If you love the dramatic impact of eyeliner but hate the hassle of carefully applying it every morning, then semi permanent eyeliner could be exactly what your makeup routine needs. It’s a simple yet highly effective procedure, but what exactly happens during the semi permanent eyeliner application process? The experts at RJL Education are here to tell you everything you need to know.
What is semi permanent eyeliner?
Although technically a ‘tattoo’, semi permanent eyeliner – indeed any kind of semi permanent makeup – involves implanting colour into your skin through a tiny needle. Unlike traditional tattoos – where the ink is deposited much deeper into the skin and uses different ink – semi permanent eyeliner will eventually fade. But not before giving your eyes an enhanced and dramatic look.
After all, makeup trends are constantly changing, and you may find yourself wanting to switch up your look throughout the years.
How does it work?
Any form of semi permanent makeup must be performed by a professional and qualified technician – someone who has undergone a semi permanent eyeliner course, for example. Using specialised tattooing equipment, the eyeliner will be applied within or just above the lash line, in a procedure lasting between 1 and 2 hours.
The area will be numbed before the procedure begins, and although you may feel a gentle buzzing around the eyelid, there should be no pain or discomfort.
How long does it last?
It’s tricky to predict how long semi permanent eyeliner will last. As a rough estimate, it should look its best for about a year, but it could be as long as 2 – 3 years before you need to think about a touch up. As we mentioned earlier, the ink is not injected very deep into your skin, and gradually the molecules will dissipate and the eyeliner will fade.
Factors that will affect the longevity of your eyeliner include:
- Skincare and makeup products used
- Exposure to sun
- Lifestyle
- Diet
- Skin type
Why get semi permanent eyeliner?
There are a number of reasons why someone may opt for a semi permanent eyeliner procedure, such as:
- You may be pressed for time or struggle with your morning routine due to a disability or being partially sighted.
- You may struggle to keep your hands steady.
- You may have a busy lifestyle and want to save time in the morning.
- You simply like the way it looks and want to keep it that way!
So what’s so good about semi permanent eyeliner?
- It can save you frustration – many of us will know the struggle of achieving perfect symmetry.
- It’s far more convenient than shopping around for the right product and shade.
- It won’t smudge.
- Semi permanent eyeliner can last for up to 2 to 3 years. It is a long-term investment due to top ups required, but it’ll save you time and money in the long run.
What eyeliner styles can I get?
It’s always best to opt for something natural when it comes to any kind of semi permanent makeup; after all, you’ll be wearing it for several years! Also, styles and trends come and go throughout the years, so opting for something natural both in style and colour allows you enjoy the long-term benefits of your eyeliner, without needing a change too soon.
With this in mind, there are two main styles of semi permanent eyeliner:
The Tightline
For this style, the pigment of your choice is applied between the layers of your eyelashes, which results in a darker lash line with just a hint of enhancement. This look toes the line perfectly between natural and ‘no-makeup-makeup’ – ideal if you don’t wear liquid eyeliner daily and want something fuss free.
The Traditional
For something that makes more of a statement, the traditional style involves placing eyeliner right above the lash line, giving more of a bold and distinctive look compared to the tightline.
What to expect after getting semi permanent eyeliner?
Depending on the type of application you receive, the full healing process can take anywhere from seven to 14 days. Then you can expect to be waiting a further two weeks for the liner to fully show.
To ensure that your new semi permanent eyeliner heals fully and looks its best for as long as possible, take the following steps following the procedure:
- Avoid eye makeup until healing is complete.
- Avoid pools and saunas until healed.
- Don’t rub or touch your eyes where possible.
- There may be some scabbing; don’t pick at it.
- You may also see black flakes for a few days afterwards – these are normal.
Once you’re happy with your semi permanent eyeliner, you could always take another step out of your daily beauty regime with microbladed brows or a lash lift and tint. Your eyes will have never looked better!