To revive dry liquid eyeliner, especially the dip variety, a simple and effective method is to add a few drops of contact lens solution directly into the product tube. This can help re-liquify the dried-up formula.
Reviving Dip Liquid Eyeliner with Contact Solution
If you have a liquid eyeliner where you dip a brush into a bottle or tube, like the L'Oréal Paris Makeup Matte Signature Liquid Dip Eyeliner mentioned in some tips, you can often bring it back to life using contact lens solution.
According to beauty expert Dorman, "If the liner is the type you dip a brush into, you can add some contact lens solution to re-liquify dried-up product in the tube."
Here's how to typically do it:
- Ensure your eyeliner is a dip-style liquid liner, not a pen or brush-tip where the product flows through the tip.
- Open the eyeliner tube.
- Add just one or two drops of saline-based contact lens solution into the tube. Avoid adding too much, as it can thin the formula excessively.
- Close the tube tightly.
- Gently swirl or lightly shake the tube to mix the solution with the remaining liner. Avoid vigorous shaking, which can create air bubbles.
- Let it sit for a minute or two.
- Test the consistency by dipping your brush and swiping it on the back of your hand.
This method works because contact lens solution is primarily saline (saltwater) and often contains gentle buffering agents, which can help restore moisture and liquidity to water-based makeup formulas that have started to dry out.
Tips for Longevity
While reviving is helpful, preventing your liquid eyeliner from drying out in the first place is key:
- Always ensure the cap is tightly sealed after each use.
- Store your eyeliner upright with the cap down if possible, especially for dip liners, to keep the product near the opening.
- Avoid leaving the tube open for extended periods while applying makeup.
By using the contact solution trick for dip eyeliners and practicing good storage habits, you can extend the life of your favorite liquid liners.
