Can You Use Sharpie as Eyeliner?

When you run out of eyeliner, it can be tempting to look around for alternatives to get your desired look.

One option that may come to mind is using a Sharpie. Sharpies are permanent markers that come in a variety of colors, and they can be used for various purposes.

However, is it safe to use a Sharpie as eyeliner?

No, using Sharpies as eyeliner is not safe. It can cause harm and damage to your eyes, leading to potential infections and even blindness.

In this article, we’ll explore the potential risks and consequences of using Sharpies as eyeliner.

What is a Sharpie meant for?

A Sharpie is a type of permanent marker made by the Newell Brands company. It is designed to be used on surfaces such as paper, cardboard, and plastic. Sharpies come in various colors and tip sizes, including ultra-fine, fine, and chisel.

What are the risks of using Sharpies as eyeliner?

Using a Sharpie as eyeliner can be dangerous and harmful to your eyes. Sharpies are not formulated or tested for use on skin, especially on sensitive areas such as the eyes.

They contain chemicals such as xylene and toluene, which can cause irritation, inflammation, and damage to the eyes. Inhaling the fumes from a Sharpie can also be harmful, leading to headaches, dizziness, and even unconsciousness.

Can Sharpie be used as an alternative to eyeliner?

While Sharpie can be a viable option for some, you shouldn’t use it as a replacement for eyeliner. The biggest downside to using Sharpie as eyeliner is that it is not always easy to remove.

Unlike traditional eyeliner, which can be quickly removed with makeup remover, Sharpie requires more effort. In addition, Sharpie can also cause irritation and redness around the eyes.

What are the consequences of using Sharpies as eyeliner?

Using Sharpies as eyeliner can have serious consequences for your eyes and overall health. The ink from the Sharpie can cause swelling, redness, and itchiness in the eyes, leading to potential infections and even blindness. The chemicals in the ink can also cause long-term damage to the eyes, such as corneal abrasions and chemical burns.

8 Reasons you shouldn’t use Sharpies as an eyeliner

1. Not made for use on the skin

Many people love Sharpies because they are so versatile. They can be used for drawing, writing, and even crafting. But you also should be aware that Sharpies are not safe to use on the skin. Sharpies are genuinely made for use on paper, not on skin. The ink contains chemicals that can be harmful if they come into contact with the skin.

And when you consider how delicate the skin around the eyes can be, you wouldn’t want to use Sharpie on it. So, if you’re looking for a safe and non-toxic eyeliner option, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

2. Can trigger an allergic reaction

Regarding beauty trends, some people are willing to try just about anything. However, stay away from using a Sharpie as eyeliner. Not only is this extremely dangerous, but it can also trigger an allergic reaction. The ink in a Sharpie is made from petroleum-based chemicals, which can be harmful if absorbed by the skin.

3. It contains harmful and harsh chemicals

Sharpie is a famous brand of permanent markers. And while it is rich in dark pigment and long-lasting, it also contains harmful and harsh chemicals, such as xylene and toluene. These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin and linked to cancer and other health problems. For these reasons, it is best to avoid using Sharpies as eyeliner.

4. It can cause damage to the cornea if it enters the eyes

Another reason to stay away from Sharpie markers as eyeliners is that they can cause severe damage to your cornea. Sharpie contains chemicals that can corrode the cornea, leading to blindness. In addition, the ink can contain bacteria that can cause infections. For these reasons, it is best to avoid using Sharpie as an eyeliner.

5. Hinder production of natural oils due to the presence of alcohol

While Sharpie may be an excellent tool for crafting and drawing, you might want to think twice before using it as an eyeliner. This is because Sharpie contains alcohol, which can cause the skin around your eyes to dry out. This can lead to a drop in the production of natural oils, which can, in turn, cause wrinkles and other signs of aging.

6. The pigment is tough to remove

If you’re looking for a long-lasting eyeliner, you might be tempted to reach for a sharpie. After all, the pigment is incredibly dark and doesn’t budge, no matter how much you sweat or rub your eyes. However, this can also be challenging if you try using it as an eyeliner. And can end up leading you to over-scrub and rub the delicate skin around your eyes. In the end, you will be stuck with it until it eventually fades.

7. Can lead to thinning of eyelashes

While there is a possibility of Sharpie giving you the desired aesthetic appeal, it can lead to thinning of your eyelashes. The ink from the Sharpie can seep into the hair follicles and damage them over time. This can lead to your eyelashes becoming weaker and eventually falling out.

8. In worst cases can lead to partial or total loss of sight

Sharpie as an eyeliner may be a popular beauty trend, but it can also be hazardous. In the worst cases, it can lead to partial or total loss of sight. Sharpie markers contain volatile solvents that can be toxic if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. When used on the eyelids, these chemicals can be quickly absorbed into the body and cause serious health problems.

Are there any safe alternatives to using Sharpies as eyeliner?

Yes, you can use eyeliner pencils, liquid eyeliner, or even eyeshadow as a temporary solution. If you don’t have any of these products, you can create your own eyeliner using natural ingredients such as coconut oil, activated charcoal, and cocoa powder. These alternatives are safe for use on the eyes and won’t cause any harm or damage.

