Eye Makeup: Do’s and Don’ts
Makeup can be a fun and creative way to enhance your features, but when it comes to eye makeup, there are some risks you should be aware of. As an ophthalmologist, I’ve seen firsthand how certain beauty habits can impact eye health. While I love experimenting with different looks, I also know the importance of being mindful about what we put near our eyes. Here’s what you need to know about some of the most popular eye makeup trends and how to keep your eyes safe while still looking fabulous!
1. Tightlining: The Sneaky Culprit of Eyelid Inflammation
I get it—tightlining, or applying eyeliner directly to the waterline, makes your lashes look fuller and your eyes more defined. But here’s the catch: there’s no safe way to properly clean the waterline. Traditional eye makeup removers are too harsh, and leftover liner blocks the vital oil glands (Meibomian glands) in the eyelid. This blockage leads to irritation, dryness, and even styes. Over time, chronic eyelid inflammation (blepharitis) can even cause lashes to fall out. Not ideal!
2. Glitter Eye Shadow: A Sparkly Danger
I love a good shimmer as much as anyone, but glitter particles in eyeshadow don’t always stay put. They can easily flake off and end up inside your eye, causing redness, irritation, and in some cases, corneal abrasions (small scratches on the eye’s surface). Just as I was applying my pearly pink shadow the other day, I could see tiny particles floating in the air—and later, all over my face. If you love shimmer, opt for finely milled eyeshadows instead of chunky glitters to minimize the risk.
3. False Lashes: What’s in That Glue?
While strip lashes aren’t as damaging as lash extensions, the adhesive used to apply them can be problematic. Many lash glues contain formaldehyde, latex, or cyanoacrylate (yep, a key ingredient in super glue!). These chemicals can trigger allergic reactions, redness, itching, and even swollen eyelids. If you wear falsies, be mindful of the ingredients in your lash glue and remove them carefully at the end of the day.
So, Should You Ditch These Makeup Habits Completely?
Not necessarily! I indulge in these beauty trends from time to time, but I always make sure to remove my eye makeup thoroughly before bed and cleanse my eyelids properly. If you’re going to wear tightliner, glitter shadow, or false lashes, just be mindful of the potential risks and take steps to keep your eyes healthy.
Because let’s be real—what’s the point of gorgeous eye makeup if your eyes aren’t healthy enough to enjoy it?
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