PMU businesses have gained quite a popularity in recent years. People are now more conscious about their looks than ever. Many TikTok, Instagram, and celebrity trends inspire people, ultimately boosting PMU businesses. Unfortunately this industry is not immune to making mistakes. There can be instances where you, as a PMU artist, might commit to a tint or contour that your clients may not like. In such cases, to ensure your client does not opt out of your service feeling discontent, be ready to offer a saline removal solution. This is a simple and cost-effective method to correct PMU mistakes.
In this blog post, we’ll talk about what saline tattoo removal is and why it is a must-have for PMU artists.
What is a Saline Removal Solution?
A saline removal solution was originally developed to remove tattoo ink, but it turned out to be effective for PMU tattoos as well. It involves creating a micro-injury in the top layer of the skin and extracting the pigments using sterile chemical solutions. The solution consists of sea salt and soothing ingredients. It's a super-efficient alternative to laser removal. The ingredients vary from brand to brand. For example, Li-Ft Saline Removal is based on sea salt, fruit extracts, and soothing agents designed for professional lightening and removal of semi-permanent makeup. It is strictly for use by trained professionals.
What is the process of emergency saline removal, and how does it work?
If the candidate quickly regrets the PMU tattoo, they can opt for emergency saline tattoo removal within 48 hours of the procedure. This involves applying the saline solution directly to the treated area. No incisions are required because the skin has not yet begun to close from the PMU treatment.
Why is it important to learn saline tattoo removal?
Permanent makeup is no easy thing. It doesn’t matter how much trained you are, there is always a chance of a mistake. And, sometimes even a client may not like results and ask to remove it. So, for a professional, it is best to be prepared. Saline tattoo removal, also referred to as PMU reversal, saves the day if mistakes happen or if the client isn't happy with the work.
It’s important to ensure your client doesn’t get panicked and rush to some other PMU business. Moreover, you’ll often encounter many clients with previously faded pigment remnants, seeking to get their eyebrows corrected and get a fresh look. Helping them can be a great opportunity for you, and it can profit your business not only financially but also in terms of reputation.
Is there a need for training to conduct saline removal?
Yes, you need to be trained to remove the permanent makeup pigments. However, you can choose whether to take an online course or in-person. The course includes a removal guide, risks and complications associated.
If you’ve been in the PMU business for some time, getting familiar with the process will not take much time.
Laser Vs. Saline
Laser tattoo removal is a traditional way of getting the tattoo ink removed. It’s a proven technique but not regarded as the best option. The reason is that its process is based on a laser beam penetrating the skin and heating up the ink particles to break them down, and eventually, these particles get flushed out of the body by the immune system. The disadvantage of using laser treatment is that there are chances that pigments might change color and even get darkened.
Laser treatment may not effectively remove lighter colors like pinks and reds commonly used in lip blushing, making it unsuitable for pigment removal from the lips. Additionally, the laser can damage hairs, causing them to fall out, which poses a concern for clients seeking to remove microblading.
Saline removal is gentler on the skin, with a minimal risk of scarring if applied lightly. It provides a more targeted and precise method, resulting in less discomfort and lower expenses.
Who is a Good Candidate for Saline Tattoo Removal?
Sale tattoo removal can be used for anyone. However, in the following cases, saline tattoo removal is not recommended:
- Pregnancy/Nursing
- History of hypo- or hyper-pigmentation or keloid formation.
- Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, etc.
- Glaucoma/Diabetes
- Epilepsy
- HIV/Hepatitis
- Active skin cancer
Healing Journey of Saline Tattoo Removal
Given that the technique closely resembles pigment application, the healing process for saline removal is also the same as that of the post-PMU period.
Immediately after the procedure, the treated area may appear red and slightly swollen. As the microscopic wounds begin to mend, a scabbing phase starts. Tell your client to refrain from picking at the scabs and allow them to naturally detach; otherwise, there is a risk of skin damage and potential infection.
Internal healing persists for approximately four more weeks, during which the tissue requires complete recovery.
Is Saline Tattoo Removal Effective for Removing All Pigment Types?
Saline removal can effectively eliminate permanent makeup of any color, unlike laser treatment, which may not be effective for removing reddish and yellow pigments.
How many sessions of saline tattoo removal are required to completely remove the pigment?
Typically, most clients undergo between 2 and 6 sessions of saline tattoo removal to fully eliminate the PMU pigment. However, there are cases where 10 sessions are needed to remove all the pigment.
The progression of saline tattoo removal varies on factors such as:
- The level of pigment saturation in the tattoo
- How old is it
- How deep pigments are injected
- Composition of the pigment
- How skin responds to the treatment
Your client may have to undergo multiple sessions for complete tattoo removal. In case the client wants to get a new tattoo, there is no need to go for more than 2 sessions as it only requires lightening the previous pigment.
In Summary
Mastering saline removal presents an excellent opportunity for aspiring PMU artists to offer various services, increase their earnings, and appeal to a broader customer base.