Why Microblading Is Becoming a Thing of the Past

Written By Nicole Guerrieri

Microblading vs. Powder Brows: What’s the Real Difference?

The short answer? There are simply better, more advanced ways to deposit pigment into the skin than there used to be.

Microblading was the technique that launched the modern permanent makeup industry. It’s how most of us started — myself included. But like any evolving field, permanent makeup has seen tremendous improvements in tools, techniques, and results. One of the biggest shifts? The rise of powder brows.

Let’s break it down:

Microblading

  • Technique: A manual tool with tiny needles that creates fine, hair-like strokes by making shallow cuts in the skin.

  • Look: Natural, delicate strokes that mimic brow hairs.

  • Best for: Normal to dry skin types.

  • Healing & Fading: Results vary based on skin type and the artist’s pressure. Strokes may fade quickly or unevenly.

  • Pain Level: Can be uncomfortable before numbing is applied.

Powder Brows

  • Technique: A machine-based method that softly implants pigment in tiny, pixelated dots to build an airy shaded effect.

  • Look: Versatile — can be soft and airy or more defined and filled-in, like a brow powder finish.

  • Best for: All skin types, including oily and mature skin.

  • Healing & Fading: Fades evenly and gracefully over time. Can last anywhere from 1 to 4 years, depending on skin and lifestyle.

  • Pain Level: Very gentle — much less invasive than microblading.

Why I Don’t Recommend Microblading Anymore

Here’s where we get into the real talk.

Microblading involves making small cuts in the skin — and while experienced artists know how to control depth, skin thickness varies across different areas of the brow. That means some strokes may end up deeper than others, which can lead to uneven fading (one stroke heals darker, another lighter). This is something that might be corrected at your touch-up, but the results aren’t always predictable.

Another common issue? Many clients who initially want a “natural” look end up coming back asking for more. That leads to additional touch-ups, which may seem harmless, but each time pigment is reintroduced, those strokes get thicker. Over time, they can blur together and create a blocky, unnatural appearance.

Excessive layering also drives pigment deeper into the skin, increasing the risk of oversaturation — which can lead to that dreaded muddy or grey-toned fade.

After nine years in this industry, I’ve seen it happen more times than I can count. I’ve even referred many of my own clients (and others) for laser tattoo removal before starting over with powder brows.

Why Powder Brows Are the Future

The hesitation around powder brows often comes from the misconception that they look “fake” or too much like makeup. But in reality? It’s the opposite.

Powder brows offer a softer, more customizable look — and they actually age better than microblading. This technique works beautifully on all brow types, from sparse and light to full and dense.

Worried about going too bold? Don’t be. The process is entirely tailored to your existing brows. If you have light, sparse brows, we’ll use a lighter hand and airy pixelated shading to ensure a seamless, natural blend. If your brows are denser, we’ll build on that base to define the shape gently.

Final Thoughts

In my professional opinion, powder brows are the superior choice — both in terms of long-term results and versatility. While microblading paved the way for today’s permanent makeup trends, it’s no longer the gold standard. Techniques have evolved, and so should we.

Still have questions? I’m always happy to chat more about which option might be best for you.

Curious what powder brows can actually look like? Click here to view my gallery of real client results.

Nicole Guerrieri