Can Eyebrow Tattoos Be Removed?
Eyebrow tattoos are an interesting bunch because they’re not as straightforward as other tattoos. When discussing eyebrow tattoos, many people are actually referring to permanent makeup, and the two are not the same.
So can you remove eyebrow tattoos? What about permanent makeup? To answer this question, you must first understand the differences between the two.
How is permanent makeup different from a tattoo?
Permanent makeup differs from tattoos in the technique, equipment used, and the ink itself. Think about it – there are three layers to the skin:
- the epidermis, which is the outermost layer
- the dermis, which has connective tissue, sweat glands, and hair follicles
- the hypodermis, which is connective tissue and fat
Tattoo ink is injected into the deepest layer of the skin, while permanent makeup (like microbladed eyebrows) is only injected into the top layer. This means your tattoo is permanent, while microblading has a time limit (as does permanent eyeliner and lip blush).
The final difference is that tattoos inject ink into the skin while permanent makeup utilizes pigments. The pigments used are iron oxides, usually with some water and glycerine added.
Tattoos vs Permanent Makeup Healing Time?
Tattoos may take two or three weeks to heal completely, while microbladed brows and other permanent makeup take under two weeks since the procedure is less invasive and the pigment isn’t injected as deep into the skin as tattoo ink is. Should you be unhappy with your permanent makeup, you should wait until it’s fully healed before seeking any removal options.
Can eyebrow tattoos be removed?
Good news for those of you with ink on your brow – yes, eyebrow tattoos can be removed. At MEDermis Laser Clinic, we will only remove an eyebrow tattoo if it’s been done with tattoo ink. However, due to the sensitive nature of this location, we want to stress the importance of following the aftercare instructions as the potential side effects could be much more challenging to deal with on this part of the body.
Note that during this procedure, it is possible that your eyebrow hairs could be burnt by the laser, but this will not impact future growth. Your brow hair can and will grow back.
We’ve had success removing face and eyebrow tattoos in the past, and if done with caution and adherence to aftercare, it can work out in your favor.
Can microblading and permanent makeup be removed?
This is where it’s crucial that you understand the difference between a tattoo and permanent makeup, such as microbladed eyebrows. The latter do not respond well to the laser. This is due to the metals in the pigment used for cosmetic makeup. They will oxidize when hit with the laser. This can make matters worse by making them darker, or worse, turning them green. The laser simply cannot break these types of ink down, which is why if you come across a facility that says they can remove your microblading with a laser, you should be wary.
At MEDermis Laser Clinic, we do not treat microblading or permanent makeup. We understand that many people may feel desperate to erase a botched job, but we recommend waiting until the pigments fade naturally as none of those cosmetic procedures are actually permanent, like a tattoo.
Microblading and lip blushing both generally last about two to three years, while “permanent” eyeliner lasts around 18 months. Although it may not be easy, it is probably safest to wait it out and let your body break down the pigments naturally. Still not convinced? We understand that you may feel as if you don’t have the time to wait and may seek out a tattoo removal clinic.
If that’s the case, you need to really do your research on the facility.
Choose a Reputable Laser Tattoo Removal Facility
We’ve completed over 500,000 tattoo removal sessions in our 15 years in business between Austin and San Antonio, and it is our professional recommendation to avoid laser treatment on permanent makeup. However, we know that people will ultimately make the decision they feel is best for themselves. If you must seek out a laser clinic and find a facility that says they can remove your permanent makeup, then you should insist on seeing before and after pictures.
Make sure that the before and after pictures you’re shown are from the clinic, and the laser technicians at that clinic, as many clinics often show before and after images provided by their laser company. We also have a helpful blog with a straightforward guide on how to tell if a laser clinic is safe or not.
Call the Tattoo Removal Specialists Today!
Want to speak with an experienced professional about the type of eyebrow ink you have? Or do you have questions about our experience or our lasers? Schedule your FREE consultation and get in touch with MEDermis Laser Clinics today by calling our Austin clinic at 512-637-5277, the San Antonio clinic at 210-402-4030, or by filling out our online contact form.