Many people inquire about removing semi-permanent eyebrow tattoos, which are common nowadays. Let's start by clarifying where to get them removed.
Removal should be done at a hospital
Removing eyebrow tattoos at a salon is not permitted. Receiving treatment at a hospital is the legal method.
Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon considers each individual's skin type, pigment type, and depth within the dermis when performing the procedure.
Depth of semi-permanent pigment
Semi-permanent makeup tattoos involve specific pigment substances deeply penetrating the dermal layer and are composed of various pigment combinations.
Therefore, it can be difficult to remove them completely in a single treatment. A minimum of 3 to 5 repeated sessions may be necessary. The required number of sessions may vary for each individual.
From nanoseconds to picoseconds
In the past, nanosecond lasers were commonly used for tattoo removal. Currently, picosecond lasers are widely used.
| Category | Pulse Duration Unit | Impact on Skin |
|---|---|---|
| Nanosecond Laser | 1 billionth of a second | Relatively high burden on the epidermal layer |
| Picosecond Laser | 1 trillionth of a second | Aims to reduce pain and minimize epidermal damage |
As the pulse duration has shortened, tattoo pigments can be broken down into finer particles. Our clinic primarily uses the PicoWay Laser to remove pigment. The equipment configuration is detailed in the R-Zero Pico-Frectat Tattoo Removal guide.
The area previously blocked by the bubble layer
In general tattoo removal, once a laser beam is applied, a white bubble layer forms on the tattooed area, making additional irradiation impossible.
The R-Zero Technique rapidly removes the bubble layer by applying a special medication when the bubble phenomenon occurs.
This allows the laser to pass through up to 4 times, reducing the possibility of skin damage.
The condition of being around the eyes
Eyebrows are close to the eyes. Therefore, when determining the irradiation method, we consider the following:
- Irradiation is performed to avoid damage to the surrounding skin tissue around the eyes.
- Repeated treatments are conducted up to 4 times while adhering to these conditions.
Methods using different wavelengths can be found in Nd:YAG Tattoo Removal.
Towards preventing scars in advance
While removal is important, safely performing the procedure to prevent scarring is even more crucial.
Our clinic's experienced dermatologists diagnose each individual's skin condition based on 20 years of treatment experience and expertise in the scar field. We also implement a scar prevention safety system to reduce potential scarring after removal. Related procedures can be found in the Pinhole for Burn & Surgical Scar guide.
If you are concerned about pain and a long treatment period, please let us know your eyebrow condition via chat inquiry now.
Authored and Medically Reviewed by Dr. Sang-Joo Lee, Chief Director (Dermatologist) Graduated from Yonsei University College of Medicine · Resident in Dermatology at Severance Hospital Ph.D. in Medicine from Yonsei University Graduate School of Medicine · President of the Korean Academy of Dermatology in 2026 View Medical Staff Profile
First Published 2024-12-18 · Last Reviewed 2026-07-29
This article contains general medical information and does not substitute for individual diagnosis and treatment. Results and recovery progress may vary for each individual.