Permanent brows can save you time every morning, but the options can be confusing. Nano, ombré, combo, microblading: they all add shape and color, and each gives a different look. Here's how the brow techniques we offer at our Downtown LA studio compare, so you can walk into your consultation knowing what you like.
The short version
- Nano brows: fine, hair-like strokes made with a machine. Natural and precise.
- Ombré powder brows: a soft, shaded gradient, lighter at the front and fuller at the tail. Looks like brow powder or pencil.
- Combo brows: hair strokes at the front with shading through the body and tail. Natural at the front, defined overall.
- Microblading: hair-like strokes made by hand with a fine blade. Similar look to nano brows.
Every treatment starts with a consultation, and your artist will help you choose based on your brows, your skin and the look you want.
Nano brows
Nano brows use a machine with an ultra-fine needle to place individual strokes that mimic real brow hairs. The result is precise and natural, especially up close.
They suit you if you want to fill sparse areas or add shape while still looking like you have no makeup on. They're a good fit if you like a brushed-up, feathery look.
Things to know: because the strokes are so fine, how crisp they stay over time depends on your skin. Your artist will look at your skin during the consultation and tell you honestly whether strokes will hold up or whether shading would heal better.
Ombré powder brows
Ombré (or powder) brows don't use strokes. Instead, pigment is shaded into the skin in tiny dots to build a soft gradient, lighter near the nose and more defined toward the tail. The effect is like a well-applied brow powder.
They suit you if you usually fill your brows in with powder or pencil and like a polished look. Shading also works when there isn't much natural hair to blend strokes into.
Things to know: the intensity is adjustable. A soft ombré can look very natural, while a fuller one reads as "brows done." Tell your artist which end you prefer, and bring photos of brows you like.
Combo brows
Combo brows combine both techniques: hair-like strokes at the front of the brow, where a natural look matters most, and shading through the middle and tail for definition and density.
They suit you if you want the softness of strokes with a bit more structure, or if you'd like your brows to look full without obvious makeup.
Things to know: combo brows are a good middle ground if you can't decide. Your artist can adjust how much of each technique to use.
Microblading
Microblading creates hair strokes by hand, using a small tool with a row of fine blades. The look is similar to nano brows: natural, feathery strokes.
The difference is mainly the tool. Your artist will recommend nano or microblading based on your skin and the result you want; you don't need to know which before you book.
Already have brow work?
If you've had permanent brows before and the shape or color isn't right anymore, brow correction can reshape, correct color and refine previous work. Send us a clear photo of your brows and we'll tell you what's possible.
What to expect
Before your appointment
For the best results and comfort:
- One week before: pause retinol, anti-aging topicals, salicylic acid, niacinamide, chemical exfoliants, vitamin E supplements and fish oil.
- 48 hours before: avoid alcohol and aspirin, which thin the blood.
- 24 hours before: limit caffeine, alcohol and pain relievers other than Tylenol.
- Recent Botox or filler? Tell us when booking, as your appointment may need to wait until it settles.
- On prescribed blood thinners? Talk to your doctor before pausing any medication, and let us know.
On the day
Your artist maps out the shape with you first, and nothing starts until you're happy with it. Numbing is used during the procedure, and most clients report minimal discomfort.
Healing
- Right after: brows look about 20-25% darker and slightly wider than the healed result, and the skin may be red or swollen. This is normal.
- Days 1-10: clean the area gently as instructed and keep it lightly hydrated with a thin layer of ointment.
- First week: no makeup on the area, no picking or scrubbing, no swimming, saunas or facials, and stay out of direct sun.
- As it heals: light flaking is normal, and the color softens to its final shade.
You'll get full written aftercare at your appointment.
The follow-up session
Every brow treatment includes one follow-up session 6-8 weeks after your first appointment. Once you've healed, your artist perfects the shape and fills any areas that healed lighter.
Pricing
Most permanent makeup procedures at Mantle fall between $300 and $800, depending on the treatment and the work involved. Your price includes the follow-up session, and your exact price is confirmed at your consultation. A $100 deposit secures your appointment and goes toward the cost. See our deposit policy.
Brow FAQ
Which lasts longer, nano or ombré brows?
It depends on your skin and how you care for your brows. Results generally last years, with periodic touch-ups to keep the color fresh. Your artist will tell you what to expect for your skin at your consultation.
Which brow technique looks the most natural?
Nano brows and microblading look the most like real hair. Combo brows look natural at the front with more definition overall. Ombré brows look like soft brow powder.
Does getting permanent brows hurt?
Numbing is used during the procedure, and most clients report minimal discomfort.
Why do my brows look so dark right after?
Freshly done brows look about 20-25% darker and slightly bolder for the first several days. The color softens as the skin heals.
Is a follow-up session included?
Yes. One follow-up session 6-8 weeks after your first appointment is included in the price.
See all our permanent makeup services, including lip blush and eyeliner. Ready to book a consultation? Send an appointment request or text 323.395.0049 with the treatment you're interested in.
