Wearing kajal, sometimes referred to as kohl or eyeliner, all day may have certain unintended consequences, particularly if the product is low-quality or the application technique is not done carefully.
You should be mindful of the following common adverse effects, which you may not be aware of.
Eye irritation: Long-term kajal usage can cause the eyes to become irritated, inflamed, and uncomfortable. This may happen as a result of the kajal’s components or from product particles getting into the eyes.
Reactions caused by allergies: Some people may experience allergies to certain components in kajal. Long-term exposure may cause allergic reactions, including redness, swelling, or itching around the eyes.
Dryness: Certain components in kajal may exacerbate the condition of dryness around the eyes. This may eventually result in dry or flaky areas under the eyes or on the eyelids.
Risk of infection: There is a chance of bacterial or fungal infections if the kajal pencil or applicator is not well cleaned or if the product is old and tainted. Styes, conjunctivitis, or pink eye may result from this.
Smudging and smearing: If you wear kajal all day, especially in hot or muggy conditions, you may experience smudging or smearing. This might alter the makeup’s appearance and necessitate regular touch-ups, which would irritate the skin even more.
Clogged pores: Using kajal on the inner rim or waterline of the eyes may cause the pores around the lash line to get clogged. This could aggravate pre-existing skin problems around the eyes or aid in the development of milia, or tiny white pimples.
Vision disturbance: Kajal that migrates or smudges into the eyes might occasionally result in momentary vision disruption or blurring. Usually minor, this goes away when the product is taken off.
Corneal abrasion: The cornea may get scratches or abrasions if the pencil tip or kajal particles make contact with the eye’s surface. Pain, light sensitivity, and blurred vision may come from this.
Damage to eyelashes: Over time, frequent application and removal of kajal can weaken eyelashes, resulting in the breaking or loss of individual lashes. This may lead to unequal or sparse eyelashes, which will detract from the eyes’ overall appearance.
Increased tear production: Wearing kajal for a prolonged period of time may cause some people to suffer increased tear production or watery eyes. This can be annoying and necessitate frequently wiping off or reapplying makeup.
Sensitivity to light: Extended use of kajal may cause discomfort or squinting in the eyes due to increased sensitivity to strong light or sunshine. Those who have light-colored eyes may find this more bothersome.
Skin discoloration: If the substance smudges or spreads over the surrounding skin, some kajal compositions contain chemicals that might result in skin discoloration. This may cause the area around the eyes to appear gray or have dark circles.
Impaired eye health: Regular use of kajal without its correct removal can lead to a variety of problems with the eyes, such as blepharitis, which is characterized by inflammation, dryness, and irritation of the eyelids. If these problems are not treated, they may get worse over time.
Hazard of lead contamination: Lead poisoning can occur from the presence of lead in traditional kajal formulae, particularly when used for an extended period of time.
Although most contemporary kajal products follow safety standards, it’s still important to exercise caution, particularly when using homemade or imported kajal preparations.
Psychological dependence: Some people may grow dependent on wearing kajal on a regular basis, feeling inadequate or self-conscious without it.
This may encourage overuse and worsen any possible negative consequences.