Let’s talk about eyebrow etching

People with thin brows have gone down many avenues to achieve fuller eyebrows. On the more basic level, there’s of course penciling. But some wishing for a more drastic and permanent change have gone so far as to get eyebrow tattoos. There’s now a new technique — called etching or microblading — that offers an in-between, semi-permanent option.

Let’s break down how it works and why it’s different. The microblade delivers color in strokes, just like you would do with a brow pencil, so the result is a natural, feathery finish rather than a drawn-on Sharpie look. They’re basically “etched” on. You can fill in bald spots, define your natural brows, fill in over-plucked brows, or give yourself completely new brows. Unlike traditional cosmetic tattoos, this procedure isn’t permanent. The process only delivers a shallow deposit of pigment, and the color fades out over time, thanks in part to exfoliation.

The entire process can take a couple of hours, most of which is spent perfecting the shape before the blade ever goes near your brow. According to InStyle, pros warn that it definitely shouldn’t take less than one hour. Some clients report feeling slight pain and some just say it is uncomfortable, but it’s supposedly no worse than waxing or threading your brows.

But, it is costly: Prices vary, but it starts at about $400 and can go up to $800. And, it goes without saying, that if you’re considering doing this, do your research. Mic reports that the procedure isn’t regulated (neither is tattooing) and so there could be potential risks involved. Safest bet would be to consult your dermatologist.

Regardless we are curious: Would you sign up for eyebrow etching? Or consider it?