In recent years, semi-permanent makeup techniques have surged in popularity as people seek low-maintenance ways to enhance their features. One of the hottest trends in the beauty industry is nanoblading, an innovative alternative to microblading that promises even more precise and long-lasting eyebrows.
What is Nanoblading?
Nanoblading is a form of cosmetic tattooing that uses ultra-fine needles to deposit pigment into the skin, creating the look of individual eyebrow hairs. The term “nano” refers to the incredibly small size of the needles, which allows highly skilled technicians to ink on impossibly lifelike brow hairs with greater precision compared to traditional microblading.
“Nanoblading has really taken off because it provides such natural-looking, customized results that last significantly longer than microblading,” says Shadiyah Camille, owner of Shadiyah Camille Beauty in Sylvania, Ohio. “My clients love waking up with perfect brows every day without the daily hassle of pencils and powders.”
The Benefits of Nanoblading
There are numerous reasons why beauty enthusiasts are flocking to get nano brows:
- Longevity: Nanoblading pigments are deposited more deeply into the skin compared to microblading, so results can last 1-3 years with proper aftercare and occasional touch-ups. This is a major draw for those wanting to minimize their beauty routine.
- Natural results: The ultra-fine nano needles allow artists to create wispy, realistic brow hairs that blend seamlessly with your natural brow, for results so natural no one will suspect you’ve had them tattooed. Artists carefully select pigments to perfectly match your coloring.
- Customization: Every set of nano brows is painstakingly customized to suit the individual’s unique face shape, desired brow style, and existing brow hairs. No stencils or one-size-fits-all looks here.
- Convenience: With nanoblading, you can streamline your morning routine and feel confident bare-faced since your brows will always be on point. It’s a worthwhile investment if you usually spend a lot of time and money on brow products.
- Ideal for sparse brows: Nanoblading is an excellent option for those with over-plucked, patchy, thin or sparse brows, as the 3D hair strokes add instant fullness, definition and shape. It can even help people with conditions like alopecia or cancer regain their brows.
What to Expect During Nanoblading
The nanoblading process typically takes around 2-3 hours from start to finish. It begins with an in-depth consultation where you discuss your desired brow shape, color and style with your artist. They will assess your facial features, skin type and existing brows to determine the approach.
“It’s so important to have that in-person assessment and see how the brows are drawn on first before any tattooing begins,” advises Camille. “A skilled artist will take all the time needed to get the shape absolutely perfect and ensure you’re thrilled with how they’re going to look.”
Next, a numbing cream is applied to keep you comfortable during the procedure. The artist then begins meticulously tattooing on individual hair strokes with the nanoblading tool, which deposits pigment more deeply than microblading for longer-lasting results. Expect some redness and tenderness afterward, which quickly subsides.
Nanoblading Aftercare and Maintenance
While nanoblading is lower maintenance than microblading, some aftercare is required to keep your new brows looking their best. For the first week, keep the area dry and avoid workouts, swimming, saunas and skincare products. Some scabbing, flaking and fading is normal.
After 4-6 weeks, a touch-up session is needed to refine the shape and color. Then, touch-ups are only required every 12-18 months to refresh the pigment, making nanoblading very low maintenance.
“The better you take care of your nano brows, the better they’ll look and the longer they’ll last,” says Camille. “But even with excellent aftercare, touch-ups are needed since all semi-permanent makeup fades over time as your skin renews itself.”
The Bottom Line
With its promise of long-lasting, low-maintenance, uber-natural brows, it’s no wonder nanoblading has become the go-to method for semi-permanent eyebrow enhancement. If you’re tired of spending time and money on eyebrow makeup or just want to streamline your beauty routine, nanoblading could be the solution you’re after. Just be sure to choose an experienced artist and go into the process fully educated on the costs, aftercare, maintenance and results you can expect.
“Nanoblading is absolutely worth it for most people, but it is a big commitment and investment, so really do your research and choose your artist carefully,” advises Camille. “In the right hands, it can completely transform your look in the most natural way and save you so much time and effort in the long run. My clients tell me it’s the best beauty decision they’ve ever made.”