Tips for fuller, bolder brows

Find about the trendiest way to get fuller eyebrows

EYEBROWS are a key part of your facial features because they frame your face and balance your eyes, nose and mouth. And the fuller, the better – which is why microblading is taking off in a big way.

As the name suggests, there are blades involved. The paper-thin pieces of metal make minute cuts in the skin, which are then filled with pigment to create the illusion of thick brows.

Charlie Corkill, a microblade technician from Cape Town, explains that while permanent make-up colours the entire skin of the brow, microblading mimics the appearance of natural eyebrows.

Men and women with any skin tone or hair colour can have the procedure. It’s also an option for people struggling with hair loss or scars.

Your treatment should be done by a professional microblade technician in a clean and sterile place. You need to be aware of the terms and conditions of your treatment, as well as possible side effects.

Your eyebrows may not come into contact with water for three to five days after the procedure and you mustn’t scratch them. The salon you choose should be able to give you an ointment to apply to ease any itchiness.

Depending on how often you’re in the sun, whether you use a skin-lightening cream and whether your skin absorbs pigment well, the effects can last up to three years.

Be aware that it’s not an entirely painfree experience and you’ll have to fork out R2 000 or more. But the results are semipermanent and the technique produces a look that’s more natural than permanent make-up.

Corkill offers these tips for finding the right technician:

S Make sure the person uses equipment from a trusted manufacturer.

S Most salons have pages on social media where people can post reviews or comments. Check to see if their clients are satisfied. Examine before and after photos of clients to see if you like the technician’s style. If there aren’t any available online, ask the technician to send you some. S Your technician should consult with you beforehand to measure your face, to draw the outline of your new eyebrows and to see if you’re happy with the way they look. Be honest about whether you like the shape.