Permanent eyeliner is a total game-changer for those who want to wake up with perfectly defined eyes everyday. But like all cosmetic tattoos, it requires proper aftercare and maintenance to ensure long lasting, vibrant results. If you’ve just had permanent eyeliner applied or are thinking about getting the procedure, here’s how you can extend its longevity and keep it looking fresh for years to come.
1. Follow the Aftercare Instructions
The healing process is key to how long your permanent eyeliner will last. Your technician will give you specific aftercare instructions but here are some key tips:
- Keep the area dry for the first few days to prevent premature fading and pigment loss.
- Don’t touch or rub your eyes to allow proper healing and reduce the risk of infection.
- Apply recommended healing ointment or balms to aid in healing and prevent infection.
- Don’t pick at any scabs as this can pull out pigment and cause patchiness.
- Use a fresh pillowcase to minimize bacterial exposure during the healing phase.
- A permanent eyeliner tattoo needs to go through a healing phase so patience and proper care is key to achieving the best results.
2. Protect Your Eyeliner from Sun Exposure
UV exposure can break down tattoo pigments causing them to fade faster. To protect your permanent eyeliner:
- Wear sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat when outdoors to avoid direct sunlight.
- Apply SPF 30 or higher around the eyes (don’t apply directly on the liner itself).
- Avoid tanning beds and excessive sun exposure as they can accelerate fading.
- Since cosmetic tattooing involves delicate pigments, excessive sun exposure can cause faster fading and discoloration.
3. Avoid Oil Based and Harsh Skincare Products
Oil based cleansers, heavy creams and harsh skincare products can cause faster fading of your eyeliner tattoo. To maintain pigment retention:
- Use gentle, fragrance free and mild cleansers.
- Avoid products containing retinol, glycolic acids and salicylic acid as they can dilute pigments and cause premature fading.
- Stick to water based makeup removers to ensure optimal healing.
- Permanent makeup artist often recommend avoiding harsh skincare products that can affect pigment longevity.
4. Minimize Exfoliation and Direct Contact with Water
- Don’t sweat too much, hot showers and sauna’s during the healing stage.
- Limit exposure to water, hot water and moisture to prevent pigment dilution.
- When cleaning use luke warm water and a damp cloth not to expose your eyeliner to running water.
- Since permanent eyeliner is working with delicate pigments, direct contact with water can slow down the healing process and affect retention.
5. Be Gentle with Makeup and Removers
If you still wear additional eye makeup, remove it gently with a soft cotton pad and a mild, oil free remover. Don’t scrub too hard as it can cause premature fading and irritation. Avoid using manual exfoliants, harsh products or heavy eye makeup that can affect the healing process.
6. Schedule Touch-Ups When Needed
Over time even the best applied permanent eyeliner will fade. Most clients need a touch up every 1-3 years to maintain sharpness and color. Regular maintenance and additional sessions with an experienced technician will ensure long lasting results.
7. Live a Healthy Lifestyle
Your body’s natural skin regeneration and healing process plays a big role on how long your permanent eyeliner will last. To help retain pigment for as long as possible:
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to keep your skin healthy and elastic.
- Eat a nutritious diet to support skin healing and overall health.
- Avoid smoking, caffeine products and excessive alcohol consumption as they can cause fading.
- Limit physical activities, heavy lifting and extreme sweating during the initial healing period.
- Choose a skilled cosmetic tattoo artist for the best pigment retention and healing experience.
8. Consult a Skilled Cosmetic Tattoo Artist
The experience of your tattoo artist affects the longevity of your eyeliner procedure. Make sure you choose a qualified technician or microblading artist who knows the best techniques and type of pigment for your skin type.
- A highly experienced permanent makeup artist will guide you on aftercare and maintenance to keep your eyeliner looking vibrant.
Conclusion
By following these aftercare and healing instructions, you can extend the life of your permanent eyeliner and keep your eyes looking amazing for years. Avoid harsh skincare products, direct sun exposure and excessive moisture and maintain a regular touch up. If you have any questions, consult your cosmetic tattoo artist for personalized advice on pigment colour and results.
FAQ
How long does it take for permanent eyeliner to heal?
Healing time is 7-14 days, but complete healing and pigment settling can take up to 6 weeks.
Can I wear makeup while my permanent eyeliner is healing?
Best to avoid eye makeup during the healing phase to prevent irritation and infection. Wait until your tattoo is fully healed before applying makeup near the area.
Will my permanent eyeliner fade over time?
Yes, all cosmetic tattoos fade over time. Sun exposure, skincare products and lifestyle choices can affect how long your eyeliner lasts. Touch ups help maintain color and shape.
What should I avoid after getting a permanent eyeliner tattoo?
Avoid direct sun exposure, excessive moisture, swimming, sweating and oil based skincare products during the healing process. Proper aftercare is key to long lasting results.
How do I choose the right permanent makeup artist?
Look for a licensed and experienced permanent makeup artist with good reviews and a solid portfolio. An artist who specializes in permanent eyeliner tattoos will give you the best results.