Your eyes might be sensitive, but that does not mean you can never wear mascara, eye shadow, or other eye makeup. Eye doctors note that makeup sensitivities typically occur because of allergic contact or irritant contact dermatitis, or when makeup ingredients and constant makeup exposure cause reactions, respectively. To help you wear makeup without hurting your eyes, review the following tips. 

Do: 

Wear hypoallergenic makeup only. 

Hypoallergenic makeup is formulated without skin and eye irritants, including colorants, fragrances, and preservatives. Look for hypoallergenic labels on makeup, which also typically feature wording such as “made for sensitive eyes” “unscented,” and “fragrance-free.” If these products do get in your eyes, they are less likely to cause a reaction. You’ll also want to apply the products with clean makeup brushes, since dirty brushes harbor germs and bacteria that can result in skin and eye irritation. 

Avoid applying makeup close to your eyes. 

Drawing eyeliner along your water line, or the line between your eyelashes and eyes, increases the risk of irritation from close product contact. Applying mascara on your lash roots causes the same problem. Avoid both of these areas to minimize contact, and consider switching from powder to cream eyeshadow to keep particles out of your eyes during applications. 

Don’t: 

Sleep in your makeup. 

Snoozing in your eye makeup presses the products into your skin and can cause styes, or eye pimples. Other infections can also occur and require medicated drops from your eye doctor. Wash your entire face before going to bed to avoid eye as well as skin problems, such as clogged pores and breakouts. Use a hypoallergenic makeup remover designed for sensitive eyes to prevent irritation. 

Use old products. 

Old makeup typically contains significant bacteria, because the brushes used to apply them come in contact with your skin. Mascara can also breed bacteria from eyelash exposure. Replacing your makeup every three months avoids applying old makeup that can cause eye irritation and infections. Consider keeping your makeup receipts or implementing a labeling system so you know exactly how old your products are. 

If you need treatment for an eye infection or it’s simply time for your next exam, contact the eye doctors at Tri-State Eye. Based in Middletown, NY, this vision care center also has a location in Milford, PA and treats a full suite of eye problems using the latest technology. Call  (845) 703-2020 (Middletown location) or (570) 296-9696 (Milford location) today to make your appointment, or visit the eye doctors online for more information.