DIY Guide: 6 Alternatives to use as eyeliner in place of a Sharpie

If you run out of eyeliners, it’s best to avoid using Sharpie as an alternative. Instead, consider several other options for homemade, DIY eyeliners you can make at home. Here are some for you to try out:

1. Cocoa powder eyeliner

Cocoa powder has a brown, earthy color that makes it perfect for creating natural-looking eyeliners. It’s easy to use, but it may take some practice to get the hang of using cocoa powder for your eyeliner.

You will need a fine-tipped brush (a flat eyeshadow brush works well), a small amount of cocoa powder, and water or rosewater. You can also include coconut oil or other moisturizers to give more juice to your eyeliner. Now that you have everything set up, here’s how to apply:

• Pour a small amount of cocoa powder into a bowl or container.
• Add a few drops of water or rosewater and mix thoroughly until it has the consistency you want.
• Dip your brush into the mixture and apply as close to your lash line as possible, moving in one direction.

2. Eyeliner with Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has a lot of beneficial properties, from healing burns to boosting cellular regeneration. And in such a way, you can also use it to create a homemade eyeliner. To do this, follow the steps below:

• Mix 1 teaspoon Aloe Vera gel with a few drops of water to make it more liquid.
• You can also add coconut oil to help improve your DIY eyeliner.
• Apply using a brush or your finger, depending on how much control you want over the application.
• Once applied, let dry for 10-15 minutes before applying mascara or eye shadow.

3. Almond eyeliner

To create an almond eyeliner, you will need Almond essence, also known as bitter almond extract. This is a natural essence made from the seed of an almond and is common in skin toners and fragrances.

You will have to burn the almond using a candle or lighter. Then use a butter knife to scrape all the black soot into a dish once the almond has turned black and smokey. Next, add two drops of almond oil while maintaining a thick consistency.

Add cocoa powder for a dark eyeliner, about 1/4 teaspoon at first. If the liner is too light, add more until you reach your desired shade. To keep this for future use, store it in an airtight container.

4. Eyeliner made with beetroot juice

A much healthier alternative to using Sharpie as eyeliner is beetroot juice. You can use beetroot juice as eyeliner. It is rich in antioxidants, which help protect your skin from free radicals and prevent premature aging. It also contains vitamins A, C, and E that have antioxidant properties and boost your skin’s health.

Beetroot juice has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation by inhibiting the enzyme associated with swelling. It is also an effective natural remedy for acne breakouts because it reduces inflammation by treating any redness or swelling caused by pimples and helps eliminate bacteria in the area where they occur.

One significant advantage of trying beetroot as eyeliner is that you can experiment with different colors. To start with:

• Grind half the beetroot properly.
• Put the juice in a bowl after filtering it out.
• Add two teaspoons of natural Aloe Vera gel and mix both components to form a smooth paste.
• Apply the paste with a cosmetic brush after dipping it in.

5. Activated charcoal eyeliners

Activated Charcoal is a natural ingredient used for centuries as a remedy for various conditions. It is a powerful detoxifier that can help remove toxins from the body.

All you need to do is to mix half a teaspoon of activated Charcoal with water or any skin-friendly carrier oil, such as coconut, almond, or jojoba. Then apply the eyeliner using a thin makeup brush.

6. Kumkum eyeliner

Instead of using Sharpie as an eyeliner, you can opt for Kumkum homemade eyeliner. Kumkum is a red powder made from a plant called the Indian Saffron. It’s used as an eyeliner in India and is considered a natural ingredient because of its safe composition. It has been used for centuries in Indian women’s makeup routines, dating back to 5000 BCE.

• Add a spoonful of kumkum powder to a small bowl.
• Add a few drops of rose or tap water if you want it more liquid, but keep the texture thick (like a gel).
• Apply it with a brush along the lash lines, letting it dry completely before opening your eyes again.

Can using Sharpies as eyeliner cause blindness?

Yes, using Sharpies as eyeliner can cause long-term damage to the eyes, such as corneal abrasions and chemical burns, which can lead to potential blindness.

How can I remove Sharpie ink from my skin?

If you accidentally get Sharpie ink on your skin, you can try using rubbing alcohol, nail polish remover, or a mixture of baking soda and water to remove it. Avoid using harsh chemicals or scrubbing too hard, as this can cause skin irritation and damage.

Conclusion on if you can you use a Sharpie as eyeliner

The answer is no. While it might seem like a cheap and convenient option, there are several reasons why using Sharpie as eyeliner is not a good idea. It can cause an allergic reaction or damage to the eyes if misused, but it’s also tough to remove and increases the chances of damaging the delicate skin around your eyes.

If you’re looking for an affordable and long-lasting eyeliner alternative, we recommend trying out some of the other options listed in this post.

Further reading

• American Academy of Ophthalmology. “The Dangers of Colored Contact Lenses and Makeup.” Accessed April 30, 2023. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/cosmetics-makeup-dangers.
• Healthline. “Can You Use a Sharpie as Eyeliner? Risks and Alternatives.” Accessed April 30, 2023. https://www.healthline.com/health/sharpie-eyeliner.
• Insider. “Sharpies shouldn’t be used as eyeliner, according to makeup artists.” Accessed April 30, 2023. https://www.insider.com/why-you-should-not-use-sharpies-as-eyeliner-makeup-artist.