Do You Need to Shave Your Eyebrows for Microblading in Ottawa? PMU Guide
By: Ivonne Sanchez | BLOG.IVONNE.CA BY | IVONNE
Published on: March 6, 2023 at 3:30 p.m.
If you are considering microblading, nano brows, or permanent makeup (PMU) in Ottawa, one of the most common questions we hear at IVONNE is: "Do I need to shave my eyebrows first?" The short answer is NO. You absolutely do NOT need to shave your eyebrows for eyebrow tattooing or removal.
Why You Do Not Shave Eyebrows for Microblading or Nano Brows
Both methods involve creating fine, hair-like strokes to mimic natural eyebrow hair. Here is why you do not need to shave your eyebrows for these procedures:
Precision Mapping
IVONNE technicians use your existing eyebrow hair as a guide to create the perfect shape that complements your natural brows. Shaving would remove this critical roadmap.
Natural Appearance
Keeping your natural eyebrows allows for a more realistic and fuller appearance. The strokes are designed to fill in sparse areas and add definition, not replace your entire brow.
Less Invasive
There is no need to remove hair that is not being tattooed, making the procedure less invasive and reducing prep time.
Seamless Blending
The tattoo strokes are placed strategically among your natural hairs to create a seamless, undetectable enhancement. Shaved brows would look fake during the healing period.
Microblading vs Nano Brows: What Is the Difference?
| Feature | Microblading | Nano Brows |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | Manual handheld tool with ultra-fine needles | Digital machine with a single ultra-fine needle |
| Best For | Normal to dry skin, sparse brow hair | Oily skin, sensitive skin, ultra-fine strokes |
| Duration | 2.5-3 hours (initial), 1.5-2 hours (touch-up) | 2.5-3 hours (initial) |
| Results | Crisp, defined hair strokes | Softer, more delicate hair strokes, lasts longer on oily skin |
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Step 1: Consultation & Brow Mapping
Your aesthetician will assess your natural brow shape, symmetry, and hair pattern. Using specialized measurements, the ideal brow shape is mapped and drawn for your approval. Adjustments are made until you are 100% happy.
Step 2: Numbing & Pigment Selection
A topical numbing cream is applied for comfort. While you wait, your aesthetician will custom-blend pigments to match your natural brow hair colour. We use premium pigments formulated for longevity and natural healing.
Step 3: The Procedure
Individual hair strokes are created following your natural brow direction. Work is done in sections, with numbing cream reapplied as needed. Most clients describe the sensation as light scratching or pressure (2-3/10 pain level).
The Healing Process
Your brows will heal over 6-8 weeks:
- Days 1-7: Brows appear darker and bolder than the final result
- Days 7-14: Scabbing and flaking (this is normal)
- Days 14-28: Colour lightens significantly (can look patchy, this is temporary)
- Days 28-42: True colour returns, but some strokes may have faded
A touch-up appointment at 6-8 weeks allows us to add more pigment to areas that did not retain well and perfect the shape.
Laser Eyebrow Tattoo Removal: Shaving Not Required Either
If you are looking to remove or lighten unwanted eyebrow tattoos from another provider, laser removal with PicoWay at IVONNE is the solution. And no, you still do NOT need to shave your eyebrows.
Why No Shaving for Laser Removal
- PicoWay targets tattoo ink beneath the skin without affecting hair follicles
- Keeping natural eyebrows maintains a natural look during the removal process
- Shaving can irritate the skin and add trauma on top of laser treatment
- Eyebrow hair is too fine to interfere with the laser
What to Expect for Removal
- Sessions needed: 4-8 sessions (spaced 6-8 weeks apart)
- Pain level: 5-6/10 with numbing cream and ice
- Healing: Red and swollen for 2-3 days
- Results: PicoWay picosecond laser shatters ink into tiny particles
Common Questions
How long does microblading last?
12-18 months for most clients. Factors include skin type (oily skin fades faster), sun exposure, skincare routine (retinol and acids fade pigment), and lifestyle.
Can I go to work the next day?
Yes. Your brows will be darker and more defined than the final result, but most professionals return to work the next day. Just avoid sweaty workouts for 7-10 days.
Best time of year for microblading?
Fall and winter (October-March) are ideal due to less sun exposure, less outdoor activity, and lower humidity. Summer is possible but requires extra diligence with hats and SPF.
What if I do not like the shape?
This is why brow mapping is so critical. We spend 20-30 minutes on mapping and get your approval before starting. If adjustments are needed after healing, we can refine at the touch-up or use PicoWay laser.
Eyebrow Tattoo Styles at IVONNE
Hair Strokes
Microblading or nano brows. Individual hair-like strokes for the most natural look. Best for clients who want defined brows that still look soft and realistic.
Powder Brows
Soft, powdered makeup look. Best for clients with oily skin or those who want a bolder, more defined brow. Lasts longer than hair strokes.
Combination Brows
Hair strokes in the front + powder shading in the tail. The most popular style at IVONNE. Offers the best of both worlds.
Why Choose IVONNE
- Nearly a Decade of Experience: Thousands of microblading and nano brow treatments performed
- Premium IVONNE-Branded Pigments: Proprietary formulations that heal true to colour
- Medical-Grade Clinic: Sterilization protocols exceeding Health Canada standards
- Comprehensive Consultation: Brow mapping, skin assessment, colour selection, and education
- PicoWay Laser for Corrections: In-house laser technology for removal or lightening
- Convenient Downtown Ottawa Location: 320 Queen Street (Place de Ville), steps from Queen Street LRT
Location: 0116-320 Queen Street, Ottawa ON K1R 5A3 (Place de Ville, Retail Concourse)
Phone: (613) 695-6662
Transit: Steps from Queen Street LRT station
Become a Client Today
Ivonne and her team are ready to guide you through your cosmetic treatment options. Whether you're exploring permanent makeup, laser treatments, or advanced skincare, you'll receive honest, professional advice personalized to your skin, your goals, and your comfort level. We're currently accepting new clients by application.
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