10 Best Non-toxic Eyeliners That Won’t Irritate Your Eyes

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Mar 14, 2024
Best Non-toxic Eyeliner
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Embarking on a journey towards non-toxic eyeliners wasn't just a cosmetic choice for me; it was a conscious decision to prioritize my health and the environment. The realization that traditional eyeliners often contained harmful chemicals sparked my curiosity and concern. I delved into the world of non-toxic alternatives to shield my delicate eye area from potential irritants and toxins.

Curating the best non-toxic eyeliners became a personal mission, driven by the desire to share my findings with others seeking a safer, more sustainable beauty routine. Extensive research led me to brands committed to using natural ingredients and avoiding harmful chemicals like parabens and phthalates. I considered factors like pigmentation, longevity, and cruelty-free practices, ensuring that the curated selection met high standards of performance and ethics.

My recommendation for these best non-toxic eyeliners stems from the conviction that beauty shouldn't come at the expense of well-being. By advocating for products that align with both personal and environmental health, I hope to inspire others to make informed choices for their beauty regimens. The shift to organic eyeliners not only enhances our appearance but also contributes to a healthier, more sustainable beauty landscape.

10 Best Non-toxic Eyeliners

This richly pigmented brown shade adds a subtle, natural definition to your eyes, complementing various skin tones. The pencil's smooth and creamy texture glides on effortlessly, allowing for easy application and blending. Whether you're creating a soft, everyday look or a smoldering evening gaze, this eyeliner delivers versatile and long-lasting results. Enriched with natural ingredients, Lavera's formula is gentle on the delicate eye area, making it suitable for sensitive eyes. The convenient pencil design of this brown eyeliner ensures precise control, allowing you to achieve your desired intensity with ease.

Key ingredients: Jojoba, shea butter, vitamins E and C, and sunflower oil

Color: No. 02 Brown

Finish type: Natural

Size: 0.038 oz

Pros
  • Vegan
  • Easy to use
  • No smearing or pulling
Cons
  • Expensive

Quick tip:

Blend the soft pencil line with a smudging brush to create a subtle, smoky effect, adding depth and intensity to your gaze.

  • Best Creamy Texture

    Mineral Fusion Eye Pencil

    Mineral Fusion Eye Pencil
  • Mineral Fusion Eye Pencil in Coal is a sophisticated and hypoallergenic black eyeliner designed to enhance your eyes with velvety smooth precision. Infused with soothing chamomile, meadowfoam, and vitamin E, this formula not only defines but also nurtures the delicate eye area. The blend of natural ingredients ensures a gentle application suitable for sensitive eyes. The long-lasting formula offers enduring wear, making it ideal for all-day use. Complementing this eye pencil is the Mineral Fusion So Classy Volume Mascara in black infused with natural ingredients, that not only enhances lash volume but also conditions and strengthens lashes for a lush and healthy look.

    Key ingredients: Chamomile, meadowfoam, and vitamin E

    Color: Coal

    Finish type: Natural

    Size:0.04 oz

    Pros
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Creamy texture
    • Paraben-free
    Cons
    • Needs re-application
  • Best Smooth Application

    Fifth & Skin Better'n Ur Eyes Eyeliner Pencil

    Fifth & Skin Better'n Ur Eyes Eyeliner Pencil
  • This eyeliner guarantees a smooth application, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience. Crafted with a commitment to quality, it provides a stunning, long-lasting look without compromising on skin-friendliness. The rich black shade adds depth and definition to your eyes, complementing any makeup style. Hypoallergenic properties make it suitable for even the most sensitive eyes, providing a worry-free experience for those with delicate skin type. Fifth & Skin's dedication to natural ingredients ensures that their eyeliner enhances your beauty without compromising on health.

    Key ingredients: Nourishing botanical ingredients

    Color: Black

    Finish type: Natural

    Size: 0.30 oz

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Smooth application
    • Paraben-free
    Cons
    • Smears easily
  • Best Waterproof Formula

    Mia Adora Liquid Eyeliner

    Mia Adora Liquid Eyeliner
  • This eyeliner ensures all-day wear, providing a reliable solution for various styles such as winged, cat eye, or smudged looks. The gel liner felt tip, with its high pigment intensity, allows for precise application, while the waterproof feature ensures tear-proof and smudge-resistant makeup. Mia Adora's commitment to a non-toxic formula prioritizes the health of your skin without compromising on performance. The pen design eliminates the need for a pencil sharpener and the hassle of stamps, offering a convenient and mess-free application.

    Key ingredients: Castor oil

    Color: Black

    Size: 0.0176 oz

    Pros
    • Waterproof
    • Easy application
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Not long-lasting
  • Most Highly-Pigmented Formula

    ZUZU LUXE Snow Eyeliner

    ZUZU LUXE Snow Eyeliner
  • This eyeliner captivates with its pristine white hue, adding a luminous and ethereal dimension to your eyes. ZUZU LUXE, known for its commitment to clean and cruelty-free beauty, delivers a formula that is both gentle and high-performing. The Snow Eyeliner glides on smoothly, allowing for precise application and creative versatility in your eye makeup looks. The rich pigmentation ensures a bold statement while maintaining a refined and sophisticated finish.

