In recent years, many new methods of brow enhancements have emerged. Two of the most popular styles are ombre brows and nano brows. But what exactly is the difference between nano brows and ombre brows?
The main difference between nano brows and ombre brows is the finished result. While nano brows have a much more natural finish, ombre brows give a more bold and dramatic effect.
What Are Nano Brows?
Nano brows are very similar to traditional microblading. The main difference is that they utilize a handheld tool with only a single needle.
The eyebrow artist will tattoo fine hair strokes that blend in seamlessly with the natural brow.
If you have a few areas where eyebrow hairs are sparse, nano brows can fill in the appearance of additional hairs.
These are made to define the brow while still keeping a very natural appearance without the look of makeup application.
For those with oily skin, alopecia, or various skin conditions, nano brows might be a better option than microblading if you still want that super natural finish.
This is because people who get nano brows as opposed to microblading have experienced better retention of the pigment.
What Are Ombre Brows?
Ombre brows give a more dramatic, bold effect to the eyebrows, as the pigment is more evenly saturated than typical microblading hair-strokes.
Instead of using a single needle, ombre brows are created by using a machine more similar to a traditional tattoo needle.
They deposit hundreds of tiny dots into the skin of the eyebrow giving the brow a more filled-in, powdered look.
In order to get the ombre effect, the eyebrow artist will saturate the least in the inner brow and gradually saturate more towards the end of the brow.
A lot of times, they will even use a slightly lighter shade for the inner brow and a slightly darker shade for the tail of the eyebrow.
The price of ombre brows can really vary depending on where you have the procedure done, but it can be anything between $500 and $1000.
The Main Differences Between Nano Brows And Ombre Brows
Nano brows and ombre brows are both great ways of semi-permanently defining the brows so you won’t have to fill them in with makeup every day.
However, there are some key differences that you’ll want to know before making the decision of which style you want.
Let’s dive into the main differences between the two:
End Result
The main difference between nano brows and ombre brows is the end result.
With nano brows, you’re going to get a much more natural, subtle finish.
This is because the eyebrow artist tattoos hair-like strokes that mimic the hair flow of the natural eyebrow.
It, therefore, increases the volume of eyebrow hairs without completely filling them in.
This also gives the brow more definition and they can even darken the color by a shade or two for those with light hairs.
On the other hand, ombre brows have a dramatic and bold finish to them. While they can still be done naturally, the brow is completely filled in with tiny dots of pigment.
The end result looks very similar to being powdered in with eyebrow makeup.
Skin Type
Both nano brows and ombre brows are suitable for most skin types.
However, for people with different skin conditions or very oily skin, consult with your eyebrow technician to see if nano brows will be the best option for you.
Oftentimes, nano brows are done for people who like the look of microblading but have oily skin or have a difficult time retaining the pigment.
Ombre brows are the style that is most suitable for all skin types.
People experience the most retention of pigment with ombre brows because the pigment is saturated more and a little bit deeper under the surface of the skin.
Application Method
Another main difference between nano brows and ombre brows is the way that they are applied.
When an eyebrow artist applies nano brows, they are using a small handheld tool that utilizes a single needle.
This is done to create fine lines in the brow that mimic natural eyebrow hairs.
For ombre brows, an eyebrow artist uses a tool very similar to a traditional tattoo machine.
Tiny dots of pigment are deposited a little bit deeper under the surface of the skin.
In terms of pain during the application appointment, ombre brows are said to be a bit less painful than nano brows.
Since nano brows are created using a single needle, it’s less invasive.
Ombre brows are created using a machine that provides a steady pressure that doesn’t hurt as badly.
Of course, pain varies from person to person, and your eyebrow artist should apply a topical numbing cream to minimize discomfort.
Longevity
Something else to keep in mind is how long each of these styles will last.
Both should last at least a year or two if you commit to getting the recommended touch-ups.
Usually, the eyebrow artist will want you to get a touch-up a month after they’re applied to fix anything you want to be changed or fill in any faded areas of pigment.
Another touch-up is recommended a year after getting them initially done.
Nano brows tend to last 12 to 18 months, and in some cases, 2-3 years. However, they do tend to noticeably fade over time.
This is why you should always schedule the recommended touch-up sessions.
Ombre brows can last anywhere from 2 to 5 years with the recommended amount of touch-up sessions in between.
Since the pigment is more saturated in the skin, it has a higher retention rate compared to most other eyebrow tattooing methods. Of course, these will also fade over time.
Also check out the difference between ombre brows and feather touch brows.
Nano Brows Vs. Ombre Brows: Which Is Better For You?
Both nano brows and ombre brows are great options for semi-permanent eyebrow tattooing for the people they’re best suited for.
But before you commit to one of them, it’s important that you know the differences between the two.
The most important difference to keep in mind between nano brows and ombre brows is the end result.
If you’re going for a more natural look that makes you look like you didn’t apply any makeup, nano brows are for you.
Nano brows might also be for you if you’re only looking to fill in certain areas of the brow where the brow hairs are sparse.
If you want a more bold, defined, and dramatic finish, ombre brows are going to be your best bet.
The great thing about ombre brows is that they tend to last longer and are suitable for almost everyone.
Even if you don’t want something super dramatic, ombre brows can still be created to give the most natural finish possible.