FPMU tattoo lightening/removal is a process, not a magic eraser. Depending on what we’re working with, we almost always recommend starting with Brow Rehab with Botched Ink Lightening/Removal for approximately the first 1–3 sessions, then—once we’ve successfully cleared most of the “rainbow”/oxidized colors and we’re left with mostly dark pigment that’s sitting closer to the skin—we switch to approximately 1–3 sessions of Laser Tattoo Removal. The total number of sessions depends on how much pigment is saturated as well as the depth of pigment in the skin, the type of pigment or ink used, and the condition/integrity of your skin. Sessions are spaced 8–12+ weeks apart to give your skin and immune system the time they need to do their job.
Process (Brow Rehab → Laser):
Phase 1: Brow Rehab with Botched Ink Lightening/Removal (~Sessions 1–3): Best for tackling unpredictable pigment behavior and “rainbow” tones (reds/oranges/yellows/greys) often seen in older PMU.
Benefits: Helps shift and reduce stubborn colors more safely, supports skin integrity, and sets the brows up for a cleaner laser phase.
Phase 2: Laser Tattoo Removal (~Sessions 1–3): Once we’re mostly dealing with dark residual pigment that has “migrated” or is sitting more superficially, laser is typically more effective and efficient.
Benefits: Targets remaining dark pigment for progressive fading with fewer surprise color shifts once the rainbow tones are minimized.
Why we don’t usually start with laser right away: Because “rainbow” pigments can do what they want at first—and we prefer a controlled plan over a pigment plot twist.
Immediate Aftermath (Days 1-3):
Redness & Swelling: Mild puffiness and redness are normal and usually settle quickly.
Warmth/Tenderness: The area can feel a little sunburned or tight—this is expected.
Frosting: Brow hairs may look temporarily white (frosted) if melanin is briefly affected; this typically resolves as hairs cycle and grow.
Darkening/Color Shift: Brows may temporarily look darker or shift to pink, gray, orange, or blue, and sometimes even black depending on the ink colors and which phase you’re in (Brow Rehab vs. Laser).
Healing & Fading (Weeks 1-8+):
Scabbing/Flaking: Scabbing or flaking may occur as the skin heals—this is normal.
Gradual Fading: Pigment breakdown and fading happen over weeks as pigment is lifted and sloughs away or as your body clears particles through the lymphatic system (translation: it’s slow on purpose).
Color Changes: when starting with laser Red/orange/yellow tones can surface as darker inks lift first—this is common in PMU removal and is one reason we often begin with Brow Rehab before laser.
Patchy Phases: You may see uneven fading between sessions; that’s typical and not a sign something “went wrong.”
Long-Term Results:
Multiple Sessions: Significant fading usually requires multiple treatments because PMU pigment can be layered, deep, saturated, and color-complex.
Final Appearance: Brows progressively lighten over time. Some inks—especially certain yellows/reds—can be more stubborn and may take additional sessions or a combined approach.
Skin Condition Matters: Healthy, well-cared-for skin responds better and heals cleaner. If the skin is thin, scarred, overworked, or compromised, we plan more conservatively.
Hair: In most cases, the treatment targets pigment—not your brow hair—though temporary lightening (“frosting”) can happen.
Key Considerations:
Aftercare is Crucial: Keep the area clean, apply only the recommended healing support, and avoid anything that can irritate or infect the skin.
Don’t Pick, Scratch, or Peel: If you pick scabs/flakes, you increase the risk of scarring and pigment irregularities. (Your brows are not a scratch-off ticket.)
Avoid Sun & Heat: No tanning, prolonged sun exposure, saunas, or hot yoga while brows are healing.
UV + healing skin = avoidable problems.
Skip Makeup & Actives on Brows While Healing: Avoid brow makeup, retinoids, exfoliants, acids, and harsh skincare on/around the area until fully healed.
Expect Temporary Color Stages: Early reds/oranges/greys are typically part of the journey—not the destination.
Spacing Matters: Treatments are scheduled 8–12+ weeks apart to allow full healing and proper pigment clearance. Rushing it usually slows progress.
We Customize Your Plan: Session count and pacing depend on pigment density, depth, ink type/color mix, and your skin’s condition and healing response.