What is "microblading"

Microblading, also known by a variety of names such as eyebrow embroidery, microstroking, feather touch and hair like strokes is a form of permanent makeup that provides a means to partially or fully camouflage missing eyebrow hair with the appearance of simulated hair using fine deposits of cosmetic tattoo pigments. The technique of implanting pigment after the creation of fine incisions in the skin may date back thousands of years however the trend towards using the technique for eyebrows may have emerged in Asia in recent years.

Microblading is performed by manually depositing pigment superficially in the upper region of the dermis with the use of a hand tool with attached needles fused together in a linear grouping, it does not involve the use of a machine. Similar to permanent makeup brow treatments using a machine, the Microblading technique involves drawing individual, crisp hair strokes that can be very natural looking but nonetheless Microblading is still a form of cosmetic tattooing. The microblading needle groupings tend to contain needles that are extremely fine in diameter in comparison to the needles used in traditional tattooing however recent advancements in cosmetic tattoo needle technology has also produced extremely fine needles gauges for machine use. Technicians usually use a numbing solution to limit discomfort and consequently like all forms of cosmetic tattooing if performed correctly the procedure causes minimal discomfort.

Microblading should be performed using aseptic technique, needles must always be sterile and single use, the technician must disinfect the area of the skin prior to the tattoo service and clinical grade single use associated equipment and consumables are highly recommended ( hand piece, skin wipes and saline, micro-brushes, dressing packs etc) preferably sterile. The most common complications and client dissatisfaction that results from any form of tattooing is misapplication of the pigment, pigment migration and color change. Serious complications are uncommon though it is important to stress that like all forms of tattooing risks associated with Microblading include the transmission of Blood Borne Pathogenic Organisms (e.g. HIV, Hepatitis C Virus) as well as short term or long terms reactions to pigment ingredients. Therefore it is essential to check that the technician holds appropriate licenses and registrations for the provision of tattoo services as well as enquiring about the standard of training and that has been attained by the technician.

Procedures performed by technicians who have completed a comprehensive course of instruction can minimize the risk of unwanted outcomes and client dissatisfaction.