Menu Confusion: Now Serving Nano Brows, Microblading, Combo Brows, Powder Brows, Microshading, Ombré Brows, Nano Fusion Brows, Nano Combo, Nano Feathering, Brow Embroidery…
Several years ago, there was only one option- the solid, one-dimensional brow in [gulp] one color. I don’t know if it had a name…maybe “eyebrow tattoo”? We’ve come a long way! But as an artist trying to educate potential clients, it can create so much confusion. To be honest, most clients just come in and say, “make me beautiful”, “I trust you”. Okay, that works too but I need you to be informed! I need transparency! Why- because I don’t want to give you a style that 6 months from now, you run into Liz and she’s got a powder brow and then run into Tanya and she has nano hairstrokes and you are like “maybe I should have gotten that” “I didn’t know…” I’d prefer the opposite: you’re the eyebrow belle of the ball with brows you are CONFIDENT about because you’ve made an informed decision.
It’s important to note, all of these techniques in the hands of a skilled artist can result in an exceptionally beautiful brow. There is no technique or style better than the other. In my humble opinion, the beauty comes from the skill of the artist and is further evidenced in the healed result.
As the field of cosmetic tattoo matures, naturally technique and style will evolve and artists will develop their own signature style setting them apart from other artists- hence the many naming conventions! This is a win in my book…it gives both the artist and client more options to choose from. Those little strips of hair above your eyes can dramatically change your appearance so the more style options the better. But as someone new to cosmetic tattoo, how do you know what style and technique to choose?
In the title of this blog are common names of permanent makeup/cosmetic tattoo (used interchangeably) specifically for eyebrows. There are two techniques to create a cosmetic eyebrow tattoo using a:
1. Digital permanent makeup device with single-use cartridges (similar to a tattoo machine) and/or a
2. Manual, single-use device called a Microblade (read more about microblading here).
The list of names in the title refer to both technique AND style…but mostly style. As long as you meet the basic health criteria for cosmetic tattoo, the decision on technique depends on your desired style and skin type. If you have very oily skin, for example, a powder or combo brow may be your best option. Some styles use a combination of both techniques. So let’s take a look at the menu of the most common styles and techniques:
Unlike a restaurant, you can’t order a brow off the menu to ‘try’ then change your mind and send it back to the kitchen. It’s important to discuss with your artist the differences in technique and results based on your skin type, lifestyle, and desired result. Not all artists offer or are trained to perform certain options and not all skin types are suitable for certain methods. Most skilled artists can modify the styles to suit their clients desired look. At Sun Siren Brow, the pre-draw portion of your appointment is considered the ‘tasting’ so you can visualize the style and design on your face before tattooing. Make sure your artist pre-draws the design and you can approve it before they begin tattooing.
Do you have a better understanding of the differences between cosmetic eyebrow tattoo techniques? Which style is your favorite?
I’d love to hear from you! If you have questions, feel free to email me at hello@sunsirenbrow.com. Also feel free to leave a comment below if this information is helpful!
