If you wear makeup, you know how bothersome mascara or eyeshadow can be when they get in your eye. The resulting redness and irritation can be even worse for contact wearers. Fortunately, you can take steps to protect your eyes while wearing contact lenses and makeup with the following guide. 

Do:

Put your contacts in first.

During your morning routine, thoroughly clean and dry your hands before putting in contact lenses. Then apply your makeup. Sticking to this order will prevent powder and mascara flakes from getting on your fingers and contacts while inserting the lenses. You can also prevent the spread of bacteria from makeup brushes to your eyes.

Use oil-free makeup.

Eyeshadow, cream, and mascara with oil can get into your eye and stick to your lenses since water-based contacts can attract the oil. The result will be cloudy vision and discomfort, so purchase products marked oil-free. 

Talk to your eye doctor.

If you aren’t sure about which makeup products to use and how to apply them safely, consult your eye doctor. They may also recommend daily lenses since you can start fresh with a clean pair before applying makeup every day.

Don’t:

Put eyeliner on the lid ledge.

If you frequently put eyeliner on the part of your lid that touches the eye, avoid doing so while wearing contacts. This product can easily get in your eye when applied on the lid ledge and block moisture glands. Apply liner on the other side of the lashes instead. 

Skip removal.

Remove your makeup at the end of every day after taking out your contact lenses. Your eye doctor can recommend lid wipes to fully remove makeup and any lingering bacteria. As with inserting lenses and applying makeup, wash and dry your hands first.

Keep your products for too long.

Old makeup often contains bacteria, which can cause an eye infection. Replace your makeup about every three months, but also look for an expiration date on the packaging. If you experience an eye infection and are undergoing treatment, replace all of your makeup products to prevent it from spreading.

When it comes to optical health, contact lens wearers need the right eye doctor. Nelson O. Yoshioka Jr., O.D. has been a trusted optometrist in Honolulu, HI, for over 20 years. Dr. Yoshioka and his staff provide comprehensive eye exams, diagnoses and treatment of eye conditions, and prescriptions for contact lenses and eyeglasses. To view a full list of services, visit them online. You can also call (808) 734-7050 to make an appointment today.