Frequently Asked Questions
Nano Brows or Nanoblading
-
Nano Brows are a modern, machine-based cosmetic tattoo technique that uses an ultra-fine needle — nano meaning small — which is extremely small and precise. This is designed to gently scratch the surface of the skin rather than cutting into it. This makes the process much more comfortable, precise, and skin-friendly.
Styles like Hairstrokes, Ombré/Powder, and Combination (Combo) Brows can all be done only by a skilled artist with the nano machine, creating realistic hair-like strokes OR soft shading with natural, beautiful results and minimal trauma to the skin. This is all customized to your skin type, desired look, and overall goals.
Whether you’re enhancing fullness, correcting shape, or creating more symmetry, Nano Brows offer soft, timeless results tailored just for you.
-
Microblading is performed with a handheld pen that has a small blade at the tip. The artist uses it to manually cut fine lines into the skin to create hairstrokes. It is generally more painful and carries a higher risk of going too deep, expanding, or changing colour over time.
Nano or, nano blading, on the other hand, refers to the machine (nano machine) used for more advanced techniques. It can create both hairstrokes and powder/ombré effects (a soft, shaded look). Any brow style can be achieved with the Nano machine, but it is much gentler on the skin. Because it requires more advanced training and precision, fewer artists specialize in Nanotechnology, making it the more modern, refined approach. -
Hairstrokes: Soft, wispy strokes created using advanced techniques and artistry to replicate the look of real hair in a natural growth pattern. Ideal for a light, airy, and hyper-realistic finish.
Ombré / Powder Brows:Gentle shading that adds a soft, airbrushed effect like a shadow — lighter and faded out at the inner corners and gradually more defined toward the tails. Perfect for those who like a powdered, shadowed look. (Sometimes the only option for very thick natural brows or very mature and thin skin.)
Combination/ Combo Brows: A blend of both techniques — fluffy, feathered hairstrokes at the front for a natural start transitioning into soft shading toward the tails to create shadowed definition.
-
Yes! Every appointment begins with a detailed consultation. We’ll look at photos of my work together to discuss your preferences and goals.
Seeing you in person also helps me assess your natural brows and recommend what will work best for your unique features and situation.
Next, I’ll measure and map directly on your face using a pencil to design the most flattering shape. You’ll have a mirror to see everything and we can make adjustments until you absolutely love it.
Only once we’re both completely happy with the design do we begin the procedure!
-
It really depends — which is why all previous work requires clear photos of your brows before booking and must be reviewed. This allows me to assess the existing pigment, colour, depth, and shape to determine whether it’s suitable to work over.
Photos must be submitted through the free consultation form on the homepage or contact form and then can be approved before scheduling your service.
-
Each case is unique. Some brows may require rebalancing or colour correction, Alexandra may recommend alternative options or removal before realism can be achieved.
The process of submitting photos and approval in advance ensures:
-Realistic expectations
-Proper service selection
-The best possible long-term result for you!
Approval is required before booking to confirm Alexandra can achieve a result aligned with her standards.
If you are unsure, Book your free consultation here
-
Yes — they ensure optimal healing and long-lasting results. Your first touch-up is around 8 weeks after your initial appointment.
Please note:(There is a charge for 2 month touch up as most people prefer to break up the payment in two.)This completes the work after the initial healing and reinforces the brows so they will last a while.
After that, an annual touch-up (booked within 9 to 18 months after the last touch-up) is recommended to help keep your brows fresh with more crisp hairstrokes or definition, and keep them beautiful and realistic while reducing the need for makeup use.
Additionally, when touch-ups are done down the road, the faded version allows us also to make adjustments you like if you’ve had changes in hair colour etc.
-
No. Brows with previous work are not considered a touch-up.
Touch-up pricing only applies to clients returning to Alexandra Ink, using the same technique, on her original work.
When working over another artist’s work, the process typically requires more time and expertise, not less. This often includes:
- Colour correction of old or faded pigment.
- Strategically covering or neutralizing previous shapes or tones.
- Creating realistic results over existing tattooed skin.Because of this, brows with previous work are treated as a new service and may require additional time or multiple sessions, depending on the condition of the existing pigment.
