Locations in Chicago & Glenview, IL

Permanent Makeup Removal
In Chicago & Glenview, IL

Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago & Glenview, IL is led by Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS, a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who is quadruple board-certified.

Medically reviewed for accuracy.

What is
Permanent Makeup Removal by PicoWay®

“Ariana is awesome! She is a true professional. She always explains every step. Great job on removing them from my eyebrows in just a few sessions!

Erase unwanted permanent eyebrow or hairline makeup forever with PicoWay laser technology. Permanent Makeup aims to PicoWay is different than other laser removal technologies because it is three times more powerful, twice as fast, uses tri-wavelength technology, and has a faster recovery time.

At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, our PicoWay® laser removal technology results in fewer treatments, faster recovery, and greater results than other lasers.

Permanent
Makeup Removal In Chicago

Permanent makeup removal uses Picoway® laser to break up the pigment particles in the skin, which are then naturally removed by the body’s immune system. The laser emits pulses of light that are absorbed by the pigment particles in the skin, causing them to break down into smaller particles.

The process is similar to the way that laser tattoo removal works. However, permanent makeup is less dense and deep than tattoos, which can make the removal process easier and faster!
At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, we utilize a revolutionary laser tattoo removal technology called the PicoWay®. PicoWay® can offer better results in a faster time, and a rapid recovery period. If you are beginning the process of permanent makeup removal, We believe that the PicoWay® laser procedure can offer you the best results in the quickest amount of time.
Crop Photo of Cosmetics Skin Care Concept Photo of Close up Woman Perfect Face with Hydrated Skin

Before & After
Permanent Makeup Removal Results

Permanent makeup removal uses Picoway® laser to break up the pigment particles in the skin, which are then naturally removed by the body’s immune system. The laser emits pulses of light that are absorbed by the pigment particles in the skin, causing them to break down into smaller particles.

The process is similar to the way that laser tattoo removal works. However, permanent makeup is less dense and deep than tattoos, which can make the removal process easier and faster!

How do I know
if I need a microshading revision or removal?

Determining whether you need permanent makeup removal or a revision will depend on a few factors:

  • Fading or discoloration: If your permanent makeup has faded or changed color over time, a permanent makeup revision may be necessary to touch up the pigment and restore the desired shade. However, if you no longer want the permanent makeup at all, removal may be the best option.
  • Incorrect shape or placement: If the shape or placement of your permanent makeup is not what you had in mind, a revision may be necessary to correct the mistake. However, if you no longer want the makeup at all, removal may be a better choice.
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Senior woman beauty care

How Much Does
Permanent Makeup Removal Cost?

At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, we offer expert permanent makeup removal tailored to your unique needs. Treatment costs start at $149 per session for the first square inch, with each additional square inch costing $59. Your total cost will depend on the area being treated and the number of sessions required, as we customize every treatment plan to suit each individual.

We also provide a variety of advanced treatment options that can be combined for optimal results. To make your journey even more convenient, we offer flexible financing options and payment plans to fit your budget.

Why Choose
Dr. Rachel

Dr. Rachel and staff

You want a clear recommendation, realistic expectations, and results that still look like you. At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago and Glenview, we start with an anatomy-led plan based on your goals. We’ll tell you what we think will work, what won’t, and why. We explain your options in plain language, including what we would not recommend, so you can feel confident with your decision.

Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS is a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He is quadruple board-certified in Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. He completed residency training in Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery at Wayne State/Detroit Medical Center and a Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery fellowship at the Beeson Cosmetic Surgery Institute. He has been in practice since 2001, is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), and has published peer-reviewed research in facial plastic surgery and skin rejuvenation.

Dr. Rachel and his team at Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago and Glenview

Frequently Asked Questions
Permanent Makeup Removal

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What areas can be treated?

PicoWay® permanent makeup removal can safely treat most areas of the body with the most common areas being:

  • Eyebrows
  • Hairline
  • Areola

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How many treatments will I need?

The number of permanent makeup removal sessions needed can vary depending on various factors, including the type of pigment used, the depth of the pigment, and the individual's skin type and health. On average, it may take between 3 and 10 laser sessions to remove permanent makeup completely.

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How long does tattoo removal take?

Each treatment can take anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour. The length of time can depend on the size of the area being treated.

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What else can be treated with Picoway®?

  • Acne scar improvement
  • Stretch mark reduction
  • Tattoo removal
  • Scar reduction
  • Skin tone evening
  • Melasma

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What is the recovery time?

The area being treated by the laser will likely be tender for a few days after treatment, as well as possibly blistering for a short time. While this may be uncomfortable, any discomfort should be well-managed certain topical ointments that your Chicago Aesthetics provider may recommend.

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How much does permanent makeup removal cost in Chicago, Illinois?

The cost of your permanent makeup removal treatment starts at $149 for the first square inch, per session. Each additional inch will be $59. Your cost will depend on what areas need treatment and how many treatments you need. We customize each treatment plan to each individual patient. At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, we have a variety of different treatments available that can be combined to give our patients the best results.

