Is eyebrow pencil harmful to the skin?

Sep 23, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, I saw online that eyebrow pencils may cause harm to the skin and would like to consult a doctor to confirm if this is true.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin

As a common cosmetic product, eyebrow pencils mainly consist of oils, waxes, pigments, and some preservatives. The harm of eyebrow pencils to the skin is not absolute, but their use and selection should be appropriate.

Some low-quality or expired products may contain irritating chemical substances such as preservatives and fragrances. These ingredients may cause skin allergies or irritation. Therefore, it is recommended to choose reputable brands that have undergone rigorous screening and testing to ensure safety. Pay attention to checking the product ingredient list and avoid known irritating components. Correct application methods are also important. Applying eyebrows with excessive force may cause minor skin trauma, which over time could thin the skin and increase its sensitivity. Additionally, if the oils and pigments in eyebrow pencils remain on the skin for extended periods without being thoroughly cleaned off, they may clog pores and lead to closed comedones, acne, or pimples. Therefore, after using an eyebrow pencil, timely and thorough makeup removal is necessary. Choose a suitable makeup remover for your skin type to ensure complete removal of any residue.