Hair Stroke Eyebrows Vs Microblading: What is the difference between each method and which one is best for you?
Hair stroke eyebrows are a semi-permanent makeup technique that uses a single-needled mechanical pen to create fine, natural-looking hair on the brows. Microblading, on the other hand, is a form of semi-permanent tattooing where pigment is deposited into the skin with a manual blade made of at least 7 small needles.
Although both methods boast natural-looking semi-permanent results, there are some key differences between the two.
Read on to learn about both processes and decide which one will work for your specific needs.
What Is Microblading?
Microblading is a form of semi-permanent tattooing that can be used to enhance or create the appearance of eyebrows.
The procedure involves using a fine blade made up of seven small needles to deposit pigment into the skin.
Microblading has been around for about 25 years and gained popularity in Asia before making its way to the United States and the rest of the world by 2010.
This method is often used to create natural-looking, hair-like strokes on the brows. It can also be used to fill in sparse or thinning brows, as well as to correct the shape of the brows.
Benefits of Microblading
Looks natural
One of the main benefits of microblading is that it can create very natural-looking results.
When done correctly, it can be difficult to tell that someone has had their eyebrows tattooed.
This is because the pigment is less concentrated than traditional tattoo ink, which provides a softer look.
Low maintenance
Another benefit of microblading is that it is relatively low maintenance.
After the first application, you’ll likely follow up with your technician a month after the procedure.
They will make any adjustments with your initial strokes and then you’ll be good to go for another 12-18 months.
Downsides of Microblading
More invasive
One of the downsides of microblading is that it is a more invasive procedure than hair-stroke eyebrows.
The needles used in microblading penetrate deeper into the skin, which can result in some discomfort during the procedure.
Can cause skin reactions
It can also lead to infection and allergic skin reactions if the procedure isn’t done with sterile, high-quality equipment.
These issues could cause scarification, which is why it is so important to make sure you go to a reputable technician for your microblading procedure.
It’s important to note that microblading is not suitable for everyone.
If you have very oily skin, for example, the pigments used in microblading may not be able to hold onto your skin as well.
This is because excessive oil will break down the pigments over time.
What Is the Nano Hair Stroke Method?
The nano hair stroke method is a type of semi-permanent makeup that uses a single-needled electric pen.
The technician draws individual fine lines and dots that imitate the natural brow hairs.
It’s a good option not only for those who want thicker eyebrows but for those who want to reshape and define their brows as well.
This method is similar to microblading in that it uses a needle to deposit pigment into the skin.
However, the needles used in the nano hair stroke method are much thinner than those used in microblading, meaning they don’t penetrate the skin as deeply.
This allows for more precision and control when creating hair-like strokes on the brows.
Benefits of the Nano Hair Stroke Method
Creates natural-looking brows
One of the main benefits of the nano hair stroke method is that it can create very natural-looking brows. The ultra-fine needles used in this procedure allow for extremely precise and realistic hair strokes.
This can be helpful for those who want to add fullness and definition to their brows without looking like they’ve had any work done.
Not as invasive
Another benefit of the nano hair stroke method is that it is less invasive than microblading.
The needles used in this procedure are thinner and don’t penetrate as deep into the skin, which can result in less discomfort during the procedure.
Shorter healing time
It can also lead to fewer side effects and a quicker healing time.
It’s less likely that you’ll experience infection, swelling, or bruising with the nano hair stroke method.
Downsides of the Nano Hair Stroke Method
Can look a bit fake
One of the downsides of the nano hair stroke method is that it won’t look as realistic if there isn’t much natural eyebrow hair in the first place.
Unlike a shaded powder brow or a microbladed brow, the nano hair strokes will be more noticeable if there isn’t much natural hair to blend in with.
Not for everyone
Another downside of the nano hair stroke method is that it’s not suitable for everyone. If you have very oily skin, for example, the pigment may not hold as well.
This is because the oil will break down the pigment over time.
Nano Hair Stroke Eyebrows vs Microblading: What’s the Difference?
Now that we’ve reviewed the hair stroke eyebrows vs microblading, let’s take a look at the two processes comparatively:
Cost
Both treatments are categorized as cosmetic procedures, meaning that they aren’t covered by health insurance.
The cost of each treatment will vary depending on the technician you see and the area you live in.
