Tattoo & PMU Removal
Permanent Make-up Removal
Correcting or removing previous brow, eyeliner and lip work.
From R 650. Prices are a guide and are confirmed at consultation. Area, complexity and the number of sessions can change the final charge.
At a glance
- Appointment
- 20–45 minutes
- Downtime
- A few days
- Suggested course
- Several sessions, spaced for healing
- Consultation
- Required first
What it is
Removal or correction of previous permanent make-up, most commonly brows. Both laser and chemical removal routes exist and which suits you depends on the pigment used, how deep it sits and where it is on the face.
How it works
After assessing the existing work, your practitioner recommends a route. Laser removal breaks the pigment down for the body to clear; chemical removal works differently and is discussed at consultation. Either way it is a staged process.
Good fit for
- Previous brow work that has healed a different colour than intended
- Shape corrections before new work can be done
- Anyone wanting to be free of permanent make-up entirely
Suitability is assessed individually at consultation. Some treatments are not appropriate for everyone.
Your treatment journey
- Consultation with a close look at the existing work. Photographs are helpful if you have them from when it was done.
- A recommendation between laser and chemical routes, with the reasoning explained.
- A patch test where appropriate.
- Staged sessions with healing time between.
- Review before any new permanent make-up is considered.
Results and what to expect
PMU pigments behave unpredictably. Some lift readily; others shift colour before they fade, and a small number resist removal. Several sessions are usually needed and complete removal cannot be promised. If your goal is new work over the top, partial fading is often enough.
Safety and common effects
Most people notice some of the following. They are temporary and expected rather than a problem:
- Redness and swelling for a few days
- Scabbing over the treated area
- Temporary colour shifting of the old pigment before it fades
Before you book. Suitability is assessed individually at consultation. Some treatments are not appropriate for everyone. Tell your practitioner about any medication, skin condition, allergy or recent treatment at consultation rather than on the day.
Information on this site is general and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis, advice or treatment. Speak to a healthcare professional about any health concern.
Aftercare
Keep the area clean and dry as instructed, do not pick any scabbing, and keep the area out of the sun throughout the process.
Read the full preparation and aftercare guide for tattoo & permanent make-up removal.
Prices
Prices are a guide and are confirmed at consultation. Area, complexity and the number of sessions can change the final charge. Last updated 24 March 2026.
Permanent make-up removal
| Treatment | Price |
|---|---|
| Brow removal | R 650 |
| Chemical tattoo removal | Consultation |
Common questions
Can you remove it completely?
Sometimes, but not always. PMU pigments vary enormously and some are resistant. Your practitioner will give you a realistic view after seeing the actual work.
My brows went orange or grey. Can that be fixed?
Colour shifting is common with older or poorly chosen pigments. Removal or correction is often possible — bring the brows in for assessment rather than guessing from photographs.
How long before I can have new brows?
The area needs to heal fully and settle first. Your practitioner will advise on timing, and it is usually a matter of months rather than weeks.
Which is better, laser or chemical?
Neither is universally better. It depends on the pigment, its depth and its location, which is why the route is chosen after assessment.
How many sessions?
Usually several, spaced to allow healing. An estimate is given at consultation.
Is eyeliner removal riskier?
Work near the eye requires particular care and specific protection. It is assessed carefully and is not always appropriate.
Ready to talk about permanent make-up removal?
Send us a message and we will help you work out whether this is the right treatment for your goals.