Beauty at a Cost: The Risks of Eye Makeup Usage
- drgunjandeshpande
- Feb 3, 2023
- 7 min read
Updated: Feb 28, 2023
Eye makeup is a great way to enhance our beauty and bring out our best features. As a beauty enthusiast, it is essential to be aware of the potentially harmful effects that eye makeup can have on our eyes.
Our eyes are delicate and need extra care and protection. While it can enhance our beauty, it can also have adverse effects if not used correctly. The wrong eye makeup products can cause infections, allergies, dry eyes, and even vision problems. In this blog, we will explore some of the harmful effects of eye makeup on our eyes and how to avoid them, while still looking fabulous.
Happy Makeup!
1 Infections:
One of the primary concerns with eye makeup is the risk of infections. Our eyes are susceptible to bacteria and other pathogens that can cause severe infections. Using eye makeup past its expiration date is a strict no-no!
It is important to use a fresh and clean brush or applicator and never to share eye makeup. You are not only wasting your cosmetics but also jeopardising your eyes. When you share cosmetics with others, the pathogens from one infected eye can potentially reach the other person’s eye and cause dermatitis, conjunctivitis, and infectious keratitis. This is especially true for those who wear contact lenses since bacteria can become trapped behind the lens.
The same holds true for Make Up Testers available at stores. Do not directly apply them onto your eyes. They can transfer infections such as warts, styes, and eyelash lice. Smudge them only on the back of your hand!
2. Allergic Reactions:
Eye makeup can cause skin irritation and allergies in suseptible people. This is especially true for people with sensitive skin or allergies. In severe cases, it can cause redness, swelling, itching, and burning sensations in the eyes. To prevent allergic reactions, it is essential to choose hypoallergenic, fragrance free eye makeup products. Do perform a patch test before using any chemicals onto your face. If you experience an allergic reaction to your eye makeup, remove the product immediately, wash your face with ample water and seek medical attention if necessary. Additionally, always follow the instructions for use and discard any products that have passed their expiration date to reduce the risk of infection.
3. Dry Eyes:
Eye makeup can be a great way to enhance one's beauty, but it can also lead to dryness and irritation around the eyes. The skin around the eyes is delicate and sensitive, and when we apply makeup, we expose it to potential irritants and dryness. This can lead to itching, redness, and discomfort.
One of the main causes of dryness when using eye makeup is the use of products that contain alcohol or harsh chemicals. Alcohol can strip away the skin's natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and tight. Similarly, harsh chemicals can irritate the delicate skin around the eyes and cause itching, redness, and even blistering.
To prevent eye makeup from causing dryness, it is important to choose products that are formulated specifically for the delicate skin around the eyes. This may mean choosing products that are labeled "gentle" or "sensitive skin friendly," or products that are specifically formulated for the eye area.
Additionally, it is important to be mindful of how we apply eye makeup. Be gentle when applying and remove eye makeup every night before bed to allow the skin to breathe and regenerate overnight. It is also recommended to use a gentle eye makeup remover, as using makeup wipes or harsh cleansers can contribute to dryness.
If you are prone to dryness and irritation around your eyes, it is also important to keep the area well hydrated. Use a gentle eye cream or gel to help soothe and hydrate the skin, and be sure to drink plenty of water to help hydrate the skin from within.
Remember, using eye makeup, especially waterproof and long-lasting products, can cause dryness in the eyes. The ingredients in these products can clog the tear ducts and prevent the flow of natural tears, leading to dry eyes. To avoid this, it is important to remove eye makeup thoroughly and to use eye drops regularly to keep the eyes hydrated.
4. Eye Irritation:
Irritation can be caused by several factors, including the use of old or expired products, eye sensitivity, and incorrect application techniques. It is important to always use fresh and high-quality products that are made specifically for the eye area. Old or expired makeup products can contain bacteria and other harmful substances that can cause irritation and infections. It is recommended to replace eye makeup every three to six months.
Eye sensitivity is another factor that can cause eye irritation. People with sensitive eyes should opt for products that are labeled as hypoallergenic and non-irritating. They should also avoid using eye makeup that contains ingredients such as fragrances and alcohol, which can be harsh and cause irritation.
Incorrect application techniques can also contribute to eye irritation. Using a sharp eyeliner or eye pencil can cause scratches and damage to the delicate skin around the eyes. Mascara should not be applied too close to the lashes and should not be layered on too thickly, as this can cause clumps and flaking.
To prevent eye irritation, it is important to remove all eye makeup before going to bed. Leaving makeup on overnight can cause clogging of the pores and increase the risk of infection. A gentle, oil-based eye makeup remover is recommended for the removal of eye makeup. If eye irritation occurs, it is important to discontinue use of the product and seek medical attention if necessary.
