for 7 to 14 days during the combination brows healing process. If you want your new brows look good and last, follow the aftercare instructions provided. Avoid sweating, swimming, and other activities that may wet your brows for a week after the procedure. Within 4 to 6 weeks, you’ll need a touch-up.

4. Can I Get Combination Brows If I Have Sensitive Skin?

It’s possible to get combination brows if you have sensitive skin, but it’s important to consult a professional to determine if the procedure suits you. They may recommend a patch test or suggest alternatives to ensure that you don’t have any adverse reactions to the pigments.

5. Are There Any Risks Or Side Effects Associated With Combo Brows?

As with any cosmetic procedure, there are some risks and side effects associated with combo brows are as follows.

  1. Scarring or infection: If the tools or needles used in the procedure are not properly sterilized, there is a risk of infection or scarring.
  2. Allergic Reactions: Some people may be allergic to the pigments used in the procedure. Therefore, it is essential to conduct a patch test before the procedure.
  3. Uneven Or Asymmetrical Results: The shape and size of the brows may need to be more symmetrical, and the results may not be as desired.
  4. Color Fading Or Color Change: The color of the pigment may fade or change over time due to sun exposure, exfoliation, or certain skincare products.
  5. Touch-Up Appointment Needed: We may recommend touch-up appointments every 12 to 18 months to maintain the shape and color of the brows.