Stunning, shapely eyebrows are the secret to every makeup routine.

But, having to apply your eyebrows with gels, pencils, and liquids every day is time-consuming and often doesn’t give you the look you want.

If you struggle with thinning, patchy eyebrows that lack fullness, permanent makeup comes to the rescue. There are several permanent eyebrow options, the most popular being powder brows and microblading, also known as nano brows.

So, how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s look closer at powder brows vs. microblading, so you can find the eyebrows of your dreams.

What Are Powder Brows and How Do They Work?

Powder brows, also known as ombre brows, are a type of permanent makeup that produces fuller-looking eyebrows.

Using carefully selected pigments, a permanent makeup artist injects pigment into the skin in an airbrush manner. The result is lush, finely shaded eyebrows that last for years.

What Is Microblading for Eyebrows?

Nano brows are a form of semi-permanent makeup that uses micro- or nano-blades to create tiny incisions in the skin, where pigment is implanted. Instead of a gentle airbrush technique, nano brows involve more intense, hair-like strokes.

Nano Brows vs. Powder Brows: Key Differences

While both powder brows and nano brows implant pigment to create fuller eyebrows, they use two vastly different techniques.

Appearance

A before-and-after powder brows photo reveals rich fullness and depth. The final appearance is similar to the look achieved by the top make-up artists in the field. The ability to create defined, perfectly shaped brows is one of the reasons powder brows stand out as a top eyebrow treatment.

Compared to powder brows, nano brows create more of an individual hair look that can be subtle and natural in appearance.

Procedure

Both types of eyebrow treatments take a few hours to complete and involve careful mapping, numbing, and application.

Because powder brows is a gentler treatment, many women report no or minimal discomfort during the procedure.

Regardless of the procedure, the use of numbing cream can make the process completely comfortable.

Healing Process

Powder brows are a less invasive procedure as pigment is injected vs applied to incisions. While there may be some redness immediately after the procedure, it typically passes quickly. As the eyebrows heal, some skin flaking may occur, which typically resolves within a week or so.

Healing from nano brows takes 2-3 weeks. Scabs form over the incision sites and take a bit longer to heal and may be more noticeable than the flaking from powder brows.

Which Brow Treatment Lasts the Longest?

Both eyebrow treatments can last a similar amount of time, usually 1-3 years. However, certain factors may influence the longevity of powder brows vs. nano brows.

  • Aftercare- During healing, it’s important that you follow aftercare instructions to protect your brow treatment. Don’t scratch or pick at flaking skin and avoid sun exposure for at least 2 weeks.
  • Sun exposure – UV rays can cause pigments to fade and are, of course, bad for the health of your skin. Using sunscreen and sun protection, such as hats, is highly encouraged to protect the longevity of your eyebrow treatment.
  • Skin type – Whether your skin is dry, oily, thick, or thin can impact how long powder brows or microblading lasts. Caring for your skin and eyebrows using products appropriate for your skin type can help.
  • Over-exfoliation – Vigorous rubbing or routinely using exfoliating products on the eyebrows may cause the pigment to fade fast.

Powder brows can last for years, and occasional touch-ups will keep them looking fabulous.

How to Choose the Right Brow Technique

The right brow technique for you depends on the look you hope to achieve and your comfort level with the healing process.

Here at Ashley Swain, we’re big proponents of powder brows over nano brows. Here’s why:

  • Soft, natural-looking brows.
  • Ease to get the exact shape you desire.
  • Faster healing.
  • Less flaking and scabbing than microblading.
  • Less discomfort during the procedure.
  • Easy to layer and adjust the pigment to your desired color.

Regardless of the eyebrow treatment you choose, it’s critical to find a qualified and experienced eyebrow artist like those we hire at Ashley Swain. The right artist makes all the difference.

Key Takeaways

Semi-permanent eyebrow treatment enhances your eyebrow’s appearance and makes your daily routine a breeze.

Powder brows and nano brows are both good options, though for ease of treatment, less discomfort, and beautiful eyebrows, we recommend powder brows as the best innovative treatment for the eyebrows you’ve always wanted.

If you’re ready for perfectly shaped, natural, and effortless brows, contact us today to schedule a consultation.