Saline tattoo removal

People choose saline removal over laser treatments for many reasons. Here are the key benefits:

1. Suitable for All Skin Types: Safe for darker skin types and sensitive skin where lasers can cause hyperpigmentation.
2. Removes All Pigment Colors: Laser struggles with reds and whites, saline can extract all colours, including titanium dioxide.
3. Less Risk of Scarring: Saline removal is gentler than laser tattoo removal, with less scarring.
4. Works on Cosmetic Tattoos: Great for brow tattoos, lip tattoos and eyeliner tattoos where laser sessions can be too harsh.
5. Natural Healing Process: Uses a natural approach where the body does the hard work.
6. Cost Effective: It may require fewer sessions than laser removal, more affordable.

While saline solution tattoo removal is safe, it’s not for everyone. Certain medical conditions or skin sensitivities may mean you can’t have the treatment. Contraindications include:

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Open wounds, skin infections or sunburn in the area to be treated
• Autoimmune disorders or compromised immune systems
• Keloid scarring or hypertrophic scarring history
• Taking certain medications like blood thinners
• Diabetes (without medical clearance)
• Active eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis in the area to be treated

If you fall into any of these categories, speak to a professional before booking.

To get the best results, prepare for a saline tattoo removal session:

1. Avoid direct sun for 2 weeks before the session.
2. Stop using active skincare products like retinoids or AHA/BHA exfoliants.
3. No tanning beds as they can damage the skin and affect results.
4. Drink plenty of water to hydrate the skin.
5. Book a 15-minute consultation with a cosmetic tattoo removal clinic for a custom plan.

Here’s what happens during a typical session:

Consultation

The process starts with a one-on-one consultation where the specialist examines your tattoo, goes over your medical history and works out the best plan for removal. You’ll also get information on aftercare and a number of sessions.

Skin Prep

The specialist cleans the area thoroughly to remove dirt, oil and makeup. A topical anesthetic is then applied to numb the area.

Saline Application

The specialist uses a tattoo machine or microblading tool to open the skin’s surface so the saline can penetrate. This is similar to getting a cosmetic tattoo.

Solution Application

A saline solution is applied to the open skin, which draws out the ink pigments. The saline causes fluid drainage and dehydrates the cells in the treated area, so the pigment is lifted from the skin.

Healing Process

After the session, a scab formed in the treated area. As the scab heals and naturally falls off, it takes the pigment particles with it. Multiple sessions are required to remove all the pigment, depending on the depth and type of tattoo.

Aftercare is key to preventing infection and healing. Here’s how:

• No Hot Showers and Exercise
  Avoid hot showers, saunas, swimming and strenuous activities that make you sweat for at least 7 to 10 days after treatment. Heat and sweat can irritate the skin and prolong the healing process.
• Keep it Clean and Dry
  Use a clean paper towel to pat dry if it gets wet. Don’t rub or use towels that can transfer bacteria to the wound.
• No Sun
  Direct sun exposure can cause hyperpigmentation, so cover the treated area with clothing. Do not apply sunscreen to the healing wound.
• Don’t Pick at the Scab
  Let the scab fall off naturally. Picking at it increases the risk of scarring, infection and uneven removal.
• Follow Your Specialist’s Instructions
  Your specialist may provide you with specific ointments, healing balms or aftercare instructions. Follow these closely for the best results.

• Infection: If aftercare is not followed.
• Scarring: If the scab is removed too early.
• Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation: Sun exposure or improper aftercare.
• Delayed healing: Some may experience longer healing times, especially with darker skin tones.

The number of sessions depends on the size of the tattoo, pigment type, and skin type.

• Small Tattoos: 2 to 4 sessions for small cosmetic tattoos like eyebrows.
• Medium Tattoos: 4 to 6 sessions to remove eyeliner or small lip tattoos.
• Big Tattoos: Larger body tattoos may need more than 6 sessions for complete removal.

Sessions are spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart to give the skin time to heal. It’s a process, but it works.

Saline tattoo removal cost is dependent on the size and location of the tattoo. In Australia, it’s $100-$250 per session for eyebrow tattoos and up to $400 per session for larger tattoos. Full removal will require multiple sessions, so best to consult a professional for a quote.