Combo brows are a blend of microblading and nanoblading, combined with machine shading placed between the strokes to create the illusion of enhanced hair density and a fuller, darker brow. This technique helps clients achieve a result that falls between a soft makeup look and a natural appearance, rather than focusing only on individual hair-like strokes.
Combination brows are ideal for clients with oily skin or for those who prefer a slightly fuller look that sits between natural and makeup-enhanced brows.
Explore our gallery to view photos of different brow techniques and healed results.
What is Combo brows?
Combo Brows is a great option for those who want their brows to appear both natural and subtly defined. By combining the precision of hair-like strokes with soft shading, this method creates a balanced effect that looks fuller without appearing overly made-up. It bridges the gap between the natural look of microblading and the bolder appearance of powder brows.
Why Is Combo brows more suitable for oilier skin types?
Oily skin produces more sebum, which is the skin’s natural oil responsible for keeping it soft and hydrated. Sebum travels through pores and hair follicles to reach the surface of the skin. Oily skin often has larger, more visible pores and tends to be thicker in texture. This skin type can be more challenging to work on because it tends to bleed more and is often more sensitive. Because of the excess oil, microblading alone may lead to blurry or faded strokes over time, especially after one to four years. For this reason, shading, powder, or combination brows are a more reliable choice for oily skin.
How long does the Combo brows procedure take?
The Combo Brows procedure involves two sessions to achieve the desired result. The first session usually takes about two hours, while the follow-up session lasts around one hour.
Who can have Combo brows?
As with any semi-permanent makeup procedure, it is the practitioner’s responsibility to ensure there are no contraindications before proceeding with the treatment. If a medical condition is present, it is recommended to consult a doctor before undergoing the procedure.
How Long Do Combo Brows Last?
Combo Brows results typically last between two and four years.
Because Combo Brows pigments are not implanted as deeply as traditional tattoos, the color will gradually fade over time.
Several factors can influence how long the pigment lasts:
The way your skin reacts to the pigment plays an important role. Excessive sweating may cause the pigment to fade more quickly. Waxing the brow area can also impact the retention of color. Your skin type matters as well. For example, oily or problematic skin tends to retain pigment for a shorter period. In such cases, shading or powder techniques are usually a better option.
Your daily skincare routine affects longevity too. Clients who tan, use chemical peels, or apply products with AHA or glycolic acid may notice faster fading since the skin resurfaces more often.
Does it hurt?
Combination brows involve the use of a topical anesthetic, just like other semi-permanent procedures. The anesthetic is applied before and during the session if needed, which helps minimize discomfort and makes the experience easy to tolerate.
What to expect during the healing process?
Combo brows involve a two-step process. The first session is the initial procedure, and the second session is the touch-up appointment, which usually happens between week four and week eight.
After the procedure, the treated area will look darker and more intense. This is completely normal and usually lasts two to three days until the skin settles.
Swelling is usually minimal, but some clients may notice slight puffiness. Every skin reacts differently to the pigment and heals at its own pace. In some cases, the skin can recover in just a few days without any visible healing stages.
A few days later, the brows may look lighter or slightly faded due to a new layer of skin forming over the area. They might also feel flaky or itchy as part of the natural healing cycle.
Around week three or four, the skin naturally exfoliates and the true pigment color starts to appear. Once healed, the brows will look softer and more natural. The color will continue to fade gradually as the skin renews itself over time.
What should be avoided after a Combination brows treatment?
In the first 10 days following your Combination brows treatment, do not apply any creams or makeup to the eyebrow area. It is also important to avoid intense physical activity, sauna sessions, facial massages, and steam exposure.
For the next 30 days, stay away from sunbathing, tanning beds, light therapy, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and skincare products with active regeneration ingredients. Avoid laser treatments over the treated area, such as Fraxel or IPL, as they can break down the pigment and potentially damage the skin.
