Microblading vs HD Brows – what is the difference?

Although microblading and HD Brows are both super popular brow enhancement treatments with a roughly similar goal (to make your eyebrows look their best), they are, in fact, two completely different services that do not have much in common. If you want to up your brows game and therefore consider getting one of them done, this article is for you – we will discuss the difference between HD Brows and microblading and help you decide which one meets your expectations better. Keep reading!

What is eyebrow microblading?

Let’s start with the basics. Microblading is a permanent makeup technique that involves injecting pigment into the skin using very fine needles. It’s quite similar to getting a tattoo, although, unlike an actual tattoo, microblading is in fact semi-permanent, applied only to the top layers of the skin and provided using medical-grade pigments. The effect mimics the appearance of a real brow, with countless strokes of pigment resembling real hair.

Microblading is one of the permanent makeup techniques commonly used for eyebrows, the other one being powder brows (or ombre brows, as some prefer to call them). If you want to learn more about the differences between these two, you can check our take on the topic.

What are HD Brows?

The name “HD Brows” refers to a custom brow-enhancing treatment trademarked by High Definition Brows Ltd. It is a process consisting of seven steps – consultation, tinting, waxing, threading, tweezing, finishing touches and aftercare. The certified HD Brows stylists discuss the individual goal with the client, perform professional mapping, add colour (this part isn’t mandatory) and work on the shape, using techniques such as waxing, threading and tweezing.

An important part of the HD Brows service is planning the strategy for achieving long-term brow goals – especially if the client has overplucked their arches.

HD Brows vs microblading – pros and cons of both methods

As you can see, these two treatments do not share many similarities. Microblading is a cosmetic tattoo – you are in fact mimicking an eyebrow instead of working with the actual hair. HD Brows, on the other hand, is all about taking care of what’s already there. This is a fundamental difference that’s important to understand right off the bat. Because of that, both treatments come with unique benefits but also specific limitations.

The pros of microblading:

• It creates a realistic-looking arch even if you do not have thick eyebrows naturally
• It works wonders if you have no eyebrows at all (for example, due to an illness)
• You can use it to fill in gaps in your brows
• It will visually correct your natural brow shape
• It is very long-lasting – after the initial procedure and mandatory touch-up, it will stay with for around two years

The cons of microblading:

• It is expensive – you have to be prepared to pay anything from £150 to £850
• It is a more serious procedure, as it involves disruption of the skin, and it comes with a slight risk of side effects such as irritation, swelling or scarring.
• It is not the most pleasant experience (although whether or not it is actually painful is deeply subjective)
• It takes around two hours to get done
• It is a big commitment – after all, you are getting a (cosmetic) tattoo on your face!

The pros of HD Brows:

• You get the most out of your natural eyebrows
• The treatment is relatively inexpensive, with the pricing starting at £25
• It is non-invasive and comes with little to no risk
• It is mostly a relaxing experience, with the least pleasant element being waxing or tweezing (again, it’s very subjective)
• It takes around 45 minutes to complete

The cons of HD Brows:

• The treatment is not as effective if you have very sparse brows (and useless if you have no eyebrows at all)
• It requires touch-ups every 4-6 weeks
• Although a single treatment is rather inexpensive, the need for frequent repetition makes it more pricey than it seems at first glance
• It requires maintenance
• Although relatively painless, it can be uncomfortable for some people (if you are sensitive to waxing or tweezing)

Overall, the biggest benefit of microblading is that it works on any eyebrows, even extremely patchy, sparse or nonexistent. Another big advantage is how long does microblading last – once the tattoo is healed, you can enjoy it for around two years during which you do not have to worry about a thing. On the other hand, HD Brows treatment is perfect for enhancing what you naturally have. Although how long do HD Brows last can be a downside for some, there is no denying that having beautiful, well-groomed eyebrows for a month-month and a half is still an impressive score.

Where can I get HD Brows and microblading done?

This part is easy! All you have to do is visit Booksy’s webpage or even better – download the convenient Booksy mobile app. Then you define which service you are looking for and choose the preferred date and location. Booksy will show you the best salons in your area that offer Permanent Make-Up treatments, as well as brow stylists trained in HD Brows.

But that’s not all that Booksy has to offer. You can also check microblading before and after photos, as well as amazing HD Brows before and after transformation, which will make it easier for you to decide which seems to be a better technique for you. Furthermore, once you make your decision, you can book the appointment via the app or webpage, avoiding the hassle of calling and/or texting. So if you are on the hunt for perfect brows Booksy will be your best friend!