Microblading As Gender-Affirming Treatment

Eyebrows play a vital role in shaping the face and expressing identity. While microblading is commonly associated with enhancing beauty and symmetry, it is also an important tool in gender-affirming treatments. 

A lighter hand is key when working on individuals who are undergoing testosterone treatments due to the increased chances of excess bleeding and shift in skin texture. To avoid excess bleeding, tighten your three-point stretch and apply less pressure in a steady motion to deposit the pigment evenly and avoid any “tugging” of the skin. The excess trauma from the combination of an improper stretch and heavy hand will likely cause bleeding.

Testosterone hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a key factor when considering permanent makeup, as testosterone—a steroid hormone—can significantly affect skin behavior and healing:

• Increased Sebum Production: Can lead to oilier skin, which may impact pigment retention.

• Thicker, Coarser Skin: Testosterone can cause the skin to become firmer and more textured.

• More Facial Hair Growth: Potential changes in hair growth patterns, including natural brow thickening or shifts in hair direction.

• Enhanced Bleeding: Steroid hormones may thin the blood slightly, increasing bleeding during procedures.

Goals of Masculinizing Eyebrow Design

The clients need strong, defined, and naturally masculine. Masculine eyebrows often differ from traditionally feminine ones in the following ways:

• Lower Arch or Flat Shape: Reduces the soft curve associated with feminine features.

• Thicker Brow Body: More density through the midsection and tail to create structure.

• Straighter Brow Tail: A flatter angle that aligns with masculine bone structure.

• Angular or Boxed Inner Corners: To frame the face with a bolder, more structured front.

Microblading isn’t just a beauty treatment—it’s a powerful tool for supporting transgender clients in their journey. By adjusting shape, stroke direction, pigment, and technique, permanent makeup artists can play a meaningful role in facial gender affirmation.