What Do Inmates Use for Makeup in Jails?

Access to commercial makeup products is often extremely limited in jails. However, inmates heavily rely on their creativity and resourcefulness to achieve a personal touch. Despite the restrictions, various natural products and repurposed items are utilized to create and color makeup. This article explores some of the most common alternatives used for makeup in jail.

Natural Products as Makeup Alternatives

Inmates frequently improvise using natural substances found in their diet or personal hygiene products. For example, beet juice can serve as a blush or lip stain, while crushed berries can be used for a natural tint. These items are not only readily available but also pose minimal risk to both the inmates and the prison environment.

Utilization of Everyday Items

Typically, inmates use common household items like toothpaste and soap in innovative ways. Toothpaste can be mixed with other substances to create a paste for makeup application. Soap, meanwhile, serves as a cleansing agent and can even be used for a basic face wash. These items are usually allowed and often repurposed with creative ingenuity.

Colorful Alternatives

Colorful pens or markers can also be employed to create temporary tattoos or body art. Although this practice is discouraged and may violate rules, some inmates still resort to it. Colored pencils and crayons are other options that do not pose significant risks.

Hygiene and Moisturizing Solutions

Items like lotion or deodorant may be repurposed for moisture or to provide a subtle scent. Inmates often use these products to enhance their appearance, which can help improve their overall mood and well-being.

Craft Supplies for Creative Expression

If inmates have access to craft supplies, they often repurpose them in creative ways. Colored paper or fabric can be used to make unique and eye-catching designs, contributing to an enhanced sense of individuality.

Common Alternatives and Rules

While regular makeup is generally allowed in jails, certain items like metal or glass are strictly prohibited. Each facility has its own specific rules regarding acceptable and unacceptable items, so the use of these alternatives can vary significantly. However, the willingness to explore and adapt resources is a common thread among inmates.

A Real-World Example

A convicted individual, referring to themselves as an experienced convict, describes their resourcefulness and the techniques they've used. For instance, they use dried-up crushed coffee grounds for eyelids, cheeks, and chin. They also mention using a pencil to create eyeliner and darkening brows. Additionally, soaking MMs in water provides color highlights, and another powdery candy was used to turn their tongue and lips red.

Inmates exhibit remarkable ingenuity when it comes to makeup alternatives. Some facilities do offer limited beauty supplies for purchase, but this is dependent on the inmate's employment status or access to commissary funds.

From natural products to everyday items, creativity plays a crucial role in the makeup routines of inmates. As long as these techniques comply with the rules set by the prison, inmates can maintain a degree of personal expression despite the limited resources available to them.