Brow Lamination vs Microblading
- What's the Difference
If you are looking to achieve the perfect eyebrow look, you might have to choose between brow lamination and microblading. Both techniques are popular and seem similar but their differences are distinct enough to make your choice important.
To help with that process, the team at Smudge Beauty Bar would like you to know the differences between brow lamination and microblading.


What Is Brow Lamination
Also known as eyebrow lamination or eyebrow perm, this is a semi-permanent regimen that straightens, lifts, and tints eyebrows. It is used by a lot of people who have unkempt eyebrows or those who have patchy and sparse eyebrows.
Brow lamination usually begins with an examination conducted by a trained technician. They will assess the state of your eyebrows and determine the best course of action to proceed.
The steps involved include:
- Cleaning to remove dirt, oil, makeup and anything else.
- Tinting to enhance the eyebrows’ colour and define their appearance
- Applying a solution to eyebrows that will facilitate the shaping process
- Brushing the eyebrows into the shape you want
- Setting the style and shape into place with a neutralizer
After the procedure is complete, the technician will also provide you with instructions on how to care for your eyebrows in the aftermath.


What Is Microblading?
Like brow lamination, microblading is a semi-permanent technique used to enhance the appearance of eyebrows. It involves the use of a small handheld tool to tattoo hair-like marks that creates the appearance of eyebrows.
Similar to brow lamination, micro blading begins with a consultation to determine the best way forward. The process involves:
- Measuring and mapping out the shape of the eyebrows
- Numbing the area with an anesthetic cream to alleviate pain.
- Selecting a pigment that matches the natural colour of the eyebrows.
- Tattooing minute hair-like marks on the skin.
- Soothing the area with an ointment.
- Scheduling a touch-up appointment for 4-6 weeks afterwards.
The technician will also provide you with aftercare instructions to help you care for the eyebrows after the procedure. Microblading is a tattooing process and the healing will be similar. Following the aftercare instructions will help you avoid complications and facilitate the healing process.


What’s the Difference Between Brow Lamination and Microblading?
Despite the fact that both procedures fulfill similar functions, there are significant differences between microblading and brow lamination.
Brow lamination enhances the natural hair in place but microblading creates the appearance of natural hair to fill in the sparse areas. The effects will look similar but the results are different.
Brow lamination requires solutions to shape and set the eyebrows in place while microblading uses a tattooing tool to create the desired eyebrow shape.
Also, brow lamination is a gentler process that doesn’t last as long as microblading. The effects of brow lamination usually last for 6 to 8 weeks. Microblading, however, is a more intensive process that lasts longer. The typical duration of microblading’s effects is 1 to 2 years.

Smudge Beauty Bar – Beauty Perfected
The physical and mental advantages you can gain from manicure and pedicures are vital to living a healthy and stress-free lifestyle. So never allow anyone to make you feel guilty about getting a manicure or a pedicure and visit us at Smudge Beauty Bar, Ottawa’s one-stop shop for those looking for a rejuvenating experience.
If you require any beauty or skin care services, don’t hesitate to contact us today! Make sure to book an appointment in advance to secure a spot with one of our team members. You won’t regret it!
