BROWS INTRODUCTION
NANO HAIRSTROKES (FORMERLY MICROBLADING) &  MICROSHADING

​​Before an appointment can be booked, all potential clients must read the Brows Contraindications list to confirm they are within the guidelines. It is also strongly recommended that you read this full "Brows Introduction" page to learn more about the Nano Hairstrokes and MicroShading services. Once you have reviewed the information, you may move forward with the scheduling process

​

Why Consider Nano Hairstrokes (Formerly Microblading) or MicroShading Eyebrow Enhancement?

Most of us aren’t completely satisfied with our natural brows. Whether due to asymmetry, sparseness, or a less-than-ideal shape, we often feel we don’t look our best without filling them in with pencils and powders every morning. That daily routine can be time-consuming and frustrating.

Nano Hairstrokes (formerly Microblading) and MicroShading give you the flattering brows you want — without the daily effort. The results are smudge-proof, waterproof, and look polished at any time of day or night.

An additional benefit is that these services help prevent over-tweezing, which is one of the most common causes of unflattering brows. Once the service is done, only the hairs that grow outside of the pigment will need to be tweezed. By the time pigment fades, some clients discover they have grown back their own lovely brows! 

 

Evolution of Microblading to Nano Hairstrokes

For many years, Microblading was the most popular method for creating hair-like strokes in the eyebrows. As tools and techniques have advanced,  Microblading has become outdated and has been replaced by the more refined Nano Hairstroke method.

Even so, the term “Microblading” is still the word most people use when searching for this type of service. For that reason, you will still see the word Microblading used throughout this website. At Emily Manbeck Cosmetic Artistry, however, the actual service performed is the modern Nano Hairstroke technique.

 

What is Microblading? (The Former Hairstroke Method)

Microblading is a form of cosmetic eyebrow tattoo designed to mimic natural brow hairs. A tiny blade dipped in pigment is used to make small cuts in the skin, depositing color in hair-like patterns.

The goal is to enhance sparse areas, improve symmetry, and create a more defined, flattering shape with minimal opacity.

While this method can work well on youthful, elastic, normal-to-dry skin, the cutting process can cause considerable trauma to the skin and comes with a long list of contraindications. It is generally not recommended for clients with oily, textured, mature, or sun-damaged skin, those who take blood thinners, have circulatory or bleeding disorders, are prone to keloids, or have very fair, translucent, or hypersensitive skin.

In reality, the majority of clients (at least 80%) are not ideal candidates for traditional Microblading. Newer techniques such as Nano Hairstrokes and MicroShading deliver better healing and longer-lasting results on a much wider range of skin types.

 

What is Nano? (The Current Hairstroke Method)

Nano Hairstrokes is the modern form of cosmetic eyebrow tattoo that creates the look of natural brow hairs. Instead of a blade, a cosmetic tattoo machine and fine needle cartridge are used to gently deposit pigment into the skin in hair-like patterns.

The purpose is the same as Microblading — creating additional "hairs" to fill in sparse areas, improve symmetry, and create a soft, defined shape — but with significantly less trauma to the skin. This results in better healing and makes the technique suitable for a wider range of clients.

Some contraindications still apply (for example, severely sun-damaged or compromised skin). In those cases, MicroShading is the preferred method.

Nano Hairstrokes look best on clients who have reasonably healthy skin and some existing natural brow hair for the strokes to blend with. Clients with very little to no natural brow hair usually achieve a better result with MicroShading.

 

What is MicroShading?

MicroShading (also known as Powder Brows or Ombre Brows) is a cosmetic tattoo technique that creates a soft, filled-in brow rather than individual hair strokes. It is ideal for clients who want more density, have little to no natural brow hair, or have compromised or sun-damaged skin.

Using a tattoo machine and needle cartridge, pigment is gently deposited into the skin to create a soft, shadowy effect. The result is a denser, more defined brow that still looks much softer and more natural than the solid, heavy brows of the past.

Many Permanent Makeup artists consider MicroShading the superior long-term option for several reasons:

• It works well on nearly all skin types.

• It typically lasts longer between touch-ups.

• It fades more evenly than hairstrokes.

• It can be refreshed indefinitely when allowed to fade properly.

In contrast, fine hairstrokes will begin to look patchy as they fade and can only be redrawn a limited number of times before the lines start to blur.

Combination Brow

When both Nano Hairstrokes and MicroShading are used together, the result is called a Combination Brow. This is a very popular choice because it offers the soft, natural look of hairstrokes at the front of the brow while providing the density and definition of MicroShading through the arches and tails.

There is no additional charge for the Combination Brow technique. The best approach for your goals and skin type will be discussed during your appointment.

​

One Style Does Not Fit All

Every client has different preferences and facial features. Before the procedure begins, we discuss your goals and expectations and the best method is decided upon.. The brows are then carefully mapped and drawn on with pencil so you can clearly see and approve the shape and position. Pigment color is chosen to complement your skin tone and any existing brow hair. 

​

 

How Long Does the Service Take?

The initial appointment takes up to 3 hours.

A complementary* Perfecting Visit (touch-up) which takes place approximately 8 weeks after the initial service is included with all first-time Permanent Makeup services. The touch-up appointment is significantly shorter than the initial session.

*Please read the complementary touchup policy here 

 

Is the Service Painful?

Topical lidocaine is applied during the service to keep you as comfortable as possible. Sensitivity varies from person to person, but many clients report that the procedure is very manageable — some even fall asleep.

A few practical notes:

• Women are often more sensitive near the time of their menstrual cycle. If you have a low tolerance for discomfort, this is worth considering when choosing your appointment date.

• You are welcome to bring earbuds for entertainment or distraction. Only in-ear headphones are allowed — over-ear headphones interfere with the work and cannot be worn.

  

How Long Will the Result Last?

Unlike traditional body tattoos that place ink deep into the skin, Permanent Makeup techniques such as Nano Hairstrokes and MicroShading deposit pigment more superficially into the upper dermis.

Because the pigment sits closer to the surface, it gradually fades as your skin naturally renews itself. Cosmetic pigments are also formulated to soften and break down more easily than traditional tattoo inks. This is intentional and beneficial — it allows your brows to be adjusted over time as trends and your facial features change.

Most clients need periodic touch-ups to keep the color fresh and the shape current. Longevity varies by individual (typically 6 to 24+ months) and depends on skin type, cellular turnover, sun exposure, and how carefully aftercare instructions are followed.

Detailed aftercare instructions and supplies are provided at the end of your appointment.

​

​​