Microblading in San Francisco
Hair-stroke detail, shaped around you. When you want fuller-looking brows while keeping the look of individual hairs, microblading is one option to consider at our Union Square studio.
What is microblading?
Microblading is a cosmetic tattoo technique performed with a manual handheld tool. Fine pigmented strokes are arranged to resemble eyebrow hairs and blend with the hair already present. It changes the appearance of fullness; it does not add actual hairs.
Microblading emphasizes individual lines rather than shading. Nano brows also create hair-stroke detail, but use a machine rather than a manual tool.
Who might consider it?
You may be interested in microblading if you prefer a hair-stroke finish and regularly fill in sparse-looking sections of your brows. Suitability also depends on your skin: fine strokes can be less predictable on some oily, textured or fragile skin, so the technique is chosen after an individual assessment.
If you have previous brow tattooing, send clear photographs before booking. Existing pigment can affect which options are realistic.
Design comes before pigment
Bring photographs of brows you like and, if helpful, a picture of how you usually fill in your own. We talk through shape, balance, density and color direction. Your natural brows are the starting point; an inspiration picture is a conversation tool, not a template.
Fresh and healed results are different
Color and definition change as the skin heals, so the look right after your appointment is not the final result. Follow the written aftercare for your treatment and give the skin time to settle before deciding whether more detail is needed.
Microblading can fade, but it should still be approached as a tattoo. Maintenance varies, and complete disappearance cannot be promised.
Microblading pricing in San Francisco
First-time microblading: a two-part series, your first session plus a follow-up to perfect the healed result.
Revision, if a third visit is needed.
Annual color refresh.
Your microblading appointment, step by step
Microblading at SF Microblading is a two-part series. The first visit creates your brows; the second refines them once they have healed.
- 01ConsultationWe talk through your goals, look at your skin and any previous brow work, and recommend the technique that suits you.
- 02Brow mappingYour shape is measured and drawn on, balanced to your features. Nothing is tattooed until you approve the design in the mirror.
- 03ComfortWe talk through comfort options before we begin. Tell us about any allergies or past reactions to topical products.
- 04Pigment placementFine hair strokes are drawn by hand with a manual microblading tool, following the direction of your natural brow hairs.
- 05AftercareYou leave with written aftercare instructions for your treatment and a way to reach us with questions.
- 06Healed reviewOnce your brows have settled, we review the healed result and refine anything that needs it.
Microblading by skin type
Skin type is one of the biggest factors in how brow work heals. These are general patterns; your consultation decides what is right for you.
Normal to dry skin
Often the best fit for hand-drawn strokes, which tend to heal crisp on this skin type.
Combination skin
Microblading can work well; if the brow area is oilier, nano or combo brows may be recommended.
Oily skin or large pores
Hand strokes can blur as they heal. Nano or combo brows are usually considered first.
Sensitive or mature skin
We assess your skin carefully and may adjust pressure, density or technique.
Microblading vs. nano brows
| Microblading | Nano brows | |
|---|---|---|
| Tool | Manual handheld tool | Permanent-makeup machine |
| Look | Fine, crisp hair strokes | Fine, textured hair strokes |
| Often considered for | Normal to dry skin | Combination or oily skin |
| Price at our studio | $695 two-part series | $850 |
Read the full comparison guide, or see nano brows and combo brows.
Recent brow results from our studio
See before & after →
Microblading questions
Not sure which technique fits you?
Compare microblading, nano and combo brows → Take the brow quiz →Will I still have my natural eyebrow hair?
Yes. Microblading adds the appearance of hair strokes between and around existing hairs. We can discuss shaping or grooming preferences at your consultation.
Can it cover an old eyebrow tattoo?
Sometimes previous pigment limits the design or makes a different plan necessary. An assessment is needed before a cover-up or correction can be promised.
How long will my brows last?
Fading and maintenance vary with your skin, the pigment and the treatment. Ask us about realistic expectations for your brows and when a healed review or color refresh makes sense.
How much does microblading cost in San Francisco?
First-time microblading at SF Microblading is $695 for a two-part series. A third-visit revision, if needed, is $150, and an annual color refresh is $425.
Is the touch-up included?
Yes. The $695 first-time service is a two-part series that includes a follow-up session to refine your healed brows.
Explore your options in Union Square
Visit us at 391 Sutter Street, Studio 301, San Francisco, CA 94108 to discuss your goals and review examples of our work.