How much does microblading cost?
How much does microblading cost?
$500 – $800 average cost for initial session
$100 – $300 average cost for touch-up
Average microblading cost
Microblading costs $500 to $800 on average for the initial session and $100 to $300 for a touch-up session, depending on the artist’s expertise and reputation, the studio’s reputation, and your location. The cost for microblading can exceed $1,000 in major cities and areas with a high cost of living.
Microblading requires a touch-up every 1 to 2 years. The cost of touch-up sessions typically falls at the higher end of the range if you wait longer than 1 year between sessions.
| Service | Average cost* |
|---|---|
| Microblading initial session | $500 – $800 |
| Microblading touch-up session | $100 – $300 |
*Not including a tip for the technician
What is microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic procedure that creates fuller, more defined, natural-looking eyebrows using fine, hair-like strokes. During the procedure, a trained technician uses a specialized manual tool with tiny needles to deposit pigment into the upper layers of the skin. This technique creates the appearance of individual eyebrow hairs.
Microblading process
During the microblading session, the technician will:
Map out the desired shape of the eyebrows.
Choose a pigment that matches the eyebrows’ natural color.
Numb the area with a topical anesthetic cream.
Use a special tool to make tiny hair-like cuts in the skin and insert pigment into the cuts.
Apply a soothing ointment and provide aftercare instructions.
Microblading requires two sessions—the initial session and a follow-up or touch-up session 4 to 6 weeks later. During the touch-up session, the technician will refine your brows, go over any hair strokes that didn’t retain pigment during the healing process, fill in areas with more strokes if needed, and refresh the color.
Eyebrow microblading cost factors
Several factors influence the cost of microblading:
Geographic location: Your location significantly impacts pricing, with studios in urban areas and major cities typically charging higher rates. Prices can vary by hundreds of dollars between metropolitan and rural areas.
Artist's expertise: More experienced microblading artists command higher rates due to their advanced skills and proven track record. Artists with additional certifications and specialized training charge premium prices that reflect their expertise.
Studio reputation: Well-established studios with strong reviews and a prominent market presence often charge more for their services.
Pigment quality: Studios using high-grade, organic pigments typically charge more for their services. These premium materials often provide better color retention and more natural-looking results, justifying the higher cost.
Products & services included: The total price may include additional services such as the initial consultation, the first touch-up session, or aftercare products. Some studios bundle these services for a better overall value, while others charge separately for them.
Artist tip: While optional, tipping your microblading artist 10% to 20% is customary and should be factored into your total budget.
Microblading FAQs
How long does microblading last?
Microblading typically lasts 1 to 2 years before another touch-up is required, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and aftercare routine. While not permanent, the results are long-lasting.
People with oily skin may notice their results fade more quickly and they require more frequent touch-ups. Environmental factors such as sun exposure, your skincare routine, and activities like swimming or intense exercise can also affect how long your microblading results last.
Does microblading hurt?
Most clients experience only minimal discomfort during microblading due to the use of a topical numbing cream the technician applies before the procedure. Many clients describe the sensation as light scratching or pressure rather than actual pain.
While pain tolerance varies from person to person, the procedure is generally well-tolerated, and your artist will work to ensure your comfort throughout the session.
How long does microblading take?
A typical microblading session takes 2 to 3 hours total. This includes approximately 30 minutes for the consultation and brow mapping, 30 minutes for the numbing cream to take effect, and 1 to 2 hours for the actual procedure.
Touch-up sessions are usually shorter, typically lasting 1 to 2 hours since the initial consultation and mapping aren't necessary.
How long does microblading take to heal?
The complete healing process after microblading takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks and progresses through several stages:
During the first 3 days, you may experience tenderness and possible swelling.
Days 4 through 10 typically involve light scabbing and flaking, followed by a period where the color appears lighter as the skin heals.
The final stage occurs between weeks 4 to 6, when the true color develops, and your results stabilize.
Is microblading a tattoo?
While microblading uses pigment inserted into the skin, it differs from eyebrow tattoos. Microblading pigment goes into a more superficial layer of skin, and the technique uses a different type of pigment than traditional tattoos.
Additionally, the technician performs microblading with a manual tool rather than a machine, allowing for more precise, hair-like strokes. These differences result in a semi-permanent rather than permanent result.
Is microblading safe?
Microblading is generally safe when performed by a licensed and experienced technician in a clean environment. For your safety, choose a qualified professional who follows proper sterilization protocols and uses high-quality pigments. Verify the artist's credentials, check the studio's health department compliance, and review recent clients’ results.
Do you tip for microblading?
While tipping is optional, a tip of 10% to 20% is customary for microblading services and is a great way to acknowledge your artist's skill and attention to detail. You may choose to tip for both the initial session and touch-up appointments if you're especially satisfied with your artist's work and service.
What to look for in a microblading studio
Follow these tips to help you find the best microblading studio near you:
Contact at least 3 local microblading studios to get their prices.
Read reviews from their past clients on Fash and Google.
Ask to see a portfolio of their recent work. Ask specifically to see examples of healed results, not just fresh work.
Confirm the studio is licensed and follows proper sterilization procedures.
Visit the studio in person before booking to assess cleanliness and professionalism.
Questions to ask microblading artists
Before booking your appointment with a microblading artist, ask these important questions:
How long have you been performing microblading?
Can I see your certification and license?
Can I see photos of final healed results from your past work?
What does your sterilization process involve?
What type of pigments do you use?
Does the price include the first touch-up session?
How often will I need additional touch-ups?
What aftercare products and instructions do you provide?
What is your policy if I'm not satisfied with the results?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.