What should I do if my eyeliner tattoo fades unevenly?
Eyeliner tattooing is a semi permanent beauty treatment that adds long lasting pigment to the eyes. But like any cosmetic tattoo it will fade over time. Some clients may notice their eyeliner tattoo fades unevenly and patchy or inconsistent. If you’re experiencing this don’t worry – there are steps you can take to correct and maintain your tattooed eyeliner. Many people getting eyeliner tattoo in Melbourne experience the same issues so proper aftercare and professional guidance is key.
Why Does Eyeliner Tattoo Fade Unevenly?
Several factors can cause uneven fading of the eyeliner tattoo:
- Skin Type: Oily skin, dry skin and delicate skin affects pigment retention differently.
- Healing Process: Scabbing, peeling, pigment migration or excessive rubbing during the healing period can cause pigment loss in certain areas.
- Sun Exposure: UV rays can fade pigments faster especially if aftercare is not followed. Direct sun exposure should be avoided.
- Poor Aftercare: Not following aftercare instructions such as avoiding hot showers, excessive rinsing and harsh skincare products can affect the healing skin.
- Ink Quality & Artist Technique: The type of pigment used, pigment implantation and the technique applied can also affect how evenly the tattoo fades. Choosing an experienced cosmetic tattoo artist can help ensure better pigment retention and results.
- Physical Activities: Excessive sweating, heavy lifting and swimming in chlorinated pools can interfere with pigment retention.
- Medical Conditions: Health conditions, iron deficiency and regulatory measures for permanent makeup procedures can affect the healing process.
How to Fix Uneven Eyeliner Tattoo Fading
1. Wait for the Full Healing Process
Eyeliner tattoos take 4-6 weeks to fully heal. During this period pigment may look lighter or uneven due to natural skin regeneration. If you notice uneven color before the healing process is complete be patient – color will settle over time.
2. Book a Touch-Up Appointment
Most cosmetic tattooing professionals recommend a follow up session 6-8 weeks after the initial procedure. A touch up session allows your artist to correct any faded or uneven areas so you can have a more even and defined look.
3. Follow Aftercare Instructions
Aftercare is key to how well your eyeliner tattoo holds pigment. Follow these:
- Don’t rub, pick or scratch the tattooed area to prevent pigment from falling off prematurely.
- Keep the area dry and avoid sweating, physical activity and hot water in the shower.
- Use a clean tissue, fresh pillowcase and avoid pet dander to reduce risk of infection.
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Avoid sun and always use sunscreen once the area has healed to maintain color.
- Avoid glycolic acid, salicylic acid and other harsh chemicals that can interfere with pigment retention.
- Use a cotton bud or clean towel to gently clean the area if needed.
4. Colour Boost Sessions
Over time permanent eyeliner tattoos fade due to natural exfoliation. If your eyeliner starts to fade unevenly even after healing, additional sessions every 1-2 years can help maintain the colour and uniformity of the pigment.
5. Consult a Pro for Corrections
If uneven fading persists despite touch ups, consult an experienced technician in the permanent makeup industry. They can assess your individual skin type, pigment retention and healing process to recommend the best course of action, whether it’s additional shading, eyeliner tattoo correction or a full removal using removal methods. Some people also consider microblading or other complementary procedures to enhance their look.
Preventing Uneven Fading in the Future
To maintain the longevity and evenness of your eyeliner tattoo:
- Choose a skilled and experienced cosmetic tattoo artist for the procedure.
- Follow all aftercare instructions to the letter to ensure proper healing.
- Protect your tattooed eyeliner from the sun by wearing sunglasses or using a sunblock for sensitive areas.
- Avoid oil-based makeup removers, eyelash serums or heavy creams around the tattooed area.
- Don’t use an eyelash curler or get eyelash extensions and false eyelashes during the healing period to prevent pigment loss.
- Keep the skin hydrated with grapeseed oil or other gentle moisturizers.
Final Thoughts
Uneven fading of an eyeliner tattoo can be so frustrating but it’s usually fixable. By following the right steps—patience, touch-ups and proper care – you can ensure your eyeliner looks beautiful and lasts. If you have persistent issues consult an experienced professional for advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an eyeliner tattoo take to heal?
Eyeliner tattoos take 4-6 weeks to fully heal. During this time the pigment may look lighter or patchy but will settle as the skin regenerates.
Can I wear makeup after getting an eyeliner tattoo?
We recommend not to apply makeup near the tattooed area until it’s fully healed to prevent infection and pigment loss.
What if my eyeliner tattoo becomes too light after healing?
If your eyeliner tattoo looks too light schedule a touch-up appointment with your cosmetic tattoo artist to top up and even out the pigment.
How can I prevent my eyeliner tattoo from fading too quickly?
To extend the life of your eyeliner tattoo avoid direct sun exposure, use gentle skincare and follow all aftercare instructions given by your technician.
Can I get my eyeliner tattoo removed if I don’t like the results?
Yes eyeliner tattoos can be removed using laser removal or correctional treatments by a professional cosmetic tattoo artist.
