The Pros and Cons of Microblading for Hair Loss

microbladingOne of the newest trends in the fight against hair loss is microblading. What started as a beauty treatment to help fill and shape eyebrows is now being used on the scalp to conceal thinning and shedding. But what exactly is microblading, and is the procedure worth the time and cost?

To best determine if the hair tattoo is right for you, it’s important to first understand how the process works. The procedure involves a handheld tool that essentially tattoos your scalp to create the illusion of thicker hair. Unlike scalp micropigmentation, where a digital machine is used, microblading is done completely by hand. A small blade deposits ink across your scalp to mimic the appearance of more hair.

Microblading needles are about three times smaller than regular tattoo needs. This allows a hair loss specialist or tattoo artist to draw very fine, hair-like strokes for natural-looking results. And, because the manual process allows for precision, only the areas of the scalp lacking sufficient growth are targeted.

Microblading Pros and Cons

The treatment is available to both men and women – which is good, considering nearly 40 percent of all hair loss patients are female. Consider the following benefits:

  • Tattoo pigment matches natural hair color and skin tone.
  • Results appear immediately and fade gradually over time.
  • Microblading works well across the hairline for patients with progressed traction alopecia, a hair loss condition often caused by tight hairstyles such as braids and extensions.
  • When used beyond the hairlines, results look similar to a buzz cut. This can be suitable for men (or women) who already sport ultra-short hairstyles.
  • Pain is manageable – akin to a small rubber band snap or eyebrow plucking.
  • Results last for approximately 18 months (with intermittent touch-ups), but can vary depending on the patient and their lifestyle.

While this procedure is beneficial for some, not every hair loss patient is a good candidate. Microblading doesn’t counteract diffuse thinning – a common characteristic of female pattern hair loss (FPHL), a form of androgenetic (hereditary) alopecia. In addition, microblading does not work well on patients looking for increased volume. Microblading does not increase hair count or add thickness to thinning hair.

Both scalp micropigmentation and microblading are temporary treatments. These procedures do not prevent progressive hair loss or encourage new hair growth. To the touch, your hair won’t feel any different than it did prior to the treatment. This can be a major drawback for patients concerned about texture.

Finally, microblading does not offset baldness. To generate natural results, the tattoo must be concealed by surrounding hairs. For patients with advanced male pattern baldness or alopecia areata, microblading may not be a practical option.

At the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami, we work with patients looking for long-lasting, noticeable hair regrowth. We increase hair count and curb future hair loss through a range of procedures, including high-tech hair transplant surgery and low-level laser therapy. To book a consultation and discuss your options for authentic hair restoration, call us at 305-925-0222.