Brow guide
Microblading vs nano brows vs powder brows
Four ways to get semi-permanent brows, and how to tell which one will heal best on your skin. All are done by Mina at Signature Beauty Studio in San José.
At a glance
The four brow techniques side by side
| Technique | How it’s done | Best skin types | Typically lasts | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Microblading | Hand blade, crisp hair strokes | Normal to dry | 1–2 years | $99 (grand opening) |
| Nano / hair-stroke brows | Machine needle, very fine hair strokes | Most skin types, incl. combination | 2–3 years | $199 |
| Powder (ombré) brows | Machine shading, soft powdered look | Oily, combination, mature | 2–3 years | $199 |
| Combo brows | Strokes at the front, shading behind | Combination | 2–3 years | $250 |
Every technique has a separate $150 touch-up six to eight weeks later. Microblading is regularly $499.
The differences
Which technique is right for you?
Microblading vs nano brows
Both draw individual hair strokes. Microblading uses a hand-held blade, which gives the crispest strokes on normal to dry skin. Nano brows use a single ultra-fine needle on a machine: just as natural, gentler on the skin, and better suited to combination skin. Nano strokes also tend to last longer, about two to three years against one to two for microblading.
Powder brows vs microblading
Microblading adds hair strokes; powder (ombré) brows add soft shading, lighter at the front and deeper toward the tail, like a light brow powder. Powder brows are the longest-lasting technique and the better choice for oily skin or large pores, where fine strokes can blur as they heal.
Combo brows vs microblading
Combo brows start with microblading-style hair strokes at the front, then add shading through the body and tail. You get the natural front of microblading with more definition, and the shading holds better on combination skin.
How to choose
- Normal to dry skin, want the most hair-like look: microblading
- Combination skin, want hair strokes: nano brows
- Oily skin, or want a soft made-up look: powder brows
- Want strokes and definition: combo brows
Mina confirms the right choice from your photo before your appointment.
Questions
Brow technique FAQ
Which lasts longer, microblading or powder brows?
Powder brows. Shading typically lasts two to three years, while microblading’s fine strokes usually last one to two years, less on oily skin.
Microblading or nano brows: which looks more natural?
Both create hair strokes and both look natural when healed. Microblading strokes are crispest on normal to dry skin; nano strokes are made with a machine needle, which is gentler on the skin and holds better on combination skin.
Which brow technique is best for oily skin?
Powder brows or combo brows. Oily skin and large pores can blur fine hair strokes as they heal, while shading holds its shape.
What are combo brows?
Hair strokes at the front of the brow with soft shading through the body and tail: natural up close and defined from across the room. They suit combination skin and people who fill in their brows with pencil or powder.
Which technique should I choose?
It depends on your skin, your natural brows and the look you want. Every booking includes a makeup-free photo, and Mina will recommend the technique that will heal best on your skin.
Ready when you are
Book your appointment
Pick your service and time online. You’ll add a makeup-free photo as you book, so Mina can check your skin before your visit.