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No other facial feature has changed through the years like the eyebrow. From bushy to pencil thin to straight to arched to soft to sharply defined, the brow is definitely one of the most groomed parts of the face.
Every couple of years we are introduced to a new form of eyebrow grooming and the latest one piquing our interest is microblading.
Read more: 5 ways to dramatically up your eyebrow game
Microblading is a new manual form of tattooing/semi-permanent makeup where pigment is implanted under the skin. Nicol Frank of Blush Cape Town says that microbladed brows are created using a technique of semi-permanent drawing of eyebrows with hyper-realistic results.
Now we know you’re probably thinking “tattooed eyebrows?"
As terrifying as this may sound, it leaves eyebrows looking super natural. And it's not a harsh tattoo, but rather super fine, almost feathery strokes that create a frame reminiscent of a shadow. It is done with a handheld tool and does not go as deep as a normal tattoo would.
The shape of eyebrows is calculated only according to the morphology of the face and the golden mean, the number φ (1,618) - which is why the brows are also referred to as Phi brows.
Read more: How to get those brows on point
The brow colour is determined only according to the natural colour of the eyebrows and the person's hair colour.
We observed Nicol Frank as she microbladed Swedish model, Annie Ericson's (@annieericson) brows to perfection:
First the eyebrows are numbed for 20 minutes...
No, this is not a new accessory trend, Annie just makes it look really cool.
Nicol Frank lists the following as advantages of microblading:
- Anti-aging: brows almost look like they're lifted - it opens up the eyes.
- The stimulation of the blade produces collagen in the skin, making it more elastic. More often than not, clients start growing hair in the areas we blade.
- We create a beautiful structure, so often clients can pluck the stray hairs - meaning threading/waxing etc. aren't necessary after treatment.
- It lasts 3-5 years, with colour enhancers every two years or so, depending on your lifestyle and how long your skin holds ink.
- There are different colour inks, and we mix differently for each person accordingly.Images: Marisa Crous and Nicol Frank
Microblading can also be done at The Urban Beauty Lounge or visit Browgineeering.
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