When Tradition Meets Eye Health
For generations, traditional eye cosmetics have been part of beauty, culture, and family traditions.
You may have grown up seeing a mother, grandmother, or relative apply tiro, kohl, kajal, surma, or another traditional eyeliner around the eyes. Perhaps you were even told that it could make the eyes look brighter, protect them, or improve their health.
But here is the question we should ask:
Is traditional eyeliner actually safe for your eyes?
The answer may surprise you.
What Is Traditional Eyeliner?
Traditional eye cosmetics are known by different names across cultures and regions, including kohl, kajal, surma, tiro, tozali, and kwalli.
They are commonly applied along the eyelids or close to the eye. While some people use them purely for cosmetic or cultural reasons, certain traditional preparations have also been used with the belief that they can protect or improve the eyes.
The problem is that not every traditional eye cosmetic has the same ingredients, quality, or safety profile.
Some products may contain substances that can be harmful when repeatedly used around the eyes.
The Hidden Truth: “Natural” Does Not Always Mean Safe
One of the biggest misconceptions about traditional remedies is that something must be safe because it has been used for generations.
Unfortunately, tradition alone does not guarantee safety.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that some traditional eye cosmetics such as kohl, kajal, and surma may contain significant amounts of lead and other heavy metals.
This is not simply a theoretical concern.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has documented cases in which traditional eye cosmetics were associated with elevated blood lead levels. One investigation involving a Nigerian traditional eye cosmetic called tiro found an extremely high lead concentration in the product used on an infant.
That means something applied with the intention of caring for the eyes could potentially expose the body to a harmful substance.
What Could Go Wrong?
Traditional eyeliner may present several concerns depending on its ingredients, preparation, storage, and method of application.
Potential problems include:
✓ Exposure to lead or other harmful substances
✓ Eye irritation
✓ Allergic reactions
✓ Contamination with microorganisms
✓ Injury from the applicator
✓ Infection if contaminated material enters or touches the eye
Eye cosmetics can also become contaminated through poor handling or sharing. The FDA recommends avoiding the use of contaminated or inappropriate products around the eyes and stopping immediately if irritation occurs.
What About Children?
This is especially important for parents.
Traditional eye cosmetics should not automatically be considered safe for babies or children simply because they are traditional or commonly used within a family.
Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead exposure. The CDC has reported cases of children developing elevated blood lead levels associated with traditional eye cosmetics such as kajal and surma.
If a traditional eye cosmetic is being used on a child, it is worth stopping and discussing the exposure with a healthcare professional.
Can You Still Wear Eyeliner?
Of course, wanting to enhance the appearance of your eyes is perfectly understandable.
The important thing is to choose products specifically manufactured and labelled for use around the eyes.
Check the ingredients, avoid products of unknown composition, do not share eye cosmetics, and avoid applying anything to an irritated or infected eye.
Most importantly, do not assume that a product is safe simply because someone you trust has used it for years.
When Should You See an Eye Care Professional?
If you experience:
✓ Persistent redness
✓ Eye pain
✓ Swelling
✓ Burning or irritation
✓ Excessive watering
✓ Discharge
✓ Blurred or reduced vision
after using an eye cosmetic, stop using the product and seek professional advice.
And if you have been using a traditional eye cosmetic for yourself or your child and are concerned about possible lead exposure, speak with a healthcare professional about whether further assessment or testing is appropriate.
Your eyes are precious—and tradition should never replace evidence when it comes to protecting them.
Before putting anything around or inside your eyes, ask yourself:
“Do I know what is in this product, and is it actually safe for my eyes?”
Beauty may be traditional, but eye safety should always come first.
Clear vision is not just about seeing better—it is about living better.
At Enny Eye Care, we are committed to helping you protect, preserve, and prioritize your sight every day.
Medical Disclaimer
The content on this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.