The hack
A kitchen version of your trusty black liquid eyeliner, made from household items such as charcoal, almonds and oil. What could possibly go wrong?
The promise
The great lockdown DIY cosmetics movement led to eyeliner “recipes” all over YouTube. They sound speedy, but can you do a “flick” with charcoal? Being both a goth and Indian – eyeliner is a big part of both cultures – I was very open to trying this.
The test
My first formula uses activated black charcoal, from health food stores. I add a teaspoon(ish) of it to a heat-proof bowl, into which I’ve already melted half a teaspoon of beeswax and coconut oil. When mixed, it looks just like black gel liner, but when I apply it (with an eyeliner brush) it’s more translucent than I’d like, and smudgy. Another recipe suggests charring an almond over a flame then powdering it (I use a pestle and mortar) before adding a smidgen of almond oil or ghee. This is even messier – after a couple of hours’ wear, I look like a post-gig Alice Cooper.
The verdict
Mess aside, making your own eyeliner, in a non-sterile environment and without preservatives, increases the chances of bacteria forming and that’s not a risk I’ll take with my eyes. I’d rather use Makeup By Mario Master Mattes liquid liner (£19).
