Microblading vs Machine Brows (HiBrow Realism): What's the Difference?

When it comes to enhancing your brows, the world of permanent makeup is constantly evolving. At HiBrow Ink, we offer two hairstroke brow-enhancing techniques designed to give natural-looking, confidence-boosting results: Microblading and our signature machine-stroke technique, HiBrow Realism.

Both treatments create beautiful, hair-like strokes – but they differ in method, longevity, and the level of detail they achieve. Here’s everything you need to know so you can choose the perfect technique for your brows.

What Is Microblading?

Microblading is a manual tattooing technique that uses a handheld blade to deposit pigment into the upper layers of the skin. Each stroke is created manually, following your natural hair growth.

Best suited for:

• Clients who prefer a softer, natural brow

• Normal to dry skin

• Those wanting a gentle, natural enhancement

Benefits of Microblading:

• Fine, ultra-natural hair strokes

• Soft and fluffy appearance

• Ideal for filling gaps or enhancing shape

• Minimal downtime

Considerations:

• Fades faster on oily skin

• Strokes may blur over time

• Not ideal for those wanting maximum detail

What Is HiBrow Realism?

HiBrow Realism is HiBrow Ink’s exclusive machine hair-stroke technique — designed by Clare to create hyper-realistic, ultra-precise brows.

Using a digital PMU machine and a fine needle, this method allows for crisp, consistent strokes and beautiful pigment layering.

Best suited for:

• All skin types — including oily and mature

• Clients wanting more texture, definition, and realism

• Brows lacking structure or density

Benefits of HiBrow Realism:

• Longer-lasting than microblading

• Strokes stay sharper and more defined

• Suitable for a wider range of skin types

• Custom stroke flow based on bone structure

• Realistic texture that mimics natural hair

Microblading vs HiBrow Realism: Comparison

Feature	Microblading	HiBrow Realism
Technique	Manual blade	Digital machine
Best Skin Types	Dry–normal	All skin types
Longevity	12–18 months	18–30+ months
Look	Soft and natural	Ultra-realistic and defined
Precision	Good	Exceptional
Ideal For	Subtle enhancement	Maximum realism and detail

Which Treatment Should You Choose?

You may prefer Microblading if you want:

• A soft, light, natural finish

• A traditional brow look

• Subtle enhancement

  
  

You may prefer HiBrow Realism if you want:

• Hyper-realistic hair strokes

• More detail and better longevity

• Brows suitable for any skin type

Book Your Brow Consultation

Not sure which treatment is the best for you? During your consultation, Clare will assess:

• Your skin type

• Your brow goals

• Your natural brow pattern

• Your lifestyle

✨ Your perfect brows are one appointment away.

Click Book Now to secure your consultation.