Content Reviewed by AEDIT Medical Advisory Board
Microblading is a non-surgical, minimally invasive cosmetic tattoo procedure for the eyebrows. This hair restoration cosmetic procedure uses micro-pigment (permanent makeup) to fill in the eyebrow area for thicker, denser brows with a more even distribution. Unlike other hair restoration and
hair transplant procedures, a microblading treatment does not require an individual to have existing, healthy hair follicles.
- Average Cost of Microblading: $400
- Price Range for Microblading: $100 - $1,000
The cost of microblading will vary by individual and we’ve outlined a few factors that will cause price variations in the table below.
Factors to Consider in the Total Cost of Microblading
| Cost Factor | Explanation |
| ---------- | ---------- |
| Technician | Training, experience, specialty |
| Concern | Size of area to be treated |
| Consultation Fee | May or may not be applied towards procedure cost |
| Maintenance | Regularity of touch-ups |
Let’s look more closely at the first table. A microblading procedure is a highly individualized treatment. Between patients, there will be significant differences in hair distribution, hair density, and overall brow appearance. Microblading can be used to fill in a small brow area or can create the outline and shape of the entire brow around the existing natural hair.
The cost of microblading will vary based on who performs the procedure (a specialized provider will typically have higher costs), where you have the microblading performed (the coasts are usually more expensive), the number of treatments your brow area will need (microblading requires multiple sessions), and the regularity of touch up maintenance.
Ok, so what are you
actually paying for in an
eyebrow microblading session? The cost of the microblading procedure includes the supplies used to perform the microblading (permanent makeup solution, tools, gloves, numbing cream, etc.), the time of the provider or artist performing the microblading, the cost of any additional personnel in the room (possibly assistants), and there also may be additional fees for the procedure room time. Again, all of the factors we’re discussing will vary by provider and location.
When it comes to microblading costs there will be considerable variation between candidates. Generally, you can expect a microblading session to cost (on average) around $400 to $600. This range is pretty consistent across the United States, and it’s worth mentioning that rates considerably less than this may be indicative of poor quality, so be sure to do your research. One or more sessions may be initially needed and a few touch ups could be necessary down the line. Maintenance is infrequent and typically only needed every one to five years. These follow up microblading sessions usually cost less than the initial treatment.
It’s all about location! The
2020 American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) Report states most cosmetic procedures occur on the coasts. As we know, everything is more expensive on the coasts, and so it’s safe to assume this holds true for microblading.
The table below shows average costs for microblading in major cities across the U.S.
Average Microblading Cost by City and State
| State | Average Cost |
| ---------- | ---------- |
| New York, NY | $250 to $550 |
| Chicago, IL | $200 to $350 |
| Miami, FL | $250 to $500 |
| Birmingham, AL | $175 to $400 |
| Austin, TX | $200 to $500 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $300 to $600 |
For those considering pursuing microblading abroad, the table below compares average microblading costs in a few countries. Friendly reminder to consider travel expenses, recovery time, and research the
reputation of the provider and facility before committing to any procedures. The table below shows average microblading costs converted to U.S. dollars.
Average Microblading Cost by Country in USD
| Country | Average Cost |
| ---------- | ---------- |
| Canada | $550 to $700 |
| Mexico | $150 to $350 |
| Colombia | $125 to $300 |
| United Kingdom | $250 to $950 |
| Australia | $350 to $750 |
| Japan | $250 to $550 |
| United Arab Emirates | $350 to $850 |
So,
does insurance pay for a microblading? Short answer is no. But, for those of you who are curious, we’re here to tell you why. These definitions from the [American Medical Association (AMA)](https://www.ama-assn.org/ "American Medical Association") can be helpful:
- Cosmetic Surgery: Reshapes normal structures of the body in order to improve appearance and self-esteem.
- Reconstructive Surgery: Alterations to abnormal body structures caused by congenital defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors, or disease.
Basically, reconstructive surgery is usually covered by health insurance and cosmetic surgery or procedures are not. Obviously, microblading is not a surgery, and, while there are medical reasons for hair loss, microblading is a cosmetic procedure (not a medical necessity) and it will not be covered.