5. Blurred Vision:
The use of eyeliner, mascara, and eyeshadow can obstruct the line of sight and cause eye irritation. In addition, some makeup products contain harsh chemicals that can cause an allergic reaction and blur your vision. Always remove your make up thoroughly before going to bed. It is not a good idea to sleep with chemicals on your face.
Moreover, if you wear contact lenses, you must be extra careful when applying eye makeup. The cosmetics can get trapped under the lens and cause blurriness. If you are sensitive to eye makeup, it is best to avoid using it altogether.
Blurred vision caused by eye makeup is usually temporary, but if it persists, it is recommended to seek medical advice. Your doctor may prescribe eye drops to reduce the inflammation and clear your vision. In some cases, they may also recommend that you avoid using certain types of cosmetics.
6. Chemical Exposure:
From eyeliner and mascara to eyeshadow and false lashes, eye makeup has come a long way in terms of the variety and quality of products available. However, the application of eye makeup can be hazardous if the right precautions are not taken.
Chemical exposure is one of the biggest concerns when it comes to eye makeup. Many products contain harmful chemicals that can damage the delicate skin around the eyes. For example, many eyeliners and mascaras contain parabens, which are preservatives that are known to cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Similarly, some eyeshadows contain heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic, which can be toxic if ingested or inhaled.
To avoid chemical exposure from eye makeup, it is important to choose products that are made with natural and non-toxic ingredients. You can also opt for waterproof and smudge-proof products, which are less likely to run or smudge, reducing the risk of exposing your eyes to harmful chemicals. Additionally, make sure to properly store your cosmetics and replace them regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria that can cause infections.
7. Styes and Chalazia:
When used correctly, eye makeup can brighten and open up the eyes, making them appear more youthful and awake. However, when eye makeup is applied too heavily, or if the products are of low quality, it can lead to a number of issues, including irritation, dryness, and chalazia.
Chalazia are small, painless lumps that form on the eyelid, often due to clogged oil glands. They can cause discomfort, redness, and swelling, and can be difficult to get rid of. To prevent chalazia, it is important to take proper care of the delicate skin around the eyes. This includes using high-quality eye makeup products, avoiding rubbing or pulling at the skin, and removing makeup every night before bed. Keeping the skin around the eyes hydrated and moisturised can also help. When chalazia get secondarily infected, they form styes.
As I have advised previously too, discard any make up item or accessory which is past its expiry date.
8. Eyelash Damage:
Eyelash curlers can cause damage to the eyelashes directly, making them weak and brittle. Another way that eye makeup can damage them is by using false lashes or extensions that are not applied properly. These lashes can cause irritation, infection, and permanent damage to the natural lashes.
The use of heavy or waterproof mascaras can also weigh down lashes and cause them to break or fall out.
To avoid eyelash damage, it is important to use high-quality and gentle eye makeup products that are free of harsh chemicals.
Removing eye makeup every night before bed and using a gentle, oil-based remover can help to protect the delicate skin and lashes around the eyes. Additionally, taking breaks from wearing eye makeup and avoiding the use of false lashes can help to prevent damage and promote healthy lashes.
9. Vision Impairment:
Long-term use of eye makeup can lead to vision impairment if not applied with caution and care. Some chemicals used in eye makeup products can cause corneal damage and cataracts.
One of the main reasons for impairment is the buildup of cosmetics in the corners of the eyes, which can lead to infections. Mascara and eyeliner contain a lot of bacteria that can cause eye infections, and the oils and pigments in eye makeup can lead to a build-up of debris which can cause inflammation and redness, ultimately leading to impaired vision.
Another factor is the way eye makeup is applied. When applying eye makeup, it is important to avoid getting cosmetics into the eyes. The chemicals and oils in eye makeup can irritate the eyes, causing blurred vision and eye pain. Additionally, applying eye makeup too closely to the eyes can lead to small particles getting into the eyes, causing irritation and potentially leading to vision impairment.
It is important to follow a few simple precautions. Firstly, it is crucial to use a high-quality eye makeup product that is free from harsh chemicals and ingredients. Secondly, it is important to remove all eye makeup before bedtime to avoid the build-up of bacteria and debris. Finally, it is recommended to avoid using eye makeup if you have any eye conditions, such as conjunctivitis or dry eye syndrome, as these conditions can make you more susceptible to eye infections.
Eye make-up is a popular and fun way to enhance our beauty and make our eyes stand out. However, it's important to be aware of the potential damage that can be caused by improper use or old products. By following some simple tips such as using non-irritant products, avoiding harsh chemicals, and removing makeup before sleeping, you can protect your eyes and ensure that your eye makeup routine remains safe and enjoyable. So, always prioritise eye safety over beauty when it comes to eye makeup and keep them healthy and beautiful for a lifetime.
Happy makeup!
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