green beauty – eyeliner

I kid you not. I have been searching for a satisfactory eyeliner for over a year! My criteria is reasonable, folks. An eyeliner pencil  that is non-toxic, and one that applies smoothly. That’s it. 

First of all, it has been difficult to find an eyeliner that isn’t loaded with preservatives. Because the eyes are a sensitive area, companies pack paraben and other artificial ingredients into eyeliners and mascaras to prevent the growth of bacteria which may cause contamination and irritation. Makes sense, I guess, but I also don’t want to line my eyes with chemicals everyday. 

Secondly, forget the chemicals for a moment. Some days, I’d just settle for an eyeliner that works. I have found that even many expensive brands don’t spread on easily. Either the pencil tip is too blunt or too sharp, tearing painfully away at the delicate eye lid. Ouch!

But, ladies, I found the solution, and it was right under my nose the whole time. L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Smoldering Eyeliner. Yes, I said L’Oreal, and it’s probably stocked right now in the drugstore down the street.

Why I dig it:

• EWG rating of 1
• Available in most stores (Walgreens, CVS, Target, Walmart). 
• Average price less than $10 per pencil. 
• Why do I like it? First, it glides on like a dream & even comes with a sharpener! Secondly, it is fairly inexpensive, which is great, as it is recommended to replace your eyeliner every 3-6 months for hygienic reasons. And finally, flirtation is much more effective with dramatic eyes.

*One footnote: Since I’ve been using this for several months, I have to add this fact. It does apply easily and gently on the eyelid, but I do need to soften it with a foam tip applicator or Q-tip. Not a big deal…but if you are looking for a wet eyeliner that draws on effortlessly, this one’s not for you.