The PMU Removal Diaries: Why Botched Ink® Before Laser?

When it comes to PMU removal, clients often ask me: “Should I start with laser or saline?” The truth is, not all removal methods are created equal, and the sequence you choose makes a big difference. At my Studio, I specialise in both Botched Ink® saline removal and laser removal – and more often than not, I recommend starting with saline. Here’s why.

Laser removal is fantastic for breaking down dark carbon-based pigments, but it isn’t always effective on cosmetic tattoo inks. Brows that have healed to red, orange, or yellow tones, for example, can be resistant to laser alone. Botched Ink® saline removal is specially formulated for PMU and has a unique ability to lift out unwanted colour pigments that laser may leave behind.

By beginning with saline, we can target those stubborn shades and create a more even starting point before introducing laser, if needed.

One of the reasons I love Botched Ink® is how gentle it is on the skin compared to diving straight in with laser. PMU areas like brows and eyeliner are delicate, and clients are often worried about scarring or trauma. Saline removal works with your skin’s natural healing process, drawing out pigment while also stimulating a smoother, healthier skin surface.

Starting with saline means we can lighten and lift gradually, allowing your skin time to recover in between sessions. This not only preserves skin integrity but also sets you up for better long-term results if laser is needed later.

Laser removal isn’t always suitable for every skin type or tone, particularly darker Fitzpatrick types where there’s a higher risk of pigment change. Botched Ink® saline removal is safe across all skin tones, making it the ideal first option for many clients.

By beginning with saline, we avoid unnecessary risks while still making great progress on fading the PMU.

In many cases, the most effective removal plan is a combination of saline and laser. Here’s how it usually works:

Stage 1: Start with Botched Ink®  sessions to lift out stubborn pigments, target warm tones, and gently fade the work.

Stage 2: Introduce laser once the ink is lighter and the skin has healed, to further break down deeper pigments that saline may not fully reach. Additional saline session/s may be required after laser as well depending on whether complete removal or a PMU redo is the goal.

This approach allows me to tailor every treatment to the individual, using each method’s strengths to achieve the best outcome with the least trauma to the skin.

Going straight in with laser can sometimes push pigment deeper into the skin or shift the colour, making later removal harder. By using saline first, we’re creating the right conditions for laser to be more effective if we need it. Think of it as preparing the canvas – gentle clearing before precision work.

Every client’s PMU removal journey is unique, but one thing remains the same: safety and skin health come first. By starting with Botched Ink®, we respect your skin, reduce risks, and often achieve faster, smoother results.

If you’re considering removal and aren’t sure which option is right for you, I’d love to guide you. Book a consultation and together we’ll create the right plan for your skin, your pigment, and your goals.