In general, you can expect to pay between $700 to $1000 for a nano hair stroke treatment. Touch-ups will cost about $200-$500 dollars after the initial procedure.
Microblading is a bit more affordable than the nano hair stroke treatment. This is because there are more skilled technicians offering the procedure.
As a result, you can expect to pay between $400 and $700 for microblading treatment. Touch-ups will cost about $100-$200 after the initial procedure.
However, since microblading doesn’t last as long as the nano hair stroke method, you may need to get touch-ups more often, making it more costly over time.
Treatment Length
When you go in to get your eyebrows microbladed, you can expect the session to last for about two hours.
This includes the time it takes to numb your eyebrows, draw on the new eyebrow shape, and microblade the pigment into your skin.
The nano hair stroke treatment takes about 2 hours as well, but these appointments may go a bit longer since the needles used in this procedure are thinner and require more precision.
How Long Do Results Last?
Microbladed brows can last up to two years with proper care. Nano hair stroke brows, on the other hand, can last up to three years.
Both treatments will require touch-ups over time to maintain their results.
However, you can expect to need touch-ups less often with nano hair strokes than with microblading.
Microbladed eyebrows may experience fading faster since the skin can more quickly metabolize the pigment.
Pain Level
The needles used in the nano hair stroke procedure are thinner and don’t penetrate as deep into the skin, which can result in less discomfort during the procedure.
You will still be topically numbed for both procedures.
Microblading comes with more discomfort since it uses several blades at once and is a manual process.
However, it will be less uncomfortable than a traditional tattoo gun used to apply permanent makeup.
For both procedures, the use of a numbing agent will help to minimize any discomfort you may feel.
Many people report that the pain is tolerable and only lasts for the first few minutes of the procedure.
Recovery Time
Both procedures have a short recovery time. For the first few days after your treatment, you can expect your brows to look and feel a bit swollen and tender.
You may also experience some redness, bruising, and itching.
It’s important to keep the area clean and dry during this time to prevent infection. You should also avoid touching or picking at your brows.
Most people take about a week for their brows to heal completely. However, it can take up to two weeks for some people.
You will likely schedule an appointment 4 weeks after your initial treatment for a touch-up and ensure healing is complete.
Risks
Microblading is a more invasive procedure than nano hair stroke eyebrows.
It uses needles that penetrate deeper into the skin, which can result in some discomfort during the procedure.
It can also lead to infection and allergic skin reactions if the procedure isn’t done with sterile high-quality equipment.
Preparation
Preparation for both procedures is similar. You’ll need to stop waxing, tinting, or plucking your eyebrows 2 weeks beforehand.
You’ll also want to avoid using botox, chemical peels, or retinol-based products for at least a month before your procedure.
It’s important to consult with your technician beforehand to see if you have any contraindications that would make either treatment unsuitable for you.
Should I Choose Microblading or Machine Hair-Strokes?
Both microblading and machine hair-strokes have their own set of benefits. It’s important to consult with a professional to see which method would be best for you.
If you’re looking for a more natural and shaded look, then microblading may be the better option.
If you want a more defined brow with added shaping, then machine hair strokes may be the way to go.
It’s also important to consider your pain tolerance and how long you want your results to last.
Microblading tends to be more painful and has shorter-lasting results.
Machine hair strokes are less painful and can last up to three years with proper care.
No matter which method you choose, you can expect to need touch-ups over time to maintain your results.
Which Treatment Is Safest?
Machine hair strokes are safer because the needles are thinner and don’t penetrate as deep into the skin.
This can result in less discomfort during the procedure and fewer risks of infection or allergic reactions.
They also last longer, meaning that you’ll be spending less time touching them up. This means less exposure to potential risks and complications overall.
Who Should Avoid Microblading or Machine Hair Stroke Eyebrows?
If you produce a lot of facial oil, both of these treatments may not be ideal for you.
The oil can cause the pigment to fade more quickly, resulting in touch-ups more often.
You should also avoid these treatments if you have sensitive skin or are experiencing issues such as psoriasis in the treatment area.
These conditions can make the procedures more painful and increase your risk of developing an infection.
There are many medications and supplements that can interfere with the healing process and make these procedures riskier.
Be sure to consult with your technician beforehand to see if there are any adjustments you need to make to your current medication regimen.