When Eyeliner Tattoos Go Wrong: Fixing Permanent Eyeliner Mistakes

When people think of eyeliners, many immediately remember the cosmetic tool’s peak during the emo era in the summer of 2002. While it’s still popular to this day, we’re using it a little differently (sans the dark-colored lips plus side-swept bangs). What many don’t realize is that when applied in the right amount, eyeliner can actually have multiple benefits!

Apart from enhancing eye definition, eyeliner also boosts symmetry, highlights your strong features, acts as a form of self-expression, and heightens depth. In fact, it’s so advantageous that others opt to have eyeliner permanently tattooed. While this may work out well for some, it doesn’t always have a great ending and we’re here to tell you why!

What Happens When Permanent Eyeliner Tattoos Go Wrong?

It’s true what they say, it is possible to have too much of a good thing. The risk of regret only increases when you opt to have that good thing permanently etched on your skin, too. Lets’ talk about how eyeliner tattoos can go wrong and the tell-tale signs to look out for.

Understanding Eyeliner Tattoo Concerns

There could be many reasons eyeliner tattoos go wrong. From not liking the output to experiencing medical complications, and many other possible scenarios in between. Tattoos applied on the face and around the eyes is a serious matter to weigh out before making a decision.

Common Issues with Permanent Eyeliner

Some of the most common issues with permanent eyeliner include the pigment getting discolored over time, the pigment moving to a different part of the eye, or worse, infections and allergic reactions. Others also experience scarring in the area.

Signs of a Botched Eyeliner Tattoo

When the tattoo is fresh, it’s expected to be red, sore, and a little swollen while it heals. However, these should all subside after a few days. If you notice these side effects getting worse or staying consistent, seek medical advice.

How to Choose the Right Tattoo Artist for Permanent Eyeliner

Leaving your eyes and health in the hands of a professional has its own set of risks. For this reason, it is important to choose an artist who not only talks confidently about their work but also has the experience and credentials to back it up.

What to Look for in a Cosmetic Tattoo Artist

• Certifications, licenses, and other credentials
• Past work experience and reputation
• Attention to detail
• Fair pricing and value
• Someone who’s style compliments the results you are after

Questions to Ask Before Getting a Permanent Eyeliner Tattoo

• Ask to see their portfolio
• Ask them to explain the procedure and aftercare instructions to get a feel as to how knowledgeable they are and how supported you will be throughout the process
• Ask about their sterilization methods and hygiene practices

Checking Reviews and Portfolios of Tattoo Artists

Just like when purchasing an item online, read through the most recent reviews - both the good and bad - before making a decision. You can find most of the artist portfolios online such as in their website, social media pages, or if they don’t have a formal portfolio up, look on forums for any authentic reviews.

What Are the Options for Fixing Eyeliner Gone Wrong?

Dealing with temporary eye liner issues would be an easy fix but when it comes to permanently tattooed variants, we’re talking a whole other ball game. From saline to laser removal, here’s a quick preview on how you can fix and remove permanent eyeliner gone wrong.

Saline Removal Techniques for Eyeliner Tattoos

Saline is a proven and tested method to remove all kinds of permanent makeup - eyeliner pigment included. This procedure is great for those who prefer not to undergo a laser technique, and is done by carefully opening up a portion of skin above the pigment then injecting the saline solution into the cuts. The salt present in the solution dries the pigment, which is carried out through scabs once the skin starts to heal.

When to Consider Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser is another method of tattoo removal, which works by allowing the bears to penetrate through the skin via light energy. This breaks down the pigment into tiny particles, which the white blood cells naturally carry out of the system. However, to avoid over exposure, the multiple sessions needed to completely eradicate any trace of pigment have to be performed gradually.

This method is preferred by those who want faster results in a shorter period of time.

Understanding the Healing Process After Correction

Similar to getting a tattoo, the removal of the latter will also do a number on your skin. This means that healing time and some form of aftercare are recommended to ensure the area stays healthy. Laser removal requires at least 6 weeks between treatments and an average of three sessions. Saline removal, on the other hand, will need 8-10 weeks between treatment and an average of 2-6 sessions.

How to Care for Your Permanent Eyeliner After Application

Similar to other permanent makeup procedures, your aftercare details will ultimately depend on the kind of skin you have and how best to support it during its healing phase.

Essential Aftercare Tips for Eyeliner Tattoos

The first thing you want to do during your pre-appointment consultation is speak with your artist regarding your expectations and possible aftercare routine. This way, you’ll know what to prepare for going into it.

Post-treatment, review the outline your artist has prepared and follow them to a T. While the tips and techniques will differ on a case-to-case basis, some of the general guidelines we can offer include:

• Keep the area clean and dry.
• Do not touch, pick scabs, or scratch the area.
• Avoid skincare and makeup products during the healing process.
• Refrain from exposing the area to too much sunlight or sweat.

Managing Pigment Migration and Uneven Lines

The best way to manage permanent makeup issues is by speaking with a professional. Consult your chosen artist regarding your concern, take photos for documentation, and they should be able to suggest a solution.

More often than not, touch-ups and color corrections can help manage minor issues while removal and reapplication may be needed to remedy bigger problems.

Skin Type Considerations for Eyeliner Tattoos

With any permanent makeup procedure, those with oily skin may experience more or faster fading compared to those with dry or combination skin types. If you have sensitive skin, always ensure you are cleared by your dermatologist or professional artist to undergo procedures.

What Are the Risks of Permanent Eyeliner Tattoos?

The eyelid is the thinnest layer of skin on the human body and is also where eyeliner is applied. Explore the possible risks permanent tattoos bring when targeting the area.

Potential Complications from Eyeliner Tattoos

• Scarring
• Infection
• Allergic Reactions
• Discoloration
• Pigment migration
• Eye Irritation

Understanding the Long-Term Effects of Permanent Makeup

While the following are uncommon, certain negative long-term effects are possible with permanent makeup:

• Granulomas
• Keloids
• Eyelash loss
• Bleeding
• Crusting
• Infection

You’re All Set!

Eyeliner tattoos are quite similar to eyebrow tattoos in the sense that many use these procedures to compliment their natural features. Brow shapes, for instance, can compliment one’s eye shape to give it more definition, much like what liners do. Similarly, sparse brows can be filled in more a bolder aesthetic, which is what eyeliners are best known to bring out!

No matter the kind of permanent makeup you opt for, each comes with its own set of risks and benefits. Should you prefer to forgo the risks and only focus on the low-maintenance, low-cost, and lost-commitment side of the PMU world, temporary alternatives abound. In the case of eyebrows, your best bet we either, temporary eyebrow tattoos or the eyebrow stamp kit. These two tools are by far the most user-friendly you can find on the market today, and you can get your hands on them right here on My Two Brows.