Draft:Eyebrow embroidery

Eyebrow embroidery is a semi-permanent aesthetic process of depositing colored pigments onto the skin using tiny, disposable needles. Largely regarded as an aesthetic procedure, the main objective of Eyebrow Embroidery is to improve the look of natural eyebrows by depositing semi-permanent pigments that closely mimic the appearance of real brow hairs in the upper region of the dermis.

Unlike traditional eyebrow tattooing, which is a permanent technique that makes use of machines, Eyebrow Embroidery is carried out at brow salons by expert eyebrow artisans who either draw fine, hairlike strokes or deposit dot-like shades so the brow comes out looking very natural, leaving one with bespoke eyebrow shape that complements their facial structure.

Eyebrow Embroidery is a generic term used to refer to the process of embedding colored pigments into the brow area, but it is also commonly known and called by the treatments under it, like “Microblading” and “Microshading”. The effects of Eyebrow Embroidery can last for about two years.

History
No one can definitively trace the roots of Eyebrow Embroidery at one exact point in history, but the technique itself rose to prominence in Asia about 25 years ago, becoming only popular in the US and Europe in 2010. As new techniques develop, so do its de facto names, which makes it even more difficult to definitely trace its history. However, the use of the term “Eyebrow Embroidery” is said to have originated in Asian regions in as early as 2005 (Singapore, China, and Korea). It was only labeled “Microblading” by Dr. Laura Dixon when the treatment became popular in North America five years later.

Types
This aesthetic treatment has evolved into different styles throughout the years, so it's easier now to find a style that complements one’s facial structure, skin type, and preference.

There are two main types of Eyebrow Embroidery, namely Microblading and Microshading.

Microblading
Microblading is the technique of depositing colored pigments into the skin using a hand-held tool with pen-like blades. It simulates individual hair strands and includes drawing symmetrical artificial brow hairs to give a customer a more defined, fuller eyebrow look. A Microblading session could take at least two hours because of how intricate the involved detailing is. Eyebrows will appear darker immediately after the treatment, but because it is deposited only on the skin’s surface and not as invasive as traditional eyebrow tattoo, the color may fade by up to about 40% after a few weeks. At this point, the customer may choose to do a touch-up to achieve their desired shades.

A form of microblading, microfeathering, only conservatively fills in the sparser areas of the eyebrow, creating a more "feathered" look.

Microshading
Microshading, which is also referred to as “Shadow Effect” is completed with a hand-held tool that deposits tiny, pin-like dots on the brow area to achieve a powdered eyebrow look. Depending on the tool used at the brow salon, the filled-in effects of Microshading could last from three months to at least two years. Since the process uses pin-like pigmentations, Microshading creates an ombre effect with a subtle inner coloration and a tail that tapers off softly. Because the process of Microshading is even more non-invasive and is softer than Microblading, one may need to do a touch-up or maintenance session every six or 8 months.

Preparation & Procedure
Each Eyebrow Embroidery session covers a multi-step process that begins with a discussion with an eyebrow artisan who helps determine the shape that goes well with a customer’s face shape. Some brow salons also do a face shape analysis in order to make sure that the chosen brow shape complements the customer’s facial structure well. The brow artisan will also need to work on your skin in its natural state, so it is highly recommended to avoid extreme sun exposure prior to the appointment. Prepping the brow area by getting rid of dead skin and sebum comes next, followed by the application of numbing cream. Once the numbing takes effect, the hand-held devices are then prepared with utmost hygienic standards to avoid contamination. Then finally, the brow artisan starts embedding the desired brow shape and color on the topmost layer of the skin.

Aftercare & Maintenance
Eyebrow Embroidery is generally low maintenance, but unlike regular eyebrow tattoos which last a lifetime, it is semi-permanent and would require regular touch-ups. The ink also used to create the fine incisions on the brow area is expected to fade as it heals. Brow artisans would recommend a few things to make sure that the effects last long, however, including not using makeup or skincare products on the brow areas; not picking at, peeling, or scratching the skin; minimizing contact with the eyebrows for at least two weeks after the eyebrow embroidery session; and refraining from doing strenuous exercises that may lead to excessive sweating.

Risks & Safety Issues
Technically a form of tattooing, Eyebrow Embroidery runs the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Although generally bearable, depending on one’s pain threshold, the process can also bring about slight discomfort. Aside from the bearable discomfort during the actual embroidery itself, infection due to the use of unsterile tools could also lead to the spread of viruses like HIV, hepatitis, or herpes. Allergic reactions to the ink and dye used, while incredibly rare, do happen as well, so it is suggested to speak with a doctor before scheduling an appointment. Client dissatisfaction is also very common and would depend largely on the skills of the technician as the desired look may not always be achieved after the application.

Eyebrow Embroidery is a cosmetic procedure that must be done by highly skilled salons or licensed aestheticians. It is important and highly encouraged to inquire about the training of eyebrow artisans and technicians as well as gauge the salon’s hygiene habits in order to minimize the risks.