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Numerous social media influencers are taking part in the latest “Sharpie lip liner” trend, which involves using a Sharpie marker to line the lips.
Videos show users applying a standard Sharpie, usually in red or coral shades, around the edges of their mouths before topping it off with lip gloss or lipstick.
Commenters are curious about the specific shade of Sharpie being used by beauty gurus in these posts, with many hailing the permanent marker as a cost-effective substitute for traditional lip liners.
While some influencers are trying out this popular hack, they seem to have reservations.
“My lips didn’t feel like they were burning, but they did start to dry out,” one user mentioned in a TikTok voice-over. “I wouldn’t recommend doing this regularly… I could definitely sense the taste and smell of the chemicals.”
Beauty influencers on social media are using permanent markers, particularly Sharpies, on their lips instead of traditional makeup. (iStock)
Dr. Brooke Jeffy, a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona, expressed her concern about this trend to Fox News Digital.
“The potential risks outweigh any benefits,” she stated.
The Northern New England Poison Center website notes that “permanent markers, like popular brands such as Sharpie, contain ink made from chemicals like xylene, toluene, and urethane resin.”
“I wouldn’t recommend doing this regularly… I could definitely taste and smell the chemicals.”
Toluene, a component found in other solvents and chemicals like paint pigments, metal cleaners, and gasoline.
“I would just have concerns that some of these potential toxins would get absorbed to a level that might be concerning for overall health risks,” cautioned a dermatologist. (iStock)
“I would have concerns about these potential toxins being absorbed to a level that could pose health risks,” Jeffy warned.
“It’s intriguing how people are so against certain safe ingredients while embracing a substance that actually contains toxins.”
The dermatologist referred to the warning on Sharpie’s website against using the product on the skin.
“While Sharpie markers are safe for artistic purposes, it is not recommended to use them on the skin as they are not intended for that purpose,” the site advises.
“While Sharpie markers are safe for artistic purposes, it is not recommended to use them on the skin as they are not intended for that purpose,” according to the company’s website. (Getty / Storyful)
Nevertheless, the dermatologist doesn’t believe that those who have already tried this trend need to be overly concerned.
“I don’t think there’s a specific action they need to take to address potential health risks,” Jeffy told Fox News Digital. “They should just stop doing it.”
Fox News Digital reached out to Sharpie for a comment as well.
