Effective Techniques for Permanent Eyebrows

Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic tattooing technique that involves using a manual tool to create hair-like strokes on the eyebrows. The tool consists of a row of tiny needles that deposit ink into the skin, creating the illusion of fuller, more defined eyebrows. The results typically last for 1-3 years, depending on factors such as skin type and aftercare. Blade to Beauty LLC in Delmar, MD, offers several microblading treatments based on the needs of our clients.

Nano Brows (Machine Hair Strokes)

Nano Brows is a service in which the technician uses a permanent makeup machine, also known as a tattoo machine gun, to create “hair” strokes to make the brows appear fuller. The needle injects pigment into the dermis layer of the skin, unlike traditional microblading in which the pigment sits in the Epidermis or top layer of skin. Nano Brows is perfect for all skin types but is the best-offered technique for people with oily skin who prefer hair strokes over Microshading or Powder Brows.

 

This is a permanent makeup service, but due to sun exposure, following your aftercare, cell turnover, and exfoliation. Your brows will last between 2-5 years before needing a touch-up. Keep in mind everyone’s skin is different.

Microblading vs. Nano Machine Hair Strokes 

  • Microblading is a semi-permanent tattoo using a handheld tool of several microneedles to create realistic semi-permanent hair strokes in the skin.
  • During the nanomachine hair stroke procedure, a tattoo machine gun is used to implant pigment into the skin to look realistic to a hair stroke. 
  • The machine method doesn’t go as deep as Microblading, and the results last better for oily skin types.
  • Nano brows can last 18-24 months before needing a touch-up, whereas Microblading lasts 12-18 months before it is time for a touch-up. 


Microblading is limited to those with normal skin, while Nano Brows is recommended for those with oily or thin skin to get the optimal results. However, Nano Brows can be performed on ladies with combination skin, thinner skin, and dry skin. Skin care, aftercare, and lifestyle choices can determine the final results. 

Microblading and Skin Types

Microblading heals best on normal to dry skin types. Microblading is not suitable for ladies with more oily skin types and large pores. For those with oily skin types and larger pores, I recommend my shape and shade technique. Clients with super thin skin, Rosacea, or Keloids cannot receive microblading. The powder technique is sometimes suggested as an alternative method on a case-by-case basis.

Who Should Not Receive Microblading

  • Individuals who are prone to keloids, super thin skin, Rosacea, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Unfortunately, since microblading punctures the skin with tiny needles, we cannot work with clients with these conditions.
  • Individuals with visible redness on the face. Broken blood vessels too close to the skin surface will cause excessive bleeding, affecting the retention of the brows. We cannot work with clients with these conditions.
  • Individuals with active transmittable blood diseases such as HIV or Hepatitis. Microblading artists cut into the skin, so it is best to not work with these conditions for the safety of our clients as these conditions greatly impact the immune system and healing process of individuals.
  • Individuals with active/untreated auto-immune diseases. Microblading may greatly impact the immune system and healing results are not guaranteed.
  • If you’ve had Botox/filler in the brow area. We ask that clients wait four weeks after Botox/filler before getting microblading done. Alternatively, you can do the microblading treatment first and then wait four weeks to do your Botox/filler.
  • Individuals undergoing active chemotherapy.
  • If you have any kind of skin condition near your eyebrows, e.g. eczema, shingles, rashes, or anything else near your eyebrows.
  • Individuals with oily skin. Those with very oily skin and large pores are not good candidates for microblading. You may have to choose a different technique.
  • Individuals under 18 years of age.
  • Individuals over 55 years of age. From our experience, mature skin is not an ideal candidate for microblading. You may have to choose a different technique.
  • Individuals who are pregnant.

We Answer Frequently Asked Questions About Microblading

  • Will it hurt?

    An effective topical anesthetic is used to maximize your comfort during the cosmetic procedure; however, pain tolerance varies from client to client. Receiving the procedure during your menstrual cycle may increase your sensitivity. On a scale of 1-10, most of my clients experience 2-3. Most clients describe the pain level as minimal and find tweezing and threading more uncomfortable in comparison.

  • Are there some clients who cannot retain the pigment?

    Yes, this does happen. Some people have highly effective immune systems that reject the pigment, and some just have highly effective skin healing. It's very rare, but it's important that all clients understand this is a possibility, and, in most cases, there is no way for me to know if this will take place before the work is done. Occasionally, I will recommend an additional session or we will look at other options to take. 

  • How long does the procedure take?

    The initial session takes approximately 2-1/2- 3 hours or less with me. We spend the session designing your new brows, going over pigment colors, clarifying any questions you may have, numbing, and completing the procedure. 

  • Can I resume my day-to-day activities?

    There’s also no downtime besides normal aftercare. I provide all my clients with aftercare baggies. Most clients go about their normal day when they leave their appointments. A touch-up session may be needed, I highly recommend them. The touch-up session takes approximately 1 - 2 hours. This is done normally within a minimum of 8 weeks.  

  • What factors will affect my cosmetic tattoo?

    • Bleeding during the procedure: Excessive bleeding during your procedure will greatly affect how your body retains pigment. While this is not entirely in our control, you must follow prep instructions to help minimize bleeding. This includes avoiding blood-thinning medication, caffeine, and alcohol before your procedure.
    • Oily skin: Increased oil production can cause hair strokes to blur and heal lighter and more powdery than you would expect. Loss of color will be more prominent, and touch-ups are needed more frequently.
    • Large pores: Excessive skin texture is not good for microblading, and we evaluate if you are a good candidate based on your pore size. If the pores on your forehead are too large, we cannot perform the microblading procedure. If you are unsure, please email us in advance with a photo to be pre-approved.
    • Smoking: Smokers may notice that their tattoos will fade faster.
    • Anemia and iron deficiency: Your body will absorb these iron-based pigments more quickly.
    • Sun exposure: Increased exposure to the sun will cause premature fading.
    • Color of pigment: Lighter colors fade faster than darker colors.

For more information about our eyebrow techniques or to schedule an appointment, call us at 302-396-2320.

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