PMU Removal 101: Laser & Manual Removal
Permanent Makeup has revolutionised the beauty industry, giving clients the freedom to wake up every day with effortlessly defined Brows, Lip Blush, and Eyeliner. But just like traditional tattoos, results sometimes don't age as expected. Pigment can fade unevenly, styles and preferences evolve, and in many cases, clients experience oversaturation from years of top-ups, leaving brows looking heavy, blurred, or discoloured.
That’s where PMU Removal comes in. Whether it’s correcting, removing outdated work, lightening pigment before a cover-up, or completely removing unwanted results, modern removal techniques make safe, effective transformations possible. The two most widely used methods are:
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Manual Removal (using saline, acid, or alkaline-based solutions)
Laser Removal
What is Laser Tattoo Removal?
Laser tattoo removal is one of the most recognised methods for removing unwanted pigment from the skin. It uses high-intensity laser light to break down pigment particles into microscopic fragments, which are then naturally flushed away by the body’s immune system.
How long does it take?
Laser tattoo removal is not a one-session process. The number of treatments needed depends on:
- Pigment type and colour
- Skin type and sensitivity
- Size and density of the tattoo/PMU
- Depth of the pigment in the skin
Sessions should be spaced about 4-8 weeks apart to give the skin time to heal and allow the lymphatic system to flush out broken-down pigment. Going slowly is always safer to minimise trauma and avoid scarring.
Clear communication is vital. Every client’s removal journey will look different depending on the above factors. Managing expectations from the start ensures clients feel informed and confident in the process.
Possible Side Effects
While laser technology is considered safe, there are risks clients should be aware of:
- Temporary redness, swelling, blistering, or scabbing after treatment.
- Pigment or texture changes in the treated area, which usually fade within months but may occasionally be permanent.
- Increased sun sensitivity while the skin heals.
For clients with a history of hypertrophic or keloid scarring, extra caution should be taken.
It’s important to recognise that all treatments (including permanent makeup) carry some level of potential risk. With laser treatment, possible side effects may include skin irritation, changes in pigmentation, scarring, or incomplete tattoo removal. However, there are effective ways to minimise these risks, which are covered in detail during our Laser PMU Removal training.
Want to Master Laser Removal?
Our intensive Laser Removal Training Course, held at our award-winning Knightsbridge academy, equips artists with everything they need to confidently perform PMU and body tattoo removal. You’ll learn:
- Laser safety protocols
- PMU and tattoo removal techniques
- Carbon Peel treatments
- How to deliver safe, lasting results for clients
- And much more!
Plus, your training package includes the N-Light10 Laser Device, giving you the tools and knowledge to immediately start offering this high-demand service.
Click here to find out more about the N-Light10 Laser Device
Manual Removal
What is Manual Removal?
Manual removal uses specialised remover solutions, applied into the skin with a needle cartridge and machine, to lift unwanted pigment out during the healing process. Unlike lasers, which break pigment down, these solutions work by drawing it up and out.
Types of Manual Removal Solutions
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Acid-based (e.g., Hanafy Remover N2)
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Alkaline-based (e.g., Hanafy Remover N1)
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Saline-based (e.g., Hanafy Activator)
Our Hanafy Saline Removal Course is a comprehensive, one-day training designed to give artists hands-on experience in safe, effective saline removal techniques, using the Hanafy Remover & Activator Duo.
By the end of the course, you’ll feel confident and fully equipped to add this valuable service to your menu.
Laser Removal vs. Manual Removal
Both laser removal and manual removal are highly effective techniques, each with unique advantages. The right method depends on the client’s skin, pigment, and desired outcome. Mastering both techniques means you can offer personalised solutions for your clients.
Whether you’re looking to expand your services with laser or add precise manual removal to your expertise, our training courses give you the knowledge, tools, and confidence to succeed in this fast-growing area of the beauty industry.