Eyeliner tattooing is one of the most life-changing cosmetic tattoo services we offer at CTM — and once you have it, it is almost impossible to imagine going back. Wake up every morning with perfectly defined eyes, no smudging, no uneven lines, and no time wasted in front of the mirror.
Whether you want the subtlest lash enhancement to add depth and definition, a perfectly symmetrical winged liner you could never quite master by hand, or a softly shaded effect for a beautifully blended look — we have a technique tailored to your eye shape, lifestyle, and personal style.
Eyeliner tattooing is particularly beneficial for clients with:
- Vision impairment or conditions affecting fine motor control
- Skin allergies or sensitivities to conventional eye makeup
- Active lifestyles — swimming, sport, gym, or travel
- Very fair, fine, or sparse lashes
- Alopecia or lash loss related to medical treatment or illness
- Anyone who simply wants to simplify their morning routine without sacrificing their look
With the latest techniques, there is minimal downtime, very little swelling, and little to no pain. If you are feeling unsure about which style is right for you, please don’t hesitate to call us or book a consultation — we will guide you through every option and help you make a decision you will love.
Our Eyeliner Techniques
Lash Enhancement
Lash Enhancement : The most subtle and natural of our eyeliner options. By carefully depositing black pigment directly along the lash line, we create the appearance of thicker, fuller lashes with a soft definition that enhances the eye without looking like eyeliner at all.
Lash enhancement is ideal for clients with very fair, fine, or sparse lashes who want their eyes to look more open and defined — or as a beautiful complement to thicker bottom liner to balance the overall look. It is also the perfect starting point for clients who are new to eyeliner tattooing and want to ease in gently.
Thin Natural Eyeliner : A step up from lash enhancement, this technique adds a soft, precise line along the upper lash line for more visible definition while still appearing completely natural. A partial wet line is included for an even greater eye-opening effect.
This is perfect for clients who wear a fine liner every day and are tired of the daily effort — or those who want their eyes to look more defined without committing to a bolder look. The result is clean, wearable, and effortlessly polished.
Wet Line : Tattooing of the upper wet line — the inner rim of the upper eyelid — delivers one of the most striking eye-opening effects available. Many professional makeup artists apply kohl eyeliner to this area for exactly this reason: it makes the eyes appear larger, brighter, and more defined from every angle.
The wet line can be performed as a standalone treatment or combined with lash enhancement or top liner for a layered, dimensional result. Please note that this is one of the more delicate areas to tattoo and requires an experienced, confident artist — which is exactly what you will find at CTM.
Winged Eyeliner
For clients who love a classic wing but struggle to get both sides symmetrical — this one is for you. Our winged eyeliner technique creates a precise, elegant flick that is perfectly balanced and tailored to your unique eye shape.
You will review and approve the full design before we begin — nothing is started until you are 100% happy with the shape and placement. Lash enhancement is included as standard. We can customise the length, angle, and thickness of the wing to suit your preference, from a delicate everyday flick to a more dramatic statement.
Shaded Top Eyeliner
A beautifully soft and blended alternative to a crisp liner. Our shaded top eyeliner technique creates a diffused, smoky effect — similar to a blended pencil liner — using a small to long wing in black or brown, depending on your preference.
Shelley takes particular pride in the diversity and skill of her shading techniques — the results vary widely and can be adapted to almost any style. We encourage you to browse our Instagram gallery to see the full range of shaded liner work before your appointment.
Shaded Bottom Eyeliner
A softer, more subtle alternative to a defined bottom liner. Using precise nano placement, we build up tiny deposits of pigment along the lower lash line to create a naturally shaded effect — rather than a harsh, drawn-on line.
This technique is particularly suited to clients with very sparse lower lashes who want their eyes to stand out more, as well as clients experiencing lash loss due to alopecia, chemotherapy, or other medical conditions. We can create anything from a barely-there lash-like shadow to a more defined lower liner — entirely tailored to your preference.
Eyeliner Corrections
Had a previous eyeliner tattoo that has migrated, faded unevenly, or simply does not look the way you hoped? Shelley genuinely loves corrections work — and she is exceptional at it.
