Permanent eyeliner is a great beauty time saver and gives you a polished look every day. But proper aftercare is key to get the best results and maintain your new eyeliner. One of the most asked questions is: Should I apply Vaseline to my permanent eyeliner? Let’s get the answer and clarity on this important part of permanent makeup aftercare.
Why Aftercare Matters
After getting permanent eyeliner your skin is healing. Proper aftercare helps to:
- Prevent infections and eye infections.
- Minimize irritation, residual swelling or redness.
- Optimal pigment retention.
- Smooth and quick healing without pigment loss or pigment residue.
Cosmetic tattooing including eyeliner tattoo and lash enhancement tattoo requires proper aftercare to preserve the pigment color and the natural beauty of the results.
The Role of Vaseline
Vaseline is a petroleum jelly used to keep wounds moist and promote healing. But when it comes to permanent eyeliner Vaseline may not be the best option. Here’s why:
- Traps Bacteria Vaseline creates a barrier on the skin which can trap bacteria, airborne debris or pet dander and increase the risk of infection or contact dermatitis.
- Interferes with Healing The barrier created by Vaseline prevents the skin from breathing and slows down the natural healing process and outer healing.
- Pigment Disruption Oils and occlusive products like Vaseline can interfere with pigment bonding and retention and cause color loss or patchiness.
Aftercare
Proper care for permanent eyeliner involves healing methods and products. Here are some tips:
- Gentle Cleanser Clean the area with an unscented soap or a fragrance free cleanser. Avoid products with glycolic acid, salicylic acid or hydroxy acids lactic acid.
- Healing Ointment Apply a healing ointment or balm recommended by your technician. These are designed to promote proper healing and protect the pigment color.
- Don’t Touch or Pick Let the scabs fall off naturally. Don’t scratch as it may cause damaged tissue, pigment loss or residual pigment to be left unevenly.
- No Water and Steam Avoid direct water, chlorinated pools, salt water or hot showers for a period of 7-10 days. Direct shower spray and excessive rinsing can disrupt the healing process.
- Sun Protection Avoid direct sun or tanning beds during healing time. Once healed use sunscreen to protect pigment retention and color richness.
- Hydrate and Cleanliness Drink plenty of water and use a fresh pillowcase daily. Gently blot lymphatic fluids with a clean tissue or cotton swab.
Healing
After cosmetic tattooing (microblading) do not use heavy creams, anti-aging products, caffeine products or chemical exfoliants during the healing period. Post care also includes:
- No heavy sweating, sauna sessions or intense physical activity like heavy lifting.
- No makeup wipes, skincare treatments or acne products as these can irritate the healing skin.
- Keep the area clean of debris and practice good hygiene.
- Schedule future touch ups as needed to deepen color and address any pigment residue.
When to see Technician
Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your cosmetic tattoo artist. If you experience extreme redness, swelling or signs of infection contact your technician right away. Additional procedures may be necessary to heal properly.
FAQ
Can I use Vaseline on my permanent eyeliner?
No, do not use Vaseline on permanent eyeliner as it can trap bacteria, slow healing and affect pigment retention. Use a healing ointment instead.
How long does it take to heal?
Surface healing is 7-10 days, but total healing including pigment settling is 6 weeks.
Can I wear makeup after getting permanent eyeliner?
Do not wear makeup near the treated area until the outer healing is complete to avoid irritation or infection.
What if my permanent eyeliner starts to itch?
Itching is normal. Do not scratch or rub the area. Use an aftercare balm to soothe.
How to maintain?
Avoid sun, no drinking and touch ups as needed.