Goodbye bad brows: simple laser removal for permanent makeup in Edinburgh

If you're looking to fade or remove permanent makeup in Edinburgh, you’re not alone. Whether it’s old microblading or pigment that has changed colour over time, laser tattoo removal for permanent makeup is a safe and straightforward solution.

At my studio here in Bruntsfield, Edinburgh I help clients who want a fresh start or a simple correction. In this post, I’ll explain the benefits of laser tattoo removal, how the process works, and why it might be the right choice for you.

Why consider laser tattoo removal for permanent makeup?

Permanent makeup—like microblading, lip blush, or eyeliner tattooing—can be a wonderful confidence boost. But as time passes, pigment can fade, shift in colour, or no longer suit your current style. We've all seen the scary blue/black brows with deep lines that look like they belong in the Rocky Horror Picture Show (which is arguably one of the best musicals - no shade)

That’s where laser tattoo removal comes in.

✅ 1. Safe and gentle on delicate areas

Modern laser technology targets pigment without damaging the skin around it. That makes it especially ideal for cosmetic tattoo removal on brows, lips, or eyeliner. The treatment is designed to be precise, safe, and effective, even on sensitive facial areas. We use a specially designed device to target permanent makeup, although we can also treat body tattoos.

✅ 2. Fade instead of fully remove

You don’t always need a full removal. In fact, many of my clients choose to fade their permanent makeup just enough to allow for a colour or shape correction. This opens the door for:

• A softer, more natural look

• Updated brow shapes that lift the face

• New, more flattering pigment colours

It’s like pressing reset—without starting over completely.

✅ 3. Fast appointments, minimal downtime

Each session usually takes around 2-3 minutes, and most clients feel comfortable returning to their day immediately after. You might experience a bit of redness or swelling, but it’s generally mild and short-lived.

✅ 4. Not as painful as you’d expect

Laser removal often gets a bad reputation for being painful—but that’s usually not the case. Most clients describe it as a light snapping sensation, or like a droplet of oil from the frying pan on the skin.

✅ 5. Feel confident again

Whether your cosmetic tattoo was done years ago or recently at another clinic, laser tattoo removal gives you the freedom to start fresh. If the colour has changed, the shape feels off, or it no longer reflects your look—you don’t have to live with it.

How does laser tattoo removal for pmu work?

If you’ve never had laser before, you might be wondering what actually happens during the treatment. The good news? It’s a simple and straightforward process, especially when it comes to removing or fading permanent makeup like brows, eyeliner, or lips.

🔬 Step-by-step: what to expect

1. Consultation

We’ll start with a consultation to assess your existing permanent makeup. I’ll examine the pigment type, depth, and how your skin has responded to the tattoo. You’ll get personalised advice on how many sessions you may need and what results to expect.

2. Patch test

A small patch test is carried out to ensure your skin responds well to the laser. This is a quick, painless step and is essential for your safety.

3. The treatment

During your laser tattoo removal session, I’ll use a specialised laser that emits light energy into the skin. This energy breaks down the pigment particles in your permanent makeup, which are then naturally removed by your body over the following weeks.

For cosmetic tattoos like brows or lips, I use gentler settings specifically designed for delicate facial areas—so you’re not getting the same aggressive treatment used for large body tattoos.

4. Aftercare

After your session, you may notice slight redness, warmth, or swelling in the treated area. This usually settles within 24–48 hours. I’ll give you full aftercare instructions to keep your skin protected and healing beautifully.

💡 How many sessions will I need?

It depends on:

• The type and depth of pigment used

• How long ago the PMU was done

• Whether you want to fade or fully remove it

Most clients need between 1–3 sessions for fading before we can redo them, and up to 6+ sessions for complete removal. But you’ll start to see visible changes after just one.

Common reasons clients choose laser tattoo removal:

• Your eyebrow tattoo has turned grey, blue or red.

• The shape is outdated or uneven.

• You had microblading or a brow tattoo done elsewhere that didn’t heal well

• You want a more natural look or plan to update your brows with a new technique

• You want to fade pigment before a lip blush or eyeliner correction

• There is too much old pigment in the skin to do a colour boost. It needs lightening first.

Ready to refresh your look?

If you’re based in Edinburgh or the surrounding areas and want to remove or fade your permanent makeup, I’m here to help. Whether you’re looking for a full removal or a gentle fade before a new treatment, we’ll create a personalised plan that works for your skin, goals, and timeline.

📍 Based in Edinburgh, Scotland – book a consultation today

Let’s talk through your options and find the best path forward. A quick, private consultation can help you feel confident and informed about the process. Book here -> https://elisaklein-pm.book.app/book-now