Can Permanent Makeup Be Removed?

It seems like every few years a new permanent makeup trend pops up that everyone is trying. The possibilities are endless, from permanent eyeliner to microblade eyebrows or even the most recent — tattooed lip color.

But with these rapidly changing trends coming and going over time, many are left with outdated and faded makeup, leaving many with serious “buyer’s remorse.” 

But is permanent makeup correction possible? And if so, at what cost? 

Options for Permanent Makeup Removal 

1. Be Patient

The easiest option; wait it out.

Faded microbladed eyebrows happen over time, and in some cases, many see changes and discoloration in their permanent tattoo over the course of 6-24 months due to the delicate nature of facial skin. Unfortunately, complete fading to the point where your makeup tattoo is no longer noticeable is not likely as tattoos often never fade, no matter how long you wait.

2. Tattoo Removal Creams

Many have claimed that a tattoo removal cream is a great option as they have seen gradual fading in their permanent tattoos over time. However, no clinical studies have shown this to be true.

It is more than likely that over time the tattoo will fade but never entirely. Because these creams only affect the upper layer of the skin (to incite peeling) there is never a complete reversal. The tattoo has permanently penetrated the deeper levels of the skin that the cream will not reach. 

If you decide to go this route, here are some options that many claim to help with removal:

– DIY “made from home” scrub of Salt & Lemon

– Rosehip Seed Oil massaged into the skin 3 times daily 

– Topical over-the-counter “fade” creams

3. Salt and Saline Treatments

Many have sworn by the Salt and Saline treatment as they have claimed to see a difference in the appearance of their permanent makeup— especially for old faded microblading.

The Salt and Saline treatment should only be performed by a skilled technician and not be confused with the vastly different “at-home scrub” methods.

During your session, the technician will combine a salt and saline solution and insert it into the skin like an exfoliator. One session is equal to that of 2 months of exfoliation. The salt works to bind the permanent ink, bring it to the surface, and once scabbed, will remove the ink. Some call this method “Controlled Stabbing” and consider it an alternative to laser removal. 

However, this method has its risks. The constant repetitive stabbing and the acids within the salt can remove hair in the area affected (think eyebrows!) and can irritate the skin.

With this method, there is also a risk of blistering, permanent scarring, and hyperpigmentation in the skin over time.

4. Laser Removal

Considered the most effective method of permanent makeup removal, laser removal uses pulses of laser light to break up the ink under the skill then the cells absorb the molecules. Depending on the laser type (and your skin type), the results vary but consistently have been shown to be effective. 

However, for delicate areas like permanent makeup correction around the face, you will need to be more cautious due to the higher risk for damage. 

Some other things to keep in mind when using a laser for permanent makeup removal are the pigments used in makeup tattoos that differ and can affect the removal process. 

For example, lip pigments contain titanium oxide making the tattoo stand out more, meaning laser removal may turn the tattoo gray rather than removing it completely. 

This means you will need more treatments to completely remove the tattoo. 

Remember, results from any permanent makeup removal option will vary depending on a number of factors such as skin type, the healing process, original pigment quality, and proper aftercare. 

Therefore seeking advice from someone who is an expert in skincare and permanent makeup removal is important. 

Colorado Skin & Vein is a leader for the past 16 years offering not only Permanent Makeup Removal but Full Body, Face, Vein Treatments, Aesthetic Services, and Laser Medicine services.

If you are in the in the Denver area request a consultation with one of our providers today.