You’ve got the sparkle in your eyes with your favorite contact lenses. Now it’s time to make the rest of your eyes dazzle, too! But if you’re a contact lens wearer who also loves makeup, you know the struggle of getting the perfect look without irritating your eyes.
Luckily, 1-800-GET-LENS is here to help. Whether you’re a makeup maven or just getting started with contacts, these top 10 makeup tips are tailored to ensure that your eyes remain as comfortable as they are captivating.
Let’s get started!
1. Wash Your Hands
Before diving into your makeup routine, make sure your hands and lenses are squeaky clean. Wash your hands thoroughly and dry them properly to avoid transferring any dirt or oils onto your lenses. This simple step goes a long way in preventing potential irritations.
2. Insert Your Contacts First
You probably already know if you’re a regular contact lens wearer, but it’s worth mentioning anyway: always put your contacts in before applying any makeup. This way, you’ll minimize the chances of your makeup smudging onto your lenses.
3. Choose Oil-Free Makeup Products
When it comes to makeup products, opt for oil-free formulas. Oil-based products can easily migrate from your skin to your lenses, causing them to become blurry or uncomfortable. Look for products labeled “oil-free,” “water-based,” or “non-comedogenic” to keep your eyes happy and your vision crystal clear.
4. Avoid Creamy Eye Shadows
Creamy eye shadows are a makeup staple for many, but they can be a hassle for contact lens wearers. These formulas tend to smear and crease, leading to potential eye irritation. Instead, opt for powder-based eye shadows, which are easier to control and less likely to transfer onto your lenses.
5. Say No to Chunky Mascara
Nobody wants clumpy lashes, right? Well, contact lens wearers need to be extra cautious when choosing their mascara. Chunky mascaras can flake off and get into your eyes, causing discomfort or infection. Look for mascaras that are labeled “smudge-proof” or “suitable for sensitive eyes” to keep your lashes long, luscious, and lens-friendly!
6. Use Gentle Makeup Removers
When it’s time to remove your makeup, make sure to choose a gentle makeup remover. Harsh products can not only dry out your skin but can also irritate your eyes. Opt for oil-free or micellar water-based removers, and be extra careful around your eye area to avoid any mishaps with your lenses.
7. Don’t Skimp on Hydration
Contact lens wearers often experience dry eyes, especially if they wear contacts for extended periods. To combat this, make sure to apply eye drops specifically formulated for contact lens wearers before and after applying your makeup. Keeping your eyes hydrated will make your lenses more comfortable and help your makeup look fresher for longer.
8. Beware of Glitter and Shimmer
While glitter and shimmer can add that extra glam to your makeup look, they can also cause irritation for contact lens wearers. These particles may find their way into your eyes or cling to your lenses, leading to irritation and discomfort. If you can’t resist the sparkle, make sure to use glitter and shimmer products far away from your eyes to minimize the risk.
9. Replace Your Eye Makeup Regularly
Makeup products, especially eye makeup, have an expiration date. Old and expired makeup can harbor bacteria that could lead to infections or other eye-related issues. To keep your eyes healthy, make it a habit to regularly replace your eye makeup items, such as mascara, eyeliner, and eye shadow.
10. Listen to Your Eyes
Last but certainly not least, always listen to your eyes! If you notice any discomfort, redness, or irritation while wearing makeup and contacts, take it as a sign to remove your lenses and give your eyes a break. Your eye health should always come first, so don’t hesitate to consult your eye care professional if you have any concerns.
FAQs About Wearing Makeup While Wearing Contact Lenses
- Can I Wear Makeup with Contact Lenses?
Yes, you can wear makeup with contact lenses, but it requires extra care and using the right products. Certain guidelines, like applying makeup after putting in your lenses and using non-allergenic products, can help avoid irritation.
- What Types of Eye Makeup Should I Avoid with Contact Lenses?
Avoid using oil-based or waterproof products, as they may be more difficult to remove and could leave residue that irritates the eyes. Also, be cautious with loose powder or glitter, as particles can get trapped under the lenses.
- How Do I Apply and Remove Makeup Safely with Contact Lenses?
Always wash your hands before handling your lenses or applying makeup. Put in your contacts before applying makeup, and use gentle, oil-free makeup removers to cleanse your face at the end of the day. Removing lenses before taking off makeup is generally recommended to avoid contamination.
- Can Mascara or Eyeliner Affect My Contact Lenses?
Yes, mascara and eyeliner can affect contact lenses if not used properly. Avoid applying mascara to the base of the lashes and steer clear of eyeliner on the inner rim of the lids, as these may block the tear flow, leading to dry eyes or trapped particles.
- What Should I Do if Makeup Gets Trapped Under My Contact Lenses?
If makeup gets trapped under your contact lenses, it can cause discomfort or even scratch the eye. It’s essential to wash your hands thoroughly and then remove the contact lens carefully. Rinse the lens with a proper cleaning solution before reinserting it. If irritation persists, consult with an eye care professional.
Conclusion
With these tips in mind, you can rock your makeup looks while keeping your eyes happy and healthy. Remember: it’s all about finding the right products and being mindful of your eye health. Let your beauty shine both inside and out!
