Glow Up, Not Dry Out!

Do you love wearing makeup but find your eyes feeling dry or irritated by the end of the day? You're not alone. Recent studies have shown that certain makeup habits can increase the risk of dry eye disease. The good news is, you don't have to give up your favorite look to keep your eyes feeling great. You just need to be makeup smart.

Why Makeup Can Affect Your Eyes

Dry eye disease happens when your eyes do not produce enough tears, or when the quality of your tears is poor. Makeup can affect this balance in a few surprising ways:

• Makeup particles may enter the tear film and affect its stability.
• Tightlining (applying eyeliner on the inner lash line) can block the meibomian glands, which are essential for tear film health.
• Using old or expired products can introduce bacteria that irritate the eyes.
• Failing to fully remove makeup can lead to dirt buildup and inflammation.

Smart Tips to Keep Your Eyes Healthy Without Skipping the Glam

1. Apply makeup carefully: Avoid placing eyeliner on the waterline. Stick to the outer lash line to prevent the blockage.
2. Choose eye-safe products: Cream-based shadows can also reduce flaking.
3. Clean your tools: Wash brushes and applicators regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
4. Replace products regularly, especially mascara and liquid eyeliner every three months.
5. Remove makeup gently and completely: Use a mild, non-irritating remover and clean your eyelids every night.
6. Give your eyes a break: Go makeup-free once in a while to let your eyes rest and recover.

Watch for warning signs such as stinging, redness, or excessive tearing. If you experience these symptoms, consult an eye doctor promptly!

Healthy eyes and a gorgeous look can go hand in hand. With a few mindful choices, you can enjoy your favorite beauty routine without sacrificing eye comfort. Protecting your eyes is a vital part of your overall health. Keep your eyes healthy and let your beauty shine!

REFERENCE:

• Albdaya, N. A., Binyousef, F. H., Alrashid, M. H., Alajlan, A. A., Alsharif, F. A., Alfouzan, S. K., & Alhuthail, R. R. (2022). Prevalence of Dry Eye Disease and Its Association With the Frequent Usage of Eye Cosmetics Among Women. Cureus, 14(7), e27142. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.27142
• Wang, M. T., & Craig, J. P. (2018). Investigating the effect of eye cosmetics on the tear film: current insights. Clinical optometry, 10, 33–40. https://doi.org/10.2147/OPTO.S150926
• Liu, Y., Shen, Y., Sullivan, A.G. et al. The impact of eyeliner usage on dry eye symptoms. Sci Rep 15, 14039 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-96957-w