Finding the Correct Pressure by Marian Rahl

Finding the correct pressure can be tricky, especially if you’re a novice artist. At the beginning of my career, I had to learn how to find the correct pressure on my own through trial and error. Here’s what I’ve learned. Finding the correct pressure will vary depending on the technique or style you’re doing. Ethnicity, gender, age, and skin type all play a role in applying correct pressure.

Male clients have thicker skin than women. Seniors have thinner skin than those who are in their 20’s. So how does one determine the correct pressure? You determine pressure through the first stroke or first pass by applying light pressure. Some artists will say to listen to a specific sound but some artists can’t hear it. Light pressure is always the safest route. If your first pass is too light, gradually add more pressure on the next stroke (if microblading). If you’re performing nano strokes or shading, add additional light passes. I was taught that a maximum of 3 passes was allowed and anything more was incorrect. Not entirely true. It’s always easier and safer to add additional passes with light pressure than fewer passes with much harder pressure that could potentially cause more trauma.

As time will pass, you will become more familiar with working skin types. I hope my experience will help you become comfortable and confident in determining the correct pressure.

Follow Marian @marianminaartistry and message us for skin type & lip blush questions @meicha_official!