Let’s admit it. We all want that full eyebrow look aka eyebrow on fleek but without all the hassle of doing it. That’s why procedures like brow tattooing and microblading have become increasingly popular over the years. In fact, microblading alone created so much buzz online with over 4.7 million tagged mentions just on Instagram.

Thanks to these techniques, ladies, and guys don’t have to worry about going out looking messy. You’re born ready to face the world. Not to mention that it cuts a lot of preparation time when you’re doing your makeup. 

Now, another technique is on the rise: Nano blading. 

What is Nano Blading?

Nano Blading is a new brow treatment in the cosmetic tattoo industry which results in semi-permanent full and fluffy looking brows. 

According to Laura Kay, a nano blading expert and the founder of Laura Kay London, this form of cosmetic tattooing uses ultra-sharp nano needles which are actually able to mimic the diameter and dimension of a real hair in the skin. She also noted that it’s not as deep as a conventional tattoo since it’s just a semi-permanent fixture. 

Just like microbladed brows, nano brows are long-lasting and especially suited to people who experience over-plucked eyebrow issues. As these are still tattoos, these brows can endure heavy sweating from exercise or sauna sessions or even long exposure to water like in swimming. 

How are nano brows applied?

The whole procedure of nano brow application usually takes 3 to 4 hours in total. The first half of the appointment is like what usually goes on with microblading. It’s the initial consultation with the client to discuss the brow design process, desired brow shape and size, as well as the pigment colors that will complement their skin. 

There’s also a skin type assessment in order to know the degree of technical skills required. Oilier and thicker skins are usually harder to tattoo which is why it needs more technical skills to ensure perfect application. 

After the initial consultation, the artist will then pre-draw the eyebrow hair using a sharp, flat-edged pencil. The completed design will then be shown to the client for approval before application. 

The next part is the tattooing procedure. As mentioned before, this cosmetic procedure uses a single moving needle and a machine. This needle slowly implants pigment into the skin. Since each stroke is meticulously drawn, the process will take some time. Salons or shops use topical anesthesia to the eyebrow area for a relaxed tattooing experience. 

For fuller or fluffier brows, additional layering can be done at a follow up appointment. This prevents the skin from being overworked.

Nano brows After Care

After the procedure, extensive face washing is a big no. Instead, clean your brows gently with micellar water. Additionally, use cotton pads with a bit of sterile water to gently wipe the area and avoid bacteria build-up. 

Like microblading, you should expect swelling, reddening, and scabbing. It’s important that you don’t peel off the scabs or scratch your brows. 

During the healing period, you should not use make-up or at least for the first 10 days. No exercise as well for the first 24 hours to avoid too much sweating. Saunas, swimming pools, and other activities that will expose your brows to the sun should be avoided. 

After that, you will need to come back after 4 weeks for the first touch up appointment. By this time, any pigment that hasn’t settled perfectly yet on your skin will be added. Again, if you want a fuller or fluffier eyebrow look, you can also opt additional layering. 

After the required first touch-up, the next ones are optional. But if you want to prolong the life of your nano brows then doing a regular touch up would be very beneficial. 

What are the differences? Nano Blading vs. Microblading

While they are seemingly similar as they are both semi-permanent eyebrow fixtures, there are basically three key differences between the two processes. 

PROCEDURE

Unlike microblading which uses a set of needles to incise through the skin and deposit pigment to create natural-looking brows, nano blading employs a fine, single-needle tattoo machine that injects pigment deeper than microblading. 

According to the founder of Royals Clinic Australia Fay Rezaei, nano brows are a little bit gentler on the skin compared to microblading. She explained that since it uses super fine needles, it does not cause as much trauma to the skin and is also more flexible with the movement. It’s also more precisely applied compared to microblading. 

Nano blading is also reportedly less painful and its recovery time is also apparently shorter. You will still experience the usual swelling after the procedure but it goes down in just one night. 

LIFESPAN

Since pigment is injected deeper with nano blading, nano brows usually last longer than microbladed brows. Microblading can last at least one to two years depending on your skin and lifestyle while nano brows can last around two to three years. 

Both processes are applicable to any skin type but if you have oilier or textured skin, nano blading is generally a more recommended treatment. This is because nano brows ideally last longer. Nevertheless, longevity can still be affected by other biological factors like hormonal imbalance and existing medical conditions. 

The only probable downside of a longer lifespan of nano brows is that you can’t change it for a few years. That’s why you should be set on that certain brow shape before undergoing the procedure. 

PRICE 

Price definitely varies on the technique as well as the artist’s expertise level, experience, and location. Both procedures usually start at $500 USD (although again, this is dependent on other factors) and can reach prices over $2,000 USD. Annual maintenance appointments are also charged more or less the same. Although nano blading can be slightly more expensive (around $100 to $200 more) because it’s a more labor intensive process compared to microblading. 

You can still encounter lower prices or deals but this is not always in good faith. The more likely reason for low prices is inexperience and for a delicate process on your face, it’s best not to risk it. 

So basically…

Nano blading and microblading processes are very similar but they are specifically different in the process of application. That is, nano blading is a more precise and less painful brow treatment compared to microblading but it does come with a more expensive price tag. 

And while nano brows also have a longer lifespan (which makes it more suitable for oilier and thicker skins), it is not advisable for those who want to change up their look in just a year or so. If you’re not decided on a brow look that would last you up to 3 years then microblading is the better option. 

Which is a better option for me?

Again, it largely depends on your needs, how long you want your brows to look the same, and of course your budget. You should also note that while these processes can be applied to any skin type and color, darker skin tones are generally more difficult to tattoo due to less contrast in color. This is why you need a brow specialist to do this. 

Also, many women of colour generally have oilier skins due to the release of excess sebum. Not to mention that they also use Vitamin C serum in their routine skin care to combat pigmentation issues which can also lead to the gradual fading of brow hair lines. 

There is no better option in general terms. Do your own research, read reviews, and from there decide what treatment is more suited for you.