.png)
Microblading, a cosmetic tattooing procedure for the brow, has become increasingly popular over the years. Thanks to this procedure, people don’t need to spend so much time fixing their brows. They just wake up ready to face the world! Online zoom classes or meetings? They are totally camera-ready with just a little touch of lip.
But in the time of a pandemic, a delicate procedure like this brings major safety concerns. Not that safety was overlooked before but the situation now requires added protocols.
Here we will discuss microblading safety not only for people thinking of getting one but to those who are also interested in turning this into a business.
The Process of Becoming a Licensed Microblade Artist
Microblading is a delicate process that involves your face so it’s very important that you go to a certified and licensed microblading artist. They are trained in the proper procedure as well as the safety requirements so that clients like you are assured that they are in the best hands.
Here is a step-by-step procedure on how to become one.
Step One: Take a microblading course.
You need to enroll in an accredited microblading course. Before there were only a few accredited programs that offered microblading courses but now, there is an abundance of resources readily available on the Internet. While it’s best to do hands-on classes for this, it can still be learned online.
There are a lot of beauty academies that offer online microblading courses. Some can be very expensive but there are also some that provide affordable options. Nevertheless, one thing you should always look out for is a reputable academy so that you are sure that you’re getting the proper training.
These courses are usually in two parts. The first is a basic course which covers anatomy of the skin, eyebrow design, color theory, microblading techniques, and of course, safety, sterilization, and sanitation. After learning the basics, you are now eligible to take a professional course where you can learn a more in-depth approach to more advanced microblading techniques.
You have to complete the training hours to be able to get certified. A microblading course can take about a week to complete and costs around $1,000 for online and as much as $4,000 to $5,000 for hands-on training.
After the training, you will be awarded with a document verifying your attendance and completion of the training course. It indicates the number of hours you trained along with your trainer’s signature.
Step Two: Get Certified!
After finishing your training course, you need to take tests to further verify your certification. This does not only boost your confidence in microblading but also your client’s. While practicing microblading does not necessarily require a license, it’s important if you want to open your own salon or shop.
Blood-Borne Pathogens Test
Before taking the certification exam, you need to enroll in an OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) Blood-Borne Pathogens Standard Course. These usually cost $25 an hour.
Certification Exam
Before you can sit for a test, you are required to join a certification organization with a membership fee. The American Academy of Micropigmentation (AAM) has a $250 fee while the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP) requires a $310 fee.
The certification organization will ask you to present your proof of completing a microblading course and a blood-borne pathogen class and a photo I.D.
Each attempt usually costs $250 so make sure you’re ready before you take the exam which is a 100 multiple choice question exam. AAM and SPCP provide online reviewers for this exam.
Apprenticeship
This is not required but it will definitely hone your skills. You can contact a local certified microblading technician through the AAM and SPCP online member list. Note that not all apprenticeships are paid.
Microblading Licensing Requirements and Safety Protocols
The microblading licensing requirements differ from one state to another so it’s best to check locally for these requirements. And again, a license is not required to practice microblading. But salons and shops who offer these services are required to have one.
The microblading licensing regulations in California include permits from the Local Health Department and required annual OSHA classes. Requirements may vary from time to time but here is a rundown of the health standards that microblading salons should follow.
Note that the OSHA sets the safety standards for health workers while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) look out for the safety protocols in the workplace to prevent any diseases.
Microblading artists are required to wear personal protective equipment especially now with the pandemic situation. That includes gloves, gowns, goggles, and masks. As a client, you should observe the artist doing the following safety practices.
Washing hands before and after touching each client with the use of antiseptic hand cleaners.
Use of gloves especially when in contact with non-intact skin, blood, and other bodily substances.
Changing gloves after every client.
Eating, drinking, smoking, putting on makeup, and handling contact lenses are also strictly prohibited.
As for the sanitation of the work area, the following should be properly implemented.
All waste containers should be properly labelled. Hazardous waste should be separated from non-hazardous waste.
Sharp objects such as needles should be disposed of in puncture-proof and disposable containers.
Any spill or mess should be cleaned up immediately.
Safety and Sanitation Requirements
Here is the general safety and sanitation process involved in the microblading procedure. Make sure that all of these are strictly followed.
All necessary tools and equipment should be present in the working or treatment area and should be sanitized properly. The whole area itself should also be sanitized.
All needles, tubes, tips, and other tools should be opened in front of the client for transparency.
The microblading artist should be in his/her proper gear.
After the procedure, all pigments, cotton swab, and other disposable tools should be placed in a double bag.
Every tool and equipment used as well as the whole treatment area should be cleaned and sanitized for the next client.
All filled-out forms should be signed and dated.
Now that we’re still not out of threat of the virus, it’s important that all of these measures are followed. It’s also better if clients are briefed through the whole process including the safety and sanitation practices so that they are assured that they are well taken care of before, during, and after the procedure. You can also ask for sanitation permits and certification for extra caution.
What are some red flags to watch out for?
First is any unsanitary or unclean tools, equipment, or areas. Your safety should be your top priority. If you don’t feel safe, it’s better to cancel your appointment than bear the consequence of an unhealthy environment.
Needles should be packed in individually-sealed containers. If not, then the salon or shop is not complying to proper health and safety protocols.
Microblading artists are not wearing personal protective equipment. This is a definite must in any procedure now. Their refusal to follow health guidelines will put your safety at risk.
Microblading artists can not or even refuse to answer your questions regarding the procedure. They are trained and certified to do the procedure so they should be able to answer all questions regarding it. Additionally, being able to answer client’s questions puts them at ease.
No sanitation certifications are seen posted in the establishment. These certifications are proof of compliance. Make sure to check those although we cannot discount the possibility of fabricated certifications. There are sites like AAM and SPCP which provide information on accredited courses and certified microblading artists. Also, you can check with the local health department whether the salon or shop you’ll be undergoing the microblading process is licensed.