Powder Brows removal
Want to have your powder brows removed?
The primary motivator for powder brow removal often emerges from dissatisfaction with a new powder brow appearance. This can occur if an inexperienced artist performs the procedure (the most prominent reason), resulting in brows that are too dark, uneven, or simply ill-suited to the client's face. Here is some information that may be useful if you get an idea to have your Powder Brows removed.
“Getting a reactive idea to have your powder brows removed during the healing phase is totally normal. However, it pays off to evaluate, whether the problem is in the brows or in your perception. When going for removal, the method and service provider should be chosen with as much care as your Powder Brow artist.”
In addition to the instances mentioned above, clients seek assistance in correcting an old powder brow tattoo that is too saturated to retouch. Therefore, the recommended action in such cases can be to consider powder brow removal before undertaking a fresh Powder Brows pigmentation process.
Before going for the Powder Brow Removal
Hold on! Newly completed powder brow tattoos can initially appear darker, leading to a moment of temporary shock. It's crucial to understand that there is a healing period post-procedure during which your brows will naturally lighten (often even up to 30%) and also become thinner to a certain extent. Still, in case the shape is uneven and the brows are let us say at different heights, there is a little realistic hope that those will heal to perfection. Nevertheless, it's advisable to wait at least a month before assessing the final results of the treatment.
The Wisdom of Patience and Retouching
Adjusting to your new brow look may take some time, so resist the urge to flood your brow artist with panic messages immediately post-treatment (although most professional artists have experienced that and they usually consult the client so that the client does know what to expect during the healing phase.) Anyhow, unless your powder brows are severely flawed, slight imperfections can typically be rectified at the touch-up session. Remember, the powder brow procedure usually involves two sessions, the second of which is designed to address any aspects of your new brows that you're not pleased with. Also, the rule of thumb (that is based on the laws of physics and logic) is that the brows can be corrected by making them larger and there is no realistic way to make your Powder Brows "a bit thinner," "smaller," or "move" those higher or lower during the retouching procedure.
If dissatisfaction persists, there are methods to fade your brows before you consider full removal. Here are some potential strategies: Disregarding aftercare tips – If you purposefully neglect the advised powder brow aftercare routine, your treatment may be less successful, leading to faster fading. Our 15+ years of experience shows that this does help, but only to a certain degree. Life is also ironic and in very many cases where the clients want the brows to disappear by neglecting all the aftercare advice, they fade off just a little.
Still one can subject their brow pigmentation to water, saltwater, sweat, and sunlight. These elements will influence pigment retention, causing your powder brows to fade more quickly. Utilize fading products and skincare items containing retinol, ascorbic acid or vitamin C, glycolic acids, and salicylic acid. These ingredients accelerate the fading process. Opt for treatments like chemical peels and microdermabrasion to hasten brow fading. However, as said, that is no magic cure and it should be done only in case you are absolutely 100% certain, that the flaw is in the brows, not in your perception of the new look.
Laser removal as the most common option
If your powder brow tattoo remains overly saturated and fading strategies are ineffective, removal is your next option. The most effective removal option is the laser removal procedure. Here are some objective answers to the most common questions about that procedure.
Is Laser Tattoo Removal Painful?
The pain level experienced during tattoo removal parallels that of tattoo application and depends on the depth and intensity of the tattoo. Deeper, stronger brow pigmentation might cause more discomfort during removal. The process often feels like a rubber eraser rubbing against the skin - uncomfortable, pulling, and hot, but generally not excessively painful. The procedure is usually well-tolerated as it lasts for a short duration (1-2 minutes for smaller and lighter brows and up to 20 minutes for larger, heavily pigmented ones). Anesthesia is typically unnecessary, but pain-relieving cream or injections can be used if needed. The situation is greatly more complicated if you have no information whatsoever, on what pigmentation was used during your powder brows procedure, and you are unable to contact the artist for that (i.e. you have got your brows abroad etc). You should keep in mind that you can use ibuprofen or a suitable painkiller post-treatment, and that laser will also singe your brow hair. However, this is not permanent, and the burnt brow hair will regrow.
Can the Powder Brows be entirely removed?
