All About Nanoblading for Eyebrows and Lips

about reshaping your brows or enhancing your lips? Whether your eyebrows are sparse or your lips lack symmetry, cosmetic techniques can help you achieve the look you want. If you’re leaning toward a longer-lasting option, a semi-permanent approach might be the answer.

Nanoblading for eyebrows and lips offers a way to get the desired appearance without daily upkeep. Read on to discover what this treatment involves, how it contrasts with microblading, and what it typically costs.

What is nanoblading?

Nanoblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic tattooing method that employs an ultra-fine nano needle. The aim of nanoblading varies slightly depending on whether the technician is working on brows or lips.

Nanoblading for eyebrows

For eyebrows, nanoblading fills in sparse or thin brows to produce a fuller look. The process uses pigmented ink and a very fine needle to etch hair-like strokes that mimic natural brow hairs.

This method not only enhances brow thickness but can also reshape the brows for a more balanced appearance.

Nanoblading for lips

Nanoblading lips is a related but distinct procedure. It’s also a semi-permanent tattooing technique, but whereas eyebrow nanoblading focuses on hair-like strokes, lip nanoblading applies pigment to create a lasting lip liner or an all-over lip color.

Lip liner nanoblading is commonly used to correct asymmetry and give the illusion of fuller lips. Full lip coloration can alter your natural lip hue — from subtle, natural tones to more pronounced shades — so it looks like you’re always wearing lipstick.

How does nanoblading differ from microblading?

Nanoblading is comparable to microblading but uses a finer needle. The smaller needle allows for greater precision, yielding more natural-looking strokes.

A finer needle typically causes less pain and bleeding. Duration of results is another distinction: microblading often lasts up to about 12 months, while nanoblading can persist for as long as 3 years.

What happens during a nanoblading procedure?

Nanoblading usually involves two appointments: the initial treatment and a follow-up perfecting session. You’ll book two visits with your technician, with the consultation typically occurring during the first appointment.

To prepare for your session:

• Don’t wax or tweeze your eyebrows for a week before treatment.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, ibuprofen, aspirin, and fish oil supplements at least 24 hours prior.
• Skip facials for at least 2 weeks before the procedure.
• Avoid sunbathing or tanning on the day of your appointment.
• Refrain from using retinol or Vitamin A products for 1 month before treatment.

Before the first session, your artist may perform a patch test to ensure you’re not allergic to the pigment.

Procedure for eyebrow nanoblading

At the start, you and your technician will discuss the preferred brow shape and shade. The technician will sketch the proposed shape, remove any excess hair, and adjust for symmetry.

Once you approve the design, a topical numbing cream is applied. The technician then uses the nano needle and pigment to add hair-like strokes and build up the brows.

After the initial appointment, you’ll return for a touch-up about 8 weeks later. During this perfecting session, the technician refines the shape and may add more strokes for the ideal result.

Healing time for eyebrow nanoblading

Nanobladed brows generally take around 4 weeks to heal. At first, the color might appear darker than expected, and you may notice swelling, tenderness, and redness.

The pigment will fade slightly as the skin regenerates, and within 3 to 4 weeks the tattooed brows will blend more naturally with your real hair.

Post-procedure care for eyebrow nanoblading

Follow these aftercare tips for best healing:

• Keep your brows as dry as possible immediately after the procedure.
• Gently wipe the brows daily with a damp cloth and apply the moisturizing ointment supplied by your artist.
• Avoid heavy sweating, saunas, and hot baths for the first 7 days.
• Don’t use makeup around the brow area for at least one week.

You should also steer clear of tanning beds, light therapy, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels for 30 days following treatment.

Procedure for lip nanoblading

During the initial visit, you’ll discuss your preferred lip shape and color with the technician. For lip liner, the technician will map out the line on your lips; for full lip color, you’ll select a shade.

Numbing cream is applied to the lip area before the nano needle deposits the pigment to form a semi-permanent liner or complete color coverage.

Healing time for lip nanoblading

You can expect soreness, redness, and swelling for up to 5 days after the first appointment. Complete healing may take up to 4 weeks. The perfecting session is usually scheduled about 8 weeks after the initial treatment.

Post-procedure care for lip nanoblading

After lip treatment, follow these care suggestions:

• Avoid spicy, citrus, and salty foods that could irritate your lips.
• Keep lips as dry as possible — consider using a straw for drinks.
• Refrain from touching your lips with your hands to reduce risk of irritation or infection.

How long do nanoblading results last?

Nanoblading can last between 1 and 3 years. To maintain the best appearance, book a touch-up or maintenance appointment after about a year to a year and a half.

Does nanoblading hurt?

Nanoblading is minimally invasive, so some discomfort is normal. The sensation is typically more intense than tweezing or waxing but generally less severe than microblading or a traditional tattoo.

Your technician will apply a topical anesthetic to the area, but you should still expect soreness afterward. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication can help ease post-procedure pain.

Any side effects or precautions?

Common reactions to semi-permanent makeup include swelling, redness, and itchiness, which usually resolve within a few days.

There’s a chance of an allergic response to the pigment or topical anesthetic, so inform your technician if you have sensitive skin.

Risks include skin trauma if the needle penetrates too deeply and potential infection if the procedure isn’t performed in a sterile setting.

Seek medical attention if you notice infection signs after nanoblading, such as blistering, severe swelling, or increasing pain.

NOTE: If you have a history of fever blisters, cold sores, or HSV-1, consider prophylactic antiviral medication before the procedure or keep it on hand. Nanoblading can irritate the lip area and trigger an outbreak.

How much does nanoblading cost?

Because nanoblading is cosmetic, insurance typically doesn’t cover it. Prices vary: eyebrow nanoblading for both sessions commonly ranges from $500 to $800, and an annual touch-up may cost around $300.

Lip nanoblading may be priced at $250 or more for lip liner and $400 or more for full-lip color. Touch-up sessions can range from $100 to $300.

How do I find a qualified nanoblading technician?

Choose a technician who is experienced and licensed in this treatment. Ask friends or family for referrals and consult local review sites to find reputable artists.

When visiting a technician, evaluate the cleanliness of the workspace and whether you feel comfortable. Request to see before-and-after photos of their previous work.

You can also use the Society of Permanent Makeup Technicians’ directory to locate a technician near you.

Takeaway

Nanoblading provides a convenient way to reshape brows or enhance lips with lasting results. It’s important to understand the procedure, healing process, risks, and expected longevity.

Always select a reputable technician, ask plenty of questions, and make sure you’re clear about the anticipated outcome before moving forward.