If you’re looking for a way to enhance your eyebrows and achieve a natural-looking, fuller, and more defined shape, you might have heard of nano brows and microblading. These are two popular techniques of semi-permanent eyebrow tattooing that create hair-like strokes on the brows. But what are the differences between them, and which one is right for you? In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about nano brows vs microblading, and help you decide which one suits your needs and preferences.

What are nano brows and microblading?

Nano brows and microblading are both forms of cosmetic eyebrow tattooing that use pigmented ink to create the illusion of fuller and more defined eyebrows. The main difference between them is the tool and technique used to create the hair strokes.

Nano brows are done with a PMU machine that features a very fine needle, which vibrates and pierces the skin, depositing pigments in tiny dots that add up to strokes. The needle is very thin and enters the skin at a 90 degree angle, so it causes very little trauma to the skin.

Microblading is done with a manual tool that consists of a thin blade made up of 12-16 needles, which is dragged through the skin, creating tiny cuts where the pigment is deposited. The blade can be as thin as 0.18 mm or less.

Are nano brows better than microblading?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as both techniques have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your personal preferences, skin type, lifestyle, and budget. Here are some factors to consider when comparing nano brows vs microblading:

• Precision and accuracy: Nano brows are more precise and accurate than microblading, as the PMU machine allows for more control and consistency in creating the hair strokes. Nano brows may create a more realistic and natural appearance, especially for people with sparse or thin eyebrows.
• Pain and bleeding: Nano brows are less painful and cause less bleeding than microblading, as the needle penetrates the skin more gently and superficially than the blade. However, both procedures are tolerable and can be done with numbing cream to reduce discomfort.
• Longevity and maintenance: Nano brows last longer than microblading, as the machine application makes the strokes more resilient and less prone to fading. Nano brows can last up to 2-3 years, while microblading may last up to 1-2 years, depending on the skin type, lifestyle, and sun exposure. Nano brows also require less touch-up maintenance, which reduces the long-term cost and time commitment.
• Customization and versatility: Both nano brows and microblading can be customized and tailored to each individual’s preferences, such as the shape, color, thickness, and density of the brows. However, nano brows may be more versatile and adaptable to different skin types and conditions, as microblading may not work well for people with oily, sensitive, or scarred skin.

How long do nano brows last?

The average nano brows longevity is between 1.5 and 2.5 years, but it’s very individual. Some clients experience faster fading, some experience very slow fading and get to keep their brows looking fresh longer without touch ups. In some cases, the brows can fade significantly after about a year. In others, nano brows last even up to 4 years.

The longevity of nano brows depends on several factors, such as:

• Skin type: Oily skin tends to fade nano brows faster than dry or normal skin, as the excess oil can break down the pigment and cause it to blur or lighten. People with oily skin may need more frequent touch-ups than those with dry or normal skin.
• Lifestyle: Activities that cause excessive sweating, such as exercise, sauna, or swimming, can also affect the durability of nano brows, as the sweat can wash away the pigment and make it fade faster. People who engage in these activities may also need more frequent touch-ups than those who don’t.
• Sun exposure: Sun exposure is one of the main enemies of nano brows, as the UV rays can damage the pigment and make it fade or change color. People who spend a lot of time in the sun or use tanning beds should always wear sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure on their brows. They may also need more frequent touch-ups than those who avoid the sun.
• Skincare products: Certain skincare products and ingredients can also accelerate the fading of nano brows, especially those that exfoliate, peel, or lighten the skin, such as retinol, vitamin C, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. People who use these products should avoid applying them on their brows or use them sparingly. They may also need more frequent touch-ups than those who don’t use these products.

What are the cons of nanoblading?