Chicago Aesthetics
Reviews & Testimonials

Excellent4.8254 reviews
4.8
Excellent254 reviews
Ruby Kelly profile picture
Ruby Kelly
September 13, 2026
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I’ve been seeing Carol for Botox for over two years, and she is absolutely amazing! I trust her completely with my face. She always takes the time to listen to what I want and makes sure my results look natural and beautiful—she never overdoes it. I especially appreciate how honest she is; she will tell you when you don’t need something rather than trying to sell you more treatments. Carol truly cares about her patients and always makes me feel comfortable, welcomed, and at home. She is professional, knowledgeable, gentle, and incredibly attentive. I always leave feeling confident and happy with my results. It’s hard to find someone you can trust this much, and I’m so grateful I found Carol. I wouldn’t trust
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Daniella Bella
September 13, 2026
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I had Lipo 360 and a Skinny BBL this summer, and I am so happy with my results. I was always extremely nervous about going under the knife, but I really wanted to do something that would help boost my self-confidence. Dr. T and his entire team were truly amazing throughout the whole process. I am naturally pretty skinny, so I was always worried about whether this procedure would work well for my body type, but I honestly wish I had done it sooner. I am currently about five weeks post-op, and I am already so pleased with how everything is turning out. My results continue to improve as I heal, and I’m excited to see the final outcome. I’m very grateful to Dr. T and his team for making me feel comfortable and confident throughout the experience.
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Stephanie Sanchez
September 9, 2026
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carol’s the absolute best! very fast and great at what she does. My go to for any botox or filler!
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Roberta Livingston
September 6, 2026
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+0
Tom is amazing!! Caring and knowledgeable very, very excellent experience.
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Kim Jones
September 2, 2026
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I’ve been seeing Carol for 10 + years She’s the best and has a perfect eye for what’s needed and what is not. I’ve always trusted her completely and highly recommend!
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Mary S
August 29, 2026
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Wonderful service, everyone is knowledgable and friendly. Dr. Rachel is fabulous and quadruple board certified. I would not trust any other company.
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Laura Rosenhauer
August 28, 2026
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Carol is the best in the business! She is professional, kind, and incredibly attentive throughout my experience. She took the time to understand my concerns and made sure I felt comfortable. I love my results! I truly appreciated her expertise and attention to detail. I highly recommend Carol!
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Angel
August 28, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Nurse Carol always does an outstanding job no matter the procedure. She literally has light hands and you barely feel a thing. She brightens my day whenever I have an appointment with her. Very kind, professional and very knowledgeable. I have never had anyone as thorough as her. She communicates with me before and after all appointments and reaches out to ensure I safely drive there sooner due to the weather conditions. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I cannot say enough wonderful things about Nurse Carol Donohue. After four years as her client, I can genuinely say that the trust, care, and relationship we have built over the years means so much to me. Carol has always been incredibly easy to communicate with and accommodating with my schedule. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients—even coming in early before her shift to make sure she can see me when needed. That level of dedication and care does not go unnoticed. What I appreciate most about Carol is her integrity. She doesn’t simply recommend a cosmetic procedure because she can perform it. She takes the time to honestly tell me what would be beneficial, what may be unnecessary, and what she believes is best for me. My health, well-being, and safety have always come first, and that has given me an incredible amount of confidence and trust in her. Carol is knowledgeable, professional, friendly, and genuinely welcoming. She explains everything in detail, makes sure I understand every step of the process, and always makes me feel comfortable and cared for. She values her clients as people, not just appointments. Beyond her professionalism, Carol’s kindness has touched me personally. There have been days when I walked into her office feeling at my lowest, and simply being met with her warmth, compassion, and kindness helped me leave feeling a little more confident and a lot better than when I arrived. That is something I will never forget. Thank you, Nurse Carol Donohue, for four wonderful years of professionalism, honesty, compassion, and exceptional care. I am incredibly grateful for the client-and-nurse relationship we have built, and I look forward to many more years to come. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking for a provider who combines expertise with integrity and truly cares about the people she serves.
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Julie Rosenhauer
August 28, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I’ve been getting Botox from Carol for several years now, and I couldn’t be happier with my experience! She is incredibly kind, knowledgeable, and professional, and she always takes the time to make sure I feel comfortable and confident throughout the process. I truly trust her expertise and appreciate how carefully she listens to what I want while providing honest, thoughtful recommendations. My results have always looked natural and beautiful, which is exactly what I’m looking for. I highly recommend her to anyone considering Botox or looking for someone skilled, trustworthy, and genuinely caring!
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Diana T
August 26, 2026
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Carol was great! She made the experience comfortable and pain-free while also being efficient. Would definitely return!

Conditions We Treat

At Chicago Aesthetic Surgery & Med Spa, we know that your goals are personal and your concerns are unique. View our complete guide to the most common concerns we treat and the solutions that deliver safe, natural-looking results.

We offer surgical & Non-Surgical
Services

At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, our team of board-certified cosmetic & plastic surgeons are renowned for their extensive training, unparalleled experience, and dedication to surgical artistry. Our entire staff is committed to helping you elevate your natural beauty and making your transformation journey one of the best decisions you'll ever make.

Take the first step towards your new self today. Schedule your complimentary virtual consultation with Chicago's top plastic surgeons when you sign up online—an exclusive offer valued at $250*.

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312.846.1629

Hours

Mon & Wed: 9am - 7pm
Tues, Thurs & Fri: 9am - 5pm
Sat: 9am - 2pm
Sunday: CLOSED

About Us

Enhance your natural beauty with personalized skin, body, and wellness treatments from Chicago’s trusted med spa, led by Dr. John D. Rachel.