Combo Brows

  • By Bryce Cleveland
Combo Brows

Learn All About Combo Brows

Some clients prefer combining techniques to get their picture perfect brows. Suitable for all skin types with having longer results than microblading, combo brows are here to stay.

Read on to learn about another popular eyebrow tattoo treatment called combo brows.

What's inside (Click on the link to go to a specific step):

What Are Combo Brows?

This treatment is also called combination brows or sometimes even known as hybrid brows. The procedure is all about combining the two popular eyebrow tattoo techniques- microblading and microshading. The final result is a natural and attractive brow with a powdery effect.

The tools used are both manual and machines that make tiny incisions into the skin and insert the pigment. This pigment is different from tattoo pigments in the sense that it is more natural and is inserted not as deep as tattoos. Likewise, cobo brows pigment does not fade as quickly and can last for 1 up to 3 years.

What Is So Special About Combo Brows?

Some clients may not be good candidates for microblading due to their skin type, so combo brows are a great alternative. Combo brows also emphasize the hair strokes in the eyebrows with some powdery shading. Microblading on oily skin results in strokes that can easily get blurred so combo brows are a better procedure for them.

Read this guide to find out the differences between combo brows and microblading.

Microblading Combo Brows

How Are Combo Eyebrows Created?

We have learned that two techniques make combo brows - microblading and shading. But which one is done first?

The procedure can be unique for each aesthetician since some start with the blading first. Either using a manual tool or a machine (for nano brows). They prefer doing this step first so it will create a basis for the shading step thus making it easier for them.

On the other hand, some artists start with the shading then the blading because to them, the results are more realistic. The hair strokes are added up to the head of the brow.

Regardless of which method the artist chooses, the result can still be natural brows with a powdery effect. Generally, the shading is kept super light so the look stays soft, light and airy. The strokes made are also less than in microblading.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Combo Brows?

This procedure matches all skin types, particularly clients who want brows that look natural with a light makeup look. Especially for people with oily skin, this treatment is perfect so that hair strokes can be more prominent than in microblading with the addition of shading for better results.

Another great use for combo brows is for covering old brow tattoos once it becomes a light shadow. Microblading is not the best solution for covering up old tattoos because the strokes would end up looking blurry and messy with the remaining pigment.

Who Isn't a Good Candidate for Combo Brows?

It is not recommended to get combo brows if a person has any of the following:

  • Diabetes
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Taking blood-thinning medications (You may contact your doctor if they would allow you to temporarily discontinue use for the procedure)
  • Recent Botox injections or fillers (Need to wait at least 4 weeks)
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding
  • History of keloids or hypertrophic scarring
  • Viral infections or diseases
  • Skin irritations or Psoriasis around the treated area
  • Recent skin tan
Microblade Combo Brows

How to Prepare for Combo Brows Treatment?

Once you have decided on a salon and artist for your procedure, you will receive instructions on how to prepare for your upcoming treatment. The list would generally look like this:

  • Be healthy. Artists often ask for the client's medical history.
  • Do not take caffeine or alcoholic drinks at least 2 days before treatment
  • A week before the procedure, discontinue use of blood thinners such as Ibuprofen, Niacin, Aspirin, Vit E, Vitamin B6, Omega 3, Ginkgo Biloba, Primrose and the like.
  • Avoid waxing or tinting the brow area at least a week before treatment to allow the artist to see the natural shape of the brows.
  • Do not get any facials or peels at least 14 days before the procedure.
  • 4 weeks before treatment, refrain from getting any facial injections.

What Does the Combo Brows Healing Process Look Like?

