Laser hair removal and permanent makeup (PMU / microblading): essential precautions

Permanent makeup (PMU) – microblading of eyebrows, eyeliner, lip blush – relies on pigments implanted in the skin . Laser hair removal, on the other hand, works by targeting pigments (those in the hair). Therefore, when an area of ​​the face contains PMU, there is a point of caution: the laser light can interact with the PMU pigment , with a risk of skin reaction, discomfort, and sometimes even a change in the PMU's color.

This guide explains what to do before , during and after a session, and how to organize your care plan if you have (or plan to have) a PMU.

Why is PMU changing the rules of the game for laser hair removal?

Even though laser hair removal targets the melanin in the hair, the presence of PMU pigment in the beam's path can cause problems. Clinical documents on micropigmentation contain a clear warning: laser hair removal in a micropigmented area should be avoided because it can lead to a significant change in color (even darkening) .

Practical consequence: on the face, we no longer think in terms of “area to be waxed”, but rather “area to be waxed without ever crossing the PMU zone”.

The main risks to be aware of (without dramatizing)

1. PMU color change
   The pigment can darken, change color, or alter unpredictably, especially if energy directly affects the pigmented area.

2. Localized skin reaction
   Excessive heat, redness, irritation, or even injury if you "pass over" it (hence the importance of a safety margin).

3. Less even hair removal result
   If we bypass the PMU area (which we should do), there may remain a small “island” of hair in or on the path, which we will manage differently.

Before the session: the checklist to follow

1) Always declare your PMU (even if it's old)

Mention it when booking and at the time of the review:

• exact area (eyebrows, lip contour, eyeliner)

• Date of the last appointment (creation or alteration)

• color and style (very fine microblading vs. denser shading)

• any past reactions (redness, slow healing, etc.)

2) If your PMU is recent: wait for complete healing

After microblading/PMU, the skin must be completely healed before considering laser treatment on the face. If you have any doubts, it is best to consult your practitioner (and, if necessary, seek medical advice).

3) Understand the technology used

A reputable center should be able to explain the type of laser used, its rationale, and how it protects at-risk areas. On SSSKIN, you can already read the basics of diode laser hair removal technology to understand the principles (targeting, parameters, importance of assessment).

During the session: what a prudent protocol should include

1) Zero shots in the PMU zone

The simplest and safest rule: never pass the laser over the PMU track .

2) Define a safety margin around the PMU

The practitioner must delineate/visualize a buffer zone around the PMU and treat only the "non-risk" area. The exact width depends on the area, pigment density, and technique.

3) Local testing if necessary

If you have very dense PMU (percutaneous mucosal hair), close to the area to be epilated, a test on a mini-area (outside PMU) may be offered to check tolerance.

After the session: what to watch for and what to avoid

• Follow the aftercare instructions (soothing, sun protection, no irritation).

• Watch for any unusual reaction near the PMU area: increased pain, abnormal scabs, or a very hot area. In this case, contact your practitioner immediately (and consult a doctor if the reaction is severe).

Concrete examples (face): what to do depending on the PMU zone

And if I want to do both: laser hair removal + PMU, in what order?

If you are planning a PMU (eyebrows, lips, eyeliner) and also laser hair removal on the face, the simplest order is often:

1. Perform laser hair removal on the affected area (when there is no pigment)

2. Then perform the PMU once the skin is stable and the hair removal plan is clear.

This logic is consistent with the warnings used in clinical settings for micropigmentation: laser hair removal in the pigmented area can change the color of the PMU, so it is better to anticipate when possible.

What to do with the hairs that are located "in" the PMU area?

If hairs remain within the treatment area (for example, in the eyebrow), the practitioner can suggest non-laser alternatives that target the pigment , depending on your skin and your goals: gentle maintenance, mechanical hair removal, or another option discussed on a case-by-case basis. The key point: do not try to "force" the laser on the pigmented area .

If you wish to start a supervised protocol, you can find SSSKIN's laser hair removal offer and ask your PMU questions during the pre-session assessment.

FAQ - Laser hair removal + PMU / microblading

Can you have laser hair removal if you have microblading?

Yes, but not “as usual”: you must strictly avoid the microbladed area and work around it, with a safety margin.

Can the PMU (French betting system) change color with a laser?

Yes, that can happen if the energy hits the pigmented area. That's why we don't treat it directly.

I have a lip blush: can I have my upper lip treated with laser?

This is a high-risk area if the pigment is close. The decision depends on your specific case (density, location, healing). A cautious approach is to treat around the pigmented area and avoid it.

I want to do some PMU betting soon: should I get laser hair removal done beforehand?

Often, yes: it simplifies things and reduces the risk of interaction with the pigment. Discuss the schedule with your practitioners.

What should I tell the practitioner before the session?

The PMU area specifies the date, retouching, color, and any past reactions. If these details are missing from the report, it's a red flag.