Laser Tattoo Removal Turned Eyebrow Black

Thank you for the question. One of the problems with professional tattoos of the eyebrows is that some inks contain iron which may oxidize in reaction to the laser energy. This reaction may cause the ink to change color (sometimes darker). in general, it may be a good idea, to do a small test area of the eyebrow laser treatment before proceeding with complete treatment. You may also want to visit with several different physicians who specialize in the use of laser... more

The medical literature has established the fact that cosmetic ink may turn darker after treatment. This process is called paradoxical ink darkening.

We agree that permanent make up is challenging inasmuch as the color may change once the laser treatment process is started.  Having the correct laser with the correct wavelength is imperative if and when this change occurs.  The fact that your ink changed to a DARKER color is actually of great benefit to you.  This then makes the treatments less challenging compared to permanent make up that changes to a clay color or bluish hue.  A patient must be told that the... more

There was a discussion about this in the past at http://www.realself.com/question/laser-tattoo-removal-lips The reason is that some inks are actually a blend of several colors, and those containng iron can convert to a black color when treated with the laser. Because permanent makeup fades over time, my advice to patients is to let it wear off with time.