Comprehensive Guide
Technique Comparison
Microblading
(Blade)
- Main Feature: Manual blade technique that creates hair-like strokes.
- Pros: Very natural, realistic, soft finish.
- Cons: Not long lasting on oily skin; fades faster; requires touch-up every 6-12 months.
- Best For: Dry to normal skin;
clients who prefer a natural, no-makeup look.
Hair Strokes
(Machine & Needle)
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Main Feature: Creates ultra-fine strokes using a machine; consistent and less invasive.
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Pros: Natural like microblading, but more durable and suitable for more skin types.
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Cons: Requires advanced tools and precise technique.
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Best For: Oily, combination, or sensitive skin; clients who want a natural brow.
Combo Brows
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Main Feature: Blends Microblading or Hairstroke strokes with a soft Ombre powder base.
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Pros: Combines natural hair strokes with a filled-in look; soft yet defined.
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Cons: Takes longer to perform; more technically complex.
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Best For: Sparse or uneven brows; clients wanting definition but still softness.
Ombré Powder Brow
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Main Feature: Machine shading technique with a soft gradient effect (from light to dark).
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Pros: Makeup-like finish, clean shape, long lasting color.
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Cons: No hair stroke effect; leans toward a makeup look.
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Best For: Younger clients, makeup lovers (K-beauty, Western styles), oily skin, or very sparse brows.
Pigment Longevity
Color Retention Comparison
by Techniques
Microblading
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Average Color Retention: 12–24 months
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Needs Touch-Up?: Yes, every 12 months
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Notes: Fades faster on oily skin or with frequent makeup use
Hair Strokes
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Average Color Retention: 24–36 months
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Needs Touch-Up?: Yes, after 18 months
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Notes: More durable than microblading, suitable for oily or sensitive skin
Combo / Hybrid
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Average Color Retention: 24–36 months
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Needs Touch-Up?: Yes, varies by skin type
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Notes: Blends strokes and shading for more even, lasting color
Ombré Powder
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Average Color Retention: 24–36 months
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Needs Touch-Up?: Optional, after 1.5–2 years
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Notes: Longest-lasting, minimal fading or color change
Quick Technique Recommendation Based on Client Profile
Technique Suggestions by Face Shape
Round
- Features: Soft, less-defined features
- Recommended Techniques: Combo, Ombré Powder
- Why: Adds structure and definition for a slimmer look
Long
- Features: Long forehead, high cheekbones
- Recommended Techniques: Microblading, Hairstroke
- Why: Creates a more harmonious and balanced look
Square / Angular
- Features: Strong jawline, defined angles
- Recommended Techniques: Combo, Ombré Powder
- Why: Softens facial angles with a balanced arch
Oval
- Features: Naturally proportionate
- Recommended Techniques: All techniques
- Why: Choose freely based on personal style