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2026.07.29
What Is Permanent Makeup Removal? A Simple Explanation of the Expected Results, Benefits, and Drawbacks
Art make-up and tattoo artist from Korea. After studying architectural aesthetics and spatial design at an art college in Japan, she went into art makeup with the sensitivity of an art college graduate and established “Anzy Sukinbrow”. She is a pioneer of natural eyebrows in Japan. She has experience in applying eyebrow treatments in many countries around the world and is also active as an instructor mainly in the U.S., Korea, and Japan. While constantly learning about fast-changing beauty trends, she provides the latest and most suitable treatments as an "artist who connects with the heart," deeply understanding each person's wishes and staying close to each person's life.
Permanent makeup removal involves using a medical-grade laser to fade pigment previously applied to areas such as the eyebrows and lips. Some people consider removal for reasons such as wanting to change the shape of their permanent makeup, being concerned about the color that has faded or changed, or wanting to have a new design applied.
Anzy Jung, who performs permanent makeup procedures at BIANCA CLINIC, explains in simple terms how the removal process works, the changes you can expect, the benefits, and the risks.
What kind of procedure is permanent makeup removal?
Permanent makeup removal is a procedure in which a medical laser is applied to the pigment remaining in the skin to gradually lighten it, depending on the type and depth of the pigment.
A treatment that uses a medical laser to lighten pigmentation
Permanent makeup is a procedure in which pigment is inserted into the superficial layers of the skin to enhance the color and shape of features such as eyebrows, lips, and eyeliner. Although the color fades gradually over time, depending on the type and depth of the pigment used, the color and outline may remain visible even after several years.
In laser permanent makeup removal, light that reacts with the pigment is applied to break down the pigment particles embedded in the skin into tiny fragments. The broken-down pigment is then gradually eliminated through the body’s metabolic processes.
However, it is not always possible to remove all pigmentation in a single treatment. The standard approach is to gradually lighten the pigmentation over several sessions, spacing them out while monitoring the condition of your skin.
The response to laser treatment varies depending on the color, composition, and concentration of the pigment, as well as the depth at which it is embedded. Since the color may temporarily appear darker after treatment or change from brown to orange, it is essential to assess the condition of the pigment before the procedure.
Using the "Picosure" medical picosecond laser
At Bianca Clinic, we use the “PICOSURE®” medical picosecond laser system for permanent makeup removal. A picosecond is a unit of time equal to one trillionth of a second. The PICOSURE® system emits laser energy in an extremely short burst, using shock waves to break down pigment into fine particles.
PicoSure is a device used not only for permanent makeup and tattoo removal but also for treating conditions such as age spots and melasma. It is approved by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) and is used in many clinics for cosmetic dermatology procedures.
Use the two treatment methods appropriately depending on the patient's condition
At Bianca Clinic, we offer both Korean-style permanent makeup removal and permanent makeup removal performed by a physician. While both methods use the PicoSure laser, they differ in terms of the application technique and energy output.
In Korean-style permanent makeup removal, a low-power pico-toning treatment is used. This method is performed without anesthesia, with careful attention paid to minimizing skin irritation. In permanent makeup removal performed by a doctor, a topical anesthetic is applied first, followed by high-power pico-spot treatment. If the pigment does not fade sufficiently with the Korean-style method, we may recommend removal by a doctor.
Removing permanent makeup isn’t simply a matter of applying a strong laser. At Bianca Clinic, we prioritize assessing the type of pigment, how deeply it has settled, and the condition of your skin, and we take care to perform the treatment in stages while minimizing any strain on your skin.
What results can I expect from permanent makeup removal?
With permanent makeup removal, you can gradually lighten any remaining pigment, correct the shape or color, or prepare the skin for a new design.
The main changes you can expect from permanent makeup removal are as follows.
- Lighten the remaining permanent makeup color
- Make color changes caused by fading less noticeable
- Makes it easier to adjust the shape and contours of features such as the eyebrows
- Preparing the base for new permanent makeup
Lightening the Color of Remaining Permanent Makeup
When the laser interacts with the pigment, the pigment particles are broken down into fine fragments and gradually fade over time. Since the final color is not determined immediately after treatment, you must monitor the progress while observing the skin’s recovery and changes in color.
The recommended number of treatment sessions is typically 1 to 5, but this may vary depending on the type, density, and depth of the pigment, as well as the area where it is located. It may not be possible to lighten the pigment to the desired level in a single session. Additionally, it is not always possible to completely remove the pigment. We will determine the extent to which the pigment can be lightened after examining the pigment and your skin condition during your consultation.
Adjust the altered colors and designs
With permanent makeup, certain colors may become more noticeable over time. Additionally, depending on your preferences, changing trends, or changes in your facial features, you may find that the shape you had previously applied no longer looks right.
Lightening existing pigment makes it easier to adjust the color and outline. Another method involves lightening only the outer corners of the eyebrows or parts of the outline to make it easier to incorporate a new design.
On the other hand, laser treatment can cause hidden pigmentation to become visible, making the skin appear temporarily darker. It is important to be informed about the possibility of color changes before undergoing the procedure.
