Visage New York offers PhiRemoval, a non-laser, acid-free method for removing or lightening unwanted tattoos and permanent makeup. For those interested in tattoo removal, unlike laser removal, PhiRemoval doesn’t use heat or light. It draws pigment out of the skin through a controlled healing process, which makes it effective on colors that resist laser treatment.
We use PhiRemoval to correct old microblading, lighten or remove outdated permanent makeup, and fade small body tattoos. It’s suitable for all skin types and all pigment colors, including reds, oranges, greens, and blues that typically don’t respond well to laser.
How the PhiRemoval Technique Works
PhiRemoval uses a non-toxic, acid-free solution that binds with pigment sitting in the dermal layer and draws it toward the skin’s surface as part of the body’s natural healing response. This is different from laser removal, which breaks pigment particles apart using heat so the body can absorb them internally.
The area is cleansed and numbed before treatment. Your technician then implants the PhiRemoval solution at the same depth as the original tattoo or microblading, using a specialized hand tool or machine.
Over the following days, a micro-scab forms over the treated area. When it falls off naturally, it carries pigment out with it. Each session lightens the pigment further until you reach the result you’re after, whether that’s full removal or a lighter base for a cover-up or PMU correction.
Because the process relies on the skin’s own healing cycle rather than heat, it also carries less risk of the scarring and hypopigmentation sometimes associated with laser removal on darker skin tones.
PhiRemoval vs. Laser Removal
- No heat or light involved, so there’s no risk of thermal burns to surrounding skin
- Effective on stubborn colors like red, orange, green, and blue that laser often can’t fully clear
- Suitable for all Fitzpatrick skin types, including darker skin tones more prone to laser-related pigment changes
- Works especially well for permanent makeup correction, where precision around the brow, lip, or eyeliner area matters more than with body tattoos
- Results build gradually through several sessions rather than through repeated laser passes
Benefits of PhiRemoval
- Safe and effective across all skin types and tones
- Works on pigment colors that don’t respond to laser
- Non-acidic formula that minimizes scarring risk
- Suitable for both permanent makeup correction and small body tattoos
- Produces natural, gradual fading through the skin’s own healing process
Aftercare Instructions
- Keep the area dry for at least 48 hours. Avoid touching or washing it.
- Don’t pick or scratch the scab. Let it fall off naturally. Removing it early can cause scarring or pigment retention.
- Avoid makeup, creams, or oils on the treated area until it’s fully healed.
- Stay out of direct sun and tanning beds for at least 4 weeks. UV exposure can affect both pigment removal and healing.
- Avoid swimming, saunas, and steam rooms for 10 days.
- Skip exfoliation and active skincare products like retinol or acids until fully healed.
- Once the scab falls off naturally, apply the healing balm or aftercare serum recommended by your technician.
A follow-up session is typically scheduled 6 to 8 weeks later, depending on how your skin responds and how much fading you’re aiming for.
Consultation Required
Every skin type, pigment, and tattoo responds differently, so a consultation is required before starting PhiRemoval treatment. We’ll assess your skin, review the pigment you’re working with, and build a removal plan suited to your specific case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PhiRemoval the same as laser tattoo removal?
No. PhiRemoval is a non-laser, acid-free method that draws pigment out through the skin’s natural healing process, rather than breaking it down with heat and light like laser treatment does.
Does PhiRemoval work on colors laser can’t remove?
Yes. Reds, oranges, greens, and blues are often resistant to laser but respond well to PhiRemoval since the removal process doesn’t depend on how the pigment absorbs light.
Is PhiRemoval safe for darker skin tones?
Yes. Because it doesn’t use heat, it carries less risk of the hypopigmentation or scarring that laser removal can sometimes cause on darker skin.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the size, age, and pigment density of the tattoo or permanent makeup. Most clients need multiple sessions spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart to reach the desired result.
Does PhiRemoval hurt?
The area is numbed before treatment, so most clients feel pressure rather than significant pain during the procedure.
Can PhiRemoval be used to correct old microblading?
Yes. It’s commonly used to lighten or remove outdated microblading and other permanent makeup before a correction or new application.
Book a Tattoo & Permanent Makeup Removal Consultation in New York
Book a consultation at Visage New York to have your tattoo or permanent makeup assessed before starting PhiRemoval treatment.
We’ll review your pigment type and skin, and walk you through a removal plan built around your specific case, whether that’s fading an old tattoo, correcting microblading, or preparing for a fresh PMU application.
See our full range of paramedical and permanent makeup services, or get in touch to schedule your removal consultation in Manhattan.