Let’s be honest, eyebrows can make or break a look. They frame the face and can dramatically enhance your appearance. If you’ve been looking a semi-permanent solution to sparse or uneven brows, microblading has been a popular option for a while. Nanoblading has also been around for a while but doesn’t seem to be as popular. While both techniques aim to achieve fuller, more defined brows, there are key differences between the two that are important to understand before choosing the right procedure.
My eyebrows are sparse. Thick, but sparse. All due to overplucking when I was younger. Unfortunately, they never grew back! So if you deal with sparse or thin brows, I totally understand the struggle!
Around 8 years ago I had my eyebrows microbladed for the very first time…and the very last time. As much as I did my research and went to a well-known professional within the industry, I hated the result. The shape was fine however she didn’t really listen to my directions when it came to the height and symmetry. Other people probably wouldn’t have noticed the parts that I didn’t like, but that wasn’t the point. ‘I’ should have felt happy with them. The problem was, I couldn’t do anything about it. I was stuck with them. Needless to say, I didn’t get a top-up done. Several months later I noticed the color was changing and looked a little green to me. Thankfully it didn’t keep getting worse and kind of stopped in its tracks. After this, I didn’t let anyone touch them for 5 years.
Fast forward 5 years and after some even deeper research, I decided to get my eyebrows Nanobladed. The tattoo from the Microblading had finally faded enough that I could see the skin beneath it. Nanoblading is the best decision I’ve made for my brows. I’ve had several top-ups since and haven’t regretted it for a second.
Let’s deep dive into the difference between both so you can understand why Nanoblading is the way forward.
Microblading, involves using a handheld tool with tiny needles to deposit pigment into the skin in hair-like strokes. This creates the illusion of fuller eyebrows and can redefine their shape. The strokes produced by microblading tend to be thicker, resulting in a bolder, more defined look. The procedure typically lasts anywhere from one to three years, depending on factors such as skin type and aftercare.
On the other hand, nanoblading is a more recent technique that takes microblading to a more refined level. Nanoblading utilizes even finer needles and a more precise handheld tool to create extremely thin, natural-looking hair strokes. The strokes produced in nanoblading are finer and more delicate compared to those in microblading, resulting in a softer, more natural appearance. This technique is ideal for clients seeking a subtler enhancement or those with very fine or sparse brows. Like microblading, the longevity of nanoblading can vary but generally lasts around one to two years.
One of the main advantages of nanoblading over microblading is the ability to create a more precise and realistic result. The finer strokes allow for greater control over the shape and density of the brows, resulting in a more customized and natural-looking outcome. Additionally, because the pigment is deposited superficially in the skin with nanoblading, the healing process tends to be quicker and the risk of scarring or pigment migration is reduced.
However, it's essential to note that both microblading and nanoblading require careful consideration and research before undergoing the procedure. Finding a skilled and experienced technician is crucial to achieving the desired results and minimizing the risk of complications. Additionally, proper aftercare is essential to ensure the longevity and appearance of the newly enhanced brows.
Ultimately, both microblading and nanoblading offer effective solutions for achieving fuller, more defined eyebrows, however, they differ in their techniques and results. Microblading tends to result in bolder, thicker strokes, while nanoblading offers a more delicate and natural-looking result. From my own experience and what I’ve heard from others, Nanoblading is a softer finish and not as harsh on the skin. At the end of the day, we all want great brows…but how much are you ready to compromise for them?