Pin Count & Nano Selection Guide: How to Choose the Right Cartridge for Every Task
Choosing the right cartridge isn’t just about compatibility—it’s about precision, speed, skin goals, and finish. This guide breaks down pin counts and nano tip shapes so you can pick with confidence, whether you’re chasing ultra-fine detail work or fast, even coverage.
First, what do “nano” and “pin count” mean?
- Nano cartridges use ultra-fine tips designed for topical work, finish polishing, or gentle refinement. They’re ideal when you want a glassy, refined look with minimal disruption. Browse all nano options here: Nano Cartridges ›
- Pin count = how many individual pins/tips touch the skin per stamp or glide.
- Lower pin counts (9–12) focus pressure for precision (edges, creases, targeted spots).
- Medium counts (16–18) balance coverage and control for most face zones.
- Higher counts (24–42) spread force wider for even, efficient coverage (cheeks, forehead, body).
> Quick rule: Fewer pins = more concentrated pressure per point; more pins = faster, gentler-feeling coverage.
Nano tip shapes: Round vs. Square
- Round Nano: Great for spot work, curves, and detail around the nose, lips, and brow area. Smooth, circular footprint. See: Round Nano Cartridges ›
- Square Nano: Efficient on flat, broad zones (cheeks, forehead, jawline). Helps you keep tracks straight and coverage even. See: Square Nano Cartridges ›
TL;DR
- Precision & curves → Round Nano
- Speed & flat zones → Square Nano
Pin count cheat sheet
| Goal | Best Pin Counts | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Edge detailing, lip lines, small blemish zones | 9–12 pins | Concentrated contact for precise correction |
| Balanced face work (most users’ “daily driver”) | 16–18 pins | Control + coverage; smooth, consistent passes |
| Fast full-face or larger areas | 24–36 pins | Wider footprint, fewer passes, even finish |
| Very broad zones / body | 36–42 pins | Max efficiency on large surfaces |
Shop by pin count:
- 9-Pin Cartridges ›
- 11-Pin Cartridges ›
- 12-Pin Cartridges ›
- 16-Pin Cartridges ›
- 18-Pin Cartridges ›
- 24-Pin Cartridges ›
- 36-Pin Cartridges ›
- 42-Pin Cartridges ›
Choose by skin goal
1) Blurring texture & refining finish
- Start with Nano (Round for curves, Square for flats).
- For extra polish on cheeks/forehead: 24–36 pins at conservative settings.
2) Fine lines & small zones
- 9–12 pins for concentrated passes near lip lines, crow’s feet, or nose creases.
- Finish with a Round Nano pass to smooth the look.
3) Full-face efficiency
- 16–18 pins as the default “all-rounder.”
- Upgrade to 24–36 pins if you want faster coverage with fewer passes.
4) Larger areas / body
- 36–42 pins to keep coverage even and time-efficient.
Round vs. Square nano: when it really matters
- Around curves: Round tips hug contours and are forgiving when angling the handpiece.
- On flat planes: Square tips help you “tile” coverage neatly (think of pixel-clean rows).
- Mix both: Use Round for the T-zone and perioral area; Square for cheeks and forehead.
Explore both shapes:
Quick chooser (60-second decision)
- Define the target: tiny detail vs. whole face vs. body.
- Pick the shape (for nano): Round = curved/detail; Square = flat/fast.
- Pick a pin count:
- Detail: 9–12
- Balanced face: 16–18
- Speed/full face: 24–36
- Body/very broad: 36–42
- Test on the easiest zone first (cheek) to confirm glide, comfort, and coverage.
Browse everything nano in one place:
Pro tips for cleaner, more consistent results
- Keep your passes straight and slightly overlapped to avoid streaking—Square Nano shines here.
- Don’t chase perfection in one pass. Two light, even passes beat one heavy pass.
- Match pin count to session time. Higher counts reduce total passes when you’re on the clock.
- Swap to a lower pin count for delicate zones after doing broad areas.
- Always use new, sterile cartridges and follow the manufacturer’s hygiene and after-care guidance.
FAQ
Q: Is a higher pin count “stronger”? A: Not exactly. It’s broader. Higher counts spread pressure across more contact points, which often feels gentler and covers more area per pass.
Q: What if I’m unsure between 16 and 24 pins? A: If you value control and slower, deliberate work, start with 16–18. If you prefer efficiency and uniformity on larger zones, choose 24.
Q: Round vs. Square—can I just buy one? A: You can, but many users keep both: Round for curves and detail, Square for fast flat-zone finishing.
Shop by category
- Nano families: All Nano › · Round Nano › · Square Nano ›
- Pin counts: 9-Pin › · 11-Pin › · 12-Pin › · 16-Pin › · 18-Pin › · 24-Pin › · 36-Pin › · 42-Pin ›
> Reminder: Always follow your device’s instructions, proper sanitation, and local regulations. If you’re new or working on sensitive areas, start conservative, patch-test, and build up as you learn what your skin (or your client’s) prefers.
