Saline Removal

When laser isn't the right tool

Saline removal is a manual technique we offer as a second-line option, most often for permanent makeup pigments that don't respond to laser. We always recommend trying laser first.

Candela Medical Key Opinion Leader

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What saline removal is

Manual removal, not laser

Saline removal goes by many names. You may have heard it called osmotic removal, chemical removal, glycolic acid removal, or hypertonic saline. There are also brand-name products that fall under this same umbrella. The technique is the same regardless of the brand.

A tattoo machine deposits a saline-based solution into the skin, where the existing pigment lives. The pigment binds to the saline. The body recognizes the solution as a foreign substance and rejects it, taking the pigment along with it.

Saline tattoo removal in progress at Studio Kiku

Our approach

Laser first. Always

Studio Kiku is, first and foremost, a laser studio. The PicoWay is faster, less damaging to the skin, and more cost-effective than saline for the vast majority of clients. We don't advertise saline as a primary service or a casual option, because for most people, it shouldn't be one.

We offer saline removal only after we've attempted laser and the pigment isn't responding. At that point, when there's no realistic path forward with laser, saline becomes the right call, and we'd rather do it carefully ourselves than send you somewhere that doesn't know your case.

When saline makes sense

The right cases for saline

Resistant pigment colours

Some PMU pigments contain titanium dioxide, iron oxide, or specific yellows that the laser can't fully break down. Saline can lift what laser leaves behind.

After laser plateaus

When a laser session shows the pigment has stopped responding, saline is sometimes the only remaining option for further fading.

Medical or skin-type contraindications

Active Accutane use, gold-injection treatments, or very dark skin tones (Fitzpatrick 5-6) can make laser inadvisable. Saline can be a safer alternative in these cases.

When laser isn't an option for you

Some clients prefer not to use laser for personal reasons. Saline gives them another path forward, with realistic expectations about trade-offs.

Saline on permanent makeup brows

Saline removal of permanent makeup brows at Studio Kiku

Honest about the trade-offs

What you should know before you book

Saline can work, but it asks more of your skin than laser does. We'd rather you have the full picture before deciding.

Skin trauma is unavoidable

Saline is applied with a tattoo machine, which opens the skin. Scabbing may happen. Done too aggressively, it can cause scarring or change skin texture.

Aftercare is critical

Because the skin is open during the procedure, strict aftercare is non-negotiable.

Longer healing windows

Plan for 1 to 3 months of healing before results can be evaluated. You'll have downtime after each session, and the area can look worse before it looks better.

Results aren't guaranteed

Saline can work very well, or not at all. There's no way to guarantee what will happen on a particular pigment in a particular skin.

When it works, it works

For the right pigment in the right skin, saline can clear what laser couldn't. That's exactly why we offer it as a second-line option.

See before & after results

Client reviews

What clients say

Real reviews from Studio Kiku clients.

★★★★★

“I can't recommend Billy at Studio Kiku enough! I was so nervous about getting my microbladed eyebrows removed because you never know what colour might be hiding underneath. Billy immediately put me at ease, explained everything clearly, did a test spot first and then worked slowly and carefully to make sure everything looked good before continuing. The results after just one session were fab! I went back for a second appointment and despite being worried my brows might turn bright yellow, Billy's knowledge and skill gave me complete confidence. The results were amazing and I had my natural brows back! I'm so glad I came here. Thank you so much, Billy!”

Alex K.

PMU Eyebrow Removal · Vancouver · via Google

★★★★★

“I recently had laser removal of old permanent eyebrow makeup that was over 10 years old, and I was quite nervous because I didn't know what to expect. From the moment I met Ailie, she made me feel completely at ease. She was extremely knowledgeable, professional, and took the time to explain everything clearly. The procedure itself was surprisingly quick, and before I knew it, it was over. When Ailie handed me the mirror afterward, we were both pleasantly surprised by the immediate results. I'm still in the healing stage, but my brows are already looking so much softer and more natural. The heavy, saturated look that had built up over the years has been significantly reduced, and I honestly feel like I look 10 years younger. I wasn't expecting such a noticeable improvement after just one treatment. Ailie was caring, reassuring, and highly skilled throughout the entire experience. I would highly recommend her to anyone considering permanent makeup removal. Thank you, Ailie, for making what I thought would be a stressful experience such a positive one! I would also like to give a shout-out to Crystal, who was so helpful and patient when I called with questions before my appointment. Her kindness and assistance made the entire process even easier. Thank you again.”

Janet Symmonds

PMU Eyebrow Removal · via Google

★★★★★

“I am so thankful I have been following Studio Kiku for a while now and had a consultation over a year ago. As things go in a busy life, a year went by and on a sunny day in a coffee shop, I noticed so many women with Microblading and thought... I am one of these women and I am not happy with my eyebrows anymore. It looks dated. So, I went home and booked my appointment. I saw Ailie and she was so wonderful. Knowledgeable, skilled and communicative. I appreciate this service and am looking forward to the next one. Thank you Ailie and Studio Kiku.”

