Actress Lim Ji-yeon recently shared that she has undergone a procedure to remove her eyeliner tattoo. Appearing on a recent episode of tvN’s popular talk show You Quiz on the Block, Lim spoke candidly about why she decided to reverse the cosmetic procedure.
"When I was 20, semi-permanent makeup was a major trend," Lim explained. "So I got an eyeliner tattoo, but it turned out to be permanent rather than semi-permanent because it simply wouldn't fade."
She noted that she had avoided removing it for years due to the severe swelling associated with the laser removal process. However, the permanent lines eventually became a professional hurdle. "During filming, my makeup needs to be adjusted completely depending on the character I'm playing," Lim said. "Having a fixed eyeliner line was highly inconvenient, so I decided to get rid of it altogether. Removing them seems to be the trend these days."
The Appeal and Latent Risks of Eyeliner Tattooing
Like Lim, a growing number of individuals are opting to remove permanent eyeliner to achieve a softer, more fresh-faced appearance. The procedure involves micro-injecting pigment directly along the eyelid margin or near the mucous membrane using a fine needle. Its primary appeal lies in sheer convenience, providing a sharp, defined look that eliminates the need for daily makeup application.
However, the procedure carries distinct clinical risks. Inadequate hygiene during application can cause bacterial infections or conjunctivitis. Some individuals may experience hypersensitivity reactions to specific ink components, resulting in chronic itching, rashes, and localized swelling.
Over time, the injected pigment can also smudge or discolor, leaving an unintended shape or hue. Furthermore, the physical irritation from the needle can cause scarring, alter the natural contour of the eyelid, or disrupt eyelash growth. The most severe complication arises if the pigment or cosmetic instruments accidentally come into contact with the cornea, potentially leading to keratitis or permanent vision impairment.
Laser Removal and Essential Eye Safety
For those looking to undo an eyeliner tattoo, specialized laser treatment is the standard solution. This method utilizes targeted laser energy to shatter the embedded ink particles into microscopic fragments, allowing the body’s immune system to naturally flush them out over time. Because the ink must be broken down gradually, the process typically requires multiple sessions, with black and darker pigments generally proving easier to eradicate than lighter shades.
Medical professionals emphasize that eye safety must be the absolute priority during removal. Patients must wear a specialized corneal shield—a protective device placed directly over the eyeball—before the laser is activated. Because direct laser exposure can cause irreversible damage, including severe corneal burns and profound vision loss, anyone considering the procedure should strictly verify that their medical provider utilizes proper, high-standard eye-protection equipment before moving forward.
