Microblading can create fuller, more defined eyebrows by adding fine, hair-like strokes to the skin. Although the results aren’t designed to last forever, pigment can sometimes remain visible for much longer than expected – and it doesn’t always fade evenly.
Perhaps your brows have changed colour, the shape no longer suits you, or you’re considering having them redone. Whatever your reason, microblading removal may be an option for reducing unwanted pigment.
Laser treatment can be used for some microbladed brows, but cosmetic pigments can behave differently from traditional tattoo inks. Here’s what you should know before considering treatment.
Why Doesn’t Microblading Always Fade Away?
Microblading is often described as semi-permanent because the pigment gradually fades. However, this doesn’t mean it will completely disappear within a particular timeframe.
How long it remains visible can be influenced by the pigment used, its depth, previous top-ups and individual skin characteristics. As pigment fades, its appearance can also change, with some brows developing warmer or cooler tones over time.
This can lead some people to consider removal rather than continuing to wait for the pigment to fade naturally.
Why Do People Have Microblading Removed?
There are several reasons you might consider microblading removal. The shape or style may no longer suit you, the pigment may have faded unevenly or changed colour, or previous top-ups may have left the brows darker than you would like.
You may also want to change your brow shape or reduce the existing pigment before having a new cosmetic brow treatment. In these circumstances, complete removal isn’t necessarily the goal.
Can Microblading Be Removed with Laser?
Some microblading pigments may be suitable for laser removal.
Laser treatment delivers energy that is absorbed by pigment within the skin, breaking it into smaller particles. The body can then gradually process the fragmented pigment, allowing the microblading to fade over time.
However, microblading pigments can contain mixtures of different colours and ingredients. They therefore don’t necessarily respond to laser energy in the same way as conventional tattoo ink.
An individual assessment is important before determining whether laser treatment may be appropriate.
Can Microblading Change Colour During Laser Removal?
This is an important consideration when treating cosmetic brow pigments.
Some pigments can undergo a colour change when exposed to laser energy. A pigment that appears brown, for example, may contain other colours that become more visible as different components respond to treatment.
This can affect how the removal process progresses and may influence subsequent treatments.
Because the exact composition of cosmetic pigment isn’t always known, a test patch is always performed before treating the full brow. This allows the response of both the pigment and skin to be assessed first.
Removing Microblading vs Lightening It
Microblading removal doesn’t always mean trying to eliminate every visible trace of pigment.
If you’re planning to have your brows redone, lightening the existing pigment may provide greater flexibility when choosing a new shape or colour. Alternatively, you may simply want to make unwanted or discoloured microblading less noticeable.
Your desired outcome can be discussed before treatment so that this can be considered when planning your course.
How Long Does Microblading Removal Take?
Microblading removal is a gradual process, and the number of treatments required varies between individuals.
Factors such as the pigment’s colour, composition and depth, the amount present and previous top-ups can all influence how it responds. Time is also left between laser sessions to allow the skin to recover and the treated pigment to continue fading.
For this reason, an exact number of sessions cannot be guaranteed before treatment begins.
Is Microblading the Same as an Eyebrow Tattoo?
Not quite. Microblading traditionally uses a handheld tool to create individual, hair-like strokes. Cosmetic eyebrow tattoo techniques such as powder and ombré brows, however, are generally created using a machine to produce a more shaded effect.
Differences in application and pigment can influence the removal process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Microblading Removal
Will microblading eventually disappear on its own?
Microblading is designed to fade, but how quickly and completely this happens varies. Some residual pigment can remain visible for longer than anticipated, particularly following multiple treatments or top-ups.
Can old microblading be removed?
Older microblading may be suitable for laser treatment, but age is only one consideration. The pigment, colour, depth and condition of the skin will also need to be assessed.
Do I need to remove all my microblading before having it redone?
Not necessarily. Depending on your existing brows and the new treatment you’re considering, sufficient lightening may be the goal rather than complete removal. Always speak to your SPMU artist for their recommendations.
Can red or orange microblading be treated?
Cosmetic pigments can contain several colours and may respond differently to laser treatment. Red, orange and other residual tones therefore need to be assessed individually.
Can I have new microblading after laser removal?
A new cosmetic brow treatment may be possible once the area has appropriately recovered. Timing and suitability will depend on your skin, previous treatments and the procedure you’re considering. Your SPMU artist will be able to advise further.
Considering Laser Microblading Removal?
If your microblading has faded unevenly, changed colour or simply no longer gives you the brows you want, laser microblading removal may be an option for reducing the remaining pigment.
At Dr.Derme in Edgbaston, we offer laser treatment for suitable unwanted microblading, whether you want to reduce its appearance or lighten your brows ahead of a future cosmetic treatment.
As cosmetic pigments can respond differently to laser energy, your brows will need to be assessed before treatment to determine whether laser removal may be suitable. Book a consultation today to discuss your microblading removal options.
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