Microblading Techniques, Then and Now.
A Journey Through The Past
If you have scrolled through Instagram beauty accounts or been in a salon chair talking about brow trends, I am almost sure you’ve heard the term "microblading”.
But, while it may feel like a new beauty trend raises its perfectly arched brow every week, microblading is not actually so modern.
Flicks of Browtory: The Original Arches
Before we get deep into the moment microblading exploded onto the scene, it's important to realize that eyebrow grooming has been an obsession for centuries.
Men and women in ancient Egypt filled in their brows with powders or “kohl”, made of crushed minerals.
Eyebrows were not simply markers of beauty; they also bore social and spiritual meaning.
Cleopatra, for example, accessorized her rule with bold brows.
Fast forward to ancient China, where beauty routines centered heavily on the face; in particular — brows. Thin, high-arched eyebrows became a sign of royalty in China.
In numerous societies, eyebrows are viewed as a significant component of our personality — forming early impressions and influencing our facial symmetry.
Photo: Getty Images
The Origins Of Semi-Permanent Eyebrow Art
The specialization of microblading began over two decades ago throughout East Asia in countries where lifestyle tattoos were popular to create more beautiful eyebrows.
Back in the 1990s, semi-permanent makeup started whispers from Asia, mainly Japan and China, of a method that eventually developed into what we know today as microblading.
They combined ancient beauty secrets with the artistry of modern tattoo techniques and created something completely new — a brow concept that would change the beauty game.
The objective was to develop a semi-permanent solution of realistic eyebrows strong enough so that clients could change their style up as needed, maintaining fresh-looking arches every 2 or 3 years.
Artists began crafting delicate strokes that looked like natural hair rather than blocky tattoos, and the hand-crafted artistry of microblading was born.
The West Catches on to Microblading
The Boston Globe
Microblading began to emerge in Western beauty markets by the mid-2000s.
Celebrities and influencers shared their flawless brows, piquing the curiosity of beauty lovers across Europe and the US. Soon, salons were flooded with waitlists for microblading appointments.
It involves using a pen-like tool to deposit semi-permanent pigment into the skin with fine needles.
Artists are trained to create shapes tailored to the individual, ensuring each stroke mimics the natural direction and density of brow hair.
The result? Naturally full-looking, gorgeously defined brows.
The 2010s: Microblading Goes Mainstream
By the early 2010s, microblading had exploded. Everyone—from beauty magazines to YouTube gurus and even your best friend—was talking about this eyebrow transformation.
Women (and men) who had spent years filling in sparse brows with pencils and powders were now lining up to get in the microblading chair.
Social media, especially Instagram, played a huge role in popularizing microblading.
Beauty influencers posted before-and-after photos, showcasing just how transformative the treatment could be. And with long-lasting results, microblading became a must-have service in beauty salons everywhere.
The Art Of The Brow: Microblading Today
Today, microblading is one of the most sought-after beauty treatments globally.
Technology and techniques have advanced significantly, with pigment formulations now looking more natural, fade-resistant, and safe.
Artists are more skilled than ever, offering various brow styles, from natural feathering to bold arches or soft ombré effects.
However, microblading is not a one-size-fits-all treatment.
Skin types, lifestyles, and preferences affect how the pigment settles and fades.
That’s why consultations are now a standard part of the process, ensuring that every brow is tailored to the individual.
The Future of Microblading
The Jetsons
Microblading still dominates the brow world, but other semi-permanent makeup techniques are emerging.
Nanoblading, a cousin of microblading, uses even finer needles for ultra-precise strokes that look even more natural.
The cosmetic tattoo industry is pushing boundaries, with permanent makeup now available for eyeliner, lip blush, and even faux freckles.
As with all beauty trends, microblading will continue to evolve.
The future may bring bolder, more personalized options, or even new techniques we haven’t yet imagined. But one thing’s for sure—eyebrows are not going out of style any time soon.
Why You Should Jump on Microblading
If you're tired of filling in your brows every morning or trying to perfect your arches, microblading might be the answer you’ve been looking for.
It’s become more affordable, accessible, and refined, making it an ideal choice for semi-permanent beauty.
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