Nano Brows vs Microblading: Which is Best?
Nano Brows vs Microblading: Which Technique is Right for You?
When researching semi-permanent eyebrow treatments, you've likely encountered both microblading and nano brows. While they may seem similar — both creating hair-like strokes — these techniques differ significantly in their tools, process, and results. Understanding these differences will help you choose the perfect method for your unique needs.
What is Microblading?
Microblading is a manual semi-permanent eyebrow technique that uses a handheld tool with ultra-fine blades to create hair-like incisions in the skin. Pigment is deposited into these incisions, creating the appearance of individual eyebrow hairs.
Microblading Key Characteristics:
- Tool: Manual handheld blade with 7-21 micro-needles
- Technique: Manual strokes creating small cuts in skin
- Depth: Penetrates upper dermal layer
- Result: Crisp, defined hair strokes
- Best For: Normal to dry skin types
- Longevity: 12-24 months depending on skin type
- Healing: 10-14 days
What Are Nano Brows?
Nano brows (also called nanoblading or nano hair strokes) create the same hair-like appearance as microblading but use a digital machine with a single ultra-fine needle instead of a manual blade. This technique offers more precision and less skin trauma.
Nano Brows Key Characteristics:
- Tool: Digital machine with single nano-needle
- Technique: Mechanical insertion of pigment with hair-stroke pattern
- Depth: Precisely controlled, consistent depth
- Result: Ultra-fine, crisp hair strokes
- Best For: All skin types, including oily
- Longevity: 18-36 months
- Healing: 7-10 days
Nano Brows vs Microblading: Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Nano Brows | Microblading |
|---|---|---|
| Tool | Digital machine with single needle | Manual blade with multiple needles |
| Precision | Higher — computer controlled | High — artist controlled |
| Stroke Fineness | Ultra-fine, crisp | Fine, natural |
| Trauma to Skin | Minimal | Moderate |
| Best Skin Types | All types including oily | Normal to dry |
| Longevity | 18-36 months | 12-24 months |
| Fading Pattern | Even, gradual | Can blur on oily skin |
| Healing Time | 7-10 days | 10-14 days |
| Pain Level | 1-2/10 | 2-3/10 |
| Maintenance | Every 18-24 months | Every 12-18 months |
| Cost | From $750 | From $600 |
| Learning Curve | High — requires machine mastery | Moderate — requires hand control |
Key Differences Explained
1. Tool and Technique
Microblading:
- Uses a manual tool that looks like a small blade
- Artist controls depth, pressure, and speed by hand
- Creates small incisions that fill with pigment
- Requires significant hand skill and experience
Nano Brows:
- Uses a digital permanent makeup machine
- Single needle oscillates at controlled speed
- Artist controls movement but machine controls depth
- Combines technology with artistry
2. Precision and Control
Microblading:
- Precision depends entirely on artist's hand control
- Can vary slightly in depth and width
- Excellent for creating natural variations
- Human touch creates organic appearance
Nano Brows:
- Machine provides consistent depth control
- Ultra-precise, uniform strokes
- Can create extremely fine, detailed hair strokes
- Perfect for intricate, detailed work
3. Skin Trauma and Healing
Microblading:
- Creates small cuts in the skin
- Moderate trauma to skin surface
- Healing time: 10-14 days
- Slightly more scabbing
Nano Brows:
- Tiny pin-prick insertion points
- Minimal trauma to skin
- Healing time: 7-10 days
- Less scabbing and flaking
For detailed healing tips, see our microblading aftercare guide.
4. Suitability for Skin Types
Microblading:
- Excellent for normal skin
- Perfect for dry skin
- Works well on mature skin
- May not last well on oily skin
- Strokes can blur on very oily skin
Nano Brows:
- Works beautifully on all skin types
- Excellent for oily skin
- Great for combination skin
- Perfect for large pores
- Ideal for any texture
5. Longevity and Fading
Microblading:
- Lasts 12-24 months average
- Fades faster on oily skin
- Can blur or spread slightly before fading
- Requires touch-ups more frequently on oily skin
Nano Brows:
- Lasts 18-36 months average
- Retains crisp appearance longer
- Fades evenly without blurring
- Better retention on oily skin
6. Final Appearance
Microblading:
- Natural, organic hair-like strokes
- Slight variations create realistic look
- Soft, delicate appearance
- Mimics natural brow hairs beautifully
Nano Brows:
- Ultra-crisp, precise hair strokes
- Extremely fine details possible
- Can appear slightly more "perfect"
- Sharp, defined look
Check out our before and after gallery to compare healed results from both techniques.
Who Should Choose Microblading?
Ideal Candidates:
Normal to Dry Skin Types
- Microblading performs excellently
- Long-lasting, beautiful results
Those Seeking Very Natural Look
- Manual technique creates organic variations
- Soft, natural appearance
People with Some Natural Brow Hair
- Blends seamlessly with existing hairs
- Enhances natural features
Preference for Traditional Technique
- Established method with proven results
- Widely available and understood
Not sure what eyebrow shape suits your face? Our brow shape guide for face shapes can help.
Who Should Choose Nano Brows?
