Eye makeup is an essential part of many people’s daily beauty routine. It can be difficult to find the right eye makeup that won’t irritate the sensitive area around the eyes, especially mascara and eye shadow. Applying eye makeup without proper precautions can cause irritation and infection to the eyes.
Eye-makeup products contain chemicals that, if not properly removed, can damage the eyes. Doctors warn that improper removal of eye makeup can lead to eye infections and irritation, so it’s important to take proper precautions when applying and removing eye makeup.
Eye makeup can cause a variety of eye problems if not applied correctly. Here are a few of the most common issues:
Dry Eye Disease:
Tear film helps keep our eyes moist and nourished, but applying makeup too close to the eyelid can clog the meibomian glands, leading to dry eye syndrome. This can cause symptoms such as watering, redness, and eye strain.
Conjunctivitis:
Pink eye is caused by contaminated cosmetic products, toxic ingredients in cosmetics, or sharing makeup. If you experience itching, redness, or swelling after using eye makeup, discontinue use and see a doctor.
Stye:
Infection of clogged gland openings at the base of the lashes can cause a pimple-like bump on the eyelid, called stye. This can be due to applying makeup to the openings, touching the eyes with dirty hands, or not washing off makeup before bed.
Corneal Abrasions:
Scratching the cornea with eye makeup products can lead to painful and vision-impairing corneal abrasions. Using pencil liners improperly can also cause corneal scratches.
Allergic Reactions:
Certain ingredients in eye makeup, such as Bismuth oxychloride, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, fragrances, phenoxyethanol, and parabens, can cause itching, redness, and swelling in some individuals who are allergic.
Contact Lens Damage:
Some eye makeup products can damage soft contact lenses and cause irritation, itching, and redness.
Eye makeup is a popular beauty staple, but if not applied properly, it can lead to serious eye problems. From irritation and infection to corneal abrasions and allergic reactions, it’s crucial to follow proper eye makeup practices to keep your eyes healthy and beautiful.
Here are some tips to follow:
- Ensure that eye makeup is regularly replaced.
- Avoid sharing eye makeup with others to reduce the risk of eye infections and spreading bacteria.
- Choose Safe Products: Pick eye makeup that is suitable for your skin type and free of harsh chemicals or fragrances. Avoid ingredients that may cause skin irritation or eye infections, such as preservatives, fragrances, and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.
- Apply Lenses First: Contact lenses should be worn before applying eye makeup to prevent makeup particles from getting trapped between the lens and the eye, which can cause irritation and infection.
- Do a Patch Test: Before using new eye products, especially if you are susceptible to eye allergies, perform a patch test to ensure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients.
- Avoid putting on makeup too close to the inner edge of your eyes, just behind the lash line, to avoid dry eye disease, conjunctivitis, and styes, which can happen when the gland opening becomes obstructed.
- Remove Before Sleeping: Always remove eye makeup before sleeping to avoid eye irritation and potential infections.
- Sharp Pencils: Before using the eyeliner pencil on your eyes, sharpen it. After each application, the end of the eyeliner pencil may have a buildup of debris, tears, and meibum. Sharpening frequently reveals a clean, new tip that is free of debris and germs.
In conclusion, following these safety tips can help you avoid potential eye problems and enjoy beautiful, healthy eyes. Whether you’re a seasoned eye makeup user or just starting, taking proper precautions will protect your eyes and keep them looking their best.