As a makeup artist and beauty expert, I’ve tried countless liquid eyeliners over the years in search of the perfect product. When Maybelline released their TattooStudio liner claiming 36-hour wear, I was intrigued to put it to the test. After analyzing over 50 detailed customer reviews, here is my comprehensive evaluation of the Maybelline New York TattooStudio Liquid Ink Eyeliner in the shade Ink Black.
Pros
Long-lasting Formula
The overwhelming consensus is that this liner delivers impressive longevity. Many reviewers raved that it truly lasts all day without smudging, flaking or fading. Even those with oily eyelids reported minimal transfer. Some put it through extreme tests – sleeping, crying, sweating at the gym, even swimming – and the liner emerged intact. A nurse commented that it withstands her 12-hour hospital shifts. The “tattoo” in the name seems justified, with the product demonstrating almost permanent staying power.
Intense Pigmentation
Reviewers consistently praised the rich, inky black color of this liner. It provides bold definition with one swipe. The opacity makes it ideal for creating sharp cat eyes and dramatic looks. While some noted it has a glossy rather than matte finish, most felt the depth of color compensated for the subtle sheen.
Precision Applicator
The liner features a fine-tipped felt applicator that many found easy to work with, even liner newbies. Customers appreciated the thin, marker-like tip for creating crisp lines and small details. The firm tip allows you to vary your pressure for thicker or thinner lines. Some even used it for dotting between lashes for a fuller look. While liquid brushes can be tricky, this pen-style tip seems to make application more effortless.
Smudge-Proof
In addition to the long wear time, reviewers were impressed by how budge-proof this liner is. Many reported accidentally rubbing their eyes and having the liner remain perfectly in place without a smear. It takes makeup remover to get it off intentionally. Those who struggle with smudging and raccoon eyes were thrilled to finally find a formula that stays put.
Easy Removal
Now you might think a liner that lasts 24+ hours and resists smudging would be a pain to take off. But customers were pleasantly surprised by the unusual way this liner removes – it peels off! Reviewers said it “comes off in one piece”, “like a sticker” or even “like a latex skin”. While this sounds strange, many were thrilled to cleanly lift it off rather than harshly rubbing their delicate eye area. One review noted it comes off easily in the shower with face wash.
Cons
Dry, Thick Consistency
The most common complaint was that the liner has a thick, almost gloopy texture and can get dry and clumpy over time. Some tubes arrived already dried out. Others said it got “gummy” and crumbly after a few weeks. The chunkiness made it harder to apply smooth lines. This seems to be the trade-off for the long-wearing, waterproof formula.
Flaking and Peeling
While smudging wasn’t an issue, several reviewers said this liner is prone to flaking off in bits or peeling off in long strips. Some noticed the liner lifting off on their eyelash curler. Others had it come off when they accidentally rubbed their eye. A few even had strips of it peel off from wind or watery eyes. Touch-ups may be needed if it flakes off in chunks. The “peel-off” nature makes it brittle.
Scratchy Applicator
Although most liked the precise felt tip, some found it too firm, stiff and even sharp. A few said it felt “marker-like” and dry, tugging on their eyelids. One reviewer even said it was so rough it took off some lashes! The pointy tip can also make thicker lines difficult. A couple reviewers regretted the brand discontinued their previous brush-tip liners.
Sticky Texture
Some customers didn’t love the unusually “tacky” feel of this liner. They said it never fully dries down and remains a bit sticky, causing issues like the liner gumming up when applying mascara. The gluey texture also meant it could stick to your crease or peel off unevenly. The finish isn’t totally budge-proof if you accidentally touch it.
Can’t layer or reapply
Because of the quick-drying, waterproof formula, this liner cannot be layered or retouched once it sets. Trying to add more liner over the first swipe causes it to get gummy and peel off in clumps, creating bald patches. You have to remove it completely and start over if you make any mistakes. The formula isn’t very forgiving.
The Bottom Line
The Maybelline TattooStudio liner is best suited for those seeking extreme long wear who struggle with smudging and transferring. If your priority is a bulletproof liner to last through sweat, tears and long days, this is worth a try. The intense black pigment also makes it ideal for bold, graphic looks.
However, the thick dry formula, flaking and peeling may be dealbreakers for some. It’s not the best for detail work given the firm tip. Because it can’t be layered once dry, you need a steady hand and may waste product with mistakes. Not everyone will love the sticky, almost paste-like feel.
This liner is more of a niche product than an everyday staple. For a my-lashes-but-better look, a classic brush or pen liner would be easier to work with. The TattooStudio is for those who want editorial-level wear and drama, and are willing to fuss with the learning curve and peel-off removal. If you have oily lids, watery eyes, or just need your liner to last through apocalyptic conditions, give this a go. But if you value a silky formula and don’t need 24-hour wear, stick to traditional liners.
Overall, the Maybelline New York TattooStudio Liquid Ink Eyeliner delivers on its signature attribute: remarkable staying power in an ultra black hue. Priced around $10, it’s an affordable option to try if you want to experiment with long-wear, waterproof liner. Just expect a unique texture and removal process compared to your typical liquid liner. As with any makeup product, it can take some getting used to. But for some, the “tattoo” effect is well worth the minor tradeoffs.
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