Microblading causes autoimmune condition, lung problems in 2 women: Should you ditch the treatment?

Doctors in Slovenia, who are sharing details of these cases for the first time, are urging beauticians to be more transparent about potential health risks associated with microblading.

The women sought medical attention after noticing unusual “orange-red plaques” on their eyebrows. One woman had the procedure a year prior, while the other had it done six years earlier, according to The Sun.

Biopsies confirmed both women had sarcoidosis, and further tests revealed the disease had also affected their lungs and lymph nodes. Systemic sarcoidosis is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system overreacts, forming inflammatory nodules called granulomas in various organs, most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes.

Microblading is a popular technique that uses tattooing to create the appearance of thicker eyebrows. (file)

Dr Manoj Goel, Director & Unit Head, Pulmonology, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, said that while the exact cause of sarcoidosis is unknown, it’s believed to result from an abnormal immune response to unknown substances. “There are only a couple of reports, but we need more evidence that microblading causes sarcoidosis.”

Microblading can normally lead to complications such as allergic reactions, infections, scarring. It’s essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and consult with a healthcare professional before making a decision.

Autoimmune conditions like sarcoidosis can significantly impact quality of life, causing symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, cough, skin rashes, joint pain, and eye problems. “While there’s no cure for sarcoidosis, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Medications like corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and anti-inflammatory drugs are often used to control inflammation and alleviate symptoms,” Dr Goel said.

Both women responded well to treatment. The first woman received steroids for two years, resulting in the disappearance of skin lesions and a reduction (“regression”) of lung growths. The second woman also saw improvement within a year of steroid treatment.

The doctors, writing in the Journal of Medical Case Reports, concluded that microblading was likely the trigger for sarcoidosis in these cases. They emphasised the importance of informing both medical professionals and beauticians who offer microblading about this potential link.

“Even though this appears to be a rare side effect,” they stated, “patients should be made fully aware of this risk before undergoing the procedure.”