Mascara is a cosmetic product used to darken, thicken, lengthen, and define eyelashes. It is a beauty staple that has been used for centuries, with ancient Egyptians using burned ashes and kohl mixed with honey to darken their lashes. Modern mascara is made up of a few essential ingredients, including pigments, waxes, and oils. Some formulas may also contain synthetic dyes or tar from coal to give mascara its color and darken lashes, which can be harmful. However, many mascara ingredients are much safer than they used to be, and the ingredients that manufacturers can include in their products are now much more closely regulated.
Positive aspects of mascara include its ability to enhance the appearance of eyes and accentuate lashes. However, some negative aspects of mascara include the potential for harmful ingredients and the risk of contamination if inadequately preserved.
The ingredients in mascara can vary depending on the brand and formula. Some "good" ingredients to look for in mascara include natural waxes, plant-based oils, and natural pigments. Some "bad" ingredients to avoid include synthetic dyes, coal tar, and parabens.
It is important to note that the term "mascara" has also been used in a coded way on TikTok to refer to past and present romantic relationships and sexual experiences.
