One way to make your lashes look dark without using mascara every day is to paint them in a fun natural or bright color. While eyelash dye doesn't make your lashes appear longer or thicker, it can make your lashes look darker, which can be especially useful if you have naturally pale lashes, or you want your lashes to match your hair color. Whether you color it yourself at home or at the salon, you'll have dark lashes for the next few weeks without spending a fortune.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Selecting and Mixing Colors
Step 1. Choose an eyelash coloring kit
As with mascara, brown and black are the most commonly used colors, although there are many color options to choose from. There are also bright color options, such as blue and bright red. Most of these colors aren't very noticeable, but they can give a more blended look to dyed hair.
- As with hair dye, there are several options to choose from. Since the area around the eyelashes is very sensitive, the dyes that are most often used are those of plant origin, such as henna. You can look for chemical eyelash dyes, but be careful when using them.
- Eyelash tint can be found on the internet or in beauty supply stores because this product is considered a specialty item.
- Do not use ordinary hair dye to color your eyelashes because this product contains harmful chemicals when used around the eyes. Look for a dye specifically designed for eyebrows and eyelashes.
Step 2. Perform a sensitivity test using a small amount of dye and one drop of activator
Mix a small amount of color (less than half a pea) with one drop of activator. Apply this mixture on the skin behind the ears, on the inside of the elbows, or in other hidden places. Let the dye sit on your skin for about 30 minutes before you rinse it off.
- Monitor the area for 8-24 hours before you continue with the process. If the test area is itchy, inflamed, or burning, you may have an allergic reaction to the dye, and should not use it.
- This test should be done before you mix the dye because the mixed eyelash dye will spoil if left for 24 hours.
Step 3. Mix the dye with the activator
Follow the directions on the kit package for the amount of dye to use. The usual measure is 2.5 cm long which you have to squeeze from the tube to the mixing bowl. Add 2 to 3 drops of activator to the dye. Pay attention to the number of activators you add. Excessive use of activator can make the eyelash dye runny.
- Diluted dye won't stick well to the applicator stick.
- Most eyelash kits contain a tube of dye, a bottle of activator solution, a mascara brush or stick, a mixing stick, and a mixing container.
Step 4. Stir the mixture until it thickens
A thick mixture will be safer and more effective. Dyes that are too runny can drip and get into the eyes. Mix the dye and activator until it reaches a paste-like consistency and doesn't drip from the stirring stick. This texture adheres to the lashes more easily than a runny mixture.
Method 2 of 2: Applying Dye
Step 1. Wash your face and eyes
It is very important to remove any dirt and makeup that may have accumulated around the eyes and eyelashes before you apply the dye. Use your daily facial cleanser and wash your face with an eye-safe makeup remover. Next, dry your face.
Step 2. Use a cotton pad or ball to apply petrolatum (petroleum jelly) around the eyes
Vaseline or petrolatum will create a barrier around the eye. Apply this material to a distance that your lashes can reach when you blink. Also apply petrolatum to the outer corner of the eye, the top line of the lashes, and the eyelids.
The dye shouldn't stain your skin, but the barrier of the petrolatum will make it easier for you to wash off any adhering dye afterward
Step 3. Dip the applicator stick into the dye you have prepared
Rotate the stick several times until all sides absorb the dye. You'll have better coverage by covering the entire surface of the stick with dye. Do not apply the dye multiple times to achieve a full, deep lash look.
This applicator can be in the form of a brush or stick similar to the tool used to apply mascara
Step 4. Apply the dye in front of the mirror and keep your hands steady
The dye will sting when it gets into your eyes and can cause irritation. If the dye gets in your eyes, rinse your eyes immediately before doing anything else.
If you can't keep your hands steady, it's a good idea to leave this eyelash coloring task at a professional salon
Step 5. Apply the dye one by one on the upper lashes
Use the applicator to apply the dye to the top and bottom lashes, as close to the roots as possible, section by section. By coloring it section by section, the dye will stick to each eyelash well.
- You can apply it using an applicator that resembles a mascara stick or brush.
- You can wiggle the brush upwards to spread the dye more evenly, and be sure to also apply it to the tips of your lashes.
Step 6. Blend the dye onto your lower lashes into small sections
Handle the section on the upper side of the lower lashes and work your way down. Squint and look up to prevent the dye from getting into your eyes when you work on the underside of your lower lashes.
Check with a mirror to see if all of your eyelashes have been coated with dye
Step 7. Wait for 15-20 minutes for the dye to adhere completely
The lashes need to fully absorb the dye, so you should allow enough time for the dye to darken for a long time. Do not touch or dirty your eyes, or stare down for long periods of time at this time.
Step 8. Use warm water and a cotton swab to clean the wet dye
Dip a cotton swab in warm water, then close your eyes, and wipe your lash line. Rinse or change the cotton and repeat this process 3 or 4 more times. You can also apply a saline solution to your eyes. This is to ensure that no dye remains in the eye.
If your eyes still sting when you open them, close them again and rinse several times
Step 9. Color the lashes again every few weeks
Store-bought dyes will generally last 4-6 weeks. If you like the result, repeat the process as the dye begins to fade to maintain the appearance of the lashes.
Tips
- To keep the color long, don't use moisturizers, cleansers, or oil-based wipes. Products like this can make the eyelash dye fade faster.
- If you wish, you can still apply clear mascara to your colored lashes. This can help add volume to your lashes without adding unnecessary color.
- Eyelash tinting done by a professional can last for about 2-5 weeks.
Warning
- Do not use eyelash dye if you are allergic to henna or hair dye that contains para-phenylenediamine.
- The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve the use of permanent eyelash dyes. This product is known to cause problems such as granulomas (inflammation of the tissue) and contact dermatitis (rash).