    Key ingredients: Jojoba oil 

    Color: Snow

    Finish type: Natural

    Size: 0.04 oz

    Pros
    • Highly pigmented formula
    • Vegan
    • No paraben
    Cons
    • Hard to sharpen
  • Best Sweat-resistant

    BaeBlu Natural Hypoallergenic Eyeliner Pencil

    BaeBlu Natural Hypoallergenic Eyeliner Pencil
  • This eyeliner offers a harmonious blend of rich pigmentation and hypoallergenic properties, catering to even the most sensitive eyes. The jet-black shade provides a classic and versatile option for defining your eyes with precision. BaeBlu's commitment to organic ingredients ensures that this pencil is free from harsh chemicals, making it a safe and gentle choice for everyday use. The smooth application allows for easy and effortless gliding, creating a flawless finish that lasts throughout the day. 

    Key ingredients: Hydrating oils

    Color: Black

    Finish type: Natural

    Size:0.4 oz

    Pros
    • Paraben-free
    • Sweat-resistant
    • No artificial fragrances
    Cons
    • No sharpener included
  • Best Lasting Definition

    ILIA - Clean Line Liquid Liner

    ILIA - Clean Line Liquid Liner
  • This cruelty-free and vegan formula upholds ILIA's commitment to ethical and sustainable practices, allowing you to enhance your eyes guilt-free. The jet-black shade delivers bold and precise lines for a striking and defined look. The clean beauty ethos of ILIA ensures that this liquid liner is free from harmful chemicals, providing a safe option for your delicate eye area. The fine brush tip allows for easy application, whether you're aiming for a subtle everyday look or a more dramatic effect. Pairing seamlessly with ILIA's clean beauty ethos is The Necessary Eyeshadow Palette in Cool Nude, featuring a curated selection of cool-toned, neutral shades that blend effortlessly for a sophisticated and timeless eye look.

    Key ingredients: Charcoal powder

    Color: Midnight Express, classic black

    Size: 0.01 fl oz

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Smudge-proof
    • Lasting definition
    Cons
    • A bit drying
  • Best Smudge-resistant

    Well People Fresh Lines Liquid Eyeliner

    Well People Fresh Lines Liquid Eyeliner
  • This longwear liquid eyeliner is formulated with a hydrating and smudge-resistant formula, ensuring a clean and defined look without compromising comfort. The rich black shade adds intensity to your eyes, making them stand out with a professional finish. The innovative formula not only enhances your eyes but also nourishes the delicate eye area.

    Key ingredients: Aloe, sunflower seed oil, and rosemary

    Color: Black

    Finish type: Matte

    Size: 0.08 fl oz

    Pros
    • Smudge-resistant proof
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Small size

    Quick Tip:

    For best results, start drawing the line from the inner corner of the eye, moving outward, and adjusting the thickness as desired.

  • Best Travel-friendly

    Pacifica Beauty Longwear Pastel Blue Eyeliner Pencil

    Pacifica Beauty Longwear Pastel Blue Eyeliner Pencil
  • This pencil boasts a no-skip formula, ensuring a precise application that effortlessly glides on for a flawless finish. The pastel blue hue adds a pop of vibrant and pigmented color to your eyes, perfect for creating graphic and artistic looks. Infused with the goodness of vitamin E and coconut oil, this eyeliner not only delivers striking results but also nourishes and cares for the delicate eye area. Pacifica Beauty's commitment to clean and ethical beauty is evident in this product, providing a cruelty-free option that enhances your eyes with both style and compassion. 

    Key ingredients: Vitamin E and coconut oil

    Color: Ocean

    Finish type: Glossy

    Size: 0.038 oz

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Travel-size
    Cons
    • Not highly pigmented formula
  • Best for All Skin Types

    Burt's Bees, Defining Eyeliner

    Burt's Bees, Defining Eyeliner
  • This eyeliner, infused with nourishing ingredients, offers a smooth application that glides on with ease. The gilded sage shade, a captivating earthy tone, adds a touch of sophistication to your eye makeup. Burt's Bees, known for its commitment to natural products, ensures that this defining eyeliner is made with gentle, skin-loving healthy ingredients. The formula is designed to enhance your eyes while avoiding harsh chemicals, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Whether you're going for a subtle everyday look or a more dramatic effect, Burt's Bees defining eyeliner delivers lasting color and definition. 

    Key ingredients:

    Color: Gilded sage

    Finish type: Metallic, natural, satin

    Size: 0.005 ounce

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Perfect for all skin tones
    • Easy application
    Cons
    • Smudges in humid weather

    Now that you have seen my product recommendations for the best non-toxic eyeliners, glance through my buying guide to make an informed purchase.

