Makeup Tips for Healthy Eyes
The right makeup combination makes our eyes more interesting, but it can cause problems if we're not careful
According to one particular fashion icon, “Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.” While I can’t possibly think of a better explanation of true beauty, most of us still have to face our toughest critic in the mirror every morning, and that’s not always easy.
If you’re like me, you’re not completely comfortable unless you’re hiding behind a little makeup (sometimes a lot). Plenty of women can get away with a more natural look (especially in New York, apparently), but plenty choose to cover up (at least a little bit) and opt for safer ground.
Do’s & Don’ts:
The right makeup combination makes our eyes more interesting, but it can also cause problems if we’re not careful. The following is a list of things you SHOULD DO when it comes to handling your makeup:
- Make sure your face and eyelids are clean
- Make sure your applicators are clean
- Keep your cosmetics at the right temperature
- Wash your hands
- Avoid cosmetic contact with your inner eyelid
- Remove all makeup before bedtime
The following is a list of things you SHOULD NOT DO:
- Use cosmetics if your eyes are irritated
- Share cosmetics with other people (keep your own products to yourself)
- Apply cosmetics while driving
- Use old makeup (all makeup has a shelf life)
- Use dried out mascara
The improper use of makeup can lead to the following eye problems:
- Conjunctivitis (redness or irritation)
- Allergic reactions (to a chemical component in the makeup)
- Dry eye
- Contact lens complications
Makeup Tips for Healthy Eyes:
When applying eye makeup, try to avoid putting eyeliner along the “water line” (the part of the eyelid where the lashes grow out of). This area is filled with important oil glands that can become clogged by makeup, which can lead to infection.
Try to avoid waterproof makeup as much as you can. This isn’t always possible because certain events require waterproof makeup (I wore waterproof on my wedding day). But for the day to day grind, try to use products that are easy to remove. Products that aren’t easy to remove will promote laziness in the long run (and maybe even a little smeared makeup on your pillow).
To avoid adverse reactions, consider using hypoallergenic products. Many makeup products contain components that can trigger allergies. You’ll know you have an allergy if your eyelids become red and swollen after using a specific product (maybe a couple of times). This situation is called allergic dermatitis and it can be quite uncomfortable.
Finally, do your best to discard eye makeup about every 3 months (mascara especially). And try to avoid sharing eye makeup products as much as possible to avoid contamination.
In Conclusion:
When it comes to beauty enhancement, color contact lenses are a popular trend. To back that up, several of my patients enjoy wearing colored contacts for special occasions. In my next post, I’ll explain healthy colored contact lens options. I’ll also talk about ideal eyeshadow shades to enhance eye color, and an eyelash extender called Latisse.
