Removing Permanent Makeup: Saline vs. Laser Tattoo Removal
When it comes to removing unwanted permanent makeup or tattoos, choosing the right method is crucial. Two popular techniques are Saline Tattoo Removal and Laser Tattoo Removal. Both methods have their benefits and drawbacks, making it important to understand the differences to decide which one suits your needs best.
Option A: Saline Tattoo Removal
What to Expect: Saline Tattoo Removal using the Li-FT® Pigment Lightening Solution is a non-laser method that employs a saline-based solution to draw out the pigment from the skin. This technique is ideal for permanent makeup removal, including eyebrows, eyeliner, and lip liner.
Benefits:
1. Gentle Process: Li-FT® solution is less aggressive compared to laser treatments, making it suitable for sensitive facial areas.
2. Effective on All Colors: Including Titanium Dioxide (White), which can be oxidized by lasers and appear yellow/gray.
3. Precision: Ideal for small, detailed areas and permanent makeup corrections.
4. All Skin Types: Safe for all skin types and colors, reducing the risk of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.
5. Emergency Removal: Available at Sun Siren Brow for immediate correction of newly applied permanent makeup.
How It Works:
The Li-FT® Pigment Lightening Solution is tattooed into the skin over the unwanted pigment.
The saline solution creates a controlled scab that helps draw the pigment to the skin's surface.
Over time, the pigment is expelled naturally through the skin's healing process.
Benefits of Li-FT®:
Natural Ingredients: Made from a blend of salt, lemon seed extract, orange seed extract, and aloe.
Effective and Safe: Efficiently breaks down pigment without causing significant damage to the surrounding skin.
Versatile Application: Suitable for removing or lightening permanent makeup on eyebrows, eyeliner, and lip liner.
Areas That Can Be Treated:
Eyebrows: Effective for removing or correcting eyebrow tattoos.
Eyeliner: Suitable for eyeliner removal, though multiple sessions may be needed due to the sensitivity of the area.
Lips: Can be used for lightening or removing lip liner and full lip color (full lip color for emergency only).
Emergency Tattoo Removal: Ideal for immediate correction if the permanent makeup result is unsatisfactory.
Scar or Stretchmark Camouflage: Suitable for removal of previously tattooed scar or stretchmark camouflage or even areola tattoos.
Downtime:
Mild redness and scabbing for 7-10 days.
Avoid makeup and direct sun exposure until scabs have fallen off.
Duration and Sessions:
Sessions last about 30-60 minutes.
Multiple sessions (3-6) are usually required, spaced 8-10 weeks apart.
Is It Worth It?
YES!! Saline removal with Li-FT® is worth considering if you have unwanted permanent makeup that needs correcting or removing. It's a safer option for delicate facial areas and allows for precise corrections. It takes time, patience, and persistence but it will be worth it in the end!
Option B: Laser Tattoo Removal
What to Expect:
Laser Tattoo Removal uses high-intensity laser beams to break down the pigment particles in the tattoo. It’s commonly used for larger body tattoos but can also be highly effective for permanent makeup removal.
Benefits:
1. Effective on All Colors (except White): Modern lasers, such as Q-switched and PicoSure lasers, can remove a wide range of ink colors, including stubborn shades like green and blue which can be mixed into your eye, brow, and lip colors.
2. Quick Treatment: Each session is relatively quick, making it convenient for larger areas.
3. Deep Penetration: Most effective for deeper ink deposits.
How It Works:
The laser emits pulses of light that pass through the skin and are absorbed by the tattoo pigment.
The pigment particles shatter and are gradually eliminated by the body's immune system.
Areas That Can Be Treated:
Eyebrows: Can be effective but requires caution due to hair follicle damage risk.
Eyeliner: Laser can be used but requires protective eye shields and multiple sessions due to the delicate skin.
Lips: Effective for removing lip liner and full lip color*, though swelling and blistering may occur. *Finding a highly skilled laser technician with the appropriate laser to do this is crucial for all areas but especially with the lip membrane.
Body Tattoos: Ideal for larger tattoos and various ink colors.
Downtime:
Redness, swelling, and blistering for a few days to a week.
Scabbing and peeling as the skin heals.
Duration and Sessions:
Sessions last about 10-30 minutes.
Multiple sessions (2-8) are usually required, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
Is It Worth It?
YES! Laser removal is highly effective for larger tattoos and for those seeking to remove a wide range of ink colors. It’s a good option if you need to remove a significant amount of pigment.
Comparing the Two Methods…
Precision and Safety:
Saline Removal with Li-FT®: Preferred for facial areas due to its gentle approach and precision. Emergency removal option available for immediate corrections.
Laser Removal: Effective for larger areas and various ink colors but can be harsher on the skin.
Skin Type Compatibility:
Saline Removal with Li-FT®: Suitable for all skin types and colors.
Laser Removal: Can sometimes cause hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, especially in darker skin tones.
Treatment Duration:
Saline Removal with Li-FT®: May require fewer sessions, especially if the goal is to lighten the tattoo enough to be covered, but needs longer intervals between sessions for healing.
Laser Removal: Typically involves more sessions but each session is quicker.
Downtime and Healing:
Saline Removal with Li-FT®: Involves scabbing and requires careful aftercare to avoid infections and ensure proper healing.
Laser Removal: Involves more immediate redness and swelling but has a faster initial recovery period.
Which is the Best Option For You?
Both Li-FT® Saline Tattoo Removal and Laser Tattoo Removal offer effective solutions for removing unwanted tattoos and permanent makeup. The choice between the two depends on the size and location of the tattoo, skin type, and desired outcome. Honestly, many people do a combination of both. I have referred people for laser removal, but also have had people do several rounds of laser removal then finish with the saline removal option. It’s best to do a consultation with a certified removal specialist for both options to determine the best approach for your specific needs.
By understanding the benefits and differences between these methods, you can make an informed decision and achieve the best results for your skin. Whether you opt for the precision of saline removal or the power of laser treatment, both methods provide pathways to lighten or remove that unwanted permanent makeup!
