5 Makeup Safety Tips for Healthier Eyes

At Small Wonder Eyecare in Elgin, Texas, we care about your vision and overall eye health. As an optometrist, Dr. Bontrager sees firsthand how improper makeup use can harm eyes. Issues like dryness, irritation, and infections often stem from mistakes that are entirely preventable. Whether you wear makeup daily or only on special occasions, these tips will help keep your eyes safe and healthy.


Common Eye Problems from Improper Makeup Use

Using makeup incorrectly or neglecting hygiene can lead to various eye health issues, including:

  • Dry Eye Syndrome: Applying makeup behind the lash line can clog the meibomian glands, which produce the oils in your tears. Blocked glands lead to dryness, irritation, and discomfort.

  • Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids often occurs when makeup residue accumulates on the lash line, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.

  • Allergic Reactions: Certain makeup products contain ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin and eyes, causing redness, swelling, and itchiness.

  • Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Sharing makeup or using contaminated products can spread bacteria or viruses, leading to infections.

  • Corneal Abrasions: Glittery or poorly applied makeup can scratch the cornea, causing pain, redness, and blurred vision.


Signs of an Eye Infection

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop wearing makeup and call our office immediately:

  • Redness in or around the eyes

  • Swelling or puffiness

  • Itching or burning sensations

  • Watery or thick discharge

  • Sensitivity to light

  • Blurred vision


5 Essential Makeup Safety Tips

  1. Remove Makeup Every Night
     Leaving makeup on overnight increases the risk of clogged glands and irritation. Use a makeup remover to clean most of it off, then follow up with a lid and lash cleanser like Peeq Pro to remove micro-particles invisible to the naked eye.
     
  2. No Makeup Behind the Lash Line
     Applying eyeliner or other products behind the lashes can block important glands. Keep your makeup confined to the skin and lashes to avoid dryness and irritation.
     
  3. Never Share Makeup
     Sharing mascara, eyeliner, or eyeshadow can transfer bacteria and viruses, potentially leading to infections like pink eye. For the health of your eyes, keep your makeup personal.
     
  4. Replace Mascara Every 3 Months
     Studies show that 1 in 3 mascara tubes are contaminated with bacteria after just three months. Regularly replacing mascara prevents infections and ensures safe application.
     
  5. Clean Brushes Weekly
     Makeup brushes can harbor bacteria, dust, and oil, which transfer to your eyes during use. Wash brushes weekly and spray them with a hypochlorous solution to disinfect.
     

A Healthier Beauty Routine Starts Here

Your eyes are precious—treat them with care. Following these tips will reduce your risk of developing dry eyes, infections, or other complications from makeup use.


At Small Wonder Eyecare, we’re passionate about helping our Elgin community maintain healthy eyes. If you have questions about makeup safety, eye infections, or general eye health, call us today. We’re here to keep your vision clear and your eyes comfortable!

Download Our
Exclusive Guide