How to Use Colored Pencils as Eyeliner

Co-authored by Yuka Arora

Last Updated: September 15, 2021 References

Some makeup users opt to try converting their colored pencils into eyeliner as an affordable way to get a variety of colors. However, artistic pencils, while non-toxic, are not put through the same testing as cosmetics, and have been known to chip and flake into the eye and cause burning, irritation, infection, abrasions to the cornea, and potential permanent blindness.^{[1]
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Research source} Manufacturers have issued statements condemning the practice for its inherent danger, even when using non-toxic products.^{[2]
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Research source} If, however, you truly want to try using colored pencils as eyeliner, it may be possible by soaking the colored pencils in warm water.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Understanding the Risk

1
Learn about eyeliner formulas. Eyeliner comes in a few different varieties including pencil, crayon, gel, and liquid. Every company is required by the FDA, though, to make sure its formula is safe to use for its intended purpose. Colored pencils are not tested for safety on the skin.^{[3]
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Trustworthy Source
US Food and Drug Administration
U.S. government agency responsible for promoting public health
Go to source}
- Color additives in colored pencils do not have the same intended use as those in cosmetics. They are therefore not tested for safety in the same way.
- These color additives may be non-toxic, but they cannot be said to be safe for use on the eye, and may cause negative side effects.
2
Understand the risk of infection. Cosmetic eyeliner uses specific preservatives to keep microorganisms from growing on the product. Since colored pencils are not intended for use on the skin, they do not contain the same preservatives.^{[4]
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Research source}
- The process of converting colored pencils into eyeliner involves submerging them in warm water. These warm, moist pencil tips provide an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and multiply. This, in turn, might increase your risk of infection according to some optometrists.^{[5]
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  Research source}
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3
Check out the physical differences. Look at the way an eyeliner pencil glides onto the skin. Notice how soft the wood of the pencil and the eyeliner core are. Compare that to a pointed, hard colored pencil with wood that more easily splinters and peels.
- Placing colored pencils near your eyes may allow them to chip, peel, or break off into your eye. This could cause irritation or abrasions in the eye as well as along the skin of the eyelid.

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Converting the Pencils

1
Get new, non-toxic pencils. No colored pencil is meant for use on the skin, but choosing new pencils from trusted brands such as Crayola can help minimize the risk. Avoid using old pencils or those from bargain or overseas manufacturers.
- Old pencils may foster bacterial growth, making them unsafe to use around the eyes.
- Imported pencils may not have to follow the same standards to be considered non-toxic, and may use bargain ingredients that are more likely to cause irritation.
2
Pick a style for your eyeliner. There are a number of possibilities with colored pencils. You could choose bold or thin lines, a single color or multiple colors, a cat eye, or anything else that you can imagine.
- Look at photos and YouTube tutorials online to find inspiration from others who have tried the trend.
- Experiment with different looks and color combinations to see which one you like the most.
3
Dull your pencil. If you are using a pencil with a sharp tip, consider dulling it before application. This prevents you from putting yourself in the dangerous situation of having a fine-pointed rigid tip next to your eye.
- Scribble on a piece of blank paper until the tip wears down to a smoother, rounded end.
4
Let your pencil sit in hot water. The water should be hot to the touch, but not so hot so as to melt the pencil lead. Let the pencil sit for about 5 minutes. After that is done, take the pencil out and pat it with a dry paper towel.^{[6]
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Research source}
- If you want a thick eyeliner, leave the pencil in hot water for 7-10 minutes.
- If you notice your pencil lead melting or running in the water, immediately remove the pencil and allow the water to cool slightly before retrying the process.

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Applying the Eyeliner

1
Apply the eyeliner. Use the converted pencil the same way you would a normal eyeliner pencil. Glide it on across your eyelid and fill it in to achieve the look you want.
- To get a steady line, dot the liner along your eyelid, then go back and fill in the line to make it solid. Use the dotted line as a guide.
2
Try a winged look. Make your look a bit bolder by creating a wing. Extend the line out beyond your eyelid to make your eyes look wider and make your new liner color more visible.
- To get a good wing, extend your line beyond the base of the lid at a slight upward angle toward the tip of your eyebrow.^{[7]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Yuka Arora
  Makeup Artist
  Expert Interview. 30 August 2018.} Stop once your liner is about a third of the way to your brow.
- Create a triangle by drawing a straight line down from the tip of the wing to your eyelid.
- Fill in the triangle.
3
Try a multi-colored look. Use different colored pencils in the same design to get a bold, creative look. Try one or two colors to compliment your outfit, or go for a whole rainbow.
- The pencils have a limited time of malleability, so work with one at a time. Don’t start on the red until you are done with the yellow.
- Try a dark color on your eyelid and a bold one on your waterline for just a touch of color.
- Go all out and try a rainbow look by blending colors along your eyelid starting from the inner corner and working your way out to edge of your eye.
- Use a cotton swab to help you blend colors and create softer transitions.
4
Show off your new look. Let everyone see how creative you are, and show them what you can do with your newfound skill.
- If anybody asks how you got the look, share your secret but also remember to warn them of the many risks involved in the process.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I remove the eyeliner?

Community Answer

Use a wet napkin or a cotton pad to remove with gentle swipes. Avoid rubbing it, because doing so could lead to making it look like you have a black eye!
Question

Does the pencil's sharpness make it look better? Is a sharp pencil easier to use?

Community Answer

No! You should not use a sharper pencil. If you want it to look thinner, just soak it for 5 minutes. This will also make it easier to use.
Question

Each time I use the color pencil eyeliner, do I have to resoak, or is it fine to use again without soaking it again?

Community Answer

It's better to soak it again, but not for 5 minutes again. Just dip it in and you're ready to go!

Warnings

Colored pencils are not recommended for around the eye. Using colored pencils in place of cosmetic eyeliners may cause irritation, infection, or potential permanent loss of vision. Use colored pencils near your eyes at your own risk.

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Color additives in cosmetics are regulated by the FDA, while color additives in colored pencils are not. It is not known if the additives in colored pencils are safe, or how they will react with the area around the eyes.

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