Eyeliner is a popular makeup choice for many women. It can enhance your features and make you look more awake. While makeup can instantly transform your appearance, it’s always good to be sure that it’s also not creating problems for your health. One central question on everyone’s lips is; can eyeliner cause black mucus?
Yes, eyeliner can cause black mucus but only in extreme cases. This is because the tear duct empties into the nasal cavity and can have eyeliner trickle in, causing discoloration to your mucus.
Also, if you are experiencing black mucus discharge from your eyes, it could be a sign that you are using too heavy or dark eyeliner for your skin type. Switching to a lighter liner may help to prevent this from happening.
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What is Black Mucus?
Most of us have seen black mucus at some point or another. That dark, sometimes almost black substance comes up when we blow our noses. While it may look scary, black mucus is normal and, often, nothing to worry about.
But basically, it’s just dried blood mixed with mucus. It often occurs when you have a cold or sinus infection; the blood vessels in your nose and throat become inflamed and can bleed. This blood then mixes with the mucus already there, and voila – you’ve got black mucus.
Causes of Black Mucus
Many people associate mucus with colds and allergies, but did you know that there are various causes for black mucus? And while your eyeliner can occasionally create black mucus, you are far more likely to get it from other, more ordinary means. Here are some more prominent means of getting black mucus:
1. Inhaling air pollutants
While inhaling air pollutants can damage your lungs in the long run, it can also cause black mucus in the short term. Air pollution is made up of tiny particles, known as particulate matter, which can be inhaled deep into the lungs.
These particles can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to lung disease over time. So next time you’re caught in a cloud of smog, remember that it’s not just your throat at risk but your lungs too.
2. Cigarette or tobacco smoking
There are all sorts of nasty things in cigarettes, from tar to nicotine to carbon monoxide. And when you inhale all of those things into your lungs, it’s not surprising that it can have some severe consequences for your health. Aside from being the leading cause of lung cancer, it’s also a much faster way to get black mucus than eyeliner.
3. Mining activities
Mining can be a dirty business. Not only does it involve digging up materials from the earth, but it can also release harmful toxins and chemicals into the air. These pollutants can cause many respiratory problems, including bronchitis and asthma. In some cases, they can even lead to the production of black mucus.
4. Fire and smoke
If you’ve ever breathed in smoke from a fire, you know that it can irritate your lungs. Smoke inhalation is one of the leading causes of death from house fires. Smoke contains various harmful chemicals, including carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. These gasses can damage the airways and cause inflammation in the lungs.
In addition, particles of soot can become trapped in the mucus membranes, causing them to turn black. While this black mucus is not necessarily harmful, it can signal that your lungs are not functioning correctly. If you experience black mucus after breathing in smoke, you must see a doctor as soon as possible.
5. Fungal infection
While most people associate black mucus with smoking, one likely possibility is a fungal infection. These infections are usually relatively harmless, but they can cause the mucus to change color. In some cases, the condition may also cause the phlegm to thicken or thin. If you suspect you have a fungal infection, it’s best to see a doctor so they can prescribe the proper medication.
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Does Eyeliner Discolor Mucus?
You probably don’t think much about the mucus in your nose; if you don’t know, it serves an essential purpose. Mucus traps dirt, dust, and other contaminants before they can enter your lungs. Well, it turns out that some types of eyeliner can discolor mucus. This is because they contain pigments that can stain the clear mucus.
In addition, some eyeliners contain chemicals that can irritate the delicate lining of the nose. As a result, it’s essential to be careful when choosing an eyeliner. Go for a product that is hypoallergenic and free of harmful chemicals.
How to Care For Your Eyes When Using Eyeliner
Here are a few ways to help care for your eyes when using eyeliner:
1. Make sure eyeliner is still good
Applying eyeliner is one of the quickest and easiest ways to achieve a polished look. However, before you reach for your trusty black pencil, it’s essential to ensure it is still good. Start by checking the expiration date; if it’s more than a year old, it’s time to get rid of it.
Next, take a closer look at the pencil itself. If the tip is dull or the color has changed, it’s time to toss it out. Once you’ve determined that your eyeliner is still good, it’s essential to apply it correctly. Then, use a cotton swab to blend the liner and create a softer look.
