How Painful Is Permanent Makeup Laser Removal?

So you're thinking about laser removal for your permanent makeup. Maybe your microblading has faded unevenly, or those brows just aren't working for you anymore. The first question everyone asks? "How much is this going to hurt?"

Let's talk about it honestly.

What Does It Actually Feel Like?

It stings. Some people compare it to having a hot pin touch your skin quickly, over and over. Each pulse is a split second, but you'll feel it.

The discomfort level depends on your pain tolerance. What feels like a 3 out of 10 to one person might feel like a 6 to someone else.

Do We Use Numbing Cream?

Unfortunately, the laser penetrates deeper than where the numbing cream would actually affect so it's pointless to use. Instead we use a cooling gel before and ice packs afterwards to reduce any inflammation.

Why You Might Need Removal

Microblading was everywhere a few years ago, and lots of people loved the results at first. But over time, those hair-like strokes can blur together, fade to strange colors, or just stop matching your style. That's when removal starts making sense.

Maybe you want to correct uneven shape or color. Or maybe you're ready for something more natural looking, like nano or 3D brows, but the old pigment is in the way. Laser removal gives you a clean slate to work with.

Why Permanent Makeup Removal Takes Time

Permanent makeup is supposed to be in the upper dermal layer of your skin. It's common for inexperienced artists to go deeper into the dermal layer, which is why it can take multiple sessions to clear everything out. Laser removal works by breaking up those pigments so your body can naturally absorb them. This happens gradually over several sessions, usually spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart.

Each session typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes. You might need anywhere from 3 to 6 treatments for complete removal, though some people see the results they want sooner.

What Happens During Your Session

We clean the area, set our machine based on the target color and your skin tone, throw on some safety glasses and then do a test spot. Once you're comfortable, we'll use the laser in short, controlled pulses over the treatment area. You'll feel each pulse, but it's quick.

Right after, the area might look red or feel warm, like a mild sunburn. That's completely normal and usually calms down within a few hours to a couple of days.

Taking Care of Yourself After Treatment

Your skin needs some gentle care while it heals. Keep the area clean and dry. After 48 hours you can lightly moisturize the area with something mild. Avoid direct sun exposure for about 3 weeks and don't pick at any scabs that form. Your body is doing important work underneath, breaking down those pigments and healing the skin.

Between sessions, you might notice the pigment lightening or changing color. That's exactly what we want to see. It means the laser is doing its job.

Is It Worth It?

That depends on what you're hoping to achieve. If your permanent makeup doesn't make you feel like yourself anymore, removal opens the door to starting fresh. Maybe you want updated brows that better suit your face now. Or maybe you're ready to try a different technique, like nano brows, that gives you more natural looking results.

The discomfort is temporary. The confidence that comes from loving what you see in the mirror? That sticks around.

Your Questions Answered

Can I get new permanent makeup right after removal?
Not immediately. Your skin needs time to fully heal, usually 6 weeks or so after the final laser session. But yes, once you're ready, we can create the perfect brows you've been wanting.

Will the laser damage my skin?
When done properly by a trained professional, laser removal is safe. The technology targets the pigment, not your skin tissue.

What if I only want to lighten my permanent makeup, not remove it completely?
That's totally an option. We can work together to lighten the existing pigment enough to create a better base for correction or a fresh look. The color will most likely change though. Brown is made up of 3 primary colors: red, yellow and blue. Because blue is the darkest, we target that first, which will often leave behind just the red and yellow, making orange. So we can lighten your brows and cover up those colors but it's best to just get the ink almost all the way out so there aren't any competing colors to work over.

Let's Figure Out Your Best Option

Permanent makeup removal in Saskatoon isn't something to be anxious about. Yes, there's some discomfort, but it's manageable and it's temporary. What matters more is having someone who knows what they're doing and cares about your results.

At Lashious Studio, we take the time to understand what you want and walk you through every step. Whether you're looking to completely remove old microblading or a shaded brow tattoo for a fresh start with something like nano brows, we're here to help you feel confident again.

Ready to talk about your options? Book a consultation and let's create a plan that works for you.