Combination & Powder Brows: It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All

I Want Something Natural… But a Bit More Defined

That’s the phrase I hear most often in consultations. And it makes perfect sense—most of my clients aren’t after trend brows. They just want something that saves time, suits their face, and still looks like them.

This is where technique matters more than trend—and where combination and powder brows shine.

What Are Combination Brows?

Combination brows are exactly what they sound like:
A blend of microblading (hair strokes) and machine shading (soft powder effect).

They’re perfect if:

  • You love the realism of strokes but want more definition

  • Your skin type isn’t ideal for microblading alone (like oily or porous skin)

  • You’ve had microblading before and want to evolve the look

Think of it as the best of both worlds:
Realistic strokes + soft shading = brows that last longer and look naturally full.

What Tools Do You Use?

It’s not just about pigment—it’s about precision tools and skin knowledge.

  • Microblading Tool: A hand-held blade used to make crisp, hair-like cuts in the skin

  • PMU Machine: A rotary device with a fine needle that gently implants pigment with minimal trauma

  • Shading Needles: We use different configurations depending on how soft or defined the finish needs to be—1RL for precision, 3RS

Each technique serves a purpose—and knowing when to use what is part of what makes your result look natural, not noticeable.

Can I Start with Microblading and Add Shading Later?

Absolutely. This is actually very common.

Some of my clients:

  • Start with just microblading to keep things super soft

  • Come back a year or two later when they’re ready for a little more density or hold

  • Or have shading added during a touch-up session to enhance healing and shape retention

Your brows, like your skin, evolve over time—so should your PMU. I always approach this like a journey, not a one-off procedure.

Final Thought: It’s Not About More—It’s About Right

You don’t need a bold, blocked brow to get definition.
You don’t need strokes or shading—you need the right mix for you.

That’s why I never copy-and-paste shapes or colours. Every brow is custom-drawn, every skin type is assessed, and every technique I use is chosen for long-term beauty, not just day-one photos.

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Laser Brow Removal: What Most Artists Don’t Tell You

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What to Expect at Your PMU Appointment (And Why My Process is Different)