Whether your existing liner needs rebalancing, a touch-up, or more significant correction, please send through photos via our contact page or give us a call so we can assess the situation properly. In some cases, targeted saline removal of the affected area may be recommended before fresh pigment is applied. Whatever the starting point, we will find a solution and get you to a result you are proud of.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which eyeliner style is right for me?
This is the question we hear most often — and the honest answer is that it depends on your eye shape, the look you wear day-to-day, and how bold or subtle you want the result to be. If you are unsure, we always recommend starting with a more natural option and building from there. It is always easier to add than to remove. We can also start conservatively and enhance the result at your perfecting session once you have seen how the initial tattoo heals and sits on your eye.
Is it painful?
The eye area is naturally more sensitive than other areas of the face, but most clients find eyeliner tattooing very manageable. A topical anaesthetic is applied before and throughout the procedure. Most clients experience minimal discomfort — many find it no more uncomfortable than having their makeup done. Taking Panadol 45 minutes prior can help with sensitivity. As always, if you are unwell, menstruating, or run down on the day, sensitivity may be slightly higher.
What colours are available?
We primarily work with black and brown for eyeliner, as these are the most natural and universally flattering. However, we can also work with navy, charcoal, or more creative tones such as green, purple, or blue for clients who want something a little more individual. We will discuss colour options fully at your appointment.
Is there any downtime?
Eyeliner tattooing has very minimal downtime. Some mild swelling and redness around the eye area is normal for the first 24–48 hours — this is temporary and settles quickly. Please do not wear contact lenses to your appointment, and avoid wearing them for the first 24 hours post-procedure. The colour will appear darker and more intense in the first 3–7 days before softening to the true healed result.
How long does eyeliner tattooing last?
Cosmetic eyeliner typically lasts between 2 and 4 years depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and sun exposure. The lash line tends to retain pigment well. Touch-up appointments every 2–3 years are recommended to maintain the freshness and definition of the result.
How do I prepare for my appointment?
- Do not wear contact lenses to your appointment — bring glasses if needed
- Avoid applying mascara or eye makeup on the day
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and caffeine on the day
- Stop blood-thinning medications (Aspirin, Niacin, Vitamin E, Ibuprofen) at least 24 hours before
- Avoid anti-wrinkle injections around the eye area for at least 2 weeks before and after
How do I look after my eyeliner tattoo after the procedure?
- Avoid water, steam, and sweat directly on the eye area for the first 5 days
- Do not wear eye makeup, mascara, or contact lenses for at least 5 days
- Do not rub or touch the eye area — if itchy, gently tap around (not on) the tattoo
- Avoid swimming, saunas, and sun exposure for 2 weeks
- Avoid facials, chemical peels, and anti-wrinkle injections for 4 weeks
- Apply sunscreen daily around the eye area long-term to protect pigment from fading
What is the difference between cosmetic eyeliner tattooing and traditional tattooing?
Cosmetic tattooing implants pigment into the upper dermal layer of the skin using a refined digital device with disposable, single-use components. Traditional body tattooing deposits pigment much deeper — into the subcutaneous layer — using a more powerful coil machine that is not suited to the delicate skin of the face. The result of cosmetic tattooing is softer, more natural, and designed to complement rather than permanently mark.
BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW
Testimonials
I’m so grateful I found such an awesome team of beauty therapists. I had the privilege of Shelley completing my eyeliner tattoos (upper & lower lids) followed by Kiera fixing my brows & plasma session. I love looking at myself, looking so fresh & eyeliner perfect - no more panda eyes for me!! Thank you ladies for being so talented!!
AMAZING! I wish I had done sooner, years ago! Shelley is outstanding her skill, perfection and ability to colour match is out of this world. I had my brows combo and lips tattooed and really couldn’t be happier. The whole experience has been amazing, fun and painless.
I did my cosmetic brow tattooing training with Shelley and I am SO glad I picked her! I had completed training last year with another company and the difference was unbeatable. I was able to book clients in within a week after completing and I felt really confident in my training and my clients love my work already. Shelley doesn’t just treat you like a number, you feel like she really cares and the ongoing support has been really helpful. I would tell anyone and everyone that this is the training you want! Thank you Shelley, you’re the best!