Does Permanent Makeup Hurt? What to Really Expect.

If the thought of a needle near your face makes you cringe, you're not alone. One of the most common questions at Lashious Studio is whether microblading or nano brows hurt. Let's break it down so you know exactly what to expect before your session.

How Painful Is Microblading?

Most clients describe it as light scratching or drawing on the skin. It's not painless, but it's very manageable. Think of it as similar to tweezing your eyebrows, just stretched out over a longer session.

On a scale of 1 to 10, most people rate microblading between a 2 and 4. Sensitivity depends on pain tolerance, the time of your cycle, and even how much coffee you had that morning.

Will Numbing Cream Really Stop the Pain?

Yes, and we don't skimp. Professional numbing cream is applied before any work begins and will be reapplied during the session when needed. It contains lidocaine, which blocks nerve signals so you feel little more than light pressure. Some clients feel almost nothing, others notice mild scratching. Either way, it's very tolerable.

Microblading vs Nano Brows: Which Is More Comfortable?

Both are comfortable when done correctly. Microblading uses a manual tool to create hair-like strokes, while nano brows use a digital machine with a fine needle. Many clients say nano brows feel smoother since the machine vibrates gently instead of dragging on the skin. Nano brows also tend to heal faster with less scabbing.

What to Expect During Your Session

Your comfort is the priority from the moment you walk in. First, we map your perfect brow shape, then apply numbing cream for about 20 minutes. The first few strokes may feel more noticeable, but within minutes most people barely register the sensation.

We work in sections, check in with you often, and take breaks when needed. Many clients chat, listen to music, or even doze off while we work.

What Affects Your Pain Level

A few factors can make your session feel easier or more intense:

Time of day: Many people feel less sensitive earlier in the day.

Cycle timing: Some women notice more sensitivity at certain points of the month.

Stress: Relaxed clients handle the process more easily.

Skin type: Sensitive skin may feel more, which we can adjust for.

Caffeine: Too much coffee can heighten sensitivity.

Alcohol: Clearly you know you shouldn’t have alcohol before your appointment because you can bleed a lot more but what you might not know is that being hungover will make you extremely sensitive.

After the Session

Most clients leave with little to no discomfort. Your brows may feel tender, like a mild sunburn, for a few hours. Proper aftercare makes healing smoother and more comfortable. If needed, regular over-the-counter pain relief works fine, though most people don't need it.

Tips for a Comfortable Experience

Get a good night's sleep before your session.

Eat something beforehand so you don't feel lightheaded.

Arrive early to relax instead of rushing in.

Let us know if you need a pause or more numbing cream.

Avoid alcohol the day before your appointment.

Why Artist Experience Matters

At Lashious Studio, we've refined our techniques to minimize discomfort while delivering natural, long-lasting results. The right approach makes all the difference in how comfortable your session feels. Not only will your healed results be better with a more experienced artist but the pain level will be a lot less.

Common Client Questions

Do I need time off work? No. You can return to your day as usual, though brows will look darker during the first week.

Can I drive home after? Yes. The numbing is topical only and won't affect driving.

Is the touch-up painful too? Touch-ups are usually easier since we're only perfecting details, not creating all-new strokes.

What if I'm nervous? We'll take extra time with numbing and work at a pace you're comfortable with.

The Bottom Line

Permanent makeup is far more comfortable than most people expect. With numbing, the right technique, and an experienced artist, the process is easy to handle. You'll walk away with brows that look natural and stay flawless every morning.

Ready to see how comfortable your session can be? Book your consultation and let us create the perfect brows for you.