    How to Choose the Best Non-toxic Eyeliner?

    Choosing a non-toxic eyeliner involves considering various factors, including ingredients, formulation, brand reputation, and personal preferences. Here are some tips to help you select the best non-toxic eyeliner:

    • Read the Ingredients List:
      • Look for eyeliners with non-toxic and organic ingredients. Avoid products containing parabens, phthalates, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, and other potentially harmful chemicals.
      • Opt for eyeliners that use plant-based or mineral ingredients, such as jojoba oil, shea butter, aloe vera, and mineral pigments.
    • Certifications:
      • Look for products that carry certifications from reputable organizations, such as USDA Organic, Ecocert, or COSMOS. These certifications ensure that the product meets specific standards for organic and natural ingredients.
    • Fragrance-Free:
      • Choose fragrance-free eyeliners, as synthetic fragrances can contain harmful chemicals. Fragrance-free options are generally safer for sensitive skin and eyes.
    • Hypoallergenic:
      • If you have sensitive eyes, consider hypoallergenic eyeliners. These products are formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions.
    • Cruelty-Free:
      • Choose eyeliners from brands that are cruelty-free and do not test their products on animals. Look for the Leaping Bunny or PETA cruelty-free logo on the packaging.
    • Allergen-Free:
      • Check for common allergens in the ingredient list, especially if you have known allergies. Allergen-free formulations reduce the risk of irritation and adverse reactions.
    • Water-Based Formulas:
      • Consider water-based eyeliners, as they are often gentler on the eyes compared to oil-based or wax-based formulas. Water-based eyeliners are also less likely to contain potentially harmful and artificial ingredients.

    Remember that personal preferences play a role in choosing the right non-toxic eyeliner. Always check the product details and choose an eyeliner that aligns with your values and skin sensitivities.

    Conclusion

    My quest for the best non-toxic eyeliners has led me to a palette of exceptional choices that prioritize both beauty and health. The diverse selection of brands, each committed to eliminating harmful ingredients, has proven that enhancing one's eyes can be done responsibly. From the vibrant pigments to the smooth application, these eyeliners such as Lavera Soft Eyeliner Pencil and Mineral Fusion Eye Pencil redefine the standards of beauty products. Not only do they adorn my eyes with elegance, but they also prioritize my well-being, ensuring that I can confidently embrace my love for makeup without compromising on safety. The journey to find the best non-toxic eyeliners has not only transformed my beauty routine but has also empowered me with the knowledge that choosing health-conscious options doesn't mean sacrificing style. With these eyeliners, I've discovered a harmonious blend of glamour and wellness, redefining the way I perceive beauty.

    FAQ's

    How do non-toxic eyeliners differ from traditional eyeliners in terms of ingredients and safety?
    Non-toxic eyeliners distinguish themselves from traditional counterparts through their commitment to excluding harmful ingredients like parabens and phthalates. They prioritize safety without compromising performance, offering a healthier alternative for eyes. This distinction makes non-toxic eyeliners a conscientious choice, promoting both beauty and well-being.
    What harmful ingredients should I avoid when choosing an eyeliner?
    When selecting an eyeliner, steer clear of harmful ingredients such as parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde, and sulfates. These substances can pose risks to eye health and overall well-being. Opt for products labeled
    Are non-toxic eyeliners effective in terms of pigment, longevity, and application?
    Absolutely, non-toxic eyeliners excel in pigment intensity, long-lasting wear, and smooth application. These formulations prioritize both safety and performance, proving that makeup can be vibrant, enduring, and easy to apply without compromising on health. Non-toxic options redefine effectiveness in the realm of eyeliner.
    How do you know if eyeliner is non-toxic?
    To verify if eyeliner is non-toxic, scrutinize ingredient lists for harmful substances like parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. Look for products labeled
    Are non-toxic eyeliners suitable for individuals with allergies or sensitive skin around the eyes?
    Certainly, non-toxic eyeliners are often ideal for individuals with allergies or sensitive skin around the eyes. By excluding harsh chemicals, these formulations minimize the risk of irritation. Always check ingredient lists and choose products specifically designed for sensitive skin to ensure a gentle and safe application.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Sayantani embarked on reviewing the best non-toxic eyeliners driven by a commitment to health-conscious beauty. Prioritizing well-being, she explored various brands, scrutinizing ingredients and formulations. Her quest aimed to provide a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking a balance between glamour and safety in their makeup routine. She assessed pigmentation, longevity, and application to ensure efficacy without compromising health. By sharing insights into each product's composition, she aimed to empower her readers to make informed choices, fostering a beauty culture that celebrates both aesthetics and wellness. Her review reflects a dedication to redefine standards in the pursuit of safer, yet stylish, eyeliners.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More