Nano, powder or microblading: the short answer
The clearest difference is the technique and the finish. Nano brows use a machine to create individual hairlike strokes. Powder brows use machine shading for a softly filled in look. Traditional microblading creates strokes with a manual blade. At Aura Beauty Atelier in Etobicoke, nano and powder brow treatments are available.
Start with the result you prefer, then assess suitability during your appointment. Neither technique is the right choice for everyone.
Why the names can be confusing
People sometimes search for “microblading” when they mean semi permanent brow makeup. It is useful to separate that search term from the treatment itself: nano and powder are machine techniques, while traditional microblading uses a manual tool. Ask which method will be used before booking.
All involve pigment placed in the skin. Although often called semi permanent, fading and residual pigment vary. Do not plan on a guaranteed date when the pigment will disappear completely.
Nano brows: individual hair strokes
Nano brows add the appearance of fine strokes following the direction of your natural brow hair. They may appeal if you want definition while keeping a textured, hairlike finish.
Existing hair, gaps, skin and any previous pigment are considered before the strokes are planned. Bring a photo of how you normally draw your brows and examples of results you like. Discuss what is achievable on your own skin rather than expecting an exact copy.
See the nano brow service and existing results →
Choose the finish that suits you.
Explore the services, prices and existing results before choosing your appointment.
Explore nano & powder brows →Powder brows: soft, shaded definition
Powder brows build up shading rather than separate strokes. They may suit you if you enjoy a softly filled in brow or currently use pencil or powder every morning.
A shaded finish does not have to mean a heavy brow. Shape and intensity are part of the design discussion. Skin type and previous work still matter, so suitability needs an individual assessment.
Explore powder brows and pricing →
Examples from Aura Beauty Atelier’s portfolio on different clients. These images are not labelled as healed results. Appearance changes during healing.
Three techniques at a glance
| Technique | How it creates definition | Available at Aura Beauty Atelier |
|---|---|---|
| Nano brows | Machine applied hairlike strokes | Yes |
| Powder brows | Machine applied shading | Yes |
| Traditional microblading | Strokes made with a manual blade | Aura Beauty Atelier’s listed services are nano and powder brows |
Compare the two services at Aura Beauty Atelier
| Your decision | Nano brows | Powder brows |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Fine, hairlike strokes | Soft shading |
| Method | Machine applied strokes | Machine shading |
| Starting point | Preference for visible texture | Preference for filled in definition |
| Skin suitability | Individual assessment | Individual assessment |
| First session | 400 CAD | 400 CAD |
| Touch up after 30 days | 150 CAD, separate | 150 CAD, separate |
| Annual touch up | 200 CAD, separate | 200 CAD, separate |
The price is the same, so you can focus on the finish and suitability. Longevity depends on your skin, pigment, aftercare and lifestyle. One method is not guaranteed to outlast the other for every client.
How skin and previous work affect the choice
- Oily or combination skin: discuss how fine strokes and shading may settle on your skin. Do not choose on a blanket “best for oily skin” claim.
- Sparse brows: consider whether you want individual strokes, a softly defined shape or simply a temporary styling service.
- Existing pigment: share clear photos before booking. Colour, shape and saturation may limit what can be achieved.
- Sensitive or irritated skin: let the studio know before your visit. A treatment may need to be postponed or discussed with a clinician.
Plan for healing and your touch up
Brows can look stronger immediately after treatment, then change as the skin heals. Some flaking or uneven colour can occur. The timing and degree of change vary. An immediate photo is not the final result.
A separate $150 touch up can be booked after 30 days so the settled result can be assessed and refined as appropriate. Read the healing guide for the stages, aftercare principles and signs that need attention.
What the price includes
Nano and powder brows are $400 CAD for the first session. A touch up after 30 days is $150 CAD, and an annual touch up is $200 CAD. Your consultation lasting 15 minutes is free.
The first appointment covers consultation review, mapping and design, the procedure and aftercare instructions. Touch ups are booked separately. Prices are in Canadian dollars. Read the complete nano and powder brow pricing guide for a detailed breakdown.
What to bring to your consultation
- A photo of your usual brow makeup and a few reference finishes.
- Details of previous brow treatments and any existing pigment.
- Your preferred maintenance routine and upcoming travel or events.
- Questions about healing, suitability and follow up timing.
The consultation takes 15 minutes at 199 Ninth St, Unit A, inside MTH Collective Studio. You can compare the options before committing to treatment.
Continue reading: How long do nano and powder brows last?.
Questions before you choose
The answers below cover the main booking decisions. For your own skin and existing brows, an assessment at the studio is the next step.