Potential Problems:
* Irritation and Discomfort: Makeup can flake or crumble and get into your eyes, causing irritation, redness, burning, and blurry vision. This is amplified when you wear contacts because the makeup can get trapped between the lens and your cornea.
* Infection: Makeup can harbor bacteria. If it gets into your eye, it can increase the risk of eye infections, which can be more serious with contact lens wear.
* Lens Damage: Certain makeup formulations, especially those with glitter or oils, can damage or scratch your contact lenses.
* Allergic Reactions: You might be allergic to an ingredient in your makeup that you didn't realize until you wore contacts because the contact lenses can increase exposure to the allergen.
Tips to Minimize Risks:
* Apply Makeup AFTER Inserting Contacts: This minimizes the chance of makeup transferring onto the lenses.
* Remove Contacts BEFORE Removing Makeup: This prevents makeup from getting underneath the lenses.
* Choose Hypoallergenic and Ophthalmologist-Tested Products: Look for makeup specifically labeled as safe for contact lens wearers. These products are generally less likely to cause irritation.
* Use Water-Based or Oil-Free Formulas: Oil-based makeup can be more likely to smear and get into your eyes.
* Avoid Glitter and Shimmer: These can easily flake off and get trapped under your lenses.
* Replace Makeup Regularly: Bacteria can grow in makeup, especially mascara. Replace mascara every 3 months and other eye makeup every 6 months to a year.
* Apply Eyeliner Carefully:
* Avoid the Waterline (Inner Rim of Eyelid): Applying eyeliner to the waterline is a major source of contamination and irritation for contact lens wearers.
* Use Pencil Sharply: Sharp pencils are less likely to shed particles.
* Consider Liquid Liner: Some people find liquid liner less prone to flaking than pencil.
* Apply Mascara Carefully:
* Avoid Getting Mascara on the Lenses: Wipe excess mascara off the wand before applying.
* Don't "Pump" the Wand: This pushes air and bacteria into the tube.
* Focus on the Tips of Lashes: Avoid applying mascara close to the lash line where it's more likely to flake.
* Wash Your Hands Thoroughly: Always wash your hands before handling your contact lenses or applying makeup.
* Clean Lenses Properly: Use the recommended cleaning solution for your type of lens.
* Never Share Makeup: This can spread bacteria and infections.
* Listen to Your Body: If you experience any irritation, redness, or discomfort, remove your contacts immediately and discontinue use of the makeup. Consult your eye doctor if the symptoms persist.
* Talk to Your Eye Doctor: They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and lens type.
In summary:
While not inherently "bad," eyeliner and mascara require careful selection and application techniques when you wear contact lenses. Following the above tips will help minimize the risk of irritation, infection, and lens damage, allowing you to enjoy wearing makeup comfortably and safely. If in doubt, consult your eye doctor for personalized advice.