Machine Hair Strokes vs Microblading: Which Is Best for Natural Looking Brows?
If you’re considering permanent makeup, you’ve probably come across both microblading and machine hair strokes. While they can create a similar look initially, they are very different techniques—and choosing the right one can make a huge difference to how your brows heal and age over time.
As someone who has specialised in permanent makeup since 2013, I’ve worked with both techniques and now predominantly recommend machine hair strokes for many clients because of their beautiful, natural-looking results and gentler approach to the skin.
What Is Microblading?
Microblading uses a handheld blade made up of tiny needles to create fine cuts in the skin, depositing pigment to mimic natural eyebrow hairs.
When first introduced, microblading transformed the permanent makeup industry by creating much softer, more natural brows than older tattoo techniques.
However, as the treatment has aged over the years, we’ve also seen some of its limitations.
What Are Machine Hair Strokes?
Machine hair strokes use a digital permanent makeup machine with a fine single needle to implant pigment into the skin.
Instead of cutting the skin, the machine gently implants pigment with precision, allowing incredibly realistic hair strokes while causing less trauma.
The result can be soft, fluffy and incredibly natural.
Why I Recommend Machine Hair Strokes
Every client is different, but machine hair strokes can offer several advantages:
- Less trauma to the skin.
- Suitable for a wider range of skin types.
- Better pigment retention for many clients.
- Beautiful soft, natural healed results.
- Easier to layer and refine over time.
- Ideal for mature skin and many clients with sparse brows.
During your consultation, I’ll assess your skin, lifestyle and the look you’d like to achieve before recommending the most suitable technique.
Is Microblading Bad?
Not at all.
Microblading still has its place and can produce lovely results in the right client.
The challenge is that not every skin type is suitable, and over time repeated microblading can sometimes become blurred, patchy or develop an ashy appearance if it isn’t performed well or maintained correctly.
This is one reason why I now see many clients looking for correction work after having microblading elsewhere.
Can You Correct Old Microblading?
Yes—often you can.
One of my specialist areas is correcting previous permanent makeup.
Depending on how much pigment remains, your options may include:
- Machine hair strokes over previous work.
- Combination brows using hair strokes and soft shading.
- Colour correction.
- Saline removal.
- Laser removal before creating a fresh new shape.
Every correction is unique, so a consultation is essential before deciding on the safest and most effective approach.
Which Technique Is Right for You?
There isn’t one answer for everyone.
The best treatment depends on:
- Your skin type.
- Your age.
- Previous permanent makeup.
- Your natural brow hair.
- Your desired style.
- Your long-term goals.
That’s why every treatment at Changing Faces begins with a personalised consultation.
Thinking About Permanent Makeup?
Whether you’re considering your very first set of brows or you’d like to improve previous work, I’m always happy to guide you through the options.
Together we’ll create brows that complement your face, suit your lifestyle and heal beautifully.
Permanent Makeup Specialist | Brow Corrections | Hair Stroke Brows | Lip Blush | Eyeliner
