What is Microblading?
Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic procedure used to enhance or reshape the eyebrows. It involves using a small handheld tool with ultra-fine needles to manually deposit pigment into the upper layers of the skin, mimicking the appearance of natural eyebrow hairs. Microblading can deliver beautifully defined, symmetrical brows, but in some cases, outcomes that aren’t as expected. In these instances, patients choose to remove microblading due to issues with color, shading, or placement.
Which Lasers Work Best to Remove Microblading?
Because microblading is essentially a superficial tattoo, laser tattoo removal is the most effective method for eliminating unwanted microblading. Board certified dermatologist Dr. Lisa Ishii finds the most effective lasers to be the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser, Q-switched Alexandrite laser or picosecond lasers. These lasers work by breaking down the pigment particles into tiny fragments that your body can naturally eliminate. Of the three, picosecond lasers are generally considered the most advanced and effective for microblading removal. However, Q-switched lasers may still be suitable in certain cases, depending on the pigment type, skin tone, and tattoo depth. At Aesthetic Solutions, we pick the laser (or combination of lasers) best suited for you at a consultation.
What Can I Expect During the Removal Process?
Before treatment begins, the area is numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure comfort. For some treatment areas, like permanent eyeliner, a metal corneal shield is placed in the eye for protection. During treatment, you may feel a light snapping sensation—similar to a rubber band hitting the skin. The treated ink will temporarily turn white for a few hours before fading into more of a bruised appearance. The treated area may become flaky or crusty, and in some cases, small blisters may form—both are normal parts of the healing process. Over the following 6–8 weeks, your body will work to clear away the fragmented pigment. At that point, you’ll return for the next session, if needed.
Some permanent makeup contains multiple pigment types. When exposed to laser energy, these pigments can oxidize and change color. If this occurs, your provider will adjust the laser settings to match the new pigment tone and continue treatment safely.
Will Laser Removal Damage My Natural Brow Hair?
No. Tattoo removal lasers are designed to target pigment in the skin—not hair follicles. While brow hairs in the treatment area may become slightly brittle or lighter in color temporarily, the hair follicles remain unharmed, and normal regrowth will resume.
If you are interested in Microblading Removal in the Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill area, contact our office for more information on treatment.
