Effects of Makeup on Eye Health

For many people, wearing makeup is just an everyday part of life. Makeup often helps to enhance certain features, and can imbue confidence. Wearing eye makeup, in particular, is common, even when a person eschews other kinds of makeup. But it’s important to realize that makeup can impact your eyes in unexpected ways, even if you don’t wear glasses or contact lenses in North Syracuse, NY. This is because the eyes have a sensitivity that other parts of your face do not. Your skin has a protective layer, but the eyes can react to everything they are near, similar to the way they “cry” when you peel onions.

Allergic Reactions

Many people like to experiment with makeup, and few stick to just one brand their entire lives. This makes it more likely that there could be an allergic reaction to the makeup, since different manufacturers don’t all use the same ingredients. Certain ingredients like perfumes, dyes and preservatives can actually initiate an allergic reaction in the eyes. If you experience redness, itching, inflammation or irritation in the eyes, think back and see if you’ve switched makeup brands recently. It could be an allergic reaction that you’re noticing.

Infection

Depending upon how old your makeup is, or how well you’ve safeguarded it from bacteria in your bathroom or dressing room, the makeup could transmit an infection to your eyes. This is also more likely if you use poor quality makeup from an off-brand manufacturer. Also, there’s a higher chance of infection if you don’t fully remove makeup—especially eye makeup—before going to bed at night. When you sleep, the eyes are closed and bacteria have a great opportunity to proliferate. That’s why many people go to bed fine, and wake up with puffy, infected eyes.

Clogged Oil Glands

The eyelids have minuscule oil glands along their edges. These glands are essential for maintaining healthy tear film and preventing dry eyes. But many people accidentally cover up these glands when they line their eyes with eyeliner makeup. This can result in dry eyes, a gritty sensation, redness and blurry vision.

If you enjoy wearing makeup, no one is expecting you to stop. But it’s important to be mindful of how makeup and eye health are related. Talk to your eye doctor in North Syracuse, NY today to learn more.