Patti Henderson

PMU Eyebrow Removal · Vancouver · via Google

All client reviews

5 out of 5 stars

Alex K.

PMU Eyebrow Removal

Vancouver

via Google

I can't recommend Billy at Studio Kiku enough! I was so nervous about getting my microbladed eyebrows removed because you never know what colour might be hiding underneath. Billy immediately put me at ease, explained everything clearly, did a test spot first and then worked slowly and carefully to make sure everything looked good before continuing. The results after just one session were fab! I went back for a second appointment and despite being worried my brows might turn bright yellow, Billy's knowledge and skill gave me complete confidence. The results were amazing and I had my natural brows back! I'm so glad I came here. Thank you so much, Billy!

5 out of 5 stars

Janet Symmonds

PMU Eyebrow Removal

via Google

I recently had laser removal of old permanent eyebrow makeup that was over 10 years old, and I was quite nervous because I didn't know what to expect. From the moment I met Ailie, she made me feel completely at ease. She was extremely knowledgeable, professional, and took the time to explain everything clearly. The procedure itself was surprisingly quick, and before I knew it, it was over. When Ailie handed me the mirror afterward, we were both pleasantly surprised by the immediate results. I'm still in the healing stage, but my brows are already looking so much softer and more natural. The heavy, saturated look that had built up over the years has been significantly reduced, and I honestly feel like I look 10 years younger. I wasn't expecting such a noticeable improvement after just one treatment. Ailie was caring, reassuring, and highly skilled throughout the entire experience. I would highly recommend her to anyone considering permanent makeup removal. Thank you, Ailie, for making what I thought would be a stressful experience such a positive one! I would also like to give a shout-out to Crystal, who was so helpful and patient when I called with questions before my appointment. Her kindness and assistance made the entire process even easier. Thank you again.

5 out of 5 stars

Patti Henderson

PMU Eyebrow Removal

Vancouver

via Google

I am so thankful I have been following Studio Kiku for a while now and had a consultation over a year ago. As things go in a busy life, a year went by and on a sunny day in a coffee shop, I noticed so many women with Microblading and thought... I am one of these women and I am not happy with my eyebrows anymore. It looks dated. So, I went home and booked my appointment. I saw Ailie and she was so wonderful. Knowledgeable, skilled and communicative. I appreciate this service and am looking forward to the next one. Thank you Ailie and Studio Kiku.

5 out of 5 stars

Brandi Woods

PMU Eyebrow Removal

Langley

via Google

I had a wonderful experience with Jamie today at Studio Kiku. She was very informative about the entire tattoo removal process and set realistic expectations for me. I had my first removal session on my brows today and there was significant improvement. I was very surprised at how much lighter they are after just one session. I'm looking forward to my final result. I am so happy they opened a Langley location, their office was very clean as well! I would recommend them for any tattoo removal services :)

5 out of 5 stars

Faria Chohan

PMU Removal

Langley

via Google

I have had a few sessions at Studio Kiku Langley to have some permanent makeup removed. The space is clean, modern, and very welcoming. The staff are friendly, professional, and extremely knowledgeable. Billy took the time to explain the process clearly and answer all my questions. Everything was extremely hygienic, and I appreciated how Billy made sure I was comfortable throughout the experience. I would definitely recommend this place if anyone is nervous about getting their tattoos removed, you will be in great hands.

5 out of 5 stars

Erin

PMU Eyebrow Removal

via Google

Despite being heavily tattooed and working at a tattoo studio, I was very apprehensive about getting laser treatment. I'm so happy I went through with it at Studio Kiku with Billy. I had my brows microbladed 6 years ago and desperately needed to get them fixed. My brow row lady said it would be necessary to have the old pigment lasered away if I wanted to truly start fresh with better brows, so I decided to bite the bullet. My results exceeded what I expected going in.

5 out of 5 stars

Stacey King

PMU Eyebrow Removal

via Google

Highly recommend! Everyone is friendly and professional. The studio is immaculate. They explain the process and expected results thoroughly and listen to your needs. I've had great results with PMU eyebrow removal at Studio Kiku. Their pricing is fair and competitive, and I'm a huge fan of their transparency. I've had laser removal done at a variety of different places and Studio Kiku is by far the best experience I've had.

5 out of 5 stars

Isabella Flores

PMU Eyebrow Removal

via Google

I recently had the pleasure of working with Billy at Studio Kiku for the removal of my eyebrows permanent makeup tattoo, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. Billy is incredibly patient and kind throughout the entire process, explaining everything in detail to ensure I felt comfortable and informed. His professionalism, along with the warm and welcoming attitude of the entire team, made the experience even better. I highly recommend Billy and the team at Studio Kiku.

