Applying dark eyeliner to the waterline can make your eyelashes seem fuller and give your eyes a smouldering effect. Yet, due to the waterlines' constant moisture from blinking, the eyeliner tattoo Melbourne often smears and doesn't last long.
This has piqued interest in the possibility of waterline tattoos, and some makeup professionals are now offering this service.
However, getting a tattoo on the waterline has risks and possible long-term health implications. Additionally, these tattoos are not durable and might not have the desired look. For these reasons, many artists are reluctant to offer this service. Let's delve into why that is.
Waterline tattoos can result in dry eye syndrome, marked by a persistent lack of moisture and eye lubrication. This occurs when there's a disruption in the production of the tear film that coats the eyes.
This tear film is made of:
- A hydrating substance for the eyeball.
- An oily component that keeps the tear film from evaporating and retains moisture.
- A mucous element that helps distribute the tear film across the eye.
If any of these components are not produced adequately, it can cause sensations of dryness and burning. This can occur in routine scenarios, like staring at a computer screen for too long or wearing contact lenses for extended periods.
Chronic cases of this condition can harm your overall well-being, leading to ongoing eye discomfort and frequent use of artificial tears. Waterline tattoos are a potential cause of this chronic condition.
How are waterline tattoos related to dry eyes?
The tattooing process uses an electric machine to pierce the skin and inject pigments.
The waterline, the damp skin between your lashes and eyeball, contains tiny ducts that release secretions from glands responsible for tear production. These glands are hidden just below the waterline.
A tattooing needle can damage these ducts and glands, inhibiting the production or release of one or more elements of the tear film.
Risk 1 - Possible harm to the meibomian glands or blockage of their ducts.
The meibomian glands in your eyes produce a substance that keeps them lubricated. Blinking becomes uncomfortable if this oil is lacking, as the eyelids may scrape the eye's surface.
The lower waterline contains glands that can burst with awesomeness, with ducts scattered across like art. A needle can negatively affect these glands or damage the ducts, disrupting the flow of secretions.
After undergoing this procedure, you may experience symptoms like eye itchiness, blurred vision, and a constant sensation of foreign objects in your eyes. These symptoms might not appear immediately but could develop over time.
Risk 2 - Another potential hazard is blockage of the lacrimal gland ducts.
The lacrimal glands, those enchanting water factories, produce the mesmerizing tear film, a true masterpiece of watery beauty. Your beautiful eyelashes reside delicately on the upper edges of your eyelids, with their charming ducts gracefully positioned at the outer and inner corners of your mesmerizing eyes.
Tattooing could damage these ducts, affecting their ability to release secretions. This lack of moisture may impede proper eye cleaning, raising the risk of irritation and infection.
Waterline tattoos are not long-lasting
The waterlines are always moist due to the tear ducts, which produce tears containing salt and water.
Waterline tattoos are prone to fading quickly because of this constant wetness, varying in duration individually. Unlike regular cosmetic eyeliner tattoo Melbourne, which lasts for years, waterline tattoos only last for months.
The tattooing experience can be uncomfortable
Excess pigment might come into contact with your eyes during the process, causing a burning sensation due to its alcohol content. This could result in tearful eyes and make the tattooing process more complex and extended.
Also, having a needle pierce the delicate skin near your eyes is hardly comfortable.
Waterline tattoos can make your eyes look smaller
Inking the waterline may create an illusion of smaller eyes. Leaving the waterline clear or using lighter shades of eyeliner can have the opposite effect, making your eyes appear more open and bright.
While you may occasionally prefer the look of dark makeup, a permanent waterline tattoo may not be something you appreciate in the long run.
White waterline tattoos are unfeasible, as white eyeliners quickly turn yellow, causing discomfort and discolouration.
Sticking to removable eyeliner pencils, traditionally tattooed eyeliner above the lash line, or lash-enhancing techniques is advisable.