DIY Eye Makeup: Simple Homemade Recipes For A Clean Cosmetics Routine (2025)

Which is why we’re big proponents of making your own makeup (and specifically in this case, DIY eye makeup). Because doing so allows you to avoid all these unnecessary and harmful additives while tailoring shades and formulas to your preferences. Sure it takes a bit of time and experimentation, but we think it’s well worth the creative endeavour!

Whether you’re looking for a richly pigmented eyeliner or a silky, blendable eyeshadow, natural ingredients like plant-based pigments, clays, and nourishing oils offer a safer, customizable alternative. Plus, these homemade recipes will not only give you full control over the texture, finish, and ingredient quality (without compromising on eye-popping performance) but they cost significantly less than store-bought options (scroll to the bottom to see our breakdown of savings!).

1. DIY Natural Eyeliner Recipe Jump to section
2. DIY Eyeshadow Powder Recipe Jump to section
3. DIY Cream Eyeshadow Recipe Jump to section
4. DIY Mascara Recipe Jump to section
5. DIY Highlighter Powder / Luminizer Recipe Jump to section
6. Eye Makeup Remover Recipe Jump to section
7. Cost Savings of Making Your Own Eye Makeup Jump to section
8. Why Make Your Own Eye Makeup? Jump to section

DIY Natural Eyeliner Recipe

What’s worse than poking your eye with an eyeliner pencil? Doing it with one full of harsh chemicals that cause irritation—even if you apply it perfectly.

Making your own eyeliner lets you skip the synthetic additives while still giving you a bold, well-defined look.

While it may not be as waterproof as conventional options—since many rely on chemical binders that aren’t easy to replicate naturally—it still delivers impressive wear with safe, skin-friendly ingredients.

Ingredients:

• Activated Charcoal or Cocoa Powder (½ tsp): Provides deep black pigment and is gentle on the skin, while cocoa powder is perfect for making a softer, brown eyeliner.
• Aloe Vera Gel (1 tsp): Creates a smooth, spreadable base that nourishes and soothes the skin.
• Coconut Oil (½ tsp): Helps the liner glide on easily and stay put without smudging.

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the activated charcoal, aloe vera gel, and liquified coconut oil (may need to melt first if making this in cooler conditions) until you achieve a smooth, paste-like consistency.
2. Test the consistency on the back of your hand; add a tiny amount of aloe vera gel for a thinner texture or more charcoal for a thicker, bolder pigment.
3. Transfer the mixture to a small, clean jar with a lid for storage.
4. Use a fine eyeliner brush to apply the product along your lash line. Allow it to dry for a minute to set.

DIY Eyeshadow Powder Recipe

This DIY mineral eyeshadow uses natural powders to create richly pigmented, blendable shades—without any synthetic additives. While some recipes call for essential oils, it’s best to skip them since even natural fragrances can be too harsh for the delicate eye area. For a gentle, irritation-free formula, keeping eye makeup unscented is the safest choice.

Ingredients:

• Arrowroot Powder (1 tsp): Arrowroot powder helps to give the eyeshadow a smooth, silky texture while also absorbing oil to keep the eyeshadow smudge and crease-free for longer.
• Mica Powder (1 tsp, optional): Mica adds a shimmer and tiny. Use colored mica powders for a colored eyeshadow and neutral white or gold if you just want a metallic effect.
• Cocoa Powder (1/4 tsp, optional): If you’re looking to make neutral colors, use cocoa powder in place of mica powder.
• Activated Charcoal (1/2 tsp, optional): If you want a darker, smoky look, activated charcoal can be combined with either mica powder or cocoa powder to darken the shade.

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl or directly in your container, combine your base color, whether this be with mica, cocoa powder, activated charcoal, or all three depending on your desired color effect. You can test the color on a patch of skin on the back of your hand to see what effect it will have on the skin.
2. Add arrowroot powder to the mix to create a smoother consistency and help the powder adhere better to your eyelids. Adding more arrowroot and less mica will yield a more matte effect.
3. Stir the mixture until the pigments are fully blended.
4. Test again on your hand and perform any final tint tweaks.
5. Store the mixture in a small container with a tight lid, and apply with an eyeshadow brush for even coverage. Because this is a powder only recipe, you can also mix the powders directly in the container and shake to mix.

