Permanent eyeliner is quickly becoming one of the most in-demand permanent makeup (PMU) services, and here is why!
Eyeliner offers smudge-proof, long-lasting definition to the eyes, which makes your everyday makeup routine an absolute breeze, with no worries about hay fever, watery eyes or oily lids smudging it away.
There are SO many different eyeliner styles to choose from, and there are ways we can tailor each eyeliner style to suit your eye anatomy too. Whether you prefer a subtle enhancement, or something bolder for that ‘makeup’ effect, there’s a permanent eyeliner style to fit around everyone’s unique features, lifestyles and aesthetic.
I know how confusing it can be to understand what the difference is between each style, so here’s a little guide to break down the most popular eyeliner tattoo styles and how to choose which one is best suited for you, along with the healing process and anything else you need to know before booking your appointment.
What Is Permanent Eyeliner?
Permanent eyeliner, otherwise known as ‘eyeliner tattoo’ or ‘PMU eyeliner’ is a cosmetic tattoo treatment.
A machine specifically designed for these delicate areas is used, with a needle cartridge to implant pigment to create the appearance of eyeliner.
Although there are similarities between traditional body tattoos and permanent makeup, permanent makeup uses a much more gentle and superficial technique along with specialised pigments.
What Are The Key Benefits?
- It will save you time getting ready,
- Smudge-proof, sweat-proof, oily-lid proof and waterproof!
- Enhances eye shape, providing definition and lash fullness,
- Customisable and flattering for all eye shapes,
- Long-lasting,
- No worries about ‘not getting it right’ as its there for you, every day!
The treatment typically takes between 1.5-2.5 hours depending on the style you’re going for.
What Styles Are Available?
The following explains the eyeliner styles I provide, how they differ and some pictures to show different examples.
Lash Line Enhancement
A lash enhancement is the most natural eyeliner style. Pigment is applied directly within the lashes, rather than extending up onto the eyelid. This thickens up the appearance of the lashes and subtly defines the eyes. Lash enhancements are also known as ‘baby liner’ or ‘invisible liner’. If you want the lash line but with an elongated effect rather than stopping at the lashes, you can also add an ‘eyelash flick’, a very fine flick to provide length to the eyes for an additional £25.
What are the benefits of a lash enhancement?
- It provides a subtle, “barely there” definition
- It will be the closest to a ‘tight-line’ effect, rather than anything thicker on the lid
- Perfect for anyone who doesn’t usually wear makeup
- It will make lashes appear thicker and fuller
- It will give definition and depth to naturally pale or fine lashes.
This style is often chosen for a natural result, or for those who are new to permanent makeup and want to dip a toe in before trying something more advanced.
Classic Permanent Eyeliner
Classic eyeliner offers a clean, defined eyeliner which extends slightly thicker along the upper lid than a lash enhancement, with a small taper (not a full-length, longer wing).
What are the benefits of a classic eyeliner?
- It’s perfect for someone who wears eyeliner on a daily basis,
- Smudge-free, remains clean and crisp,
- It’s more noticeable than a simple lash enhancement, but not too bold.
‘Classic’ eyeliner is in the name, a timeless style that works well for nearly all eye shapes.
Winged Permanent Eyeliner
‘Winged’ permanent eyeliner is the boldest eyeliner effect. It is the thickest eyeliner, and the wing extends longer from the outer edge. This eyeliner style is anatomy dependant, as we need enough eyelid space in order to create this effect without it looking heavy or bulky so may need to opt for a classic eyeliner if this is the case, winged liner differs from the classic liner, because the classic liner remains shorter and thinner.
What are the benefits of a winged eyeliner?
- Perfect for those who wear a winged eyeliner on a daily basis,
- No need to struggle with symmetry or drawing on wings every day,
- Provides a more glamorous and bold permanent makeup look,
- Individuals who prefer extra lift or elongation to their eyes.
The wings length and angle is fully tailored to your eye shape to ensure a flattering, symmetrical result.
Shadow / Smokey Eyeliner
Soft shaded eyeliner is also known as smokey liner or shadow liner. This style of liner creates a diffused, blended look which mimics smudged pencil or shadow (hello Victoria Beckham pencil!)
