Nano Brows Contraindications

Nano Brows Contraindications – Important Information for Ellebrow NYC Clients


Nano Brows, also known as machine hairstroke eyebrows, is an innovative permanent makeup procedure designed to create natural-looking, sculpted brows. Studios like Ellebrow have set the standard for nano brows in NYC, transforming countless brows through precision, artistry, and careful client screening.


While many individuals are good candidates for nano brows, certain conditions and situations may require caution, postponement, or a simple medical clearance to ensure safe healing and predictable results.


Not all contraindications are permanent. Some conditions listed below may require postponement or a waiting period rather than exclusion. Timing, skin condition, and overall stability are often more important than diagnosis name alone. If you have a medical condition or are unsure whether timing is appropriate, we encourage you to consult your physician before proceeding.



1. Skin Conditions or Active Infections Near the Eyebrow Area


Chronic or inflammatory skin conditions on or near eyebrows


  • Eczema and psoriasis: May affect healing and pigment retention.
  • Dermatitis or active irritation: Inflamed skin can heal unpredictably.
  • Scar tissue: May not retain pigment evenly and may carry a higher risk of further scarring.


Active skin infections


  • Cold sores or shingles: Viral infections near the treatment area must be fully resolved prior to booking.
  • Bacterial infections (such as impetigo): Must be completely healed before treatment.


2. Medical Conditions That May Affect Healing


Some medical conditions can influence immune response, circulation, or wound healing and may require additional consideration:


  • Autoimmune conditions: Certain autoimmune diseases (such as lupus or alopecia) may affect healing or pigment retention. Thyroid-related autoimmune conditions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis rather than treated as automatic contraindications.
  • Blood disorders: Conditions affecting clotting (such as hemophilia) can increase bleeding risk.
  • Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes may impair wound healing. A physician’s clearance is required.
  • Cancer: A physician’s clearance is required prior to treatment.


3. Medications and Substances


  • Blood thinners: May increase bleeding and affect pigment retention.
  • Retinol or Retin-A: Increased skin turnover may impact retention; discontinuation prior to treatment may be required.
  • Accutane (isotretinoin): Alters skin healing. Clients must wait at least one year after completing Accutane before booking nano brows.


4. Pregnancy and Nursing


Nano brows are not performed on clients who are pregnant or nursing. Although the procedure uses topical numbing agents and is generally considered low risk, there is insufficient evidence to confirm absolute safety for the baby. Hormonal changes during pregnancy may also affect pigment retention. For these reasons, pregnancy and nursing are considered absolute contraindications for nano brows and other permanent makeup procedures.


5. Recent Cosmetic or Medical Procedures


  • Botox: Clients should wait at least two weeks after injections before nano brows.
  • Chemical peels or laser treatments: Skin must be fully healed before undergoing permanent makeup.
  • Recent surgery: Clients who have had recent surgical procedures may be advised to postpone nano brows until healing is complete and overall health is stable.


6. History of Keloid or Abnormal Scarring


Clients with a personal history of raised or abnormal scarring after skin injury may be at increased risk of similar scarring following nano brows. While uncommon in practice, nano brows may not be recommended in these cases to avoid permanent scarring. If you are unsure how your skin scars, you may wish to consult your physician or dermatologist before proceeding.


7. Chemotherapy Patients


Chemotherapy affects immune function and healing response. Timing of nano brows should be discussed with an oncologist, and written medical clearance is required.


Aesthetic Considerations: Existing Brow Tattoo or Microblading


Existing eyebrow tattoos or previous microblading can affect the suitability and final appearance of nano brows. Factors such as pigment color, depth, saturation, and shape may limit how natural results can appear. In some cases, nano brows may not be recommended, or additional steps such as lightening or removal may be required before proceeding.


Clear photos of existing brow work are required to assess suitability.


Conclusion


Nano brows can offer significant aesthetic benefits, but proper screening is essential for safety and predictable results. Contraindications help determine when treatment should proceed, be postponed, or require medical clearance.


If you are considering nano brows in NYC and have a medical condition or medication history, sharing this information during intake allows for an informed, case-by-case assessment focused on skin safety and realistic expectations.


Who Cannot or Should Not Get Nano Brows FAQ

  • Can Individuals with Skin Conditions Get Nano Brows?

    Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis may adversely affect the nano brows process. The skin's sensitivity or inflammation in these conditions might lead to discomfort during the procedure and cause the pigment not to retain well.


    Additionally, individuals prone to keloid scarring should exercise caution. Nano Brows involves making small incisions in the skin, which can lead to keloid formation in individuals susceptible to this type of scarring.

  • Can You Get Nano Brows With Oily Skin?

    While not strictly contraindicated, nano brows may not yield the desired results in individuals with oily skin. The applied pigment can spread and blur, leading to a less defined look. Ink migration can occur, which is the ink fanning out in the skin, resulting in an uneven shading look. This  could make the eyebrows appear less natural. Microshading is often a more suitable option for oily skin types.

  • Can You Get Nano Brows While Pregnant?

    Pregnant and breastfeeding women are strongly advised against nano borws. In most instances, it is prohibited both as a matter of ethical practice and because of insurance requirements. While there isn't concrete evidence suggesting harm to the baby, it's generally safer to err on the side of caution due to the lack of extensive research on the effects of the pigments and numbing agents on infants.

  • Can You Get Nano Brows While Breast-Feeding

    Pregnant and breastfeeding women are strongly advised against nano brows. In most instances, it is prohibited both as a matter of ethical practice and because of insurance requirements. While there isn't concrete evidence suggesting harm to the baby, it's generally safer to err on the side of caution due to the lack of extensive research on the effects of the pigments and numbing agents on infants.

  • Can You Get Nano Brows If You Are Diabetic?

    Individuals with controlled diabetes can undergo Nano Brows, provided they have written medical clearance from their physician. Those with diabetes should exercise caution when considering Nano Brows.


     Diabetes can affect the body's healing process and increase the risk of infection. If blood sugar levels are not well-controlled, it can further hinder the healing process. It's essential for diabetics to consult with their healthcare provider before undergoing any form of tattooing, including microblading.

  • Can You Get Nano Brows If You Have Cancer?

    Having cancer is a contraindication for Nano Brows. However, you can undergo the procedure with written medical clearance from your physician. Many individuals consider microblading or nano brows either prior to or after undergoing chemotherapy. Those contemplating this should consult with their oncologist regarding the optimal timing for microblading or nano brows in relation to their chemo sessions.

  • Can You Get Nano Brows If You Have No Eyebrows?

    Yes, you can get Nano Brows if you have no eyebrows. Many individuals with Alopecia or other conditions leading to sparse or absent eyebrow hair seek microblading, nano brows and similar procedures as solutions. Ensure you choose an artist who is very experienced in this area.

  • Can I Get Nano Brows Over Old Microblading?

     It largely depends on the current state and darkness of the old microblading. Factors such as the age of the microblading, the degree of fading, and the individual's skin type play crucial roles in this assessment. This determination should be made by a qualified Nano Brows artist who can offer you an honest and professional assessment. And then of course are your expectations and the type of result you would be satisfied with.


    For more, see our page: "Can I Get Nano Brows Over Old Microblading?"

More questions?