Nanoblading is a relatively safe and effective technique for enhancing the eyebrows, but it is not without its potential cons and risks. Some of the drawbacks of nanoblading are:

• Infection: As with any procedure that breaks the skin, there’s always a risk of infection. This can be minimized by following proper aftercare instructions and ensuring the procedure is carried out in a clean, sterile environment.
• Allergic reaction: Some people might be allergic to the pigments used in the procedure. While this is rare, it’s important to discuss any known allergies with your technician before the procedure. A patch test can also be done to check for any adverse reactions.
• Scarring: If the needle penetrates too deeply or if the skin is not properly cared for after the procedure, scarring can occur. This can affect the appearance and longevity of the nano brows, and may require corrective treatments.
• Unsatisfactory results: There’s always a risk that you won’t be happy with the results. It’s important to have a thorough consultation with your technician before the procedure to discuss your desired outcome, and to choose a reputable and experienced professional. If you’re unhappy with the results, you may need to undergo removal or correction procedures, which can be costly and time-consuming.
• Color changes: Over time, the pigments used in nano brows can fade or change color. This is a normal part of the process, but it can result in the need for touch-ups or color corrections. The color changes can also be influenced by factors such as sun exposure, skincare products, or hormonal changes.
• Granulomas: These are nodules that can form around material that the body perceives as foreign, such as the pigments used in nano brows. They can cause inflammation, pain, or itching, and may require medical treatment.
• MRI complications: In some cases, the pigments used in nano brows can interfere with MRI imaging. They can cause artifacts or distortions in the images, or cause burning or swelling in the tattooed area. It’s important to inform your doctor if you have nano brows before undergoing an MRI scan.
• Keloid formation: People who are prone to developing keloids, which are raised scars, may experience keloid formation after the procedure. This can affect the appearance and texture of the nano brows, and may require medical treatment.
• Hepatitis and HIV: If the needles used are not properly sterilized, there’s a risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV. It’s important to choose a licensed and certified technician who follows strict hygiene and safety protocols.

Do nano brows disappear?

Nano brows do not disappear completely, as the pigment is deposited into the dermal layer of the skin, which is below the epidermis. However, nano brows do fade over time, as the pigment is gradually broken down by the body’s natural processes and external factors. The fading process can vary from person to person, depending on the factors mentioned above, such as skin type, lifestyle, sun exposure, and skincare products. Some people may notice significant fading after a year, while others may retain their nano brows for up to 4 years.

To maintain the appearance and color of nano brows, touch-ups are generally recommended once every year or two. Touch-ups are less invasive and less expensive than the initial procedure, and can help keep your brows looking fresh and natural. However, touch-ups are not mandatory, and some people may prefer to let their nano brows fade naturally and enjoy the semi-permanent nature of the technique.

What happens if nano brows get wet?

Getting your nano brows wet during the healing process can damage them and affect the final results. Water, or any liquid for that matter, can increase the risk of fading or getting uneven brows, as it can wash away the pigment or prevent it from adhering to the skin. It can also increase the risk of infection, as water can carry bacteria or contaminants that can enter the open wounds on the brows.

Therefore, it’s important to avoid getting your nano brows wet for at least 10 days after the procedure, or until the scabs have fallen off naturally. This means avoiding activities that can cause your brows to get wet, such as swimming, sauna, hot showers, or excessive sweating. You should also avoid washing your face directly with water, and use a damp cotton pad or a gentle cleanser to clean the area around your brows.

What are the side effects of nano brows?

Nano brows are generally safe and well-tolerated by most people, but some side effects may occur during or after the procedure. Some of the common side effects of nano brows are:

• Redness and swelling: It’s normal to experience some redness and swelling around the brows immediately after the procedure, as the skin has been punctured by the needle. This should subside within a few hours or days, depending on your skin’s sensitivity and healing ability.
• Scabbing and flaking: As the skin heals, it will form scabs and flakes on the brows, which will protect the pigment and prevent infection. This is a normal part of the healing process, and you should not pick, scratch, or rub them, as this can damage the pigment and cause scarring. The scabs and flakes will fall off naturally within 7-10 days, revealing the final color and shape of the brows.
• Itching and irritation: You may feel some itching and irritation on the brows as they heal, especially when the scabs and flakes start to form. This is also normal, and you should resist the urge to scratch or touch them, as this can also damage the pigment and cause infection. You can apply a thin layer of aftercare cream or ointment to soothe the area and keep it moisturized.
• Color changes: During the healing process, you may notice some color changes on your brows, such as darkening, lightening, or patchiness. This is also normal, and you should not panic or judge the results too soon, as the color will stabilize and even out after the scabs and flakes have fallen off. The final color and shape of the brows will be visible after 4-6 weeks, when the skin has fully healed.

