When it comes to permanent eyebrow solutions, two techniques dominate the conversation: microblading and powder brows. If you're a San Jose resident researching your options, you've likely wondered which one is right for you.
While microblading has been popular for years, more and more clients in the Bay Area are discovering that powder brows—also known as Teddy Brows or ombre brows—deliver superior, longer-lasting results that work beautifully on all skin types.
In this guide, we'll break down the key differences between these techniques and explain why powder brows have become the go-to choice for our San Jose clients.
What's the Difference Between Powder Brows and Microblading?
Microblading: Hair-Stroke Technique
Microblading uses a handheld tool with tiny needles to manually create hair-like strokes in the skin. The goal is to mimic natural brow hairs, creating a hyper-realistic look.
Pros of microblading:
- Can create very natural, hair-like strokes
- Good for filling in small gaps
Cons of microblading:
- Doesn't work well on oily or mature skin
- Strokes can blur and migrate over time
- Requires more frequent touch-ups
- Higher risk of scarring with inexperienced artists
- Results can fade unevenly
Powder Brows: Soft, Shaded Technique
Powder brows (or Teddy Brows, as we call them) use a PMU machine to create a soft, powdery effect throughout the brow. The technique involves layering tiny dots of pigment to achieve a beautifully shaded look—like perfectly applied brow powder or pencil.
Pros of powder brows:
- Works on ALL skin types, including oily skin
- Lasts longer than microblading (2-4 years)
- Heals more consistently and evenly
- Less invasive with lower risk of scarring
- Can achieve both subtle and bold looks
- Requires less frequent touch-ups
Why San Jose Clients Are Choosing Powder Brows
1. Better Results on More Skin Types
One of the biggest limitations of microblading is that it doesn't work well on oily or combination skin—which is extremely common in the Bay Area's varied climate. The hair-like strokes can blur together and lose definition as the skin's natural oils interact with the pigment.
Powder brows, on the other hand, work beautifully on every skin type. Whether you have dry, oily, mature, or sensitive skin, the soft, shaded technique heals consistently and maintains its shape over time.
2. Longer-Lasting Results
While microblading typically lasts 12-18 months before needing a touch-up, powder brows can last 2-4 years with proper care. This means fewer appointments, less expense over time, and beautiful brows that stay put longer.
3. More Natural-Looking for Everyday Wear
Many clients are surprised to learn that powder brows can look even more natural than microblading. The soft, shaded effect mimics the look of professionally applied makeup—the kind of brows you'd create with a powder or pencil.
With our Teddy Brows technique, we create brows that are softer at the front and gradually darker toward the tail, resulting in a naturally graduated look that frames your face beautifully.
4. Easier Healing Process
Because powder brows are less invasive than microblading, the healing process tends to be smoother and more predictable. There's less trauma to the skin, which means:
- Less scabbing and peeling
- More even color retention
- Lower risk of scarring
- Faster overall healing time
5. Versatile Results
Powder brows can be customized to achieve virtually any look you desire. Want barely-there, natural brows? We can create a soft, subtle enhancement. Prefer more defined, makeup-style brows? We can build up color and saturation accordingly.
What Are Teddy Brows?
At our San Jose studio, we specialize in Teddy Brows—our signature powder brow technique that creates soft, natural-looking brows with a fluffy, effortless appearance.
The name "Teddy Brows" comes from the soft, plush quality of the finished result. Using careful layering and shading techniques, we create brows that look like they've been professionally groomed and filled in with makeup—but without any daily effort required.
The Teddy Brows Difference
- Soft front: We keep the inner brow soft and natural-looking
- Gradual build: Color intensity increases toward the arch and tail
- Custom shape: Every brow is designed to complement your unique face shape
- Natural finish: Results that look like enhanced, not tattooed, brows
The Powder Brow Procedure: What to Expect
If you're considering powder brows in San Jose, here's what your appointment will look like:
1. Consultation & Design (30-45 minutes)
We'll discuss your goals, analyze your face shape and features, and design the perfect brow shape using precise measurements. You'll approve the shape before we proceed.
2. Numbing (20 minutes)
A topical anesthetic is applied to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Most clients find powder brows very comfortable—many even relax or fall asleep!
3. The Treatment (1.5-2 hours)
Using a specialized PMU machine, we'll build up layers of pigment to create your perfect powder brow look. The machine creates tiny dots of color that blend together for a soft, shaded effect.
4. Aftercare Review
You'll receive detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and long-lasting results. A touch-up appointment is scheduled for 6-8 weeks later.
Powder Brows Healing Timeline
Here's what to expect as your Teddy Brows heal:
- Days 1-3: Brows appear darker than final result (this is normal!)
- Days 4-7: Light flaking and peeling—don't pick!
- Days 7-14: Color may appear lighter as skin heals over pigment
- Weeks 4-6: True color emerges; time for touch-up appointment
Who Should Choose Powder Brows?
Powder brows are perfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or mature skin
- You want results that last longer between touch-ups
- You prefer a soft, makeup-like brow look
- You've had unsatisfactory results with microblading
- You want versatile brows that can look natural or defined
- You have sparse brows that need fullness
Previously Microbladed? You Can Switch to Powder Brows
If you've had microblading in the past and weren't satisfied with the results, or if your strokes have blurred over time, powder brows can be an excellent solution. The shading technique can often cover and improve the appearance of old microblading, giving you fresh, beautiful brows.
In some cases, if the old pigment is very dark or has turned an unwanted color, a session of saline removal may be recommended first.
Ready to Try Teddy Brows in San Jose?
If you're ready to wake up every day with perfect, effortless brows, powder brows (Teddy Brows) could be the ideal solution. Our San Jose studio specializes in creating soft, natural-looking brows that complement your unique features.
Say goodbye to the daily brow routine and hello to beautiful brows that last!
Book your powder brow consultation today and discover why so many San Jose clients are making the switch from microblading to Teddy Brows.
About the Author
Sarka is a professional permanent makeup artist based in San Jose, California. With years of experience and a passion for enhancing natural beauty, she specializes in lip blush, powder brows, and permanent eyeliner.
Follow on Instagram →Ready to Get Started?
Book your permanent makeup consultation in San Jose today!
Book Your Appointment