Microblading is a semi-permanent brow service that uses cosmetic pigment strokes to create the appearance of brow hairs. At SMP INK Seattle in Federal Way, brow options also include ombre/shadow and combination techniques. The choice depends on the style you want, existing brows and your artist's assessment, not a single technique that suits everyone.
Microblading, ombre or combination brows?
Microblading emphasizes fine hair-stroke detail. Ombre/shadow brows create a shaded, powder-like finish, useful when your preference is a more filled-in appearance. Combination brows bring strokes and shading together for both texture and definition.
Bring examples of the style you like, but expect an individual discussion about how it may translate to your existing brows and skin. Color retention and the final appearance vary. Your artist will discuss pricing, appointment planning and aftercare for the brow technique that suits your goals.
Meet Isabel Salmoran and view the PMU Brows category in our client gallery. Looking for lip color rather than brows? Explore lip blushing.
What is Microblading?
Eyebrow microblading is a semi-permanent makeup procedure that involves tattooing small pigment strokes just below the skin's surface. The result is a more natural looking eyebrow. Eyebrow microblading is much like eyebrow tattoos, but instead of using ink, pigments are applied to your eyebrows with a tool called a microblade. We utilize a specific blade to make tiny strokes on the eyebrow skin using specialized pigment. Your artist explains the approach and your individual appointment plan during consultation.

What to Expect
When you first walk into our clinic, our expert technician will make sure you're comfortable and understand the process. Your microblading technician will also show you the blades and needles that will be used to perform the procedure. You'll also be able to view a portfolio of our previous clients.
Pain from microblading is minimal as the procedure is minimally invasive. At SMP INK, we numb the surface of our clients' skin to make sure the process is as painless as possible. After the procedure is complete, the pain is usually similar to having your eyebrows plucked.
You receive individual aftercare instructions and guidance on follow-up assessment. Skin response and pigment retention vary, so your artist will explain how to care for the treated area and when to review your result based on your individual treatment.
Ombre / Shadow Brows
Ombre/shadow brows are similar to microblading in the sense that they are both semi-permanent tattoos that mimic eyebrow hair follicles to give the illusion of fuller brows. However, ombre/shadow brows are a series of several tiny dots in varying concentrations that resembled powdered brows.
Ombre/shadow brows are different from traditional tattoos in the sense that the ink is applied to the epidermis layer of the skin. The end result is a look that gives the eyebrows a “powdery” form with a faded front and crisp tail.
Ombre brows have many benefits. These include being:
- Less invasive due to the airbrush style technique utilized
- Comfort discussed individually before treatment
- Pigment retention and touch-up needs vary individually
- Suitability assessed individually
- Achieving a natural, “filled-in” look
Ombre or shadow brows are also known as powder, mist, microshading, ombre shading, and starburst brows.
Our experts at SMP INK have this delicate style down to a science and will make sure your eyebrows look incredible at the end of your session!
Combination Brows
Combination brows are what the name implies: a combination of two forms of semi-permanent techniques. These techniques include microblading and ombre or shadow brows. First, the microblading technique is utilized to give the brows a natural look. Then, the powder effect is applied to make the brow more full.
Combination brows are perfect for clients with normal to moderately oily skin. This type of technique is better for people whose skin might be too oily for traditional microblading alone. For clients with sparse or thin eyebrows, this technique can help fill the gaps.
Your artist will explain any follow-up visits as part of your individual brow plan. Combination brows aim for a fuller-looking result, with color and definition tailored to your preferences.
Microblading at SMP INK
At SMP INK, our microblading technicians are talented and experienced. If you're looking for the best eyebrow permanent makeup and microblading in Washington, look no further than SMP INK Seattle. Our experts will help you achieve the perfect brows, whether you want a natural look or something more dramatic. Call us today to schedule a consultation.