Do nano brows look natural?

One of the main advantages of nano brows is that they can create a very natural and realistic appearance, especially for people with sparse or thin eyebrows. The PMU machine allows for more precision and accuracy in creating the hair strokes, which can mimic the natural direction, thickness, and density of the eyebrow hairs. The pigments used are also customized and matched to the natural color of the eyebrows and the skin tone, creating a harmonious and flattering look.

However, the naturalness of nano brows also depends on the skill and experience of the technician, as well as the preferences and expectations of the client. It’s important to choose a reputable and certified professional who can create a suitable shape and style for your face and features. It’s also important to communicate your desired outcome and follow the aftercare instructions to ensure the best results.

When can I wet my nano brows?

As mentioned earlier, getting your nano brows wet during the healing process can damage them and affect the final results. Therefore, you should avoid wetting your nano brows for at least 10 days after the procedure, or until the scabs have fallen off naturally.

After the healing process is complete, you can wet your nano brows as normal, but you should still be careful and gentle with them. You should avoid rubbing, scrubbing, or exfoliating them, as this can cause premature fading or irritation. You should also avoid using harsh or abrasive products or ingredients on them, such as alcohol, peroxide, or bleach, as this can also affect the color and quality of the pigment.

Why are my nano brows so dark?

It’s normal for your nano brows to appear darker and more intense immediately after the procedure, as the pigment is fresh and the skin is inflamed. This is not the final color or shape of your brows, and you should not worry or be disappointed by the initial appearance.

As the skin heals, the pigment will fade and soften, and the brows will shrink and settle into their final position. The color will also adjust and adapt to your skin tone and natural eyebrow color, creating a more natural and subtle look. The final color and shape of your brows will be visible after 4-6 weeks, when the skin has fully healed.

If you’re still unhappy with the color or shape of your brows after the healing process, you can always request a touch-up or a color correction from your technician, who can adjust the pigment or the strokes to suit your preferences.

Conclusion

Nano brows and microblading are two popular techniques of semi-permanent eyebrow tattooing that can enhance your eyebrows and give you a more defined and attractive look. Both techniques have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your personal preferences, skin type, lifestyle, and budget. Nano brows are more precise, accurate, less painful, longer-lasting, and more versatile than microblading, but they are also more expensive and require a more advanced skill level from the technician. Microblading is more affordable, accessible, and faster than nano brows, but it is also more painful, less durable, and less adaptable to different skin types and conditions.

Before deciding on either technique, it’s important to do your research, consult with a reputable and certified professional, and have realistic expectations about the results. You should also follow the proper aftercare instructions and protect your brows from external factors that can affect their quality and longevity. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy your beautiful and natural-looking brows for years to come.

FAQs

• Q: How much do nano brows cost?
• A: The cost of nano brows varies depending on the location, the technician, and the quality of the service. On average, nano brows can cost between $500 and $1500 for the initial procedure, and between $200 and $500 for touch-ups.
• Q: How long does the nano brows procedure take?
• A: The nano brows procedure can take between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the complexity and size of the brows. The procedure involves a consultation, numbing, drawing, tattooing, and aftercare.
• Q: How often do I need to touch up my nano brows?
• A: The frequency of touch-ups depends on the individual factors that affect the fading of the pigment, such as skin type, lifestyle, sun exposure, and skincare products. Generally, touch-ups are recommended once every year or two, or whenever you notice significant fading or color changes.
• Q: Can I remove my nano brows if I don’t like them?
• A: Yes, nano brows can be removed or corrected if you’re unhappy with the results. However, removal or correction procedures can be costly, time-consuming, and painful, and may not guarantee complete or satisfactory results. Therefore, it’s better to avoid regret and choose a reputable and experienced technician who can create the best results for you.
• Q: Can I do nano brows if I have no eyebrows at all?
• A: Yes, nano brows can be done on people who have no eyebrows at all, or who have very sparse or thin eyebrows. Nano brows can create the illusion of natural and realistic eyebrows, as the hair strokes can mimic the direction, thickness, and density of the eyebrow hairs. However, people who have no eyebrows at all may need more sessions and touch-ups to achieve the desired results.