5 out of 5 stars

Valeriya Sokolova

PMU Eyebrow Removal

Vancouver

via Google

I had my eyebrow permanent makeup removal done here the month ago and I honestly couldn't be happier with the experience! From the moment I walked in, the service was absolutely top-notch. The staff is friendly, welcoming, and professional. They made me feel comfortable and at ease right away. The space is clean, relaxing, and very well organized. Billy did an amazing job! He is knowledgeable, gentle, and clearly very experienced. He explained the entire process, answered all of my questions, and made sure I felt confident every step of the way. The results already look fantastic, and I'm so impressed with his attention to detail and care. I truly believe more people need to know about this place. Before coming here, I went to other technician who assured me that saline removal would definitely remove my old blue pigment, but that was not my experience at all. Unfortunately, I wasted time and money based on those promises. If you're considering eyebrow permanent makeup removal, I highly recommend this place. Outstanding service, a wonderful team, and truly exceptional work!

5 out of 5 stars

Britt

PMU Eyebrow Removal

Vancouver

via Google

I went for my first eyebrow PMU removal today and saw Billy. He's informative, gentle and did an amazing job telling me the possible risk of color being left once the treatment is done. It's super fast but he does it slow enough so you aren't in any pain. I'm so excited to go back for my second appointment in 6 weeks. Make sure you do your research before you go get your eyebrows microbladed.. I would highly recommend Billy for removal 🫶🏼

5 out of 5 stars

Sheri Dever

PMU Eyebrow Removal

Langley

via Google

Billy and his team are always super professional and friendly. I really appreciate the time they take to explain everything and make their clients feel comfortable and welcome. The machine, expertise, and technique used to remove my microblading goes over and above what other tattoo removal shops have been able to do for me in the past and the results are unmatched! Thanks so much for all you guys do here!

5 out of 5 stars

Kate Norris

PMU Eyebrow Removal

Langley

via Google

Great location for tattoo removal! I went to Jamie. She did a great job walking me thru the process, what to expect, how long it would take and how to take care of the area after. Very professional. The service was quick. She checked on me during the treatment and kept updating me on the % completed which was so great. Would highly recommend!

5 out of 5 stars

Nadia Causley

PMU Eyebrow Removal

Langley

via Google

I had such a fantastic experience at this sleek and modern studio! I went in for microbladed eyebrow removal and was nervous at first but Billy immediately put me at ease. He took the time to explain every step of the process in detail and answered all of my questions patiently. His professionalism and calm demeanor made all the difference. To my surprise, the procedure wasn't painful at all—dare I say it was even fun! The results are great so far, and I couldn't be happier. I highly recommend this place to anyone considering laser tattoo removal. You'll be in great hands with Billy!

5 out of 5 stars

Aleena Pham

PMU Eyebrow Removal

Langley

via Google

From the moment I walked into Studio Kiku, I felt I was in good hands. I came in to have my brow tattoo removed, and I was genuinely amazed by the results, most of the black ink was gone after just one session. Billy, Kaori and Jamie were all so knowledgeable and professional, making the process smooth and reassuring. Their expertise truly shows in their work. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone considering tattoo removal.

Saline Removal FAQs

The questions clients ask before deciding between laser and saline.

No. Laser is non-ablative, meaning it doesn't open the skin. It shatters the pigment beneath the surface so your body can absorb the particles. Saline removal is manual: a tattoo machine deposits a saline-based solution into the skin, which causes the body to reject both the solution and the pigment together. Saline opens the skin every time. Laser doesn't.

For most pigments and most skin types, no. Laser performed properly is less damaging to the skin than saline. Some marketing presents saline as "gentler," but that comparison usually assumes the laser technician doesn't know what they're doing. We recommend laser first because it's less traumatic, faster, and more cost-effective.

Because some pigments don't respond to laser at all, and clients deserve a path forward. Permanent makeup pigments in particular sometimes contain ingredients that the laser can't break down. When that happens, saline is often the only remaining option, and we'd rather perform it ourselves with a careful technique than send a client to someone less experienced.

Book a free consultation. We'll evaluate the pigment, your skin, and your history with previous removal attempts. We almost always recommend a laser test spot first. It's low-risk and tells us quickly whether laser will work. If it doesn't, that's when we'll discuss saline.

It depends on the pigment and how your skin responds. Some clients see results in one or two sessions. Others need several, with sessions spaced at least 8 weeks apart to allow the skin to heal fully between each one.

More involved than laser aftercare. Keep the treatment area clean, avoid picking, avoid sun exposure, and avoid any product that could trigger irritation. We'll walk you through the full aftercare protocol during your session.

Yes. If laser is still working and there's pigment to break down, we won't recommend saline. If the area has existing scar tissue, dense hair coverage, or a high infection risk, we'll talk those factors through first. Saline isn't the right call for everyone.

Not sure which is right for you?

Book a free consultation. We'll review your situation, recommend a laser test spot when it makes sense, and only consider saline if the laser isn't doing the job.

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