The eyebrow technique that uses a handheld tool to create hair-like strokes is microblading. A technician uses a small hand tool fitted with several tiny needles to place semi-permanent pigment in fine strokes that resemble eyebrow hairs.
Unlike conventional eyebrow tattooing, which commonly uses a machine, microblading creates each stroke manually. The pigment is deposited relatively shallowly in the upper dermis, so the result generally fades faster than a traditional machine tattoo. It is used to fill sparse brows, add definition, or visually alter their shape.
Microblading became especially popular in Singapore around 2007, when related methods were often called eyebrow embroidery. The technique spread widely in the United States and Canada during the mid-2010s. Names such as eyebrow feathering, microstroking, and 3D brows can describe closely related approaches.
Microblading is semi-permanent rather than simply makeup, and results can be affected by skin type, ultraviolet exposure, pigment, skincare products, and medications. A touch-up is often scheduled about six weeks after the initial procedure, with later maintenance commonly needed every 12 to 18 months. Sterile equipment and a properly trained technician are important because the procedure breaks the skin.