Ideal Candidates:
Oily or Combination Skin
- Machine technique lasts longer on oily skin
- Strokes stay crisp without blurring
Those Wanting Maximum Longevity
- Nano brows typically last longer
- Less frequent touch-ups needed
People Seeking Ultra-Fine Details
- Machine precision allows extremely fine work
- Perfect for intricate, detailed designs
Anyone with Large Pores
- Nano technique works better on textured skin
- Maintains crisp appearance
Previous Microblading That Didn't Last
- Nano might perform better on your skin
- Worth trying if microblading faded quickly
Cost Comparison
Microblading Investment:
Melbourne Designer Brows:
- Initial treatment: From $600
- A perfecting session is recommended 6-8 weeks after the initial appointment ($250)
- Contact us for current maintenance pricing
Nano Brows Investment:
Melbourne Designer Brows:
- Initial treatment: From $750
- A perfecting session is recommended 6-8 weeks after the initial appointment ($250)
- Contact us for current maintenance pricing
For full pricing details across all our services, visit our pricing page.
Pain and Comfort Comparison
Microblading Comfort Level:
Pain Rating: 2-3 out of 10
- Slight scratching sensation
- Pressure from manual strokes
- Numbing cream very effective
- Most clients find it tolerable
Learn more in our post about microblading pain levels.
Nano Brows Comfort Level:
Pain Rating: 1-2 out of 10
- Buzzing/vibrating sensation
- Less pressure than microblading
- Machine speed can feel unusual
- Generally less uncomfortable
Winner: Nano brows typically feel slightly more comfortable for most clients.
Healing Process Comparison
Microblading Healing:
Timeline: 10-14 days
- Days 1-3: Dark, defined strokes
- Days 4-7: Darkest phase, scabbing begins
- Days 8-14: Heavy flaking and shedding
- Days 15-28: Ghost phase
- Days 29-42: True color emerges
Characteristics:
- Moderate scabbing
- Some people experience itching
- Slightly longer healing overall
Nano Brows Healing:
Timeline: 7-10 days
- Days 1-3: Dark, crisp strokes
- Days 4-6: Darkest phase, light scabbing
- Days 7-10: Flaking phase
- Days 11-21: Ghost phase
- Days 22-35: True color emerges
Characteristics:
- Lighter scabbing
- Faster healing overall
- Slightly less dramatic fading phases
Winner: Nano brows heal faster with less scabbing.
Can You Combine Techniques?
Some artists use both techniques in one treatment:
Combination Brows Approach:
- Nano machine for powder/ombre shading
- Microblading for hair strokes at front
- Best of both worlds
This hybrid approach offers:
- Natural hair texture from microblading
- Defined shading from nano technique
- Beautiful dimensional results
Learn more in our combination brows technique guide.
Making Your Decision
Choose Microblading If:
- You have normal to dry skin
- You want a traditional, proven technique
- You have existing brow hair to enhance
- You prefer entirely manual artistry
- You want very natural, soft results
Choose Nano Brows If:
- You have oily or combination skin
- Your microblading didn't last well previously
- You want maximum longevity
- You have large pores or textured skin
- You prefer ultra-precise, crisp strokes
- You want less frequent touch-ups
Still Unsure?
Book a free consultation! A professional artist will:
- Assess your skin type and texture
- Examine your natural brows
- Discuss your style preferences
- Recommend the best technique for YOU
- Show you examples of both on similar clients
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from microblading to nano brows?
Yes! Once your microblading has faded or been removed, you can try nano brows. Some clients whose microblading didn't last well find nano brows work better on their skin type. If you need a correction, our brow corrections service can help.
Is one technique "better" than the other?
Neither is universally better — it depends on your skin type, preferences, and goals. Microblading offers a softer, organic look, while nano brows provide longer-lasting, crisper results. See our FAQ page for more common questions.
Which technique looks more natural?
Both can look extremely natural when done by skilled artists. Microblading may have slight organic variations, while nano brows offer ultra-fine precision. Final naturalness depends more on artist skill than technique.
Do nano brows hurt less than microblading?
Most clients report nano brows as slightly less uncomfortable (1-2/10 vs 2-3/10), but with numbing cream, both techniques are very tolerable.
How do I know which technique was used on photos I've seen?
It can be difficult to tell from photos alone! The best way is to ask the artist which technique they used. Well-done examples of both can look very similar in photos.
Melbourne Designer Brows: Expert in Both Techniques
At Melbourne Designer Brows, we offer both microblading and nano brows and will honestly recommend the best technique for your unique situation.
Why Choose Us:
Dual Expertise
- Certified in both techniques
- Extensive experience with all skin types
- Honest recommendations based on your needs
Proven Results
- Highly rated service
- A growing number of happy clients
- Featured on A Current Affair
Personalized Approach
- Thorough consultation
- Custom design for your face
- No pressure or upselling
Quality Commitment
- Premium pigments and tools
- Sterile, professional environment
- Perfecting session available ($250)
Ready to Choose Your Perfect Eyebrow Technique?
Whether you choose microblading, nano brows, or a combination approach, the most important factor is selecting an experienced, skilled artist who will recommend the best option for your unique needs.
Book Your Consultation
Microblading: From $600 | Nano Brows: From $750
A perfecting session is recommended 6-8 weeks after the initial appointment ($250).
Contact Melbourne Designer Brows:
- Call Anne: 0418 188 277
- Email: info@mdbrows.com.au
- Richmond: Level 1, 382A Bridge Rd, Richmond VIC 3121
- Springvale: Shop 4, 218 Springvale Rd, Springvale VIC 3171
Your Journey Starts Here:
- Free consultation to discuss your skin type and goals
- Personalized recommendation for the best technique
- Transform your brows with the perfect method for you
- Enjoy beautiful, long-lasting eyebrows!
Results may vary. Consult with your practitioner for personalized advice. Discover which technique is perfect for you — book your consultation with Melbourne Designer Brows today!