DIY Cream Eyeshadow Recipe

If loose powders aren’t your style, a creamy non-toxic eyeshadow could be the perfect alternative in your natural cosmetics routine.

This recipe is fully customizable with your favorite shades and applies smoothly for effortless blending. Made with nourishing plant-based ingredients, it keeps your lids hydrated while delivering rich color.

Ingredients:

• Shea butter (1 tsp): Moisturizes the delicate eyelid area and creates a creamy texture
• Arrowroot powder (½ tsp): Gives a soft, velvety finish and helps with blendability
• Jojoba or Sweet Almond Oil (1 tsp): Lightweight and non-greasy, ensuring smooth application
• Beeswax or Candelilla Wax for Vegans (1 tsp): Helps solidify the formula and improves longevity
• Mica powder (½–1 tsp): Provides color and shimmer (choose from bronze, gold, rose, or pearl for highlighting)
• Cocoa Powder or Activated Charcoal (¼ tsp, optional): Deepens the shade for a more dramatic look
• Vitamin E Oil (1 drop, optional): Extends shelf life and nourishes the skin

Instructions:

1. Melt the shea butter, beeswax, and jojoba oil together using a double boiler or a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir until fully blended.
2. Remove from heat and mix in the arrowroot powder and mica powder, adjusting the pigment to achieve your desired shade.
3. Pour the mixture into a small jar or tin and allow it to cool and set for at least an hour. A shallow container makes for easier application.
4. To apply, use a fingertip or brush for a soft wash of color. Layer for more intensity or mix with a drop of facial oil for a dewy, sheer finish.

DIY Mascara Recipe

This all-natural zero waste mascara boosts your lashes while nourishing them with gentle, plant-based ingredients. Beeswax adds some water resistance, but it won’t hold up like waterproof store-bought formulas. So if you’re going to watch a tear jerker, be careful!

Ingredients:

• Activated Charcoal or Cacao Powder (1 tsp): Provides deep black or brown pigment for defined lashes
• Bentonite Clay (½ tsp): Adds texture, helps with adhesion, and gives a natural volumizing effect
• Beeswax or Candelilla Wax for Vegan Option (½ tsp): Helps thicken the formula and create a smooth, long-lasting application
• Castor Oil (1/2 tsp): Conditions lashes, preventing brittleness and breakage, stimulates lash growth, and adds lash volume.
• Aloe Vera Gel (2 tsp): Hydrates, lengthens, and helps mascara glide on easily
• Vitamin E Oil (2-3 drops): Strengthens and nourishes lashes while acting as a natural preservative

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler, melt the beeswax until fully liquefied.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in the aloe vera gel and vitamin E oil until smooth.
3. Slowly stir in the activated charcoal (or cacao powder) and bentonite clay, ensuring an even consistency. Adjust the shade by adding more charcoal for black or more cacao for a brown tint.
4. Using a small funnel or piping bag, carefully transfer the mixture into a clean, empty mascara tube.
5. Let it cool and set completely before using, then apply with a mascara wand as you normally would, layering for volume. Allow each coat to dry slightly before adding another for a fuller effect.
6. This formula is shelf-stable for up to 3 months if properly stored in a cool, dry place, after which you may notice it drying out. If this happens, add a drop of aloe vera gel and stir to refresh it.

DIY Highlighter Powder / Luminizer Recipe

Bad sleep last night is giving you tired eyes?

We’ve been there (a lot). A touch of our DIY highlighter powder can instantly wake up your look, doubling as a luminizer while setting your eye makeup, absorbing excess oils and keeping shine in check. It’s an easy way to fake a well-rested glow.

Ingredients:

• Mica powder (1 tsp): Reflects light to create a brightening effect and reduce the appearance of dark circles. Opt for neutrals like pearl, champagne, or rose gold, not brightly colored mira powder.
• Arrowroot Powder (1 tbsp): Helps absorb excess oil and gives a smooth, soft-focus finish
• Bentonite Or Kaolin Clay (½ tsp): Adds a silky texture while gently detoxifying and mattifying. Bentonite clay absorbs extra oil so it is better for oily skin.
• Finely Ground Oats or Oat Flour (½ tsp, optional): Gives extra skin soothing and hydrating power to the formula. Also blurs fine lines and provides a subtle brightening effect.

