Microblading, Nanobrows, Powderbrows, Shadow, Combobrows?

Permanent makeup, semi-permanent makeup, micropigmentation.

What are they and what do they each mean? Let's break it down:

It all started with tattoos, which involved the act of micro-pigmenting the skin.

Permanent makeup refers to makeup(ink) that is done permanently, similar to a tattoo. In the past, we had limited knowledge about the layers of the skin. Today, however, we understand the consequences of deeply applying ink, such as color changes over time and expansion. That's why we now opt for a more superficial approach, which is why it's called semi-permanent makeup.

Semi-permanent makeup involves applying ink to the first layer of the skin, which gradually lightens and eventually disappears. This method is nearly painless, does not cause bleeding, and the pigment does not change color over time—only lightens. Additionally, there is no expansion.

The earliest form of permanent makeup was likely shadowing, where the entire brow was filled in with a well-defined, dark tattoo using a tattoo machine and a needle. Nowadays, gentler machines are used for facial procedures.

An exemple of shadowing. not my work

Powderbrows offer a more natural approach to creating a shadow effect. I apply a very light and translucent shadow at the bottom of the entire eyebrow.

Microblading involves using a micro blade to create hair-like strokes, simulating natural hairs. It is done using a hand tool instead of a tattoo machine. Blades measuring 0.21mm or 0.18mm are considered micro, but there are also nano blades available, measuring 0.15mm (which I personally use). Technically, the correct name for this technique would be Nanoblading, but it is not widely popular. As the blade thickness remains constant, all the strokes created will have the same thickness.

NanoBrows refers to the technique of creating strokes with a machine and a needle. Since a needle is used, it allows for more flexibility in creating strokes of varying thickness to better fill in the eyebrows as needed.

Combobrows involve a combination of natural hair-like strokes (which can be microblading, nanoblading, or nanobrows) at the beginning of the eyebrow, and shadow or powder brows from the middle to the end. This combination achieves a natural and well-filled look simultaneously.

Do you have any questions? Send me an email contact@mayarapacini.co or go to the contacts page :)