Permanent brow techniques have completely changed the beauty landscape. At Shapes Glow Studio, Sophie B has performed hundreds of microblading and permanent brow sessions across our Vancouver and Surrey studios. Here's her complete, honest guide to the three most popular techniques — so you can walk into your consultation already knowing what's right for you.
What is Microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent technique where a fine, manual blade is used to create hair-stroke impressions in the skin, filled with pigment. The result is incredibly realistic — it looks like actual individual hairs growing from the brow, not like a drawn-on brow.
- Best for: Normal to dry skin, sparse brows, gaps, over-plucked brows
- Lasts: 12–18 months before a colour refresh is needed
- Not ideal for: Very oily skin (oil breaks down the pigment faster, causing blurring)
- Healing time: 10–14 days for the surface, 4–6 weeks for the pigment to fully settle
Sophie's note: Microblading is the most natural-looking option. If you want brows that genuinely look like your own — just fuller and more defined — microblading is usually the right choice.
What are Ombré / Powder Brows?
Ombré or powder brows use a digital machine to deposit pigment in tiny dots, creating a soft, powdered finish — lighter at the front of the brow and darker toward the tail. The effect resembles a soft pencil or powder brow done with makeup, rather than natural hair strokes.
- Best for: All skin types, including oily skin
- Lasts: 18–24 months — longer than microblading
- Result looks like: A soft, filled-in, makeup brow
- Not ideal for: Those who want a completely natural hair-stroke look
What are Combination Brows?
As the name suggests, combination brows blend both techniques: microbladed hair strokes at the front for a natural effect, and ombré powder shading through the body and tail for depth and longevity. It's the most requested technique at Shapes Glow Studio because it gives the best of both worlds.
- Best for: Those who want natural-looking hair strokes with the fuller, defined look of powder brows
- Lasts: 18–24 months
- Works on: Most skin types
Most popular at our studios: Combination brows — by far. They photograph beautifully, look natural in person, and last significantly longer than microblading alone.
How to Decide: Sophie's Consultation Questions
When you book a permanent brow session at either our Kitsilano or Surrey (7238 189 St #59, V4N 5M8) studio, Sophie will ask you three things:
- What is your skin type? Oily skin = ombré or combination. Dry/normal skin = all three options are suitable.
- What's your daily brow routine? If you currently fill in your brows every day, ombré or combination will give you the most similar result. If you prefer a more natural no-makeup look, microblading alone may be perfect.
- How long do you want results to last? If longevity is your priority, ombré or combination brows are the better investment.
All Sessions at Shapes Glow Studio — 00
All three permanent brow techniques are priced at 00 for a full session (includes shaping and consultation). Touch-up sessions are 50. All work is Health-Canada compliant and performed using premium, skin-safe pigments.
Book a permanent brow consultation at our Vancouver studio on West 4th Avenue or our Surrey studio at 7238 189 St #59, Surrey BC V4N 5M8. Call 604-736-6245 or book online.