Microblading Removal Guide

Fade, correct, or remove brow tattoo pigment.

Brow tattoo removal is a process that helps lift, break down, and fade pigment over time. It can soften your current brows, correct a shape or colour you don’t love, or clear the way for new permanent makeup.

In this guide, you’ll learn the basics of your options, what a typical plan looks like, and how to prep and heal well.

Step 1: Decide What Your Goal Is

Removal doesn’t always mean starting from zero.

Most clients fall into one of these goals:

• Full removal: You want the pigment gone or as close as possible.

• Lightening for a refresh: Your brows are oversaturated or blurred, and you want a cleaner base before new PMU.

• Targeted correction: You want to fade a tail, a patch, migration, shadowing, or a colour shift.

Your goal helps us choose the method that makes the most sense and shapes the plan we recommend.

Step 2: Know What You’re Removing

Brow tattoo pigments can behave differently depending on:

• Colour family: cool, warm, red, grey, blonde, very light

• Depth: too shallow can blur, too deep can hold longer

• Saturation: light, medium, or dense buildup from multiple touch-ups

• Skin + lifestyle: oil production, sun exposure, skincare actives, healing patterns

Two people can have similar-looking microblading and still need different removal plans.

Eyebrow Tattoo Removal Methods

We offer laser and saline removal. Both can be effective. The best choice depends on your pigment and your goal.

Laser Removal

Laser vs. Saline Tattoo Removal: Which Is Right for You?

When it comes to removing unwanted microblading, eyebrow tattoos, or other facial permanent makeup, both laser and saline removal have their place—yet they work in very different ways. 

Understanding the unique benefits and considerations of each method can help you select the approach that best suits your needs.

Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser tattoo removal uses advanced light-based technology to break tattoo pigment into tiny particles. Your immune system’s white blood cells absorb these fragments and carry them away through the lymphatic system. Over time, your body naturally flushes them out, fading the tattoo with each session.

Modern lasers are precise enough to treat delicate areas, such as the brows, while minimizing damage to the surrounding skin. This makes them a great choice for fading or fully removing eyebrow tattoos, microblading, and other cosmetic inks.

Pros:

• Often faster results with fewer sessions.

• Minimal skin trauma.

• Excellent for deep pigments and dense tattoos.

• Shorter healing times compared to saline.

• Quick treatment sessions.

Cons:

• Less effective on lighter pigments.

• Possible temporary pigment darkening.

• Not suitable for all skin types.

• Temporary blistering or sensitivity is possible.

Important Notes for Laser Removal:

• Certain pigments, especially those with titanium dioxide, may darken before they fade.

• Brow hair may temporarily lighten, singe, or shed, but typically grows back.

• Avoid treatment if you are pregnant, nursing, or have an active infection or rash in the area.

• Let us know if you:

• Have a history of scarring, keloids, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

• Recently had Botox, filler, or skin resurfacing near the area.

• Take Accutane or photosensitizing medications.

• Have experienced reactions to laser or permanent makeup in the past.

Saline Tattoo Removal

Saline tattoo removal uses a specially formulated, salt-based solution that is injected into the skin using a tattoo machine. The solution works through osmosis, drawing pigment up and out of the skin. As the treated area heals, a scab forms and naturally flakes away, taking the lifted pigment with it.

This method is often chosen for its ability to target stubborn pigments, including light, white, or red tones that lasers can sometimes miss. It can also be ideal for delicate areas of the face, such as the brows or eyeliner, and for small, precise corrections like pigment migration.

Pros:

• Non-laser option for those who can’t or prefer not to use a laser.

• Works on all pigment colours, including white and light tones that lasers miss.

• Safe for delicate facial areas, such as brows and eyeliner.

• Great for precise corrections and pigment migration.

• Lower risk of pigmentation changes on darker skin when done correctly.

Cons:

• Often requires more sessions.

• Can be more abrasive, causing longer healing.

• Not ideal for large tattoos or very saturated pigment.

• More visible scabbing.

If you’d like to learn more about the process, check out our blog on how to Fade Away Unwanted Ink With Saline Tattoo Removal.

Which Method Is Right for You?

