Saline Tattoo Removal
Dana Depta • 26 October 2019
Expectations vs Reality

Saline tattoo removal is an excellent way to remove your unwanted tattoo or permanent makeup. It's natural- it's literally salt & water. It's got a few other bits in it, but it's all natural. There are no chemicals, no acids no yucky stuff.
The way that it works is by tattooing the saline solution, into the pigmented area. It's a very concentrated solution, so you won't be able to do this at home. Sorry kiddies. Once the salt has been tattooed into the skin, osmosis starts. If you don't remember science class, basically, water is pulled from the dermal layer of the skin (where the pigment is) and with it, the pigment molecules come with it. The ink comes out the same way that it went in!
Considering that this isn't a very traditional method of tattoo removal (yet), there are a few things that allot of clients expect because they only know about laser removal. Here's a little list of expectations vs reality with saline removal.
Expectation:
One session will remove my tattoo or permanent makeup
Reality:
You normally need several sessions to completely remove a tattoo or permanent makeup. Whilst there's never any guarantees as how fast it go, it will almost always take more than one.
The factors that will depend on how many sessions is colours used, depth of pigment and the saturation of it.
Expectation:
It hurts as bad as laser.
Reality: Most clients come in quite nervous about the pain and in most cases, they say 'that's it?' Yep, it doesn't hurt that bad. Sometimes clients don't feel anything and sometimes it can feel like a burning sensation.
Expectation:
It will look horrible during the healing process.
Reality: Depending on what you get removed the look of it will vary. The treated area will scab, but everyone will scab differently. Sometimes it will be quite crusty and sometimes it's lighter. It doesn't always look that bad.
Expectation:
You will lose your eyebrow hair if you remove permanent makeup.
Reality:
If you go for the laser option, you will have to shave your eyebrows. Or it may fall out. This is not the case with saline removal! There's no need to shave your eyebrows and the hair will stay intact.
Expectation: The aftercare is difficult.
Reality: The after care is actually really easy. All you have to do is wipe the area with saline solution a few times a day for a few days. Keep dry and don't pick the scab. That's it!
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So, your microblading didn’t turn out the way you imagined? Maybe your brows are too dark, uneven, or just not your vibe anymore. Don’t worry—you’re not stuck with them forever! There are several ways to remove or fade microblading and tattooed eyebrows safely and effectively. In this post, we’ll break down the best methods to get your brows back to their natural beauty. 1. Saline Tattoo Removal – The Gentle Fader ๐ก Best for: Gradual fading with minimal skin damage Saline removal is one of the most popular and safe ways to get rid of microblading. It involves using a saline solution (basically saltwater) to lift pigment out of the skin. Here’s how it works: โ A technician applies a saline solution using a tattoo machine โ The solution breaks up pigment and pushes it to the surface โ Over time, your body naturally removes the pigment as the skin heals โณ How long does it take? Saline removal isn’t an instant fix—it usually takes 2-6 sessions to see significant fading. However, it’s gentler on the skin than other methods and works well for all skin types! ๐จ Pros & Cons: โ
Works on all colours, including stubborn red and yellow tones โ
Less risk of scarring than laser removal โ Takes multiple sessions โ Can be pricey depending on the number of treatments 2. Laser Tattoo Removal – Zapping Away the Pigment ๐ก Best for: Fast removal of darker pigments Laser removal is another effective way to get rid of microblading. It works by using a high-energy laser to break down the pigment, allowing your body to flush it out naturally. โณ How long does it take? Laser removal can take 3-10 sessions, depending on the pigment depth and colour. Darker colours (like black and dark brown) respond best, but lighter shades (like red or orange) may need extra treatments. ๐จ Pros & Cons: โ
Fast and effective for dark pigments โ
Can fully remove microblading โ May cause temporary redness or irritation โ Can leave behind a colour shift (turning brows grey or red) โ Important: Some pigments contain iron oxide, which can turn orange or white after laser treatment. That’s why many professionals recommend saline removal first if you have lighter pigments! 3. Glycolic Acid Removal – The Chemical Fade ๐ก Best for: Gradual fading at home or in a clinic Glycolic acid, a common skincare ingredient, can help fade microblading over time. Some technicians offer chemical removal treatments that use glycolic acid to break down pigment. โณ How long does it take? This method takes longer—think several months—but it’s a less aggressive option for those who don’t want laser or saline treatments. ๐จ Pros & Cons: โ
Less invasive than laser or saline removal โ
Can be done at home with proper guidance โ Takes a long time โ Not as effective for deep-set pigments 4. DIY Methods – Do They Work? ๐ก Best for: Minor fading at home We don't recommend trying to remove any permanent makeup at home as you can damage your skin even more. None of it works and you will waste your money on products that can give you chemical burns. Please remember, the pigment is under your skin. There is no product to penetrate your skin to have an effect without serious consequences. ๐จ Does DIY removal really work? DIY methods may slightly fade microblading but won’t completely remove it. If you want fast, noticeable results, professional removal is your best bet!





