Running out of eyeliner can leave you scrambling for alternatives, and one option that might come to mind is using a Sharpie. While Sharpies come in various colors and have many uses, they are not safe for your eyes. Using a Sharpie as an eyeliner can cause serious harm, including infections and potential blindness.
Sharpies are designed for use on paper, cardboard, and plastic, not on your skin. They contain chemicals like xylene and toluene, which can irritate and damage your eyes. The fumes can also cause headaches, dizziness, and even fainting.
Although some might consider using a Sharpie as a quick fix, the ink is difficult to remove and can irritate the delicate skin around your eyes. The ink from Sharpies can lead to swelling, redness, and itching, causing long-term damage like corneal abrasions and chemical burns.
Here are eight reasons to avoid using Sharpies as eyeliner:
1. Sharpies are not intended for skin use.
2. The chemicals in Sharpies can trigger allergic reactions.
3. Sharpies contain harsh chemicals that can be absorbed through your skin.
4. The chemicals in Sharpies can damage your cornea.
5. Sharpie ink can dry out the skin around your eyes.
6. The pigment is hard to remove and may lead to over-scrubbing.
7. It can cause your eyelashes to thin over time.
8. In extreme cases, it can cause partial or total blindness.
There are safer alternatives for eyeliner, such as pencils, liquid liners, and eyeshadows. You can also make your own eyeliner using natural ingredients like coconut oil, activated charcoal, or cocoa powder.
Here are some DIY eyeliner options:
1. Cocoa Powder: Mix a small amount with water or rosewater for a brown, natural look.
2. Aloe Vera: Combine Aloe Vera gel with water and apply with a brush.
3. Almond Essence: Burn an almond, scrape the soot, mix it with almond oil, and apply.
4. Beetroot Juice: Mix beetroot juice with Aloe Vera gel for a vibrant color.
5. Activated Charcoal: Combine with water or a carrier oil for a dark liner.
6. Kumkum: Mix the powder with water to create a gel-like consistency.
Using Sharpies as eyeliner poses significant risks, including potential blindness and severe eye damage. Instead, choose safe, tested, and gentle options for your eyeliner needs.