Top 10 Questions About Permanent Makeup Removal
Why would you want to remove your permanent makeup?
Permanent makeup has been around for a very long time. Its history goes back thousands of years, but modern permanent makeup has been popular for a couple decades. This means that there are people who have work that is in excess of 10 years old. As we age things change about our skin and pigments in our skin change. While some people experience a gradual fading of their permanent makeup, others skin holds on to the pigment. While you may be able to cover old work a couple times, there comes a point when it’s better to erase and reimagine. There are so many reason people want to remove: Maybe the tail is just too long, or the shape isn’t perfect for you any longer. Maybe your hair color has changed, and the brows are too dark now? Maybe the application was done by someone who wasn’t skilled enough? Maybe you got impressive, winged eyeliner when you were 20 and now at 50 it just isn’t you anymore? Whatever you are experiencing, we get it, and we have seen it all.
Why would a renowned cosmetic tattoo studio remove permanent makeup?
DAELA Cosmetic Tattoo has added laser tattoo removal to our service line up for one reason: We are the best at applying cosmetic tattoos, so we get a lot of clients who want old work covered. While we have expert artists adept at coverups, sometimes we just can’t. So, the PicoWay laser allows us to provide the ultimate full-service of removal and reapplication, or reinvention as we like to call it.
1. How many sessions are needed to remove permanent makeup?
The number of sessions depends on the type, depth, and color of the tattoo. While many experience enough lightening in 2 sessions, others may need 3-6 sessions depending on previous work, how many times they have had them done and skin type. Also, depending on the technique desired for new brows, one may not need complete removal!
2. Does permanent makeup removal hurt?
There may be some discomfort during the procedure, but many people describe it as less painful than traditional tattoo removal and it’s a super quick process. The PicoWay laser offers less pain compared to other methods. Let me put it this way: If you tolerated the original application of your brow tattoos, you will find the removal process similar in discomfort-for far less time per session. You may be in the chair for 30 minutes because we apply topical numbing to keep you most comfortable, but the removal session itself is done in a few minutes, we apply a bit of Aquafor and out the door you go!
3. Can you remove all permanent makeup?
Yes, brow tattoos are the most common to remove, but we can also tackle more complicated removals like lip blush and eyeliner. However, because eyeliner and lips are more difficult to remove because of the sensitive skin areas, we strongly encourage a consultation before any removal. Oftentimes, our skilled artists are fully capable going over old work for eyeliner and lip blush tattoo and will only suggest removal if you really need it. We also suggest a cover up for brows if it makes more sense than removal. Because we offer all options, our team is dedicated to making the very best suggestions for your unique situation.
4. Is permanent makeup removal safe?
When performed by professionals using advanced technology, permanent makeup removal is safe. PicoWay is particularly known for its precision and safety, targeting ink without damaging surrounding skin.
5. How much does permanent makeup removal cost?
The cost varies based on whether it’s lips brows or eyeliner. DAELA charges $250-$350 per session for cosmetic tattoo removal and your first session is always 50% off!
6. Can you remove just part of my permanent makeup?
Yes, selective removal is possible. For example, if only part of an eyebrow tattoo or lip blush needs to be corrected, laser removal can target specific areas.
7. How long does it take to heal after permanent makeup removal?
Healing time varies, but most people experience mild redness and swelling that subsides within a few days to a week. We will space your removal sessions 4-6 weeks apart.
8. Do I need to shave my brows to have the tattoos removed?
No, we do not suggest shaving your brows. Most brow removal clients experience minimal (and temporary) hair loss due to the laser and the laser treats effectively without shaving. So be prepared for some nominal hair loss and possibly a pigment change if your brows are tinted. Have no fear, you can retint them and also use brow makeup after allowing for a short healing time.
9. What will my brows look like during the permanent makeup removal process?
Several things may happen during the removal process, and they are different for everyone depending on multiple factors, but the important thing to know is that it is a process. The process is different for everyone:
- How many layers of ink do you have?
- What type of ink was used?
- How old are your tattoos?
- What is your skin type?
Permanent makeup pigments can change color when undergoing laser removal due to the way the laser interacts with the specific ingredients in the pigment. Here’s a breakdown of why this happens:
- Composition of Pigments: Permanent makeup pigments often contain a blend of organic and inorganic materials, including metals like iron oxide or titanium dioxide. These metals can oxidize or react when exposed to laser energy, leading to a color shift. For example, pigments containing iron oxide may turn a reddish or orange hue when hit by the laser.
- Selective Wavelength Absorption: The PicoWay laser emits ultra-short pulses of energy, which are designed to break down pigment particles. However, certain pigments absorb the laser energy differently. For instance, black and dark colors absorb the energy well and break down into smaller particles that can be eliminated by the body. Lighter pigments, such as those with yellow or red tones, may absorb the energy in such a way that they alter chemically, leading to a visible color change.
- Incomplete Breakdown of Pigment: Sometimes, the laser breaks down only certain components of a pigment, leaving behind residual colors. This can happen when the pigment is made up of a mixture of colors, and the laser breaks down the darker or more absorbent colors first, leaving behind lighter or unexpected hues.
- Oxidation: When the laser interacts with iron oxide-based pigments, oxidation can occur. This process can cause a shift toward reddish, orange, or even blue-gray tones as the metal content reacts with the energy from the laser.
This color change is temporary, and multiple laser treatments can help address it by further breaking down the altered pigments.
10. Can I get a new cosmetic tattoo after removal?
Yes! Once your skin has fully healed after your last permanent makeup removal session, typically within 4-6 weeks, you can safely reapply new permanent makeup. At DAELA Cosmetic Tattoo, our master artists can create a fresh, flawless look. We offer every brow tattoo style imaginable, so we will pair you with the best choice for you! You will be left with fond memories of your permanent makeup removal journey.
