Permanent Makeup Removal in Los Angeles: Saline, Glycolic & Laser Options Explained
- Microblading Los Angeles
- Jan 10
- 5 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
By Microblading Los Angeles & Microblading Newport Beach
Permanent makeup has evolved beautifully—but so has permanent makeup removal.
If you’re searching for permanent makeup removal in Los Angeles, choosing the right method is just as important as choosing the right artist. From outdated microblading to color-shifted brows, professional PMU removal allows clients throughout Los Angeles, West LA, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica to safely lighten, correct, or fully remove unwanted pigment.
At Microblading Los Angeles, we specialize in non-laser permanent makeup removal, including saline and glycolic-based methods designed to preserve skin integrity while preparing brows for beautiful future results.
This guide breaks down:
All major PMU removal methods
Differences between saline, glycolic, and laser removal
What to expect during healing
How many sessions are typically required
The best timing for removal
How different pigment types react
Aftercare best practices
Why Do Clients in Los Angeles Seek Permanent Makeup Removal?
Permanent makeup removal is not always about regret. Many Los Angeles clients seek removal because:
Pigment has faded unevenly
Brows have turned ashy, gray, red, or orange
Previous work was too dark or too saturated
Shape or placement is no longer flattering
They want a fresh start before a new PMU procedure
Old microblading is blocking new Nano or Powder Brow work
In many cases, partial removal or lightening is all that’s needed before a correction.
Types of Permanent Makeup Removal Methods
1. Saline Removal
(Non-Laser Tattoo Removal Los Angeles)
Saline removal is one of the safest and most widely recommended PMU removal methods, especially for eyebrows.
How it works:
A sterile saline solution is implanted into the skin using a PMU device
Saline binds to pigment and draws it upward through osmosis
Pigment lifts and exits the skin as scabbing naturally forms and sheds
Best for:
Microblading
Powder brows
Nano brows
Organic, inorganic, and hybrid pigments
Clients planning future PMU corrections
Pros:
✔ Safe for all skin tones
✔ No risk of laser color shifting
✔ Works on all pigment types
✔ Can be used on brows, lips, eyeliner
✔ Ideal for partial lightening
Cons:
⚠Requires patience and multiple sessions
⚠ Visible scabbing during healing
2. Glycolic Acid–Based Removal
(Non-Laser Tattoo Removal Los Angeles)
Glycolic removal uses fruit-derived alpha hydroxy acids to break down pigment and encourage skin regeneration.
How it works:
Glycolic solution is implanted into the skin
Acid exfoliates and loosens pigment particles
Pigment lifts during the healing cycle
Best for:
Stubborn saturation
Older PMU
Clients needing more aggressive lightening than saline alone
Pros:
✔ Effective on dense pigment
✔ Faster lightening for some cases
Cons:
⚠ Higher irritation potential
⚠ Requires expert application
⚠ Not ideal for sensitive skin
At our Los Angeles Permanent Makeup studio, glycolic removal is only used selectively when appropriate.
3. Laser Tattoo Removal for Brows
Laser removal breaks pigment apart using light energy so the body can metabolize it.
Important note: Laser removal is not always ideal for eyebrows.
Risks include:
Red, orange, or yellow color shifts
Brow hair damage or loss
Incomplete removal of cosmetic pigments
Multiple costly sessions
Laser may be suitable for very dark organic pigments, but is often avoided for cosmetic brows unless carefully evaluated.
4. Other Removal Methods (Use with Caution)
Some methods exist but are less commonly recommended:
Chemical peels (risk of scarring)
Manual abrasion
DIY removers (❌ never recommended)
Professional evaluation is critical before choosing any removal method.
Understanding Pigment Types & How They React to Removal
Inorganic Pigments
Iron-oxide based
Fade more predictably
Often turn gray or ashy over time
Respond well to saline removal
Can turn red or orange with laser
Organic Pigments
Carbon-based
More vibrant and saturated
Fade slower
Can be harder to remove fully
Often lighten gradually over multiple saline sessions
Hybrid Pigments
Blend of organic and inorganic
Most modern PMU pigments
Removal results vary depending on formulation
Pigment type directly affects session count, healing, and final outcome.
When Is the Best Time to Get Permanent Makeup Removal?
Timing matters.
Ideal candidates typically have:
At least 30–70% pigment remaining
Fully healed PMU (minimum 6–8 weeks old)
No active infections, irritation, or skin trauma
If pigment is already very faded (under 20%), removal may not be necessary and correction work may be possible instead.
A professional consultation determines whether removal, lightening, or correction is the best next step.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
Session count varies based on:
Pigment depth and type
Skin regeneration speed
Removal method used
Client aftercare compliance
Typical ranges:
Saline removal: 2–6 sessions
Glycolic removal: 1–4 sessions
Laser removal: 3–10+ sessions
Sessions are spaced 6–8 weeks apart to allow full skin recovery.
What to Expect During Healing
Healing timeline:
Redness & swelling: 24–48 hours
Scabbing forms: Days 3–7
Scabs shed naturally: Days 7–14
Skin continues regenerating for weeks
Important: Never pick scabs—this can cause pigment retention or scarring.
Permanent Makeup Removal Aftercare
Proper aftercare ensures the best pigment lifting and skin health.
Aftercare includes:
Keep area clean and dry
Avoid sweating, steam, and sun exposure
No makeup or skincare on treated area until healed
Use only recommended healing products
Avoid swimming and saunas for 7–10 days
Your provider at Microblading Los Angeles will supply custom aftercare instructions based on the removal method used.
Can You Get New Brows After Removal?
Yes—and often with better results.
Removal allows:
✔ Correct shape placement
✔ True color selection
✔ Improved symmetry
✔ Cleaner healed results
Many clients in Los Angeles choose Nano Brows or Powder Brows after removal for a softer, longer-lasting finish.
Why Choose Professional PMU Removal?
Permanent makeup removal is a specialized skill, not a one-size-fits-all service. At our studios, every removal plan is customized to:
Skin type
Pigment chemistry
Future PMU goals
Long-term skin integrity
Book a Permanent Makeup Removal Consultation
Ready to Correct or Remove Old PMU? Book a professional Permanent Makeup Removal Consultation in Los Angeles and receive a personalized plan based on your pigment type, skin, and future brow goals.
👉 Schedule Your Los Angeles Consultation
📍 Microblading Los Angeles📍 Microblading Newport Beach
Call or text: 310-970-4569 or Book online anytime.
Introducing Tinted Liquid’s Elite Permanent Cosmetics Studios
Tinted Liquid proudly offers top-tier microblading and permanent cosmetics at our two premier locations: Microblading Los Angeles and Microblading Newport Beach. Renowned for precision, artistry, and natural-looking results, our expert artists enhance brows, lips, eyes, scalp and skin with customized techniques tailored to each client. Whether in the heart of LA or the luxury of Newport Beach, experience the highest standard in permanent beauty.
Get in Touch
West LA / Santa Monica Location: 12340 Santa Monica blvd, suite 136 Los Angeles Ca, 90025
OC Location: 714 Adams Ave Suite 202, Huntington Beach Ca, 92648
Email: tinted.liquid@gmail.com
Contact number: 310-970-4569
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tinted.liquid/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Tinted_Liquid
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