The healing process for a combo brow procedure lasts up to 6 weeks. In general, here are the stages of the healing journey:

  • Days 1 to 3: The brows look very dark within the first few days but it will lighten in the next few stages.
  • Days 3 to 7: Scabs will start to form so avoid touching or picking on them. Allow the scabs to fall off naturally.
  • Days 7 to 12: The scabs from the previous stage will start peeling off and could go through 2 cycles of peeling. Again, refrain from picking on the skin.
  • Days 12 to 14: You might notice your eyebrows fade as if they disappear. This is the ghosting stage and the pigment will reappear shortly.
  • Day 14 onwards: You will notice the color coming back and your brows will start showing the final result.

What Should I Know About Combo Brows Aftercare?

Taking care of your brows after the procedure is similar for the eyebrow procedures (microblading, shading, ombre, etc). Your artist will provide instructions for your aftercare such as the following:

  • In the first few days, lymph would come out from the cuts so clean any build-up up to 2-3 times per day.
  • Wash the treated area with sterile water especially since it is still an open wound.
  • Wet healing and dry healing are the two types of aftercare. Wet healing involves an ointment to be applied after washing and drying. On the other hand, dry healing does not involve putting any ointment on the brows. Make sure to follow whatever instructions your artist gives you.
  • Keep your hands away from your brows unless they are clean. Any surface that comes in contact with your brows whether q-tips, cotton swabs and the like should be completely sterile.
  • Keep your pillowcase clean, preferably silk.
  • Avoid scratching, rubbing, picking or peeling the treated area. Let it flake off naturally to avoid damaging the area.
  • If recommended by your artist, apply ointment on the brow area before taking a shower or bath. This can help protect them from steam and water.
  • Do not apply make-up on the face and avoid facials, sweatings, sun exposure, and activities where the brows can get wet for long periods of time (sauna, jacuzzi, swimming, etc).
  • If your brows get soaking wet, pat them dry immediately without rubbing the area.
  • Anti-aging products that contain lactic acids, glycolic acids and retinol speed up fading so it is best to avoid using them after a combo brow procedure.
  • Always remember to wear sunblock whenever you're outside to prevent fading of the pigment.
Combo Brows Microblading

When do Combo Brows Need to Be Touched Up?

After 6-8 weeks into the healing process, it is recommended to get the mandatory touch up treatment. Your brows can look patchy after the healing process, so getting a touch up appointment can fix any imperfections or make changes in the color or shape.

Additional touch up appointments can be booked once your brows start fadings. Generally, one touch up per year is advised.

How Long Do Combo Brows Last?

Combo brows can last slightly longer than a microblading procedure which lasts for 18 months. The shading in combo brows can prolong the longevity of the pigment up to 2 years or more.

But how long the procedure takes to fade also depends on your skin type and lifestyle.

Are There Any Risks and Side Effects to the Combo Brows Treatment?

Any cosmetic tattoo treatment has risks since it involves piercing the skin barrier. To minimize the risks, make sure to book the right artist. Do your research and make sure they work in a sterile environment, use high quality products and have the certification and license to do combo brows.

The problems that arise often come from unskilled artists or when clients disregard the aftercare instructions given to them.

Don't worry if you notice some swelling or redness in the treated area, it is normal as well as seeing scabs or scarring. Avoid touching these scabs and let them fall off naturally.

Artists should do a patch test prior to the procedure to check for any allergic reactions on the client's skin. Infections are rare, but do contact your artist and your dermatologist if you notice any swelling, itchiness and redness that is concerning.

Combo Brows for Microblading

Can I Remove Combo Brows?

Yes, the combo brow treatment can be removed and there are three methods currently available:

  • Laser removal
  • Saline removal
  • Glycolic acid removal

All three methods work really well in removing permanent makeup but only two work for emergency removal. Saline removal and glycolic acid removal can be done within 48 hours of the treatment in cases of emergency removal.

How Much Do Combo Brows Cost?

Pricing of combo brow treatments vary based on different factors (location, expertise, popularity of the artist, etc) and cost an average of $600.

Main Takeaways

Combining microblading and microshading ends up as combo brows. Perfect for all skin types, especially for clients who want their brows looking natural with hair strokes but with a powdery effect as well.

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