What are nano brows?
Nano brows are an advanced semi-permanent eyebrow tattooing technique using an ultra-fine nano-needle to create incredibly precise, hair-like strokes. Unlike traditional microblading which uses a manual blade, nano brows use a digital machine with a single ultra-fine needle, allowing for even more delicate and natural-looking results.
Are nano brows and nano hairstrokes the same thing?
Yes! Nano brows and nano hairstrokes are the same technique—the terms are used interchangeably in the industry. 'Nano brows' is the more widely adopted term, while 'nano hairstrokes' emphasizes the hair-like stroke appearance of the results. You may also see it called nanoblading, nano microblading, machine hairstrokes, or digital microblading. Regardless of the name, it refers to the same ultra-fine needle technique that creates hyper-realistic brow hairs.
What's the difference between nano brows and microblading?
The main difference is the tool and technique. Microblading uses a manual blade to create hair strokes, while nano brows use a digital machine with a single ultra-fine needle. Nano brows typically last longer (18-24 months vs 12-18 months), are better for oily skin, heal more gently, and can create even finer, more precise hair strokes.
Are nano brows painful?
With our continuous numbing protocol, most clients experience minimal to no discomfort. We apply premium topical numbing cream before the procedure AND continuously reapply throughout the entire session—not just at the start like many other studios. This comprehensive approach means most clients rate their comfort level at 1-2 out of 10, and many are so relaxed they actually fall asleep during their appointment. The sensation is typically described as light pressure rather than pain. Many clients find nano brows even more comfortable than traditional microblading due to the gentler digital technique.
How long do nano brows last?
Nano brows typically last 18-24 months, which is longer than traditional microblading. The longevity depends on your skin type, lifestyle, sun exposure, and skincare routine. Oily skin may fade slightly faster, while normal to dry skin retains the pigment longer. Most clients come back for a colour refresh every 12-18 months, but there's no fixed schedule. How long your brows hold depends on your skin type, how you heal, sun exposure, skincare and lifestyle, so we'll recommend the right timing for you.
Am I a good candidate for nano brows?
Nano brows are suitable for most people, including those with oily skin who may not be ideal candidates for traditional microblading. They're perfect for anyone wanting natural-looking, defined brows. They're also gentler on mature or thin skin than a manual blade. They're not recommended if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, on or within 6 months of finishing Accutane, on blood thinners, prone to keloid scarring, or have active skin conditions in the brow area. We review your medical history at every consultation.
What's the healing process like?
Nano brows typically heal faster and more gently than traditional microblading. The surface heals in about 7-10 days: brows look 30-40% darker at first, you may see light flaking around days 3-5, and then they soften. Beneath the surface, the skin keeps settling for 4-6 weeks, which is when your true colour shows. A touch-up session at 6-8 weeks ensures perfect, long-lasting results.
When will I see my final nano brows result?
Your brows look darker straight after the session and soften as they heal, with the true colour showing at around 4-6 weeks. The final result is visible once your 6-8 week perfection session has healed, so allow roughly 10-14 weeks from your first appointment.
Can I get nano brows if I already have microblading?
Usually, yes. If your old microblading has faded well (typically a year or more), we can often work over it. If it's still dark or heavily saturated, it may need to fade further or be lightened first, and very dark old work may need removal. We'll assess your existing brows at your consultation and recommend the best approach.
Can nano brows fix sparse or over-plucked eyebrows?
Absolutely! Nano brows are excellent for filling in sparse, over-plucked, or thinning eyebrows. The ultra-fine hair strokes blend seamlessly with your existing brow hair, creating the appearance of fuller, natural brows. We can recreate brow hair where you have gaps or thin areas, giving you beautifully shaped, full eyebrows.
What's the difference between nano brows and powder brows?
Nano brows create individual hair-like strokes for a natural, textured look, while powder brows (ombré brows) create a soft, shaded effect similar to brow powder makeup. Nano brows look like real brow hairs, powder brows look like you filled them in with makeup. Many clients choose combo brows, which combine both techniques for the most natural, dimensional result.
How much do nano brows cost?
Our nano brows start from $750, which includes the initial treatment. A touch-up session 6-8 weeks later is $250. Maintenance touch-ups to keep your brows looking fresh are $350 within 12 months, or $450 within 12-24 months. The price includes your consultation, brow mapping and numbing, at our Richmond or Springvale studio.
How do I prepare for my nano brows appointment?
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and blood-thinning medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil) for 24-48 hours before your appointment. Don't pluck, wax, tint, or thread your eyebrows for one week prior. Avoid sun exposure and chemical peels for 2-3 weeks before. Come with clean skin, no makeup on your brows. Follow our detailed pre-care instructions provided when you book.
Are nano brows permanent?
No. Nano brows are semi-permanent. The pigment fades gradually over 18-24 months, sometimes up to 3 years, so you can keep the shape you have or change it at a refresh. Most clients come back every 12-18 months.
Do nano brows last longer on oily or dry skin?
Normal to dry skin holds the pigment longest. Oily skin may fade a little faster, but nano brows still hold up better on oily skin than microblading, because the machine places the pigment at a consistent depth.
What makes nano brows fade faster?
Sun is the main one, so wear SPF 30+ on your brows every day and skip tanning beds. Retinol, AHA/BHA acids, vitamin C serums, chemical peels and exfoliants on or near the brows also speed up fading. Oily skin and your own healing play a part too.
When should I get my nano brows touched up?
Start with the $250 Perfection Session at 6-8 weeks, which fills any strokes that healed lighter. After that, book a colour refresh once they start to fade, usually every 12-18 months. A refresh is $350 within 12 months of your last visit or $450 within 12-24 months.