Looking for the best eyebrow tattoo removal process….and costs? There are several reasons why people choose to have their eyebrow tattoos removed. For some, it’s health issues. Others are just dissatisfied with the outcome. Still, others may feel they simply don’t work with one’s personal needs or lifestyle anymore. Whatever the reason, tattoo removal is a difficult process. It can be time-consuming and expensive and comes with its own set of potential problems. We cover the best and most effective methods of how to remove eyebrow tattoo below.
Be Aware
Results may vary in terms of effectiveness. Tattoo removal is possible much of the time. If not, it can only be lightened or faded. Also remember, a proper eyebrow tattoo uses semi-permanent ink that naturally fades over time and needs touching up about once a year. This is not the same as a tattoo in a regular tattoo parlor with permanent ink. Regular tattoos use many of these techniques as well. They are not specified only for the removal of cosmetic makeup. The information provided is to help you discuss your options with your health advisor and certified permanent cosmetic professional (CPCP). Here is a full list of methods for the eyebrow tattoo removal process. Make sure to discuss them before deciding to go ahead with it.
Laser Tattoo Removal
The most well-known method is laser tattoo removal. In the past, CO2 lasers were used. Today’s removal techniques usually involve using either the Nd: YAG, Alexandrite, or Q-Switched lasers, which findings have shown are far less likely to discolor and/or damage the skin. Unfortunately, drawbacks with laser removal do exist. The laser treatment is first of all expensive. The average price per session is $150 and can take anywhere from 8-12 sessions. The cost to remove some tattoos can be upwards of $2000 or more in severe cases. This is exorbitant considering it probably only cost you about $350 to get the tattooed eyebrows in the first place. Also, lasers can only recognize certain colors and can fade your tattoos to grey. This may leave the skin too light (called an echo) to remove the remainder of the tattoo.
The waiting period between laser removal sessions is, on average, four (4) weeks. This eyebrow tattoo removal process can take up to ten treatments to complete. It will depend on the patient’s age, health history, color, type, and amount of ink used.
Glycolic Acid Eyebrow And The Eyebrow Tattoo Removal Process
Glycolic acid peels are popular. The process involves removing the top layers of skin with an acidic cocktail. After its applied, it causes the dead skin to slough and peels off. Over time, new skin regrows in its place, and after several sessions, the tattoo lightens. Only have a certified professional do the procedure in a fully authorized facility. This is especially important when working with tattooed eyebrows, because, for obvious reasons, you should never ever risk damage to your eyes.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion was used prior to the use of lasers. As an actual surgical procedure, it must be performed by a certified professional. It involves the wearing away of several skin layers using specialized tools such as crystals, brushes, diamonds, and sandpaper. The procedure does require anesthesia and includes risks of profuse bleeding, scarring, and infection. Dermabrasion is becoming rarer for eyebrow tattoo removal, and tattoo removal in general, because of advances in other technologies. As a result, fewer specialists exist, but the cost is still comparatively low. Before you choose Dermabrasion, do your research about the quality of the doctor.
Clay Tattoo Removal
Fuller’s clay was originally created as a means of pulling heavy oil out of sheep’s wool. It has a high magnesium oxide content which is used as an affordable and effective tattoo color extractor. It’s mixed into a paste with lemon juice and spread over the tattooed area. The bleaching qualities of the clay diminish the pigment intensity over time. This technique requires repeated use for several months as the pigment slowly fades. Like other methods, Fuller’s clay might do a great job fading the tattoo, but might not remove it completely. Costing around $10.00 a pound, Fuller’s clay is an easy option. A certified specialist be present when applying any materials onto the eyebrows (so close to the eyes).
Saline Tattoo Removal And The Eyebrow Tattoo Removal Process
A safe and successful method of eyebrow tattoo removal is saline tattoo removal. The procedure (also done by a certified professional) is almost identical to permanent makeup application. A saltwater/saline solution is injected into the brow area. Ink is then lifted and extracted out of the skin. Unlike other means of tattoo removal, the skin stays intact. As a result its much less painful than others. Also, fewer treatments are necessary to achieve desired results. Waiting periods between sessions are about 4-6 weeks and cost is around $200 for both eyebrows.
Tattoo Removal Creams
Professionals use cream extensively to help with the eyebrow tattoo removal process. They are also effective in extracting all colors and not just darker shades. They do this simply by lifting the pigment up through the skin. Pigment is lifted when a scab form and is then exfoliated. Treatments are usually scheduled every 30 or so days until the ink completely fades. These sessions cost an average of $80 per session. The number of sessions needed depends on how the tattoo responds to removal. It also matters how light you want it to be.
Many of these creams contain trichloroacetic acid, also known as TCA. Chemical peels also use TCA. If not used properly this chemical can cause blindness. So again, it is essential to only have them applied with a professional specialist present. They should also help assist you in deciding if any of these products are right for you and your goals. Using creams can require patience, as some of them may take months to lighten your tattoos. Be sure to ask your specialist about these quality brands:
INVASIVE SURGERY
For many obvious reasons, this is the least desirable method for how to remove eyebrow tattoo. It should only be considered a last resort. Conditions for invasive surgery might only be applicable under extreme circumstances, such as the realization of cancer, for example. Invasive surgery also carries the risks of painful recovery, scarring, infection, deformities, and sometimes even death.
Eyebrow Tattoo Removal Process: Alternatives
Some don’t have the time, money, or desire, to go through the eyebrow tattoo removal process. This is a list of basic alternatives that might be more helpful.
- Allow For Natural Regrowth – One alternative to the invasive procedure of removal (if it’s possible), is to simply allow your eyebrow hair to regrow and fill in the pigment that’s not wanted anymore. This is a surprisingly effective solution for those who overly tweeze, wax, and thread their eyebrows. The best part though is that it’s simple and free! Regrowth can take up to three months, and if certain tattooed areas remain, removal treatment can focus just on those specific areas rather than the whole brow.
- Change Color And Shape-Another alternative option is to add more modification to the shape or the color of the tattooed eyebrow. Especially if hair is sparse and can’t or won’t grow back. Adding lighter pigments and altering the shape with additional tattooing can fool the eye and bring a more satisfying result.
- Camouflage Color – Of all alternative methods, camouflage color, is the least effective and least recommended. In effect, tattoo flesh-colored inks cover darker pigments to lighten and cover them up. This may seem logical and easy, but it simply fades your existing tattoo and prevents removal with a laser.
Recovery And Aftercare
Recovery and aftercare in many respects is similar to that of permanent makeup application. The eyebrow tattoo removal process might require topical anesthetic. After it wears off, it is important to keep the removal areas clean and dry. Scabbing and shedding will occur naturally. This process will probably take approximately 10 days for each session to recover properly. Be sure to follow your removal specialist’s instructions carefully to help minimize the risk of adverse effects. Be sure to stay out of the direct sunlight and don’t use tanning beds. Don’t damage or scratch the skin, this could cause infection and scarring. The more you can leave the skin to heal on its own, the better. Moisturize the skin with Healing ointment such as Aquaphor. You can also find more detailed aftercare suggestions here.
Success Rates And Eyebrow Tattoo Removal Process
Determining the success of the eyebrow tattoo removal process will depend on several factors. They include the type of ink and color used. The most extractable are Black, blue, red, and orange. Lighter colors like yellow, flesh color (used in camouflage color), and white, are much more difficult to extract and have a limited removal success rate. Before a removal procedure, have a review of your complete medical history. Overall health helps determine success, but other factors, such as skin tone, immune deficiencies, and pregnancy can limit measuring outcomes.