Quick answer: Microblading removal with laser uses short pulses of light to break up the pigment in cosmetic tattoos, so your body can clear it over the following weeks. Because microblading ink sits shallower and uses less pigment than a body tattoo, many brows fade significantly in about 2 to 5 sessions, spaced about 6 to 8 weeks apart. Some permanent makeup inks contain iron oxide, titanium dioxide or skin-tone shades that can darken after the first treatment, so a test spot is often the safest first step. Eye protection is essential for brow treatments. At Oxygen Med Spa in Orland Park, every plan starts with a free tattoo assessment. Call (708) 229-8800 or book your free assessment!

Licensed professionals · Medical-grade laser technology · Free tattoo assessment · Cosmetic tattoos and brows treated

Microblading and permanent makeup are meant to save time every morning. But brow trends change, color can shift to red, orange or gray as it fades, and some results simply do not match what you hoped for. Maybe the shape is uneven, the color is too dark or the strokes have blurred. Laser removal is one of the most effective ways to fade or remove unwanted cosmetic tattoos. Because these tattoos sit on the face and use different inks than body tattoos, they need extra care. This guide explains how laser removal works on microblading and permanent makeup, the safety checks that matter, how many sessions to expect and what results look like.

This guide goes with our laser tattoo removal service. For general session counts, read How Many Sessions Does Tattoo Removal Take?

Unhappy with your brows? Your free assessment tells you what is possible and how many sessions to expect. Call (708) 229-8800!

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How Laser Removal Works on Cosmetic Tattoos

The laser sends very short pulses of light into the skin. The pigment absorbs that energy and breaks into tiny particles. Over the next several weeks, your body’s natural processes clear those particles away, and the brows fade. Each session breaks down more pigment, so results build gradually.

Why Microblading Is Different From a Body Tattoo

FactorMicroblading and permanent makeupBody tattoo
Ink depthUsually shallowerDeeper
Amount of inkFine strokes, less pigmentOften dense, solid fill
Ink typeOften iron oxide or blended cosmetic pigmentsTattoo inks in many colors
Risk of darkeningHigher with some cosmetic pigmentsLower, except with white and skin-tone inks
LocationFace, close to the eyesBody
Typical sessionsOften fewerOften more

Safety Checks Before Treatment

  • Eye protection: Brow treatments are close to the eyes, so protective eyewear or eye shields are essential.
  • Test spot: A small test area shows how your pigment reacts, especially if it may contain iron oxide, titanium dioxide or skin-tone shades.
  • Ink history: Tell your provider about every session you have had, including color corrections and touch-ups.
  • Skin and health review: Your provider checks your skin type, recent sun exposure, medications and healing history.
  • Healed skin: Recent microblading or touch-ups need to be fully healed before laser treatment.
Why some brows darken first: Some cosmetic pigments change color when hit by the laser and can turn darker or gray before they fade. This is called paradoxical darkening. It is why a test spot and an experienced provider matter so much with permanent makeup.

Number of Sessions

SituationTypical sessions
Light microblading, faded strokesAbout 2 to 3
Standard microbladingAbout 3 to 5
Powder brows, ombre brows or dense shadingAbout 4 to 8
Multiple layers or color correctionsAbout 5 to 8 or more
Lightening for a redoOften fewer than full removal

These are general ranges. Your free assessment gives you a personal estimate based on your pigment, layers and skin.

Session Spacing and Healing

  • Spacing: Sessions are usually about 6 to 8 weeks apart, so the skin can heal and your body can clear the pigment.
  • First days: Redness, mild swelling and a frosted look are normal.
  • First week: Light scabbing or flaking can happen. Do not pick at it.
  • Makeup: Avoid brow makeup on the treated area until your provider says it is safe.
  • Sun: Protect the area from the sun between sessions.

Read our laser tattoo removal aftercare guide for more.

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Expected Results

  • Gradual fading: Brows lighten a little more after each session.
  • Color shifts: Brows may look red, orange or gray between sessions before they clear.
  • Full removal or lightening: Many clients aim for full removal. Others only lighten the brows enough for a new artist to redo them.
  • Natural brow hair: Laser energy can sometimes lighten brow hairs or cause temporary shedding. Ask your provider how they protect your natural brows.
  • Patience pays: The most natural results come from following the plan and spacing sessions properly.

Removal Before a Redo

If you want new brows, many artists prefer to work on lightened skin. Fading the old pigment first gives the new artist a clean starting point and better color results. Talk with your artist about how light the old work should be before they redo it.

Other Permanent Makeup Areas

Permanent eyeliner and lip blush are also cosmetic tattoos, but the location and pigments add extra considerations. Eyeliner sits very close to the eye, and lip pigments often include colors that can darken. These areas are assessed case by case at your free assessment, and your provider will tell you whether laser treatment is a safe option for you.

Cost of Microblading Removal

Because brows are small, the price per session is usually lower than for a body tattoo. The total depends on the number of sessions. Read our laser tattoo removal cost guide, see our price by session page and check current offers on our hot deals page.

About Oxygen Med Spa

Oxygen Med Spa offers laser tattoo removal, laser hair removal and advanced skin treatments in Orland Park, Illinois, serving Frankfort, Tinley Park and the southwest suburbs. Our licensed professionals use medical-grade laser technology and tailor every plan to your ink type, skin tone and tattoo age. Visit us at 14360 S LaGrange Rd, Unit D, Orland Park, IL 60462. Learn more about us, see our gallery, or browse all services.

Microblading Removal FAQs

Can a laser remove microblading?

Yes. Laser treatment breaks up cosmetic pigment so your body can clear it. Results build over several sessions.

How many sessions does microblading removal take?

Many brows fade significantly in about 2 to 5 sessions. Powder brows, dense shading or color corrections can take more.

Is laser microblading removal safe?

It is safe when done by trained professionals with proper eye protection and a careful review of your pigment and skin.

Why did my brows get darker after laser?

Some cosmetic pigments, such as those with iron oxide or titanium dioxide, can darken when treated. A test spot helps check for this first.

Will laser removal affect my natural brow hair?

It can sometimes lighten brow hairs or cause temporary shedding. Ask your provider how they protect your natural brows.

How far apart are sessions?

Usually about 6 to 8 weeks apart.

Does microblading removal hurt?

Most people describe a quick snapping feeling. Sessions on brows are short because the area is small.

Can I get new microblading after laser removal?

Yes. Many clients lighten old brows first so a new artist has a clean starting point.

How soon after microblading can I start laser removal?

The skin needs to be fully healed first. Your provider will advise the right timing at your assessment.

Can you remove permanent eyeliner or lip blush?

These areas are assessed case by case, because of their location and pigments. Your provider will tell you whether laser treatment is a safe option.

Is the consultation free?

Yes. Oxygen Med Spa offers a free tattoo assessment with a personal session estimate and quote.

How do I get started?

Call (708) 229-8800 or contact us to book a free assessment in Orland Park.

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Call (708) 229-8800 · 14360 S LaGrange Rd, Unit D, Orland Park, IL 60462 · Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM

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