The last decade has seen a major spotlight on brow trends. First there were the super-sculpted, fluffy brows you couldn’t escape on your Instagram feed even if you tried, then came the thin, barely-there arch that signified the ‘90s, and now bleached brows are all the rage. Throughout all of the various brow looks, one thing that’s remained constant is the existence of brow treatments like microblading, which many people (including cancer patients and those suffering from trichotillomania or alopecia) have turned to for more defined brows that won’t wipe off in the pool or shower. That being said, microblading is not for everyone. If you like the idea of a semi-permanent solution for your brows but prefer something a bit more subtle, nano brows might be the new trend to consider for 2023.
If you’re not familiar already, nano brows are an alternative to the coveted microblading treatment that offers more precision for those with full brows, sparse brows, and everything in between. Curious to learn the ins and outs of the treatment? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about nano brows, including pain level, healing time, after-care, and, most importantly, how it’s different from microblading — straight from the experts.
What Are Nano Brows?
Think of nano brows as microblading’s more refined sister. Nanoblading applies pigment on the skin behind the brows, filling in little gaps and visually improving the brow’s appearance by giving them that two-dimensional look.
Besides filling in sparser areas, the treatment can also help improve the shape of your brows. For instance, technician notes that if your brows aren’t level, nanoblading allows you to give one brow more of a boost. Or, if one is coming up short, you can extend the tail to even them out. You can use the treatment to help improve basic symmetry by working on the perimeter of the brows. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a more natural look or you’re scared of the big, bold strokes of microblading, nano brows may be a better option.
Nano Brows Versus Microbladed Brows
Nano brows are done with a machine while microbladed brows are done with a hand-held blade. With nano brows, the pigment is inserted deeper into the skin, which means it will last longer, while with microblading, the pigment is placed more superficially into the skin. Because nanoblading relies on a machine — versus the technician — to apply consistent pressure throughout the treatment, the results will be more consistent in color after the service and as it fades.
While almost anyone is a candidate for nano brows (including those with oily skin), microblading is best for those with firm, normal to dry skin, as this skin type will hold on to color better. Finally, there’s also a difference in the ouch-factor associated with both treatments. Machine work, as in the case with nanoblading, is definitely less painful when done correctly since there is no ‘cutting’ involved. Still your technician will use numbing anesthetics for your most comfortable.
