Semi-permanent makeup is popular not only among women but also men. It is a method that enhances the eyebrow texture to make them look like real eyebrows.
However, eyebrow tattoos or eyeliner tattoos can sometimes go wrong, or their color may turn reddish over time. For those who visit us for these reasons, we have organized the framework for semi-permanent makeup removal.
Semi-permanent makeup is also in the category of tattoos
Generally, semi-permanent makeup can be considered within the category of permanent tattoos. The difference is that the pigment is inserted shallowly and in smaller amounts.
Therefore, semi-permanent makeup removal requires fewer sessions than general tattoo removal, because less pigment is inserted into a shallower layer.
Reactions that may appear immediately after the procedure
Pain and bleeding may be felt in the area where semi-permanent makeup was applied, and after a few days, a lot of tattoo shedding and dead skin cells may occur.
- Rarely, secondary bacterial infection can cause severe inflammation.
- Occasionally, it can lead to scarring.
In such situations, we recommend that you see a dermatologist and start treatment immediately, rather than going back to the shop where you first received the tattoo. If semi-permanent makeup removal is needed, it can be started immediately after the skin has healed. So, if any abnormal reactions appear, please visit the hospital as soon as possible.
Why use lasers instead of solutions
Both permanent tattoos and semi-permanent makeup can be removed with lasers. In the past, solutions were used for removal, which often left secondary scars.
As lasers developed, a method of effective removal with reduced side effect burden became established.
You can check the equipment and procedure methods in the R-Zero Pico-Frectat Tattoo Removal guide and Nd:YAG Tattoo Removal respectively.
How many sessions are needed?
Semi-permanent makeup removal also does not disappear with a single treatment but requires repeated treatments. However, because the amount of pigment inserted is small, it may fade a little faster.
| Type | Approximate number of treatments | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General permanent tattoo | 10 or more sessions | Large amount and depth of pigment |
| Semi-permanent makeup | Around 5 sessions | Small amount of pigment in shallow layer |
| Semi-permanent with mixed dyes | May take longer than general tattoos | When colors are mixed for fine shading |
The treatment cycle is generally one to two months. With recently developed picosecond lasers, treatment is possible on a monthly cycle. Individual results may vary.
Remember only three things after the procedure
Laser treatment for tattoos or semi-permanent makeup leaves microscopic wounds on the skin. Therefore, care during the healing process determines the results.
- Keep the skin moist and not dry so that the wound heals well.
- Apply a small amount of antibiotic ointment to prevent secondary bacterial infection.
- If inflammation or pain persists, contact the hospital where the procedure was performed.
For methods that also address scar prevention, please refer to the Pinhole for Burn & Surgical Scar guide. If you have any questions, please leave them in Chat with us now.
Authored and medically reviewed by Chief Director Dr. Lee Sang-Joo (Dermatologist) Resident in Dermatology at Severance Hospital · Ph.D. in Medicine from Yonsei University Graduate School Currently Adjunct Professor, Department of Dermatology, Yonsei University College of Medicine · President of the Korean Dermatological Association in 2026 View Medical Staff Introduction
First published 2023-11-14 · 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 by individual.