Eyebrow tattooing: hand-drawn versus machine — what changes? Differences in finish and color retention

Eyebrow tattooing is divided into two main approaches: hand-drawn, where hairs are depicted one by one, and machine-applied, where fine dots are layered to create a powdered finish[1][2]Color lasts longer with the machine method, and a combination of both is also possible[1]With either method, color fades gradually over time, so you choose based on your preferred finish and how long you want it to last[3].

Hand-drawn versus machine: how do the finishes differ?

Hand-drawn (microblading) mimics the natural hair flow of the eyebrow, adding hairs one by one.[2]It is used when you want to add hair texture to areas where hair is sparse.

With the machine method, fine dots are applied to create an eyebrow with a powdered appearance. Color is built through the overlap of dots rather than drawn lines.[1].

A hybrid approach also exists, where the inner brow is hand-drawn, the tail is machine-applied, and the two are connected in the middle.[1].

Which method lasts longer?

The machine method lasts longer. Because the pigment is applied by machine, it persists in the skin longer than with hand-drawn application.[1].

Hand-drawn pigment typically enters the shallow layers of skin and generally lasts 1–3 years.[2]In eyebrow tattooing overall, color typically fades at a rate of approximately 20% per year, with many reports indicating it remains visible for 3–5 years.[3].

Although people often assume it never fades, gradual fading is expected. However, with hand-drawn application, some lines may remain permanently, so it is important to decide on your design carefully in advance.[1].

Can the color change?

Yes. Exposure to strong sunlight can cause iron oxide pigments to shift toward reddish tones and synthetic pigments to turn dark gray or black.[1].

Brown pigment is created by mixing three colors: yellow, red, and black.[1]Avoiding direct sunlight is also meaningful for maintaining color.

What are the risks that can occur with either method?

Eyebrow tattooing, like traditional tattooing, is a procedure in which pigment is inserted into the skin.[3]Complications from traditional tattooing include infection, raised scars, contact dermatitis, granulomas (small lumps formed by the body's reaction), and allergies, but the incidence of these is reported to be low.[4].

Although rare, cases of granulomas developing on hand-drawn eyebrows have been reported. In a report summarizing 21 cases, approximately half were foreign body reactions, and the remainder were sarcoidosis (a disease in which small lumps can form in various parts of the body).[5].

There is also a case where three years after the procedure, red raised changes appeared on the eyebrows.[2]It has been noted that for people who develop such reactions, it may be better to refrain from subsequent eyebrow tattooing.[6].

If redness, itching, or firmness persists in the eyebrows for a long time, consult the clinic or dermatology clinic where you received the procedure.

What are the guidelines for choosing between hand-drawn and machine methods?

If you want to fill in hair strokes, hand-drawn is a candidate; if you seek color longevity and a made-up appearance, machine is a candidate; if you want both, hybrid is an option.[1].

Hand-drawn is also used when eyebrows thin due to age or alopecia areata.[1]Note that the papers reviewed for this article did not include research comparing methods for eyeliner or lip tattooing.

What should you decide before the procedure to avoid regrets?

Some people have their eyebrow tattoos removed because they are dissatisfied with the result.[3]It is important to align well with your doctor before the procedure regarding the desired shape and how much change you want.[1].

You cannot decide which method suits your eyebrows based on the article alone. During the consultation, confirm your skin type, the amount of eyebrow hair, whether you have experienced redness or firmness from previous tattooing or eyebrow tattooing, and how to correct it if the color fades.