Beauty

Microblading or Microshading: What’s the Real Difference

Published

6 months ago

24 June 2025

Let’s be honest—brows have become serious business. From Sandton salons to Cape Town beauty bars, everyone’s offering to “fix” your eyebrows. But walk in asking for better brows, and you’ll likely hear two words mentioned again and again: microblading and microshading. If you’ve ever sat through a consultation, nodding like you understand, but left more confused than when you arrived—you’re not alone.

Here’s a straightforward look at what each one involves, how they’re different, and which option might suit you best: no fluff, no hard sell.

Microblading: For Brows That Look Like They Grew There

Microblading is about mimicking real brow hairs. It’s done with a fine tool that gently scratches the surface of the skin and deposits pigment in thin, hair-like strokes. The goal? To give you fuller, better-shaped brows that still look natural.

It’s a great option for women with normal to dry skin and at least some natural brow hair. If your brows are patchy or have thinned out over the years—especially from over-plucking back in the day—this technique fills in the spaces without making it obvious.

However, it’s not ideal for oily skin. The pigment may fade faster or blur slightly over time. And yes, you’ll feel a bit of a sting, but it’s nothing unbearable—more like the discomfort of threading. Most artists apply a numbing cream before getting started anyway.

Microshading: For a Soft, Powdered Finish

If you prefer a softly filled-in look—like you lightly dusted your brows with pencil or powder—then microshading might be your go-to. Instead of individual hair strokes, this method uses a small machine to build pigment in tiny dots, creating a smooth, misty effect.

Microshading tends to work better for oily or sensitive skin because it stays put longer and fades more evenly. It’s also a favourite for women who like a more polished, made-up brow without the hassle of daily touch-ups.

The finished look is soft, defined, and consistent—great for those who want structure without harsh lines.

Combo Brows Might Be the Sweet Spot

Can’t decide? You don’t have to. Combo brows mix the two techniques—microblading at the front for hair-like strokes and microshading at the tail for more definition. It’s ideal for anyone who wants a natural look that still pops in pictures.

This option takes a bit longer to complete and might need more than one touch-up, but the results tend to be worth it if you’re after the best of both worlds.

What to Consider Before Booking

In Joburg, Durban, and beyond, brow services are everywhere. But this isn’t something to do on a whim or based on price alone. Check the artist’s portfolio. Make sure their hygiene practices are solid. And ask about healing time, aftercare, and what to expect in the first few weeks.

Also, think about how you wear your brows day to day. Are you more of a gloss-and-go girl? Or do you enjoy a full makeup routine? Your style should guide your choice.

Real Talk Before You Commit

This isn’t a facial—it’s pigment going into your skin. It may fade over time, but it’s still semi-permanent. Don’t rush into it because your favourite influencer posted a reel. Take time to decide what kind of brow suits your face, your skin type, and your everyday life.

Ask yourself: Do I want a natural, feathered look—or a softly shaded brow with definition?

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s for you. Your brows. Your face. Your rules.

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Beauty

Pamela Mtanga Cuts her Hair Pixie

Published

2 weeks ago

24 November 2025

Tega Ekeri

Pamela Mtanga’s new pixie cut comes at a time when she’s making several clear adjustments to how she presents herself, both personally and professionally. The change reads as a direct, confident choice from someone who understands hair deeply and doesn’t feel pressured by old expectations about how a public figure should look.

Her recent relaunch of Honey Comb Hair showed how much she values transparency and control in her work. She has spoken about wanting customers to receive the same standard she provides to public figures, which reflects her preference for direct, uncomplicated communication. The pixie cut fits that mindset. It reduces the extra styling her previous looks required and directs focus to her face rather than the hair surrounding it.

Pamela Mtanga – Instagram

Her comments on long-standing hair superstitions offer more context. She has openly pushed back on beliefs that limit when or how women should cut their hair, especially those tied to fear or tradition. Choosing a short cut on her own terms follows the same logic. She makes decisions based on practicality and personal comfort rather than untested rules.

