FAQs

WHAT IS SALINE REMOVAL?

Saline removal is a gentle and effective method for lightening or removing unwanted permanent makeup. It works by implanting a saline-based solution into the skin, which lifts pigment to the surface as the area heals. This method is particularly helpful for targeting stubborn or tricky pigments—such as reds, oranges, or white-based tones that lasers sometimes can’t fully break down. It’s also commonly used on more sensitive areas, like the brows, and is suitable for a wide range of skin tones.

PICO LASER: A POWERFUL, HIGH-TECH OPTION

Pico laser removal is an advanced and highly effective approach, especially for cosmetic tattoos. It uses ultra-short pulses of laser energy to shatter pigment into tiny particles, allowing the body to naturally clear them away. Pico technology is known for being faster and more precise than traditional lasers, with minimal heat and downtime. It works especially well on darker pigments (like black and brown), and is often ideal for newer permanent makeup or deeper pigment saturation.

Neoderma Center - Anaheim, CA
Tattoo Removers - Sherman Oaks, CA

WHICH ONE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Both saline and pico laser have their benefits—it all depends on your unique skin type, the pigment used, the age and depth of your permanent makeup, and your goals. In some cases, a combination of both methods can provide the best results. During a consultation, we’ll assess your brows and recommend the approach that’s safest and most effective for you.

HOW DOES SALINE REMOVAL WORK?

1. Saline solution is implanted into the skin using traditional equipment (machine, needles, etc) used in the tattooing process. The solution contains finely milled sea salt, purified water, lemon seed extract, orange seed extract, and aloe. 

2. The lightening solution creates a scab over the tattooed area causing them to naturally scab off as the skin is healing. Saline Removal works on the theory of "Osmosis".

3. During the healing process the unwanted pigment attaches to the scab and is effectively pulled out and out by the scab. 

4. The healing is a natural process which requires the scab to be kept dry at all times until it falls off naturally.

5. The process can be repeated if necessary to remove any remaining pigment. 

6. To achieve full lightening it can require 3-5 sessions, possibly more. "Lightening" pulls out pigment layer by layer, which means the more times pigment has been placed in the area, more sessions will be required to pull it out. 

7. In some cases, "partial lightening" is all that is required, one session may be all it takes.

HOW MANY SESSIONS DO I NEED?

The number of sessions required depends on several factors including skin type, the depth of the pigment implanted, age of the tattoo, the type of tattoo pigment used and what expected goal.

DOES IT HURT?

It varies with every client but numbing is applied prior to the lightening process.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

Approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR THE SCAB TO FALL OFF?

Healing generally takes about 7–10 days after treatment, but this can vary from client to client.

WHAT DOES THE AFTERCARE LOOK LIKE?

You’ll need to keep the area completely dry for 10–12 days, or until the scabs have naturally fallen off. Once the scabbing phase is complete, you may begin applying Vitamin E oil to help moisturize the skin, support healing, reduce the appearance of scarring, and soothe any lingering sensitivity. For more info on aftercare, please see below.

CAN EMERGENCY REMOVALS BE DONE?

Yes, within 48 hours after receiving the service. We recommend to apply a thick layer of Vaseline prior to the appointment.

WILL IT AFFECT MY BROW HAIR?

No, hair will not be affected. Picking the scab attached to the hair can not only pull the hair but can cause scarring. We advise clients to leave the treated area to heal naturally. Following aftercare is crucial.

WHEN CAN I MICROBLADE/TATTOO MY BROWS?

We recommend waiting at least 2-3 months after your final saline or laser removal session before booking a new permanent makeup appointment. This allows your skin to fully heal both on the surface and beneath, ensuring the best possible results for your new brows.

Proper healing time helps prevent poor pigment retention, uneven healing, and skin sensitivity. Healing timelines can vary depending on your skin type, how many removal sessions you’ve had, and how your skin responded to treatment. During a follow-up consultation, we’ll assess your skin and let you know when it’s safe to move forward.

ARE THERE CONTRAINDICATIONS?

• Pregnant or Nursing

• Accutane used in the past year

• Prone to keloids or scarring

• Vitiligo

• Diabetic

• Chemotherapy

• Autoimmune Diseases

• Viral Infections/Disease

• Sick (cold, flu, etc.)

• Skin Conditions such as Psoriasis, Eczema, Dermatitis, Rash or Sunburns on or around the treated area

SALINE REMOVAL AFTERCARE

Days 1–2:

• Keep the area clean and completely dry.

• Gently blot any lymph fluid with a clean tissue to help prevent thick scabbing.

Days 3–7:

• A light scab will form—this is a normal part of the healing process.

• Do not pick, scratch, or rub the scabs. Let them fall off naturally to avoid irritation, scarring, or pigment retention.

After Scabs Fall Off (usually around Days 7–10):

• You can begin applying a small amount of Vitamin E oil once a day to keep the area hydrated, promote healing, and support skin recovery.

• Avoid sun exposure and active skincare products on the treated area for at least two weeks.

Important Reminders:

• Avoid water, sweating, makeup, facials, and brow treatments until the area is fully healed.

• Healing times vary from person to person—be patient and gentle with your skin!