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl (or tin that you plan to store it in, as this formula can easily be mixed in the final container), whisk together arrowroot powder, clay of choice, and oat flour until well combined.
2. Gradually mix in the mica powder, stirring thoroughly to ensure even distribution. We recommend not adding the full teaspoon to start, but adding half, mixing, then testing on the back of your hand. If greater shimmer is desired, add the rest. You can also adjust the shade by adding more pearl mica for brightness or rose gold for warmth.
3. Transfer to a small sifter jar or compact (unless already mixing in your final container) for easy application.
4. Use a fluffy brush to lightly dust under the eyes or over high points of the face.

Eye Makeup Remover Recipe

Homemade eye makeup is great and all but we also need a gentle, non-toxic way to remove it.

So we came up with a recipe that effortlessly cleanses without harsh ingredients (great for sensitive and acne prone skin). With aloe for hydration, witch hazel for deep cleansing, and lightweight oils that won’t leave a greasy feel this feels fresh and non-greasy, leaving your skin clean and balanced.

Ingredients:

• Aloe Vera Gel (¼ cup): Hydrates, soothes irritation, and helps dissolve makeup while cooling the skin.
• Witch Hazel (2 tbsp, alcohol-free): Acts as a natural toner, removing excess oil and impurities without stripping moisture.
• Distilled Water (½ cup): Ensures a clean, bacteria-free formula with a smooth consistency.
• Vitamin E Oil (½ tsp, optional): Extends shelf life while nourishing and protecting the skin.
• Jojoba Oil (2 tbsp, optional): A lightweight, skin-friendly oil that helps break down stubborn makeup, especially around the eyes.

Instructions:

1. Mix aloe vera gel, distilled water, and witch hazel in a bowl until well blended.
2. Slowly stir in jojoba oil, vitamin E oil, and tea tree or essential oil (if using).
3. Transfer the mixture into a clean glass bottle or pump container, shaking before each use.
4. To use the natural makeup remover, apply a small amount to a reusable cotton pad and gently wipe away makeup. Rinse with warm water if needed

Cost Savings of Making Your Own Eye Makeup

Eye makeup products like eyeliner, mascara, and eyeshadow can add up quickly. On average, drugstore eyeliners and mascaras range from $5 to $15, while premium brands can easily exceed $20 each. If you’re using several products to create your perfect eye look, the costs can climb to over $50 for just a few essentials.

To put things in perspective, we’ve broken down the typical costs of our DIY eye makeup recipes (and their ingredients) and compared them to the average price of store-bought eye products.

1. DIY Eyeliner

• Activated Charcoal: $10 for a 1 lbs bag (~$0.05 for 1/2 tsp)
• Aloe Vera Gel: $12 for a 12 fl oz bottle (~$0.16 for 1 tsp)
• Coconut Oil: $12 for a 30 fl oz tub (~$0.06 for 1/2 tsp)

Cost per batch: ~$0.27

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$7+ for 1 liquid liner rube (e.g., e.l.f., Maybelline, wet n wild, and similar brands)

Savings per Batch: $6.73

2. DIY Eyeshadow Powder

• Mica Powder: $13 for a 30 oz bag (~$0.08 for 1 tsp)
• Arrowroot Powder: $6 for an 8 oz bag (~$0.12 for 1 tsp)
• Activated Charcoal: $10 for a 1 lbs bag (~$0.05 for 1/2 tsp)
• Cocoa Powder: $6 for an 8 oz container (~$0.03 for ¼ tsp)

Cost per batch: ~$0.28

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$6+ for 0.1 oz loose powder (e.g., L.A. Colors or similar options)

Savings per Batch: $5.72

3. DIY Eyeshadow Cream

• Shea Butter: $8 for an 8 oz tub (~$0.16 for 1 tsp)
• Beeswax: $8 for a 15 oz bag (~$0.08 for 1 tsp)
• Jojoba Oil: $7 for a 4 fl oz bottle (~$0.28 for 1 tsp)
• Arrowroot Powder: $6 for an 8 oz bag (~$0.06 for ½ tsp)
• Mica Powder: $13 for a 30 oz bag (~$0.08 for 1 tsp)
• Activated Charcoal: $10 for a 1 lbs bag (~$0.25 for 1/4 tsp)
• Vitamin E Oil: $6 for a 2 fl oz bottle (~$0.10 per drop)