-
Results typically last 1–3 years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and how defined you like your brows to appear over time. With proper care, your brows will gradually fade softly and evenly, leaving a lighter version of your original shape. Most clients choose to have a refreshing touch-up every year or so to keep their brows looking crisp and beautifully maintained.
-
Nano is generally much less painful than microblading. Most clients describe a mild sensation during the first few minutes but very tolerable. Since numbing is continually applied throughout the procedure, after a few minutes they feel little to nothing at all, and relax or even fall asleep during their appointment!
A small number of clients may experience slight discomfort, usually those who are more sensitive to dental work or numbing agents, but this is quite rare.
Overall, the process is gentle, comfortable, and surprisingly easy for most people.
-
These substances can affect your skin and how well it responds during your appointment. Caffeine and blood thinners (like aspirin or certain medications) can increase bleeding and make it harder for pigment to implant evenly. Retinol and retinoids thin the skin and increase sensitivity, which can cause irritation or poor healing.
Avoiding them helps ensure the best comfort, color retention, and long-term results.
-
NO! The idea is to keep as much hair as possible. I work inside the hair to just enhance and make the brows more full. There is no damage to hair or hair follicles.
-
There are many! Whether you're looking for convenience or confidence, here are some of the top benefits:
Saves Time: Wake up with beautifully-shaped brows every day — no need to draw them on and fight with the colour, shape, or symmetry!
Smudge-Proof & Sweat-Proof: Ideal for active lifestyles, all skin-types, humid climates, and any activity - your brows will still be there!
Long-Lasting Results: Enjoy low-maintenance brows that were meticulously measured and shaped by a skilled professional once and stay put for 1–3 years!
Natural Enhancement: No worry for harsh and fake-looking tattoos… Alexandra Ink’s hairstroke, powder, or combo brows give you seamlessly realistic and complementary brows without being obvious.
Corrects Asymmetry or Hair Loss: Great for filling in sparse areas, reshaping brows, or restoring balance due to over-plucking, scarring, or hair loss.
Boosts Confidence: Defined, flattering brows make a huge difference on the face to lift and enhance your facial features and bring out your natural beauty!
-
Yes. Unlike microblading, nano is suitable for all skin types! However, results may vary depending on oil production, sensitivity, or texture, aftercare, and lifestyle. Occasionally very mature or thin skin may benefit more from ombré/powder brows. Your unique skin will always be assessed when you come in and we identify the perfect service for you!
-
Absolutely there are tons of colour options! The person’s hair colour, skin tone, and preferences play a part and we consult about all this to choose the perfect shade that will compliment you. This is entirely uniquely customized to you!
Also, tattoos always neutralize and turn more cool toned over time so it’s very important to have slightly more warmth to the colour at the very beginning so that after healing and over time it neutralizes to the desired colour. This ensures it will age beautifully over a long period of time and stay the right shade (as opposed to turning grey).
-
Yes — absolutely. All needles and anything in contact are single-use, sterile, and safely disposed of after each client. We use only high-quality, professional-grade pigments and medical-grade equipment that meet health and safety standards. Your comfort, safety, and hygiene are top priorities at Alexandra Ink.
Small Fine Line Body Tattoos
-
Alexandra is an apprentice offering fine, small body tattoos up to 3x3 inches. Perfect for symbols, delicate florals, words, numbers, initials, or handwriting.
-
Usually, yes! Most clients share a simple idea, such as a word, symbol, or small image, and Alexandra creates a custom version of it in her own fine-line style.
All designs must fit within the small tattoo category (up to 3x3 inches).
Alexandra does not replicate other artists’ work or complex designs but will happily create something inspired by your idea in her signature minimalist style.
(All tattoo custom requests require an intake form and approval before booking.)
-
Please fill out the booking intake form which will require the following information:
1: Picture of design you’d like or description along with statement of permission
2: Approximate size in inches ( no more than 3×3 inches)
3: Placement you’d like - where on the body
Once this is received, if Alexandra approves, you will receive a notification and a link to book online at your preferred time.