Both options can deliver excellent results for the removal of microblading and other tattoos when performed by a trained professional. The best choice depends on factors like pigment colour, tattoo location, skin type, past work, and how quickly you want to see fading.

We’ll assess your brows and goals during your consultation so you can feel confident in your decision.

How to Prepare for Your Tattoo Removal Appointment

A little preparation goes a long way in helping you achieve a smooth treatment and the best possible results. Follow these steps before your appointment so your skin is ready for safe and effective eyebrow tattoo removal.

1 Week Before

• Avoid sun exposure, tanning, and active skincare.

• No waxing, threading, or plucking near brows.

• Stay hydrated.

3–5 Days Before

• Avoid blood-thinning medications/supplements (unless prescribed).

• Stop topical steroids or bleaching creams (unless prescribed).

• Skip facials, microdermabrasion, or chemical peels near brows.

Day of Appointment

• Arrive with a clean face.

• Wear clothing that allows access to the treated area.

• Eat a light meal beforehand.

• Bring a list of medications/skincare products.

• Skip numbing cream unless instructed.

Aftercare for Tattoo Removal

The way you care for your skin after tattoo or microblading removal plays a big role in your results. Proper aftercare not only protects your skin but also supports faster healing and better pigment fading over time. Here’s how to look after your skin, whether you’ve had laser or saline removal.

General Aftercare 

• Redness, swelling, tenderness, or mild blistering is normal.

• Avoid touching, scratching, or rubbing the treated area.

• Avoid sun, heat, steam rooms, and intense sweating until fully healed.

• Stay hydrated to support your body’s natural healing process.

• Avoid picking or peeling any scabs.

• Blot with Hale Derma 2–3x daily.

Laser-Specific Aftercare

• Apply a cold compress (no direct ice) as needed to reduce swelling.

• Cleanse gently with mild, unscented soap after 24 hours.

• Apply healing ointment as recommended.

Saline-Specific Aftercare

• Keep the area completely dry until scabs fall off naturally.

• Blot with Hale Derma 2–3x daily.

• Avoid applying ointment unless directed by your technician.

Sunscreen Is Essential

Once healing is complete, protect your results by applying SPF 30 or higher to the treated area every day. Consistent sun protection not only helps prevent unwanted pigmentation changes but also supports the continued fading of any remaining pigment.

When to Reach Out to Your Technician

Tattoo removal is generally very safe, with a low risk of complications when aftercare instructions are followed. Still, it’s important to watch for signs that something isn’t healing as expected. 

Contact us promptly if you notice:

• Excessive redness, swelling, pus, or signs of infection.

• Severe pain or spreading blistering.

• Any reaction beyond normal scabbing, flaking, or dryness.

Aftercare Products 

Using the right aftercare products will support your skin’s healing, minimize side effects, and improve pigment fading. For laser tattoo removal, we provide every client with a small aftercare package, including a 7-day supply of A&D Healing Balm. 

On the day of your appointment, you’ll also receive:

• 10% off Hale Derma and Kor products with your treatment.

• 15% off when you purchase all three recommended products, Hale Derma, Kor Scar Balm, and Kor Brightening Serum, on the same day (not valid with other discounts).

These products are specially selected to soothe, protect, and optimize the results of your tattoo removal treatments.

Book Your Tattoo Removal Consultation in Calgary

Are you ready to say goodbye to unwanted pigment? Whether you want to fade old microblading, remove an eyebrow tattoo, or prepare for a fresh new look, we’ll help you choose the safest and most effective method for your skin and goals.

Our personalized approach means you’ll leave with a plan—and the confidence that your results are in expert hands.

If you’re searching for microblading removal or eyebrow tattoo removal in Calgary, visit our Crescent Heights studio at 1409 Edmonton Trl #102, Calgary, AB T2E 3K8.

Additional Resources

Want to keep learning before you book or decide what to do next? These posts are a great place to start.

• Fade and Reframe: The Brow Reset for Softer, Natural Permanent Makeup

• What Really Happens to Your Brows Long-Term After Microblading

• The Top 5 Reasons People Remove Their Microblading (and How to Do It Safely)

• Permanent Makeup Aftercare: Healing Tips for Long-Lasting Results

Frequently Asked Questions