TikTok’s beauty community has once again pushed the boundaries of DIY glam, but this time, the trend taking over “GRWM” videos might be doing more harm than good.
Meet the Sharpie lip liner trend, where creators swap traditional lip pencils for permanent markers in search of a smudge-proof pout. With videos racking up millions of views and comments praising the pigment and staying power, it’s easy to get swept up in the appeal. But experts warn this shortcut could lead to irritation, allergic reactions, and long-term skin damage.
It started with creators like Rachel Carlisle, who shared a video applying a pink Sharpie to her lips, calling the effect “super, super pretty.” Fellow TikToker Kaitlyn Curtis posted her results and was “actually impressed” by the vibrant pigment and wear time. Another creator, @itsarib, even showed off her Sharpie-lined lips after eating soup dumplings, saying it “held up really well.”
@rachelmadisoncarlisle had to try the red lip and the sharpie DID NOT BUDGE lol #lipliner #liplinerhack #lipcombo #makeuphacks ♬ original sound – lyriques.com
That lasting power is exactly what makes the hack so appealing. Traditional lip liners often fade throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking. But Sharpies? They’re designed to stick.
Unfortunately, they’re not made to stick to you.
Experts Say: Please Don’t Do This
While Sharpies are labeled as “AP-certified non-toxic”, that designation only applies when used correctly—on paper, not your face.
“Just because something is non-toxic on paper doesn’t mean it’s safe for your lips,” said Dr. Ife J. Rodney, board-certified dermatologist and founding director of Eternal Dermatology + Aesthetics, in an interview with Well+Good.
According to Sharpie’s official website, the company clearly states:
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“We do not recommend using [Sharpies] on areas of items that may come in contact with food or the mouth.”
That alone should be a red flag.
Of course, the Sharpie hack is far from TikTok’s only eyebrow-raising moment.
Remember sunscreen contouring? Users applied SPF only to high points of their face in an attempt to let the sun “naturally contour” the rest. Experts were quick to shut it down, warning of uneven sun exposure and increased risk of skin damage.
@stopiteli I am convinced this works! #tutorial #contour #summer #lifehack #hack #beautyhack #snatched #tiktokwellness #hiddentalent ♬ original sound – Eli Withrow
Or the glue stick eyebrow lift, where people used Elmer’s glue to slick brows upward for that laminated effect. While technically “non-toxic,” glue sticks aren’t meant for skin and often cause breakouts and clogged pores.
These trends gain traction for their novelty, but dermatologists are nearly always united in their advice: just because it’s trending doesn’t mean it’s safe.
Makeup hacks can be fun, but this trend is more risky than rewarding.
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“There are so many long-wearing, safe lip liners out there,” Dr. Rodney says. “Just because something’s viral doesn’t mean it’s smart—or safe.”
