Guide
Combination brows vs hairstroke brows vs microblading
Hairstroke brows and microblading both create fine, hair-like strokes for the most natural look and suit normal to dry skin. Combination brows add a soft shade behind the strokes, so they look more defined, last longer and are the best choice for oily skin or sparse brows.
Side by side
| Hairstroke brows | Microblading | Combination brows | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The look | Fine strokes like real hair | Fine strokes like real hair | Strokes plus soft shading |
| How it's done | Machine | Hand tool | Machine |
| Best skin type | Normal to dry | Normal to dry — not oily | All, especially oily |
| Best for | The most natural finish | A natural, hand-drawn finish | Sparse brows, more definition |
| Price at Oh Hello Brows | £300 | £250 | £300 |
Start with your skin type
Skin type matters more than anything else. On oily skin, fine strokes tend to blur and soften as they heal, so a stroke-only brow can lose its crispness. That's why microblading is not suitable for oily skin, and why combination brows are recommended instead. Read more in the oily skin guide.
Then think about the look you want
- "I want people to think they're my real brows" — hairstroke brows or microblading.
- "I fill my brows in every day" — combination brows give that soft, filled-in finish.
- "I have very little brow hair" — combination brows, so the shape has depth as well as strokes.
Still not sure?
Every appointment starts with a consultation, where your skin and brows are assessed and the treatment is agreed with you. You can also send me a message, or a photo of your brows on Instagram, for advice before booking.