Many of us love the way makeup enhances our features and helps us express ourselves, but there’s no denying how frustrating it can be when makeup causes discomfort.
Your favorite mascara, eyeliner, or eyeshadow, might be causing the burning, irritated sensation in your eyes. Eye irritation from makeup is a common issue with several potential culprits, including:
- Allergic reactions
- Sensitive skin
- Poor-quality ingredients
- Outdated or contaminated products
- Existing dry eye syndrome
Common Causes of Eye Irritation from Makeup
Allergic Reactions
The delicate skin around your eyes is particularly prone to allergic reactions. Certain ingredients in makeup, such as fragrances, preservatives, or synthetic dyes, can trigger allergies. Even makeup labelled “hypoallergenic” can sometimes contain ingredients that won’t sit well with everyone.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:
- Redness
- Irritation
- Swelling
- Stinging sensation
Sensitive Skin
If you have sensitive skin, you’re more likely to react to certain cosmetics. Ingredients that are otherwise harmless for most people might cause burning or irritation on your skin or around your eyes.
Poor-Quality Ingredients
Some makeup products contain harsh chemicals. Ingredients like formaldehyde-releasing preservatives and heavy metals can irritate the delicate eye area, leading to discomfort and even long-term issues like dry eye disease.
Outdated or Contaminated Products
Old or expired makeup is another common culprit. Over time, bacteria can accumulate in your makeup products, especially those used near the eyes, like eyeliner and mascara. Applying such products can cause inflammation, burning, and eye infections.
Dry Eye Syndrome
For some, makeup isn’t the main problem—but it can worsen symptoms of existing dry eye syndrome. Untreated dry eyes can leave your eyes feeling gritty, irritated, and overly sensitive. Adding makeup to the mix can exacerbate these symptoms, making it seem like the makeup is the direct cause.
Do You Have Sensitive Skin?
In some cases, sensitive skin might be worsening your reaction to makeup. Here’s how to tell:
- Do you often feel itching, burning, or overall irritation when using skincare or makeup products?
- Do you notice signs of redness or even peeling after exposure to new products?
- Do the cold weather, harsh winds, or the hot sun frequently irritate your face?
- When you test new products on your wrist or neck, does the area feel inflamed or uncomfortable?
If these symptoms sound familiar, you may have sensitive skin, requiring extra care when selecting makeup and skincare products.
How to Soothe & Protect Your Skin
You shouldn’t sacrifice your eye and skin health for a beautiful look. For people with sensitive skin, choosing gentle and dermatologically tested skincare and makeup products can make a big difference.
EltaMD
EltaMD is known for its soothing skincare formulations. Their products are gentle on sensitive skin and eyes, often free of harsh chemicals like parabens and fragrances.
Their facial cleansers and moisturizers are designed to maintain a healthy skin barrier without causing irritation. Using these products as part of your daily routine can create a foundation of healthy skin, reducing sensitivity when applying makeup.
Eyes Are The Story
If you suspect that your makeup is the main reason for your burning eyes, switching to an eye-friendly brand can help reduce your discomfort. Èyes Are The Story is a brand committed to making ophthalmologist-approved makeup and skincare products.
Their formulations are designed to work harmoniously even with sensitive eyes and those prone to dry eye syndrome. From mascaras to eyeliners, they offer products that are free from harsh ingredients that trigger discomfort, making them a perfect choice for anyone struggling with eye irritation from traditional makeup.
Adopt These Makeup Habits for Healthy Eyes
Beyond choosing the right products, proper makeup habits play a vital role in preventing eye discomfort:
- Avoid applying makeup on the waterline. The area closest to your eye is very delicate and can easily get irritated by makeup.
- Remove makeup completely every night, Leaving your makeup on overnight can lead to clogged glands and inflammation. Use a gentle makeup remover, preferably one designed for sensitive eyes.
- Switch out products regularly. Replace your mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow every 3-6 months to avoid bacterial growth.
- Clean your brushes every week. Dirty brushes can transfer bacteria to your skin and eyes. You should regularly wash them with a mild soap.
Managing Underlying Dry Eye Issues
If you’ve tackled your makeup routine, but you’re still experiencing burning eyes, it might be time to look deeper.
Dry eye disease is a prevalent condition that can worsen irritation caused by makeup. Symptoms like constant dryness, burning, and redness are common indicators. Here are a few tips that combine professional care with lifestyle adjustments to help manage your dry eyes:
- Usie prescribed treatments like in-office procedures for severe cases.
- Incorporate balanced nutrition and dietary supplements to support eye health.
- Limit your screen time, which can exacerbate dry eyes.
For severe or chronic discomfort, seeking professional assistance can help you find effective treatments tailored to you.
Practical Changes for Comfortable Eye Care
It can feel daunting to overhaul your makeup and skincare routine, but these changes can make your daily routine more comfortable in the long run. Start by analyzing your existing products for sensitive-skin-friendly options.
At Watson Dry Eye Center, we know dry eye. If you’re concerned about any of your symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact us! Book your appointment today and explore how we can help restore your eye health and comfort.