While most laser removal treatment providers say yes, it is still unrealistic to expect that your skin would look like it did before the brow pigmentation procedure. Most probably there is still a shadowy part of the area visible, where the pigmentation was done. However, that depends greately on how much pigment, what sort of pigment (pigmentation or tattoo pigment), and how p did the artist apply. When it comes to laser removal, different wavelengths are used to break down different shades, but since the skin can't be impacted multiple times during one session, multiple procedures are required. The removal of poor-quality ink and some shades might be more complicated, but it's possible with multiple sessions. Only very rarely is complete removal hindered due to the ink, pigment depth, or individual characteristics of the person's skin peculiarities. The fact is that the brows can always be removed absolutely, however, that may just not be a realistic option, because that would also cause severe damage to the skin in the end-game. Thus, all professional laser removal service providers suggest an optimal solution and in most cases, it will result in a removal that allows new Powder Brows to be made later on in the correct way.
How many laser removal procedures are required?
The exact number can't be specified as every individual and every pair of brows differs. During the initial consultation, the aesthetic medicine nurse can estimate how many procedures you might need, but they can't predict how your body will react. Also, it helps a lot when you know (or can look up) the contents of the pigment that was used in your powder brows. Typically, 3-6 procedures suffice, depending on the brows age, size, depth, used colors, pigment particle density, presence of scar tissue, heavy metal consistency in the pigments, and overall health. Some individuals witness dramatic results after the initial session (especially when a high-quality pigmentation pigment was used, and not a tattooing pigment).
What is the Healing Period Post Laser Removal?
Your skin should heal approximately two weeks following laser removal treatment, but it takes several more weeks to recover completely. Therefore, it's advised to wait at least six weeks between laser removal sessions to avoid the risk of scarring. Some side effects, including severe itchiness, swelling, and even small blisters, can be quite uncomfortable during the first 2-3 days post-treatment.
What Does Laser Removal Aftercare Look Like?
For the initial three days, cover the treated area with an antibiotic healing ointment. Avoid makeup or any other unprescribed creams. After the third day, continue treating the area gently, keeping it clean and dry. If advised by your laser removal technician, moisturize the area with Vaseline, Aquaphor, or other recommended moisturizers.
Remember to Protect Your Skin Post laser powder brow removal, it's recommended to shield your skin from the sun. Ensure the area is protected and apply sunblock. Cost of Laser Powder Brow Removal Prices vary, but on average, it costs $150-250 per session depending on the area and service provider.
Apart from laser removal, there are several other methods for removing Permanent Makeup (PMU) eyebrows like Powder Brows. Here's an in-depth look at these alternative methods:
Saline Removal
Saline removal is a natural method for fading permanent makeup. It utilizes a solution containing salt water, which is tattooed into the skin where the pigment exists. This method is particularly suitable for those who prefer a natural approach or those who aren't suitable candidates for laser removal.
Procedure
The process is similar to the original tattooing process. A tattoo machine is used to implant the saline solution into the skin, which gradually lightens the tattoo.
Pain and Healing
While discomfort levels vary, a topical anesthetic is often applied before the procedure to reduce pain. The treated area might be red and swollen post-treatment, with the healing process taking 6-8 weeks.
Effectiveness
Saline removal is effective in lightening most permanent makeup, but several sessions might be required, depending on the age, depth, and type of pigment used in the initial tattooing process.
Considerations
Aftercare is essential, including keeping the area clean and dry, and avoiding direct sun exposure.
Cost
On average it costs $150-250.
Glycolic Acid Removal
Glycolic acid removal is another option for fading permanent makeup. It works by using glycolic acid, a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane, to exfoliate the skin and break down the pigment.
Procedure
A solution containing glycolic acid is applied to the eyebrow area, which penetrates the skin layers and breaks up the pigment particles.
Pain and Healing
The procedure might cause some discomfort or a slight stinging sensation, and the treated area may be red and swollen afterward. The healing process typically takes a few weeks.
Effectiveness
This method is effective in fading permanent makeup, but the results depend on the depth and type of pigment used initially. Several sessions might be required.
Considerations
Post-treatment, the area must be kept clean and dry, and sun exposure should be avoided.
Cost
On average it costs $200.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can also be used to fade permanent makeup, although this method is usually slower and less precise than laser, saline, or glycolic acid removal.
Procedure
A chemical solution is applied to the area, causing the skin to exfoliate and eventually peel off.
Pain and Healing
The procedure might cause mild discomfort, and the healing process can take 1-2 weeks, depending on the strength of the peel.
Effectiveness
The results of chemical peels can vary, and several sessions might be needed to achieve the desired outcome.
Considerations
The treated area may be sensitive to sunlight post-procedure, so sun protection is crucial.
Cost
On average it costs $200.
Remember, it's essential to consult with a certified professional before deciding on a removal method, as they can provide advice based on your skin type, the age of the tattoo, the type of pigment used, and your overall health. Each method has its advantages and considerations, and what works best will depend on the individual.