You know that moment when you realize your mascara has seen better days, but the thought of running to the store (again) feels like a chore? That’s exactly how this little recipe came to be.

I needed something simple, safe, and actually effective, and I wasn’t about to settle for mystery ingredients I couldn’t pronounce.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you could make your own mascara, let me tell you: you can! And it’s easier than you’d think.

This DIY natural mascara recipe is perfect for beginners. It’s made with a handful of natural ingredients, gives a nice dark tint, and won’t leave your lashes stiff or flaky.

Plus, you’ll finally know exactly what’s going near your eyes, no toxins or hidden chemicals needed!

Why These Ingredients?

Let’s take a quick look at what each one does:

Activated Charcoal: Gives the mascara its rich black color. It’s also gentle on skin (and lashes!).
Bentonite Clay: Helps with consistency and gives the mascara a bit of staying power.
Vegetable Glycerin: Adds moisture and smoothness. It helps the mascara glide on without clumping.
Aloe Vera Gel: Soothing and conditioning for your lashes. Aloe is packed with nutrients too!
(Optional) Beeswax: Want to make it a little more waterproof? A bit of beeswax can help it stay put.

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How to Make Your Own Mascara

Here’s how I made my homemade natural mascara:

Ingredients

1/2 teaspoon activated charcoal
1/2 teaspoon bentonite clay
1/2 teaspoon vegetable glycerin
1/2 teaspoon aloe vera gel
1/8 tsp melted beeswax for a waterproof version (optional)
Empty mascara tube
Small bowl and spoon
Pipette or small funnel

Instructions

In a small bowl, mix the charcoal and bentonite clay until evenly combined.

In another bowl, stir together the aloe vera gel and vegetable glycerin (plus beeswax, if using).

Slowly combine the wet and dry mixtures. Stir well until smooth. Add more aloe or glycerin a few drops at a time if it feels too thick.

Use a pipette or mini funnel to fill your clean mascara tube. And you’re done!

To use: Apply like you would any mascara. One coat gives a natural look, but you can layer it up for more definition.

Notes

You can add a drop of essential oil if you want, but I prefer without.
To make this mascara waterproof, try adding some beeswax!

Natural Mascara

Yield: 1 tube

No Ratings

Materials

1/2 teaspoon activated charcoal
1/2 teaspoon bentonite clay
1/2 teaspoon vegetable glycerin
1/2 teaspoon aloe vera gel
1/8 tsp melted beeswax for a waterproof version (optional)
Empty mascara tube
Small bowl and spoon
Pipette or small funnel

Instructions

In a small bowl, mix the charcoal and bentonite clay until evenly combined.
In another bowl, stir together the aloe vera gel and vegetable glycerin (plus beeswax, if using).
Slowly combine the wet and dry mixtures. Stir well until smooth. Add more aloe or glycerin a few drops at a time if it feels too thick.
Use a pipette or mini funnel to fill your clean mascara tube. And you're done!
To use: Apply like you would any mascara. One coat gives a natural look, but you can layer it up for more definition.

Notes

You can add a drop of essential oil if you want, but I prefer without.
To make this mascara waterproof, try adding some beeswax!

Final Thoughts

Natural mascara might sound like one of those “too crunchy” ideas, but once you try it, you’ll see how easy and effective it really is. Plus, you’ll be skipping all the sketchy stuff that comes in conventional tubes!

Don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe and make it your own. And if you’re curious about other DIY makeup or skincare recipes, check out the Tallow Recipe eBook for more natural goodness you can whip up at home!

Remember, natural living isn’t about perfection. It’s about simple swaps that make a difference, and this is a great one to try.