Both nano brows and microblading offer semi-permanent solutions for reshaping eyebrows. But which method is better than the other?
The two methods give natural results, but the technique and longevity are different. Nano brows are a more advanced version of microblading, and the results last longer.
Here I share a detailed comparison between nano brows vs microblading to help you decide which is best for you.
An Overview of Nano Brows
Nano brows, or nano blading, is a semi-permanent method for reshaping eyebrows. It involves using a fine nanoneedle and pigmented ink to create tattoo streaks that look like hair.
In the end, the eyebrows get a thicker appearance, and the strokes look exactly like natural hair.
Nano blading can also be used on lips to apply semi-permanent liner or lip color, but it’s more common for brows.
An Overview of Microblading
Microblading is similar to nano-blading in the sense that it’s a semi-permanent solution for reshaping eyebrows.
However, it’s different because it uses a hand-held tool that has 12–18 arranged needles.
The needles are larger than the nanoneedles used for nano brows, which doesn’t give as much precision and control over the motion.
Besides, since it’s a manual process, the pigment doesn’t get deposited too far into the skin, which causes faster fading.
Nano Brows Vs Microblading: 3 Main Differences
Although you probably can’t tell the difference between nano brows and microblading just by appearance, both techniques have three main differences. Here’s a rundown:
Technique
The biggest difference between nano brows and microblading is their techniques.
Nano brows use a digital PMU machine with a single nanoneedle that creates fine tattoo strokes.
Meanwhile, microblading is a manual process that uses a handheld tool with fine needles. With small, hair-like strokes, the tool deposits the pigment into the skin.

The needle used for nano brows is fine and flexible, allowing for more precision, smaller strokes, and more detailed brows.
On top of that, nanoblading isn’t as painful as microblading because it’s done using a machine. It also doesn’t cause much bleeding.
Nano brows can involve nano shading, which gives an ombre effect to the eyebrows that’s more defined than ombre microblading.
Longevity
The second biggest difference between nano brows and microblading is longevity. The results of microblading only last for 12–18 months before the process needs to be redone.
Meanwhile, nano brows can last for up to three years, thanks to the deeper placement of the pigmentation into the skin.
I would say that microblading may be a better option for people just dipping their toes into the water of eyebrow shaping.
The faster fading may be an advantage in case you don’t like the results.
Skin Compatibility
Depending on your skin type, nano-blading may be the better option if you want more precise results that last longer.
For people with oily skin or large pores, microblading may not be the best option because the pigment may migrate.
In simpler words, over time, the excessive oil that the skin produces will start breaking down the pigment channels created by microblading.
This causes the pigment to migrate out of its channel and cause a distorted look.

The same likely won’t happen with nano blading because the digital machine deposits the pigment deeper into the skin, allowing for better retention and slower fading.
At the same time, microblading seems to be the better option for people with dry skin because it allows for better retention.
The low sebum production means that the pigment channels will stay intact, which won’t cause fast fading or pigment migration.
Nano Brows Vs Microblading: Which Method Costs More?
As you might have expected, nano-blading costs more than microblading for plenty of reasons.
For starters, the method is more advanced and uses a digital machine, which typically costs more than the manual tools used for microblading.
On top of that, the method is much more precise, which requires more skill from the technician. Expectedly, this calls for a higher fee.
Lastly, nano brows last far longer than microblading, justifying the higher cost.
Nano-blading may cost from $500 to $1000 or more, depending on the clinic’s location, the technician’s expertise, and your skin.
Meanwhile, microblading will cost between $300 and $800 on average.
Final Thoughts
Though nano brows and microblading give similar results, they differ when it comes to technique, cost, and longevity.
Microblading is a manual method, while nano-blading is done using a digital machine.
Because of this, nano-blading gives more precise results and lasts for longer. Naturally, this makes it more costly than its alternative.
Have you tried nano brows or microblading? Let me know in the comments below!