Her history explains why the style doesn’t feel abrupt. She began learning about haircare as a teenager, observing stylists and eventually building her own brand from that knowledge. For her, cutting her hair reflects the same steady approach she has always applied to personal changes, especially those connected to beauty and self-presentation.

Pamela Mtanga – Instagram

The timing also lines up with a period where she has been refining her public direction. After marking ten years in entertainment and receiving a major style recognition, she appears focused on simplifying her image without losing her individuality. The pixie cut supports that shift. It is low-maintenance, direct, and leaves little room for excess.

Pamela Mtanga’s choice fits her current approach to work, presentation, and personal autonomy. The cut reflects someone who has reached a point where decisions are made based on usefulness and alignment with her goals, not outside expectations.

Beauty

Sphokuhle N Named the Face of Dark and Lovely Africa 2026

Published

2 weeks ago

20 November 2025

Fadire Olusola

Bonang Matheba will be hosting the opening night of the B20 South Africa summit on 18 November 2025. The summit is a three-day event , and it will run from the 18th to the 20th of November. With this appointment, Matheba’s has evolved as she has gained recognition internationally. Global business communities will engage with the G20 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. South Africa currently holds the B20 presidency, and will use this chance to prove its capability.

Sphokuhle N : Instagram

The theme for this event is “Inclusive Growth and Shared Prosperity through Global Cooperation.” Talks on equitable development and sustainable growth will be discussed. Stakeholders and business leaders around the world will also speak about issues relating to investment, digital transformation, trade, inclusive and more.

The appointment of Bonang Matheba is strategic, given her status as a leading South African entrepreneur. She has hosted many events like this before and will bring her experience to this summit. Matheba is a professional and is well-equipped to lead the event successfully.

Sphokuhle N :Instagram

Her involvement shows that many economic forums are seeking hosts who engage audiences effectively. The younger generations can relate more with her, boosting visibility of the event.

Sphokuhle N : Instagram

For Bonang Matheba, this is an opportunity to show that South African personalities are capable of hosting global events. Her inclusion is based on merit and the confidence the organizers have to ensure the event runs smoothly and engages attendees.

Beauty

RF Microneedling : The Benefits, Risks and Side Effect of this Beauty Treatment

Published

3 weeks ago

15 November 2025

Fadire Olusola

Many women are undergoing different cosmetic treatment to make themselves beautiful. One of these procedures is RF Microneedling which involves sending radio frequency into deeper layers of the skin. Here are some information you need to know about this cosmetic procedure.

How RF Microneedling Works?

This treatment involves using fine needles to puncture some layers of the skin. When this is done, several signals will be sent to the body to help repair the affected area. During this process, radiofrequency energy is sent to the deep layers of the skin where collagen is produced. If this treatment is done by a professional, it will let your skin be more refined.

Benefits of RF Microneedling

Skin firmness is one of the reasons why people go through this procedure. The more collagen that is produced, the more elastic your skin is. This makes it a good solution for fine lines and skin sagging.

People with acne scars and uneven skin texture will benefit from it. This is because it helps strengthen skin foundation and smoothen surfaces. RF Microneedling also helps shrink large pores within a short time. When done by an expert, it is suitable for all skin types.

Risks Associated With RF Microneedling

Although generally considered safe, it carries certain risks. Because needles are used, it’s possible to contract an infection. That’s why all equipment must be sterilised. Also, those with skin infections or open wounds should consider postponing treatment. Using the wrong technique may also cause temporary marks. These are genuine concerns that need to be looked into before any decision is made.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects from this treatment are usually mild. Skin redness or swelling is possible after the procedure due to controlled injury. Meanwhile, there might be mild pigmentation especially for those exposed to too much sun. That’s why sun protection is recommended for those undergoing this treatment. In rare cases, you could experience burns or prolonged pigmentation.

Who Should Avoid RF Microneedling

Those with high fevers and serious skin conditions should not undergo RF Microneedling. Also, it may not be suitable for pregnant women as the radiofrequency effects may not be safe for the fetus.

RF microneedling comes with many benefits for everyone who wants a firm skin. However, it should be carried out by only trained personnel. Like all treatments, it comes with certain risks and side effects which you must understand before making a decision.