2. Wash off eyeliner after use
Unless you want to look like a raccoon, it’s important to wash off your eyeliner after use. Even if you’re using a small amount, eyeliner can smudge and smoke quickly, leaving you with an unflattering look. Plus, it can be difficult to remove if you don’t have the right products.
Fortunately, washing it off is easy enough. Wet a cotton ball or pad with warm water and lightly rub it over your eyeliner. Be sure to avoid getting any water in your eyes. Once most of the liner has been removed, wash your face with a cleanser and cold water.
3. Stop tight-lining
Tight-lining is the process of lining your inner lash line with a dark pencil or gel liner to give the illusion of thicker, fuller lashes. While it can be a great way to achieve a dramatic look, it can also be the fastest way to get black mucus via eyeliner. To avoid this, it’s better to skip the tight-lining and focus on getting an excellent winged eyeliner look.
4. Read labels and avoid harmful ingredients
Generally, when dealing with makeup and eyeliners, it’s important to read the labels and avoid harmful ingredients. Some standard harmful components to look out for include parabens, phthalates, and fragrances. These can cause hormone disruption, endocrine disruptors, and skin irritation.
5. Sensitive eyes need hypoallergenic cosmetics
If you have sensitive eyes, then you are more familiar with the struggles of finding cosmetics that won’t irritate you. Often, even products that claim to be hypoallergenic still cause redness, itching, and watering.
Thankfully, certain hypoallergenic cosmetics are actually worth the hype. These products are free of common irritants like fragrances, dyes, and preservatives. Instead, they rely on gentle ingredients less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
6. Curl your lashes before applying mascara
Curling your lashes before applying mascara can help to give your eyes a broader, more open appearance. It can also make your lashes appear longer and fuller. To curl your lashes, place the curler at the base of your lashes and gently squeeze. Hold for a few seconds, then release.
Repeat this process until you have achieved the desired level of curl. Be careful not to press too hard, or you may damage your lashes. Once you have finished curling your lashes, apply mascara as usual. You should notice a dramatic difference in the way your eyes look. Curling your lashes is a simple way to give yourself a little bit of extra kick.
Tips To Help Get Rid of Eyeliner in Your Eyes
If you inadvertently get eyeliner in your eye, here are a few steps you can use to remediate it:
1. Rinse eyes thoroughly with clean tap water
If you get eyeliner in your eye, it’s important to rinse it out thoroughly with clean tap water. This will help to flush away any irritants and remove any debris. If you have access to a sink, hold your eye open under the faucet and allow the water to run over it for several minutes.
You can splash water directly from a cup or bottle onto your eye. If you don’t have access to clean water, try using sterile saline solution or distilled water. Gently rub your eye while rinsing it out to help loosen any stuck particles.
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2. Apply moisturizing eye drops
Applying moisturizing eye drops is a simple way to help relieve your eyes from any eyeliner that might have gotten in. The Drops help to lubricate the eye and prevent evaporation of tear film. They can be used as often as needed and are safe for children and adults.
3. Take a break from using makeup
It can be easy to get caught up in the daily routine of putting on makeup, but sometimes it’s important to take a break. And using eyeliner 24/7 can be bad for your skin and your eyes. In addition, it can be a time-consuming process, and taking a break from it can give you a chance to focus on other things. Plus, it’s nice to let your delicate skin breathe every time.
4. If you wear contacts, carefully clean the lens
Contact lenses are a great way to improve your vision without wearing glasses. However, it is essential to clean your lenses carefully to avoid any eye infections. This becomes even more important if you are using eyeliner.
Your liner can contaminate your lens and transfer this contaminant into your eyes. The best way to clean your lenses is to use a daily cleaner designed specifically for contacts. Furthermore, you should rinse your lenses thoroughly before putting them back in your eyes.
Conclusion
Black mucus can signify that your body is trying to tell you something. It’s important to listen and take the necessary steps to care for yourself. While it’s doubtful that your eyeliner will give you black mucus, the truth is it’s still possible. Following the advice in this piece can help reduce your chances of experiencing black mucus and keep your eyes healthy and looking great.
