I Got My Eyebrows Micobladed (in Case You Want to)
Alopecia and microblading
While living with alopecia for the past 19 years, I've seen my hair come and go. Alopecia is an autoimmune disorder that causes your immune system to attack your hair follicles causing hair loss. Alopecia can affect not just the hair on your scalp but also your facial hair like eyebrows, eyelashes, and beard.
This year my eyebrows began to fade due to alopecia and the thought of constantly drawing on my eyebrows with make-up every morning never appealed to me.
But as the universe would have it, I was given the opportunity to explore micobalding.
What is microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent method of brow tattooing.
Yuli making sure my new eyebrows will be even and symmetrical.
The microblading process
The microblading technique utilizes a super-fine pen (which is actually a collection of needles) to scratch the skin and deposit pigment into the surface. The process creates fine lines that look just like hair!
I was nervous. I really wanted it to look natural and it was important to me to visit a technician who I trusted. Eyebrows help frame your facial features and play a big role in communication!
Yuli, (the specialist with the tiny needles) made me feel at ease at the first consultation. I showed her a photo of what my eyebrows looked like when they were fuller. She designed the best eyebrows for my appearance, quickly and skillfully choosing the perfect shape for my face.
Yuli’s fingertips moved with precision and purpose but were still gentle as she drew the outlines for above my eyes. I had no doubts about her expertise as she stretched my skin while spreading out her fingertips for balance. She placed the pen against my skin and dragged it a short distance, creating a hair.
About an hour later I had perfectly sculpted eyebrows.
Yuli scratches the surface of my skin with the pen.
Pigment applied to my right eyebrow as Yuli begins working on my left brow.
Does microblading hurt?
Short answer, Yes. (If you have a low pain tolerance.) For those with alopecia who received the shots in your scalp...that was worse. You can handle this.
The eyebrows are a sensitive area, nevertheless, Yuli used a numbing cream that worked wonders and I could hardly feel a thing. However, by the end of my session when the numbing effect was wearing off, I didn't want to be under the needle any longer than necessary.
Would I do it again? Absolutely.
Microblading aftercare.
I was instructed not to pick any scabs and not to get my eyebrows wet for a week after my appointment. Yuli also provided me with an antibacterial ointment to apply for a week. She recommended that I return for a touch-up appointment in four to six weeks.
Microblading results…
I love them! I love the shape. I love the fullness. I love the peace of mind waking up in the morning, looking in the mirror, and seeing that my brows didn't fade away in the night.
As I often discuss on Cheltenham Ave., “appearance is not the sum of identity.” With or without eyebrows I am pure potential, able to achieve all my dreams, and deserving of respect, empathy, and love.
Do what feels best for you and what you're ready for in your alopecia journey. Explore different options for reclaiming your identity and enjoying your appearance. Whether that's permanently tatted eyebrows, semi-permanent, or eyebrows dyed blue!
Email Yuli, to set up your appointment at yuliskincare@gmail.com
Tell her Gabe sent you! She is located on the east coast with locations in the New York/New Jersey area.
📸 Special thank you to my friend, Nevin! Check out his amazing videos and photos here.