There’s no doubt that microblading is one of the best semi-permanent makeup treatments for effortlessly achieving perfect eyebrows. But what if you’ve recently treated your eyebrows to microblading and aren’t happy with the results? Don’t panic, there are many safe ways to fix that! You can do some touch-ups for color adjustments to improve the results, or you can opt for eyebrow tattoo removal.
Semi-permanent makeup pigments typically begin to fade within 6 to 24 months, but you don’t have to wait that long if you’re unsatisfied with your new look. From laser removal to saline and glycolic acid techniques, you can regain your natural look or prepare for a better brow transformation.
Read on to learn more about tattoo removal methods when microblading goes wrong, and find out which option is right for you.
Is It Possible to Redo Faded Microblading Without a Removal Procedure?
Yes, it is possible to fix faded microblading without undergoing a full removal through touch-up sessions. These sessions involve readjusting the pigment in the faded areas and improving the overall shape of the eyebrow.
During your consultation, a brow artist will inspect your current brows in good lighting without makeup to determine what is actually possible. Usually, if your brows have lightened a little already and the ink wasn’t implanted too deeply into your skin, it’s possible to microblade over them. Extra caution will be taken to ensure the most natural result possible. However, it’s important to note that if the ink is taken too deeply, it will likely give a very block-like, unnatural look that's difficult to cover up, as the new hair strokes will not be visible.
If you have had eyebrow tattooing instead of microblading, the ink may appear gray, blue, or purple, which is difficult to cover on blondes. When touch-up sessions of microblading seem helpless, microblading removal is recommended.
Our expert Brau artists will assess your brows carefully and guide you through the best and safest removal options, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction every step of the way.
Professional Methods of Microblading Removal
Laser removal
Laser microblading removal is the safest and most effective way to get rid of eyebrow tattoos. It breaks down pigments in the skin, which are then absorbed and naturally eliminated by the body.
Your technician will first assess the color and density of the pigments to choose the correct wavelength to use and then adjust the laser device accordingly. Before starting the procedure, your eyebrows are numbed with an anesthetic to prevent pain or discomfort. After confirming the effectiveness of the anesthesia, the laser is focused directly on the pigments to break them down precisely.
Laser tattoo removal is considered more expensive compared to saline and glycolic acid removal.
Saline Removal
Saline removal is often more effective than laser for lighter pigment colors and different skin tones, sometimes called “reverse microblading.” This method involves injecting saline into the small incisions made during the microblading procedure. The saline solution dries the pigment and then lifts it to the surface of the skin. In some cases, only one or two sessions are needed to complete the removal process.
Glycolic Acid Removal
Similar to the saline method, glycolic acid removal uses a blend of glycolic acid, lactic acid, and other ingredients injected into the skin to help break down the pigment. The mixture is injected into the skin to help dissolve and expel the pigment gradually over time.
The effectiveness and number of sessions required depend on several factors, including the pigmentation’s color, age, and skin condition. A complimentary consultation with one of our artists is recommended to determine the best method for your needs.
How to Prepare for Microblading or Brow Tattoo Removal
Follow these instructions before your laser removal session to ensure a safe and effective treatment:
- Avoid sun exposure and stay hydrated by drinking a lot of water.
- Avoid exfoliating your skin or waxing before the treatment.
- Avoid taking aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications to ensure that there is no bleeding during treatment.
- Avoid the following treatments in the days leading up to your session: chemical peels, microneedling, laser facials, and treatments using retinol, AHA, or BHA. These can increase skin sensitivity.
- Refrain from using alcohol, NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen), or vitamin E for 10 days before your session.
Aftercare and Healing Post-Removal
Your treated area may feel a little itchy as it starts to heal and will likely scab over, so it’s important not to pick at the scabs that could alter your desired outcome. Post-treatment efforts are as important a part of the process as the treatment itself. Here are some key instructions you should consider after microblading removal:
- Drink lots of water. This helps your body get rid of toxins on its own and restore blood cells.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking. Smoking can weaken your immune system and slow down healing.
- Stay away from heat and sun exposure. Getting sunburns after the treatment will slow down the healing process and delay recovery.
- Use a moisturizing cream. After three days, apply a specialized moisturizer to promote healing and soothe any itching.
- Avoid wearing makeup on the treated area. Wait at least 10 days before you start wearing makeup on your brows to avoid any infection.
Can You Shower After Brow Microblading Removal?
After a microblading removal treatment, avoid direct water on the treated area for at least 7-10 days. Gently pat the area and use the brow cap to protect your brows during the healing process.
How Long Does It Take for a Brow Tattoo Removal to Heal?
You may notice mild redness and swelling immediately after the session, as part of the healing process, and will subside within a few days. For 6 to 8 weeks, the pigment continues to gradually fade as it is absorbed by the body. Adherence to aftercare is key to ensuring a smooth recovery and the best possible results.
Choosing the Right Professional for Removal
Before getting your eyebrow tattoo removed, it’s important to choose a clinic with qualified professionals to ensure safe, effective results and avoid any potential risks. At Brau, all brow tattoo and microblading removal procedures are performed under the supervision of specialized artists who use the most advanced tools in a safe environment to ensure your comfort and deliver the best results.
Here’s why you should consider choosing the right professional:
- Avoid risks: a qualified professional can choose the appropriate removal procedure, helping to avoid the potential risks associated with laser procedures.
- Perform the right procedures: true experts embody both knowledge and experience and can accurately perform medical procedures, ensuring patient safety and increasing the chances of a successful treatment.
- Accurate use of equipment: a professional knows how to handle lasers and medical equipment, minimizing the likelihood of malfunctions during the procedure.
- Providing effective counseling: a qualified person can provide accurate counseling to the patient, explaining the details of the procedure and predicting the results realistically and reliably.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you're looking to correct faded microblading, explore safe removal options, or start fresh with a new brow transformation, we're here to help. Book your free consultation with one of our expert brow artists today and take the first step toward brows you'll love.
Contact us now to schedule your microblading removal treatment at Brau! What are you waiting for? Your best brows are just one session away!
