The technique known as Elite Brows, or ombre /powder brows, is a form of semi-permanent makeup that emulates the look of delicately shaded eyebrows. This involves using a tattooing machine to implant pigment into the skin, creating a gradual change in a shade that transitions from a lighter tone at the beginning of the brow to a deeper hue at the end.
Here are the steps involved in the process of getting Elite Brows:
1. Consultation: Before the procedure, you will have a consultation with the artist to discuss your desired brow shape, colour, and overall look. They will also assess your skin type and recommend the best pigment colour.
2. Numbing: To minimise any discomfort experienced during the procedure, a topical numbing cream will be administered to the brow area.
3. Brow Mapping: To ensure that the outcome is balanced and customised to your facial structure, the artist will utilise a brow pencil and a ruler to map out the contour and position of your brows.
4. Pigment application: Using a tattooing machine equipped with a needle specially designed for Elite Brows, the artist will implant pigment into the skin by applying a sequence of dots, resulting in a gradual transition from a lighter to a darker shade. This process is reiterated until the desired thickness and contour are attained.
Getting elite brows can take 2-3 hours, including the initial consultation and touch-up appointment. The results typically last 1-2 years, depending on your skin type and how well you care for them.
5. Touch-up: Following the initial application, a touch-up session will be arranged after 4-6 weeks to ensure the pigment has ultimately settled into the skin and to make any necessary tweaks.
6. Aftercare: Once the procedure is complete, you will be provided with guidelines on how to care for your brows as they heal. This often involves refraining from getting them wet and hydrated and avoiding scratching or picking at the treated area.
7. Healing: The healing process for elite brows can take 2-4 weeks. The brows may appear darker and more intense during this time than the desired result. The pigment is still settling into the skin, and the uppermost layer will begin to peel off, revealing the outcome. Adhering to the artist’s aftercare guidance promotes healthy healing and minimises complications.
8. Maintenance: To maintain the appearance of your elite brows, it is recommended to schedule touch-up appointments every 1-2 years. This will help refresh the brows’ colour and shape and ensure they look natural and beautiful.
Elite brows are an excellent option for those seeking to improve their appearance and achieve a soft, natural look. It is critical to conduct thorough research and select a skilled and trustworthy artist who can provide the best possible outcome.
9. Who is a good candidate: Elite brows are appropriate for most skin types; however, those with oily skin may require more frequent touch-ups since the pigment can fade more quickly. Elite brows are also an excellent option for those with sparse or thin eyebrows, as they can create the impression of fuller, more defined brows.
10. Risks and side effects: As with any cosmetic procedure, elite brows carry the potential for risks and side effects. These can include swelling, redness, and soreness around the brow area. There is also a slight chance of infection or an allergic reaction to the pigment or numbing cream utilised. Choosing a licensed and experienced artist who follows proper sanitation procedures is essential to reduce this risk.
11. Cost: The cost of elite brows can vary depending on the location and experience of the artist. The average cost can range from R500-R5000 for the initial and touch-up appointments.
12. Precautions: Before the procedure, it is essential to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and blood-thinning medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can increase the risk of bleeding and swelling. It is also essential to avoid sun exposure or tanning beds for at least a week before the appointment, as this can affect the colour and healing process.
In summary, elite brows are a popular semi-permanent makeup technique that can create the appearance of softly shaded and natural-looking eyebrows. The process involves depositing pigment into the skin using a tattooing machine and creating a gradient effect from light to dark. Choosing an experienced and reputable artist and following proper aftercare instructions are essential to ensure the best possible results.
13. Differences from other brow techniques: Elite brows differ from other brow techniques, such as microblading, creating a more powdered and softer effect than hair-like strokes. Elite brows are also less invasive than microblading, as the pigment is deposited into the skin using a machine rather than a blade.
14. Customization: One of the benefits of elite brows is that they can be customised to suit each individual’s preferences and face shape. The artist can adjust the colour and intensity of the pigment to create a natural-looking and positive result.
15. Post-procedure care: After the procedure, it is essential to avoid any activities that can cause sweating or excess moisture on the brows, such as swimming, saunas, or steam rooms. It is also important to avoid picking at the area as this can cause the pigment to fade unevenly. The artist may also provide a special ointment or cream for the brows during healing.
16. Touch-up frequency: The frequency of touch-ups needed can vary depending on each individual’s skin type and lifestyle factors. Those with oily skin may need touch-ups more frequently than those with dry skin. It is essential to schedule touch-up appointments to maintain the brows’ appearance.
17. Removal: While elite brows are semi-permanent, they can still be removed if desired. This can be done using laser removal or allowing the pigment to fade naturally over time.
In conclusion, ombre brows are a popular and customisable option for those looking to enhance their brows. Proper research and aftercare can create a natural-looking and long-lasting result. It is essential to choose an experienced and reputable artist and to follow all aftercare instructions to ensure the best possible outcome.
18. Before and aftercare: Before the procedure, it is essential to inform the artist of any allergies, medical conditions, or medications you are taking. The artist may also ask you to avoid certain activities, such as using facial scrubs or taking hot showers, in the days leading up to the appointment. After the procedure, it is essential to avoid touching the brows or applying makeup or skincare products to the area for at least a week.
19. Choosing an artist: When choosing an artist for elite brows, it is essential to research and choose someone licensed, experienced, and reputable. Look at their portfolio and read reviews from previous clients to understand their style and technique. It is also essential to ask questions about their sanitation practices and aftercare instructions.
20. Final result: The final result of elite brows can vary depending on each individual’s skin type and healing process. It is usual for the brows to appear darker and more intense immediately after the procedure. Still, they will gradually fade and settle into a natural-looking result over the following weeks. The final result can last anywhere from 1-3 years, depending on skin type, sun exposure, and lifestyle. Touch-up appointments can help to maintain the appearance of the brows over time.
