The whole point of eye makeup is to accentuate the eyes, create a dramatic look, and enhance confidence. But, the desired appearance should not be at the expense of your health. Eyes are especially sensitive and any harmful ingredients in eyeliners, eyeshadows, or mascaras can cause serious issues.
Luckily, the growing awareness about the ingredients used in cosmetics, particularly eye makeup, has led to an increased demand for toxic-free eyeliners, with a particular emphasis on organic formulations. With many consumers seeking safer alternatives, free from harmful substances, cosmetic companies are continuously coming up with natural alternatives.
Is There a Natural Eyeliner?
Yes, natural eyeliners exist. It’s a question of formulas. So how do you know which makeup products are clean? Are the eyeliners or other makeup products currently in your bag safe? The names of the ingredients listed on the labels can be quite confusing if you are not sure what to look for, but we’ll try to break it down so that next time you shop for a toxic free eyeliner, you will know exactly what needs to be there and what to avoid.
Safe Ingredients in Eyeliners
- Natural Oils: Eyeliners that incorporate natural oils like jojoba, coconut, or almond oil provide a smooth application while also nourishing the delicate skin around the eyes.
- Vitamins and Antioxidants: Look for eyeliners enriched with vitamins (e.g., vitamin E) and antioxidants to promote skin health and protect against environmental damage.
- Minerals and Pigments: Mineral-based eyeliners use naturally derived pigments, providing vibrant colour without the need for potentially harmful synthetic dyes.
- Botanical Extracts: Eyeliners containing botanical extracts like chamomile, aloe vera, or calendula can soothe and calm the skin, reducing the risk of irritation.
- Natural Waxes: Beeswax, carnauba wax, or candelilla wax are natural alternatives to synthetic waxes, providing structure and smooth application without compromising safety.
What Are the Ingredients You Should Avoid?
- Parabens: Parabens are synthetic preservatives commonly found in cosmetics. They have been linked to hormone disruption, and some studies suggest a potential association with breast cancer. To avoid these risks, consumers are advised to choose eyeliners labelled as paraben-free.
- Phthalates: Phthalates are plasticisers used to enhance the flexibility and longevity of cosmetic products. However, they have been associated with reproductive and developmental toxicity. Eyeliners without phthalates are considered a safer choice.
- Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives are known allergens and skin irritants. Long-term exposure may pose health risks, making it essential to opt for eyeliners that do not contain these substances.
- Fragrances: Synthetic fragrances in eyeliners can contain numerous undisclosed chemicals. These may cause skin irritation or trigger allergies. Unscented or naturally scented eyeliners are recommended to minimise these risks.
- Lead and Heavy Metals: Heavy metals, such as lead, have been found in some eyeliners and can pose serious health concerns, especially with prolonged use. Choosing eyeliners with strict quality controls and third-party testing for heavy metals is crucial for consumer safety.
Why Choose Organic Eyeliners?
- Reduced Chemical Exposure: Hypoallergenic eyeliners are formulated with a focus on natural and organic ingredients, minimising exposure to synthetic chemicals that may be harsh on the skin.
- Environmentally Friendly: The cultivation of organic ingredients often involves sustainable and eco-friendly practices, contributing to a healthier planet.
- Cruelty-Free: Many non toxic eyeliners are cruelty-free, meaning they are not tested on animals, aligning with ethical consumer choices.
- Gentle on Sensitive Skin: Individuals with sensitive skin can benefit from the gentle, soothing properties of organic ingredients, reducing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
- Holistic Approach to Beauty: Organic beauty products often embrace a holistic approach, focusing on overall well-being by avoiding potentially harmful substances.
Are Natural Eyeliners Good?
Eyeliners are the perfect tool to achieve that winged effect and look like a diva, so the natural alternatives must have a good performance. Look for professional eyeliners with rich colour and quick-drying formulation to avoid any smudging. These can be soft creamy pencils in a range of colours, water-based liquid toxic free eyeliners with angled brushes, or water-proof gel eyeliners that are long-lasting and smudge-proof.
If you are not already used to a certain type, you might want to try a few different ones before you decide which one works best for you. Many people find the pencil easiest to work with, but there is something magical about the liquid eyeliner that really does the trick. It may take some practice to achieve the ultimate precision, but the striking look you get is well worth the trouble.
The Takeaway
As consumers become more discerning about the products they use, the demand for natural and chemical free eyeliners continues to rise. By understanding what ingredients to avoid and opting for formulations with safe, natural alternatives, individuals can prioritise their health while contributing to a more sustainable and eco-conscious beauty industry. Choosing organic eyeliners is not just a trend but a step towards a healthier, more mindful approach to personal care.
