Frequently asked questions

Microblading is a semi-permanent technique in which a handheld tool is used to place pigment in fine, hair-like strokes in the upper layers of the skin. The aim is a fuller, more defined brow that still looks natural. Our microblading guide explains the process in more detail.

Microblading is semi-permanent rather than permanent, so it fades gradually. It is often said to last somewhere between one and three years, and sometimes less, depending on skin type, lifestyle, sun exposure, skincare and how your skin holds pigment. Many people choose to book a refresher appointment from time to time to keep the colour looking fresh.

Comfort varies from person to person. Many people describe the sensation as scratching or mild discomfort rather than sharp pain, but sensitivity differs and nobody can promise a completely painless experience. Practitioners commonly use a topical numbing product. Full treatment information, including how comfort is managed, will be available before appointments open.

Powder brows create a soft, shaded finish that resembles brow powder or a light pencil fill, rather than individual hair strokes. A small machine is typically used to build the shading gradually. Read more on our powder brows page.

Ombré brows (also written “ombre brows”) are a type of shaded brow with a gradient: lighter and softer at the front, gradually deepening towards the tail. The term overlaps with powder brows, and artists use the words slightly differently. See our ombré brows page for the detail.

Combination brows blend hair-stroke work with soft shading in the same design, often using strokes towards the front of the brow and shading towards the arch and tail. It is one way to get both natural texture and added definition. Visit our combination brows page to learn more.

Microblading creates fine, hair-like strokes with a handheld tool, which tends to give a lighter, more textured look. Powder brows use shading to create a softer, more filled-in effect, similar to makeup. Neither is “better”; they suit different looks and different skin. We compare them side by side on the microblading page.

It depends on the look you want, your existing brows, your skin and how your lifestyle suits aftercare. A good starting point is our guide to semi-permanent eyebrows, and the final recommendation is made individually at your consultation.

Your brow shape is designed with you. The design is planned during brow mapping, where proportions, symmetry and your own preferences are considered before any pigment is placed.

Colour is chosen together, taking into account your natural colouring, the shade you prefer and how pigment can look different once healed. Your artist will guide you at consultation, but colour outcomes can't be guaranteed because skin varies.

A consultation is a standard and important part of responsible semi-permanent makeup, covering your goals, your health and skin, and what is realistic. We expect a consultation to be part of every treatment journey. The exact process will be confirmed before appointments open.

Brow mapping is the design stage. Measurements are used to work out where your brows should begin, arch and end for your face, and the shape is drawn on so you can see and approve it before treatment. Our guide to how brow mapping works goes into more detail, and the treatment process overview covers the wider picture.

Semi-permanent brow appointments commonly take a couple of hours once consultation, mapping and treatment are included, but this varies by technique and by person. Timings for our appointments will be confirmed before booking opens.

You will be given aftercare guidance to follow while your brows heal. In general this involves keeping the area clean and protected and avoiding anything that could irritate or disturb the healing skin. Follow the instructions you are given for your own treatment, as they take priority over any general advice online.

Brows often look darker and bolder at first, then soften as the skin heals. It is common for the area to feel tight or to flake lightly, and the final colour and look are usually judged once healing is complete, which can take several weeks. Individual healing varies, and your artist will explain what to expect.

Many semi-permanent brow treatments include a follow-up appointment after the first session has healed, to refine the result. Whether you need one, and when, is assessed individually. Colour refreshers are then commonly booked every so often as the pigment fades.

Appointments are not open yet. Our artist is currently completing professional training and will begin taking clients once ready to trade. The best way to hear first is to register your interest.

Westhoughton Brows is based in Westhoughton, Greater Manchester. The studio location and visiting details will be shared before appointments open.

Yes, clients are welcome from Bolton and the surrounding towns, including Horwich, Atherton, Hindley, Leigh and Wigan. Westhoughton is our home base.

Pricing has not been confirmed yet. Full treatment and booking information will be available before appointments open.

Not yet. Training is in progress, and we won't be taking appointments until it is complete. Qualification and insurance details will be published on our about page once confirmed.

We are starting with brows only. Other services may follow in future, and we'll share news with anyone on the launch list.