This style of liner is created by dusting tiny pixels of diluted pigment across the eyelid, rather than packing it into a more concentrated shape. This airy dusting of pigments heals soft, seamless and beautifully subtle whilst still creating the depth and impact you desire.
Usually I would create an eyelash flick with this eyeliner, but if you want the smoke and no wings, a smokey lash enhancement is just as stunning!
What are the benefits of a shadow eyeliner?
- There are no harsh edges- if you want the ‘drama’ but not the crisp or bold black look, this diffused smoky effect gives you the perfect middle ground.
- A softer, makeup-like finish.
- My go-to for mature eyelids, where a crisp black would feel too heavy.
- Customizable from subtle haze to dramatic smoky look.
I also love this look for hooded eyes. Because there is a soft gradient, I find it perfect for someone who doesn’t have the space for a solid liner but wants more than a lash enhancement.
Lower Lash Line Eyeliner (Optional):
Adding pigment along the lower lash line is available to add-on to any upper liner but can also be a stand-alone option,
This can be subtle with less density, or more defined and compact. I often use a charcoal shade, a blackened brown shade or a pure black depending on what the desired effect is.
I typically will only go halfway-three quarters along the lower lash line to open the eye up, but further along is possible if the eye shape is suitable.
How To Choose The Right Permanent Eyeliner Style?
When choosing an eyeliner style there are a few things to consider, for example…
Your Eye Shape
Some styles lift, widen or elongate the eyes. If your outer eyelid folds over your crease, you may not be able to see a wing, in which case a lash enhancement or smokey enhancement is usually the best choice.
Your Makeup Habits
Ask yourself:
- Do you wear eyeliner daily?
- If not, do you want it to look like eyeliner or simply add definition?
- Do you prefer crisp lines or a soft, smudged effect?
Examples:
“I want subtle definition but not a makeup look.” → Lash enhancement
“I love a smudged kohl pencil look.” → Smokey liner“I want my liner to stay crisp all day but it always smudges.” → Classic or winged liner
Age Considerations
You are never “too old” for permanent eyeliner! We will always choose a style that’s flattering and age-appropriate.
Permanent Eyeliner Healing & Aftercare
Healing Process
The superficial healing process is between 7-10 days, which is that initial wound healing phase where you can expect some swelling, flaking and dryness, however it can take a full 4-6 weeks for the pigment to stabilise and skin health to be fully optimal.
During healing, you may notice:
- Tightness or dryness
- Mild swelling (mainly the morning after, it typically goes down within 24-48 hours)
- Flaking or light peeling
- Temporary fading, known as ‘ghosting’. The colour develops back through as the cells turnover, the initial fading is from the obstruction of pigment from the fresh opaque healing cells sitting over the top.
Aftercare
- Keep the area clean using cool, boiled water and try to avoid saturating them wet whilst they’re flaky and dry.
- Avoid makeup on the eyes or anything that is directly on the treated area (mascara, eyeshadow, lash serums), makeup until its superficially healed and lash serums at least 2 weeks after your top up appointment.
- Use a gentle aftercare balm (provided by me) if it feels tight, dry or itchy.
- No picking!
How Long Does Permanent Eyeliner Last?
Longevity varies from person to person, however as a general rude:
- Lash Enhancement: usually begins fading after 12–18 months
- Classic, Winged, or Smokey Liner: can last 3+ years before a colour boost is needed
While it fades, it is considered permanent because it’s unlikely to disappear completely without removal.
How Much Does Permanent Eyeliner Cost?
Lash Enhancement: £150 or £175 with eyelash flick
Classic Eyeliner: £225
Winged or Shaded Eyeliner: £275
Lower add-on: £40 extra to any upper liner
Final Thoughts: Is Permanent Eyeliner Worth It?
If you’d like to save time in the morning, struggle with the application of eyeliner, or if you’re fed up with your makeup smudging/running, then absolutely! The procedure is quick and efficient and will last you years to come. With so many options available, we will ensure that whatever you choose is perfect for you!