Laying the Groundwork for a New Era of Permanent Makeup
We also get requests like, “I want to lighten my current eyebrows and change them to a new shape.” In this case, it isn’t always necessary to remove all the pigment.
You can keep the parts that overlap with the new design and lighten the areas that extend beyond it or are darker in color. You’ll decide which areas to remove while considering the design you want next.
As a permanent makeup artist, I believe it’s important to look beyond simply lightening the pigment and consider the final result as well. I assess the location and intensity of the existing pigment and develop a treatment plan that takes into account the area needed for the new design, so please feel free to consult with me.
What are the pros and cons of permanent makeup removal?
While permanent makeup removal offers the benefit of making it easier to correct color and shape, it also carries risks such as the need for multiple sessions, changes in color tone, and redness.
Benefits of Permanent Makeup Removal
- You can gradually lighten unwanted pigmentation
- It makes it easier to adjust outdated shapes and color tones
- It makes it easier to consider new permanent makeup designs
- The treatment method can be adjusted based on pigmentation and skin condition
With laser removal, the treatment area and application method can be adjusted while monitoring the condition of the pigment. One advantage is that it’s easy to create a treatment plan tailored to your specific goals, such as lightening only a portion of the eyebrows or tidying up areas that extend beyond the desired outline.
PicoSure is a device that emits laser energy in extremely short pulses to break down pigment into tiny particles. It allows for treatment while minimizing the impact of heat on the skin.
At Bianca Clinic, we first perform a low-intensity Korean-style permanent makeup removal treatment, and then proceed in stages based on the condition of your skin—for example, recommending removal by a doctor depending on how much pigment remains.
Disadvantages of Permanent Makeup Removal
- Sometimes it doesn't lighten to the desired shade in a single treatment.
- Redness, swelling, or a stinging sensation may occur.
- The pigmentation may appear temporarily darker.
- The color of the pigment may change.
Permanent makeup pigments may contain multiple ingredients, so it may not be possible to fully predict the resulting color after laser treatment. Depending on the pigment, it may not be completely removed with a single treatment, and it cannot be ruled out that a different color may become noticeable.
In addition, redness or mild swelling may occur after the treatment. Since the severity and duration of these symptoms vary from person to person, it is important to monitor your skin condition as you recover.
After the treatment, please avoid rubbing the treated area vigorously. Wash your face and apply skincare products gently, and be sure to moisturize thoroughly and protect your skin from UV rays.
The timing for resuming makeup application and bathing may vary depending on the treatment method and the condition of your skin. Please follow the aftercare instructions provided after your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
We answer your questions about permanent makeup removal—including the lasers used, pain levels, treatment duration, and scarring—so you can be informed before your procedure.
Q. What laser device do you use to remove permanent makeup?
A. At Bianca Clinic, we use the “PICOSURE®” medical picosecond laser. We assess the remaining pigment and the condition of your skin, and adjust the output and treatment method accordingly for both Korean-style permanent makeup removal and removal performed by a physician.
Q. How painful is permanent makeup removal?
A. The level of pain experienced varies from person to person. Korean-style permanent makeup removal is performed without anesthesia, while removal performed by a doctor uses topical anesthesia; however, if you are concerned about pain, please consult with us. You may feel a sensation similar to being snapped by a rubber band.
Q. How long does it take to remove permanent makeup?
A. A single treatment may not be sufficient; multiple sessions may be required, with breaks in between to allow the skin time to recover. The recommended number of treatments is typically between 1 and 5, but this varies depending on the type, intensity, and depth of the pigmentation.
Q. What precautions should I take to avoid complications when removing permanent makeup?
A. It is important to choose a treatment method after assessing the type and depth of pigmentation, as well as the condition of your skin. Be sure to ask for a detailed explanation in advance regarding the possibility that the pigmentation may appear darker or change color after the treatment.
Q. Is there a risk of scarring from permanent makeup removal?
A. There is almost no risk of scarring. However, hyperpigmentation may occur due to intense light exposure, friction after the procedure, or inflammation. After the procedure, it is important not to rub the treated area and to moisturize the skin and protect it from UV rays.
More than just removal—permanent makeup removal that takes the next design into account
Permanent makeup removal is a procedure that uses medical-grade lasers to gradually lighten the pigment remaining in the skin.
While this makes it easier to adjust the shape and color, there is a possibility that multiple treatments will be required, as well as risks such as redness, swelling, and changes in skin tone.
The key is not simply to remove the tattoo ink. It is necessary to assess the current condition of the tattoo and your skin, and to decide on the area to be removed and the method to be used while considering what design you would like to have next.
At BIANCA CLINIC, we assess the type of pigment and its depth of penetration, and propose a treatment plan that combines Korean-style permanent makeup removal with medical removal performed by a physician, depending on your specific needs. If you are concerned about the shape or color of your permanent makeup, please schedule a consultation to discuss your options.
▶Bianca Clinic's Permanent Makeup Removal Treatment Page
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