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How to Prepare for Your Eyeliner Tattoo

Pre-Appointment Guide — Melbourne Designer Brows

The eye area requires a little extra preparation to get the best result. Follow Anne’s guide below — especially the lash extension and contact lens steps. We operate by appointment at our Richmond and Springvale studios; call 0418 188 277 if you have any questions.

In the Week Before

If you wear eyelash extensions, these will need to be removed at least 3 days beforeyour appointment. Extensions prevent us from accessing the lash line properly and can interfere with the procedure. You’re welcome to have them reapplied once you’ve fully healed (typically 4–6 weeks after).

Skincare — Retinol, Acids & Eye Products

Stop using Retinol, Retin-A, or AHA products around the eye area at least 7 days before your appointment.

Avoid eye creams and serums on the eyelid area for 3 days before your appointment.

48 Hours Before

Avoid alcohol, aspirin, fish oil, and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, as these can thin the blood and increase bleeding during the procedure.

Do not curl your eyelashes or tint them in the 48 hours before your appointment.

Contact Lenses

If you wear contact lenses, please bring your glasses and lens caseto your appointment. You’ll need to remove your lenses before the procedure and won’t be able to wear them for at least 24–48 hours afterward.

On the Day

Arrive with clean eyes— no mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow, or eye makeup of any kind. This includes waterproof formulas, as residue can be difficult to remove fully and may interfere with the procedure.

Eat a good meal before you come in.

Bring your glasses if you wear contacts, and feel free to bring headphones or music to help you relax.

What to Expect

The eye area is sensitive, so some swelling is completely normal for the first day or two after your appointment. Many clients plan their eyeliner tattoo for a day when they can rest at home afterward.

You won’t be able to wear eye makeup for about 2 weeks, so keep that in mind when scheduling.

Please Let Us Know in Advance if You…

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have glaucoma or any eye conditions
  • Suffer from chronic dry eyes
  • Have epilepsy or a seizure disorder
  • Are currently taking any medications, particularly blood thinners or Roaccutane
  • Have any allergies to topical anaesthetics (numbing cream)

Questions?

If you have any questions before your appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re always happy to help. Call or text Anne on 0418 188 277, email info@mdbrows.com.au, or book your appointment online. Melbourne Designer Brows operates by appointment at our Richmond studio (Level 1, 382A Bridge Rd) and our Springvale studio (Shop 4, 218 Springvale Rd).

Last updated: June 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about preparing for your eyeliner tattoo appointment.

Do I need to remove lash extensions before an eyeliner tattoo?

Yes. If you wear eyelash extensions, these will need to be removed at least 3 days before your appointment. Extensions prevent us from accessing the lash line properly and can interfere with the procedure. You're welcome to have them reapplied once you've fully healed (typically 4–6 weeks after).

Can I wear contact lenses to an eyeliner tattoo appointment?

No. If you wear contact lenses, please bring your glasses and lens case to your appointment. You'll need to remove your lenses before the procedure and won't be able to wear them for at least 24–48 hours afterward.

Can I wear contact lenses after an eyeliner tattoo?

Not immediately. You won't be able to wear contact lenses for at least 24–48 hours after your eyeliner tattoo appointment. Bring your glasses and lens case on the day so you can remove your lenses before the procedure.

How long before an eyeliner tattoo should I stop using Retinol or eye creams?

Stop using Retinol, Retin-A, or AHA products around the eye area at least 7 days before your appointment. Avoid eye creams and serums on the eyelid area for 3 days before your appointment.

Can I curl or tint my lashes before an eyeliner tattoo?

No. Do not curl your eyelashes or tint them in the 48 hours before your appointment.

What should I expect after an eyeliner tattoo — is swelling normal?

Yes, some swelling is completely normal for the first day or two after your eyeliner tattoo. The eye area is sensitive, and many clients plan their appointment for a day when they can rest at home afterward. You won't be able to wear eye makeup for about 2 weeks, so keep that in mind when scheduling.

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Ready to Book Your Eyeliner Tattoo?

Visit us by appointment at our Richmond or Springvale studio. Wake up every day with perfect eyeliner.

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