How Much Does Microblading Cost?

• Microblading is a semipermanent tattooing procedure that creates the look of naturally full brows 
• The cost of microblading varies due to several factors including location, choice of microblading artist and need for touch-ups
• Due to the many variables, the cost can be anywhere between $200–$2,000 for the initial and follow-up appointments

Microblading is a semipermanent cosmetic tattooing procedure to improve the appearance of thin or sparse eyebrows. Microblading cost is affected by several factors including your skin type and need for repeat sessions. Your choice of microblading artist and their level of training and experience is also a strong determinant.

What Is Microblading?

Microblading utilizes a blade-shaped hand tool tipped with tiny needles. These needles deposit pigment into the epidermis, the top layer of skin, to create the look of individual eyebrow hairs.

At your initial appointment, your provider will stencil an outline on your brow area to map the desired size and shape of your brows. They’ll then use a topical numbing cream to reduce discomfort during the procedure. 

Eyebrow microblading takes approximately 1–3 hours, and the results last for 12–18 months.

Although there is no downtime, the healing process takes 25–30 days. During this time, you will experience redness, scabbing and itching. 

Your brows will initially appear very dark, then gradually lighten to the intended color. It is common to need a follow-up appointment for a touch-up to address any sparseness caused by this initial fading.

How Much Does Microblading Cost?

On average, microblading costs about $600, however, you can pay anywhere between $200 and $2,000. 

A variety of factors play a role in determining the cost of your microblading procedure, including your skin type, level of detail, state regulations and your location. 

Additionally, the frequency of touch-ups, how well your skin retains the pigment and the skill of the person providing the service greatly influences the cost.

Your provider

At a minimum, providers are board-certified by the American Academy of Micropigmentation or the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals, the most recognized certification bodies for microblading. 

Some states allow aestheticians or makeup artists to perform this procedure, whereas other states require a medical or tattooing license. Many providers also choose to continue their education.

As a general rule, treatment cost will reflect the level of experience and training of your microblading artist.

Your skin type

Your skin type influences how microblading pigment settles into your skin and how long it will take to fade. 

Normal, dry and combination skin types usually heal evenly and retain pigment the longest. 

Oily skin does not retain pigment well, as this greater presence of oil causes the pigment to disperse and blur; therefore you may need more frequent touch-ups. 

Level of detail

Microblading artists offer different levels of detail, depending on how thin your eyebrows are and the look you want to achieve. 

If you have sparse or uneven brow growth, microshading, the process of adding shading to microbladed strokes, can be added to your service. This technique adds depth and creates a more realistic result. 

Microshading will increase your cost due to a lengthier appointment, as well as the fact that you’ll need to visit a highly skilled technician.

Your location

Another factor to consider is your location and travel cost. If you live in a major urban area, the average price for microblading may be higher – however, you’ll have more providers to choose from. 

Accessibility to qualified artists may be more difficult if you live in a more remote area. In that case, travel costs should also be taken into consideration.

Aftercare

How you care for your brows will affect long-term maintenance costs. 

Reduce the need for additional touch-ups by regularly using sunscreen and limiting sun exposure, as ultraviolet rays will fade the ink more quickly.

Keep in mind that even with diligent care, this procedure is still semipermanent and will need to be repeated eventually. 

Touch-ups

After your healing process is complete, it’s normal to need at least one touch-up appointment to correct any pigmentation lost from scabbing. This follow-up appointment may or may not be included in your microblading cost and should be discussed with your technician beforehand.

In some cases, subsequent touch-ups with the same aesthetician may be offered at a discounted rate.

Is Microblading Worth It?

While the cost of this cosmetic procedure is higher than average priced eyebrow beauty products, the results are less time consuming than daily eyebrow makeup routines.

It’s also longer-lasting and therefore potentially more cost-effective than monthly brow enhancement maintenance, such as eyebrow tinting or eyebrow lamination, the process of dyeing and chemically setting brow hairs in place.

Microblading requires more upkeep than traditional cosmetic eyebrow tattoos because the pigment is only deposited into the top layer of skin, unlike tattooing which penetrates deeper. However, you may not wish to have permanently tattooed brows, considering that eyebrow aesthetics are frequently changing.

If you have oily skin, you’ll likely need more frequent touch-ups and will spend more money to maintain your look.

Also, note that microblading does not address unwanted hair in the brow area; therefore, you may need to continue waxing, threading or tweezing.

Side effects of microblading

Microblading has several associated side effects during and after treatment. 

You may experience pain or discomfort from the microblading tool during your session; however, the procedure is considered less painful than traditional eyebrow tattooing. 

Scabbing or itching in the brow area are other common side effects during the healing process.

Serious side effects, such as infection and allergic reactions are rare. Choosing a knowledgeable and certified or licensed microblading artist who adheres to state-regulated protocols will help you ensure the safest possible treatment.

Alternatives to Microblading

Alternatives to microblading include daily, monthly and permanent solutions. 

Using eyebrow pencils, gels and powders allows for more options for size and shape, but can be tedious to apply every day. 

For some people, eyebrow tinting or eyebrow lamination can provide a polished look resembling microblading. However, these services must be repeated every 3–8 weeks.

The most permanent solution is traditional eyebrow tattoos, which deposit pigment deep into the skin. These last 1–3 years or longer.

Takeaway

Microblading is a semipermanent cosmetic tattooing procedure that provides definition and fullness to thin brows. 

Unlike a traditional cosmetic tattoo, microblading deposits pigment into the uppermost layer of skin, with results lasting from 12–18 months.

On average, a single microblading session costs $600. However, your cost can vary from $200–$2,000 depending on the level of detail, state regulations, geographic location, skin type and how well you take care of your new brows.

Your choice of microblading artist is also a large determining factor of cost because of differing state regulations. Licensed or certified technicians are well trained in microblading techniques, which impacts pricing.

Finding a knowledgeable licensed or certified technician is the safest option for an optimal microblading experience.