If you have sensitive eyes, it is recommended to avoid waterproof eyeliners and mascaras, as they are more difficult to remove and can irritate the surface of the eye, according to Dr. Ana María Martín Ucero, an ophthalmologist specializing in the cornea at Clínica Baviera Madrid, who warns that although eye makeup is part of the daily routine for many people, it is not always taken into account that it can be harmful to visual health.
Thousands of chemical substances are used in their manufacture, some of which can cause allergies, irritations, or even act as endocrine disruptors. “The skin of the eyelids is especially thin and permeable, which facilitates the absorption or migration of these compounds into the tear film, promoting dryness, discomfort, or inflammation,” they warn.
Very commonly used products such as mascaras and eyeliners pose the greatest risk, as they are applied very close to the eye and can obstruct eyelid glands or irritate the ocular surface if they are not replaced frequently or if they are shared.
In addition, care must also be taken when using other currently popular cosmetics, such as eyelash growth serums, since some of them contain drugs called prostaglandins, which are effective in increasing eyelash growth, but can cause eye redness, irritation, and blepharitis. Therefore, if you experience eyelash loss, it is advisable to consult a specialist who will recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Eyelash extensions can also cause damage to the ocular surface, mainly due to adverse reactions or the misuse of the adhesive used to apply the extensions. For this reason, it is recommended that if you wish to use them, you should find a reputable salon.
In this context, she recommends “taking extra care.” She also adds, “it is important to apply makeup slightly away from the tear duct to prevent the product from entering the eye, and before using a new product, do a small test on the outer part of the eyelid or on the wrist.” “These warnings don’t mean we should stop using all eye cosmetics, but rather that we should be aware of their potential adverse effects on the periorbital area and the ocular surface so that, if any problems arise, we can discontinue their use and contact an ophthalmologist if necessary,” the expert states.
She concludes, “In the case of people with ocular surface diseases, such as dry eye or blepharitis, it may be advisable to stop or minimize their use, or, if using them, to use special products available on the market for this group of patients.”
