Understanding Kajal vs. Kohl – Its uses and features

There is this saying that the eyes are a window to the soul. Which is a pretty common saying, nonetheless showing how large of an impact eyes can make. So, it makes sense that within the beauty industry there are tons of cosmetics highlighting the emphasis of the eyes. Within ethnic communities, kajal/kohl is a very popular cosmetic, helping to achieve that smokey look! Another one of its perks include that it helps with defining features which may also help enhance certain ethnic features.

Speaking of ethnic features and defining them, a product part of my daily makeup routine is kajol, and there is not a day that I leave the house without having it on. A favorite of mine is from Kulfi Beauty  called the “Underlined Kajal Clean Waterproof Long-Wear Eyeliner” which comes in a variety of different shades and is perfect for brown or ethnic girls looking to spice up their everyday makeup routine or even wear it casually. It is waterproof and comes in a variety of different shades with the shade “Nazar No More” being in black. 

*Note: We are not getting paid to promote these products, this is purely based on experience and preference.

Some people may feel that kajal tends to smudge very easily or does not stay throughout the day. To prevent this (for any kajal), a helpful tip that helps me stay smudge free all day long whilst helping to keep it from sweating off is that after using loose powder to set the undereyes; I take a black eyeshadow and a fine angled eyeliner brush. I then apply the black eyeshadow with the brush and go over the area where I first placed the kajal. Personally for me, this helps create a longer - lasting result.

Some individuals may find that they do not like the creamy, runny consistency of kajal especially if it is not being set right. Additionally, another alternative that could be used instead that can also offer a sharp, dramatic look or be downplayed into a softer look for every day makeup looks, is kohl liner. If you prefer a more powdery or dryer consistency this may be a good fit for you!

A very affordable and lasting eyeliner with kohl-like properties that I personally would recommend is “Scandal’Eyes” waterproof gel pencil from Rimmel. (Again, this is out of personal opinion and not an ad.) It has lasting properties and I find it smudge free and lasts for hours – even without the setting trick!

Did you know?

Kajol and kohl despite both having similar properties and mainly being used to line the waterline come from different traditional roots with kajol originating from South Asian traditions while kohl has its roots in the Middle East and North Africa. Each of these represents their own significance and beliefs, in both cultures. To delve deeper into the cultural significance and why it originated, stay in touch for our upcoming article!