Winged Eyeliner Tattoo in Melbourne

A winged eyeliner tattoo is a form of permanent makeup — specifically permanent eyeliner tattooing — that uses modern cosmetic tattooing techniques to create a long-lasting cat eye effect. Instead of the thick, heavy lines you might associate with traditional tattooing, today’s results are soft, precise and fully customisable.

The process involves using a tattoo machine with finer needles and high-quality certified materials to implant certified pigments into the skin along the lash line, extending into a wing. Unlike makeup wipes and gels, this pigment stays put — giving you semi-permanent results that last 2–5 years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle and aftercare guidelines.

At Face Figurati, we use high-quality, luxe-certified pigments, often vegan soy-based pigment formulas that are dermatologically tested for sensitive eye areas. We match the colour to your features, whether you prefer a soft brown for a natural effect or a classic black for a bold designer eyeliner look.

Here’s why more Melbourne clients are booking in for permanent eyeliner tattoos:

• Time-saving: No more wrestling with liquid eyeliner before work.
• Smudge-proof: Won’t budge in summer heat, gym sessions or when you’re caught in a Docklands wind tunnel.
• Eye lift: The winged look lifts the eyes — a mini facelift without the surgery.
• Customised: From fine flicks to dramatic wings, every design is bespoke.
• Semi-permanent: Enjoy your liner for years with only occasional top-ups.
• Safe pigments: Our tattoo ink is dermatologically tested, vegan, soy-based and metal-free.

One of my clients who works in hospitality said switching to permanent eyeliner tattoos was the best decision she ever made — no more makeup smudges mid-shift.

Pros

• Long-lasting permanent makeup
• Always symmetrical — no mismatched wings
• Waterproof and smudge-proof
• Can be tailored for a subtle or dramatic cat eye

Cons

• Higher upfront cost compared to eye makeup products
• Requires aftercare instructions to avoid pigment fading
• Not removable — large style changes may require removal

You might be the perfect candidate for permanent eyeliner if:

• You wear eyeliner daily and want to skip the morning struggle.
• You have hooded eyes and want to create a lifting effect.
• You struggle with eyeliner symmetry due to vision changes or shaky hands.
• You have allergies to traditional eye makeup but still want defined eyes.
• You lead an active lifestyle — from pilates to Port Phillip Bay swims — and want makeup that keeps up.

We’ll always consider your skin type, medical conditions and personal style before recommending the best tattooing methods for your eyes.

While safe for most, some conditions mean we should delay or avoid treatment:

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Recent eye surgery (e.g., LASIK, cataract removal).
• Active eye infections.
• Uncontrolled diabetes or bleeding disorders.
• Allergies to tattoo ink (patch testing available).
• History of keloid scarring.
• Severe skin sensitivities or eczema around the eyes.

At Face Figurati, your safety comes first. We use sterile instruments, disposable needles and follow strict protocols to prevent bacterial and viral infection.

Preparation matters.

One week before:

• Stop lash serums
• Avoid facial peels around the eye
• Check with your GP before stopping blood thinners

24 hours before:

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Remove contact lenses
• Hydrate well

On the day:

• Arrive without eye makeup — no need for a makeup wipe in the chair
• Wear comfortable clothing

Melbourne tip: If you’re having treatment during summer, be aware of sun and wind. Our climate can dry out or sensitise the skin, which can affect pigment uptake. A hat and sunglasses aren’t just for fashion — they’re for your investment before it even begins.

At Face Figurati, the tattooing process is carried out to the highest Health & Safety Standards, using only high-quality certified materials and sterile instruments. My goal isn’t just to give you stunning permanent eye makeup — it’s to ensure the process is safe, comfortable and tailored to you.

Step-by-step:

• Consultation & Design – We assess your eye shape, skin type and personal style to map out a winged look that enhances your natural features without overwhelming them.
• Pigment Choice – Only dermatologically tested and certified pigments are used, chosen to suit your complexion, undertones and lifestyle. For example, darker pigments suit deeper skin tones, while softer shades flatter lighter complexions.
• Numbing – Local anaesthesia is applied to keep you comfortable throughout. You’ll feel some vibration from the tattoo machine, but minimal pain.
• Tattooing – Using a precision tattoo machine with disposable needles, I create your winged eyeliner in smooth, even strokes.
• Finish – We peel, press and seal the area to lock in pigment and protect your fresh tattoo from early fading.

Timeframe: 1.5–2 hours, although more complex wing shapes or colour layering may take slightly longer.

Client Story: I recently worked on a client with naturally hooded eyes who thought a winged eyeliner wasn’t possible for her. With careful mapping and the right pigment placement, we created a soft lift effect that opened up her eye shape beautifully — and she hasn’t touched liquid eyeliner since.

Healing from a winged eyeliner tattoo is easy, but knowing what to expect helps you relax and not worry.

