Permanent eyeliner tattoos are becoming more and more popular, but not everyone is a candidate. Knowing who should avoid this procedure is key to getting the best results, safety and overall well being. This article will go through the various reasons why someone may not be suitable for the eyeliner tattoo and the aftercare instructions for those who are.
What is a Eyeliner Tattoo?
A eyeliner tattoo is a semi permanent makeup procedure where pigment is applied along the lash line to create an enhanced lash line, from a subtle lash enhancement to a winged eyeliner. The procedure uses single use needles, topical anesthetics (numbing cream) and customised pigment colours. Results are long lasting and can save time on daily makeup for those with busy lifestyles. But not everyone is an ideal candidate for this procedure and certain conditions may pose risks or give suboptimal results.
Not suitable candidate
People with Certain Skin Conditions
- Active skin diseases, viral infections or skin conditions around the eyes such as eczema or psoriasis should not get eyeliner tattooed. These conditions can affect the healing process and cause complications.
- Oily Skin
- Oily skin can affect pigment retention. Since the skin produces natural oils, it can cause the pigment to fade faster and affect the longevity of the eyeliner style.
- Sensitive Skin: If you have sensitive skin around the eyes, the eyeliner tattoo procedure can irritate the skin and cause complications such as swelling, redness or poor colour retention.
People on Blood Thinning Medications
If you are on blood thinning medications or anti-coagulant medications such as aspirin, fish oil or certain blood pressure medications, you may bleed excessively during the eyeliner tattoo process. This can affect the pigment implantation and the pigment may not retain properly and also interfere with the healing period. Consult your doctor and do not get a cosmetic tattoo procedure until you are off these medications or under the care of your doctor.
Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid cosmetic procedures like permanent eyeliner tattoos as the topical anesthetics and pigments used can pose risks. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect the body’s response to the procedure and healing. Wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding to consider semi permanent eyeliner tattoos.
Active Infections or Cold Sores
If you have active infections or cold sores in the eye area, you should postpone the eyeliner tattoo until these are cleared up. This also applies to those with eye infections or skin irritations. The implant of pigment can introduce bacteria into the skin and cause an infection. If you are prone to cold sores you should discuss this with your eyeliner tattoo artist to see what they recommend as these can complicate the healing process.
Heart Conditions
People with heart disease, major heart conditions or those who have had heart surgery should consult with their doctor before getting permanent makeup procedures like eyeliner tattoos. Blood pressure and circulation can be affected during the procedure and healing can be compromised. Always consult with your doctor if you have any heart related health concerns.
Using Steroid Creams or Harsh Skin Care Products
If you are using steroid creams, glycolic acid, salicylic acid or other harsh anti-aging skin care products around the eye area you should wait until the skin is fully healed before getting the eyeliner tattooed. These products can thin the skin making it more prone to irritation or reaction during the pigment application process.
Poor Healing or Keloid Scarring
If you have a history of hypertrophic scarring or keloids you should consider how your skin will react to the eyeliner tattooing process. Those with poor healing or a tendency to form raised scars may not be ideal candidates for permanent eyeliner tattoos. The healing can be prolonged and the pigment may not settle evenly.
Contact Lens Wearers
Wearing contact lenses is not a automatic disqualifier for eyeliner tattooing; however you should consult with a trusted tattoo artist to discuss how to manage the procedure. You may be asked to remove your lenses during the tattooing session. Contact lens wearers should take extra care to follow aftercare instructions to avoid irritation.
Recent Laser Eye Surgery
If you have recently had laser eye surgery or any laser treatments you should wait a healing period before getting eyeliner tattoos. The eyes may be too sensitive and the eyeliner tattoo can cause irritation, dryness or affect the healing of the eye area.
High Pain Sensitivity
While numbing cream and topical anesthetics are used to reduce discomfort some people may still find the procedure painful. Pain threshold varies from person to person and those with a lower pain tolerance may find the process uncomfortable especially during the pigment implantation. If you are concerned about pain talk to the artist beforehand.
Alternatives
Not suitable for eyeliner tattooing? Here are other options:
- Lash Extensions: For a temporary solution, lash extensions give you a fuller lash look without the commitment of eyeliner. Lash extensions are a great way to enhance your natural beauty without the permanence of a tattoo.
- Lash Enhancement Serums: These serums will help lengthen and thicken your lashes over time, an alternative to both eyeliner tattoos and lash extensions.
- Traditional Eyeliner: If you’re not a candidate for permanent makeup, traditional eyeliner is always an option to go bold or subtle.
Conclusion
While eyeliner tattoos can be a long term solution to your daily makeup routine, not everyone is suitable for the procedure. Skin conditions, health issues and medications should be considered before getting this cosmetic tattoo. Always consult with a professional eyeliner tattoo artist to see if you’re a good candidate for this semi permanent makeup and to be fully informed about the healing process and aftercare instructions.
For a long term beauty solution, permanent eyeliner is a convenient alternative to traditional makeup, and a lash enhancement tattoo gives a subtle boost to the lash line for a natural look. In cosmetic tattooing Melbourne, professionals use expert techniques to tattoo eyeliner to achieve a flawless, customised result that suits your features.
FAQ
Can I wear eyeliner makeup after the procedure?
No, don’t wear makeup on the tattooed area during the healing period.
How long does the eyeliner tattoo last?
1-2 years depending on your skin type and how well you follow aftercare.
Is there any downtime after the procedure?
A little swelling or tenderness for a few days, but most people can go back to normal activities straight after.
Can I get a touch up if my eyeliner tattoo fades?
Yes, touch ups are common to maintain the intensity and shape after 1-2 years.
Can I use my normal skincare products after the procedure?
No, during the healing period avoid products with Alpha Hydroxy Acid, glycolic acid and salicylic acid on the tattooed area. Follow aftercare instructions from your artist.