Cost per batch: ~$1.01

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$7+ for 0.16 oz (e.g., Revlon, Kaely, e.l.f., and similar brands)

Savings per Batch: $5.99

4. DIY Mascara

• Activated Charcoal: $10 for a 1 lbs bag (~$0.10 for 1 tsp)
• Bentonite Clay: $6 for a 4 oz bag (~$0.12 for ½ tsp)
• Beeswax: $8 for a 15 oz bag (~$0.04 for ½ tsp)
• Castor Oil: $10 for a 16 oz bottle (~$0.05 for ½ tsp)
• Aloe Vera Gel: $12 for a 12 fl oz bottle (~$0.38 for 2 tsp)
• Vitamin E Oil: $6 for a 2 fl oz bottle (~$0.10 per drop)

Total for Batch: ~$0.79

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$9 for one tube (e.g., Revlon, Maybelline, L’Oreal, and similar brands)

Savings per Batch: $8.21

5. DIY Eye-Brightening Powder

• Mica Powder: $13 for a 30 oz bag (~$0.08 for 1 tsp)
• Arrowroot Powder: $6 for an 8 oz bag (~$0.38 for 1 tbsp)
• Bentonite Clay: $6 for a 4 oz bag (~$0.12 for ½ tsp)
• Oat Flour/Ground Oats: $7 for a 20 oz bag (~$0.05 for ½ tsp)

Total for Batch: ~$0.63

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$6 for a 0.2 oz compact (e.g., wet n wild and similar brands)

Savings per Batch: $5.37

6. DIY Eye Makeup Remover

• Aloe Vera Gel: $12 for a 12 fl oz bottle (~$2.00 for 1/4 cup)
• Witch Hazel: $8 for a 16 oz bottle (~$0.25 for 2 tbsp)
• Distilled/Filtered Water: $1 per gallon (~$0.01 per ½ cup)
• Jojoba Oil: $7 for a 4 fl oz bottle (~$1.75 for 2 tbsp)
• Vitamin E Oil: $6 for a 2 fl oz bottle (~$0.25 per ½ tsp)

Total for Batch: ~$4.26

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$7 for 4 oz bottle (e.g., e.l.f. Cetaphil, or similar makeup remover brands).

Savings per Batch: $2.74

As you can see, there’s an enormous markup for conventional cosmetics. So if you have the time and the creative motivation, we definitely recommend trying one or all of these recipes. Beyond the toxin-free ingredients, they will save you a ton of cash!

Why Make Your Own Eye Makeup?

Conventional eye makeup often contains ingredients that can irritate sensitive eyes or pose long-term health risks. Here’s a closer look at some of the ingredients we avoid in skincare and eye cosmetics:

• Carbon Black: A common pigment in eyeliners and mascaras, it’s linked to organ toxicity and potential carcinogenicity. California EPA’s Proposition 65 list identifies carbon black as a carcinogen.
• Parabens: Found in many liquid eyeliners as preservatives, they’re linked to hormonal disruption since they mimic estrogen.
• Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents (i.e. quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, and diazolidinyl urea): These preservatives can trigger allergic reactions and are considered carcinogens.
• Synthetic Colors: FD&C dyes contain legally allowed levels of heavy metals, which may not be a concern in quantity itself, but can accumulate in the body over time and lead to negative health effects.
• Mica: While mica is responsible for the shimmering effect in eyeshadows, its mining has been associated with child labor in some regions. Though mica itself is not harmful, it’s important to choose products from companies that source it ethically, as many budget brands often don’t prioritize this.
• Titanium Dioxide: Known for its white pigment and UV-blocking properties, titanium dioxide is generally safe but can be irritating to sensitive skin when used excessively. There are also concerns about nano-particles potentially penetrating the skin.
• Bismuth Oxychloride: Can cause irritation or breakouts on sensitive skin.