Day 1–2:

Your liner will look darker, sharper and bolder than the final healed result. This is because the pigment is sitting on top of the healing skin.

Day 3–5:

Light flaking or pigment shedding begins. DO NOT pick at flakes — this can remove pigment and create patchiness.

Day 6–10:

The colour may look lighter or slightly ashy as new skin cells form over the pigment. This is part of the healing process and not a sign of fading failure.

Week 4–6:

The true healed colour emerges, looking softer and more natural. Any minor unevenness will be addressed at your touch-up.

Week 6–8:

Your touch-up perfects the shape, sharpens the wing and deepens pigment if needed. Skipping this step can shorten the life of your tattoo and cause premature fading.

Pro Aftercare Reminder:

Avoid mascara, heavy sweating and direct sunlight during the healing period. Melbourne’s weather is unpredictable, so always have sunglasses on hand — they protect your eyes from UV and wind.

Your results depend on following my aftercare instructions:

• Keep the area dry for 7 days. Don’t wash directly over the tattoo or let steam build up around your eyes during hot showers.
• Only use the recommended balm — I use a light, breathable formula that helps healing without smothering the skin. Don’t use heavy creams or petroleum-based products that can suffocate the pigment.
• No pools, saunas or heavy sweating for 10 days. Chlorine, saltwater and sweat can push pigment out before it sets.
• No makeup on the tattooed area until fully healed. Even “hypoallergenic” eye makeup can harbour bacteria that disrupt healing.
• Wear sunglasses to protect from the sunlight. Not just any sunglasses — wrap-around sunglasses block wind, UV rays and airborne irritants like pollen or dust.

At your appointment, I will provide customised aftercare instructions — these will include instructions specific to your skin type and lifestyle, plus a press-and-seal wrap for the first night if needed to protect against rubbing on your pillow.

Yes — and choosing the right colour is just as important as choosing the shape. At Face Figurati, I offer a range of dermatologically tested, high-quality certified pigments that give you semi-permanent results while minimising pigment fade over time.

• Classic Jet Black: The most popular, gives maximum definition and drama.
• Soft Brown: Perfect for fair skin tones or those who want a subtle, natural look.
• Navy Blue: Enhances lighter eye colours beautifully without overpowering them.
• Deep Plum: A creative choice for green or hazel eyes, adds depth without harshness.

Because every pigment reacts slightly differently on your skin type, undertones and natural lash density, I always do a patch test and discuss your desired effect in detail at consultation.

Not all winged eyeliner tattoos are created equal — the right choice depends on your skin type, eye shape, lifestyle and personal style.

At Face Figurati, I work with three main styles:

• Fine Flick: Perfect for minimalists or those with smaller eye shapes who want a subtle lift without a heavy line.
• Medium Wing: Everyday wear with definition for nights out.
• Bold Designer Eyeliner: For those who love drama — think cat eye with sharp angles.

I will tailor the thickness and shape to your bone structure, lash line and even if you wear glasses daily (which can affect the line thickness).

Your first touch-up — usually scheduled 6–8 weeks later — is where the magic gets locked in. This stage is non-negotiable for long-term results.

During this session I:

• Reinforce pigment density, especially important for hooded eyes, where the fold may fade pigment faster.
• Fine-tune the wing angle for perfect symmetry.
• Adjust thickness or tapering for a softer or bolder effect.

Skipping this step often leads to uneven fading and reduces the life of your eyeliner tattoo.

On average, semi-permanent results last 2–5 years, but several factors influence this range:

• Sun Exposure: UV light is pigment’s biggest enemy — wear sunglasses and SPF on the surrounding skin.
• Skin Type: Oily skin fades faster, dry or balanced skin holds pigment longer.
• Aftercare Habits: Following the guidelines closely in the first 10 days makes a big difference to longevity.

Living in Melbourne means dealing with four seasons — sometimes in one day — and each has its own care considerations for your winged eyeliner tattoo.

• Summer: Strong UV rays and frequent swims can speed up fading. Avoid chlorinated pools and apply SPF around the eye area (don’t touch the tattoo during healing).
• Winter: Indoor heating can dry the skin. Use a gentle, non-oily moisturiser to prevent tightness and flaking.
• Spring: High pollen counts can irritate healing skin. Sunglasses act as both a UV shield and a pollen barrier.
• Autumn: Mild weather makes it the perfect season for healing, with fewer extremes to manage.

Even with sterile instruments, certified pigments, and the strictest hygiene standards, the eye area is delicate and minor side effects are possible:

• Temporary Redness or Swelling: Usually resolves within 24–48 hours.
• Mild Itching: A normal part of the skin’s repair process — don’t scratch.
• Uneven Fading: Usually caused by premature flaking or skipping aftercare steps.
• Rare Allergic Reaction: Patch testing can help identify sensitivities before treatment.

If anything feels unusual, I provide direct aftercare support so you’ll always know if what you’re experiencing is normal or needs attention.