Dry eyes? Don’t compromise! Makeup removal, the smart way.
(I-MED Pharma)
Cosmetics play a big role in many people’s day-to-day routines. However, if you’re suffering from dry eye disease, it’s important to be mindful of how you are applying and removing your makeup, as it could be making your dry eye condition worse. Using products that are specifically made for dry eyes that contain safe, hydrating, and gentle ingredients is key to managing symptoms of dry eye disease.
What is dry eye disease and how can makeup affect dry eye?
Dry eye occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears, or do not produce the proper quality of tears. In both cases, this can lead to an array of discomforting symptoms such as a stinging and burning sensation in the eyes, sensitivity to light, eye redness, difficulty wearing contact lenses, watery eyes, blurred vision, among others.
Eye makeup, especially waterproof formulations, can exacerbate your dry eyes by disrupting your ocular surface, gland function, and tear film. Eye makeup products, such as eyeliner and mascara, can clog the meibomian glands which are responsible for making the oil that coats your tears. [1] When the meibomian glands are blocked or not functioning properly, it becomes difficult for the tears to properly and sufficiently lubricate your eyes, making your eyes dry and uncomfortable. Additionally, makeup particles and residue from makeup removers can get into the conjunctiva (the surface of the eye) and affect the way the tear film functions. [2] Certain ingredients in makeup removers, such as fragrances, harsh chemicals and surfactants should be avoided as they can lead to increased irritation and inflammation of the eyes. This can cause dry eye patients severe discomfort by further drying out the skin that surrounds the eye. [3]
If you choose to wear makeup, it’s important to use water-based eye makeup as opposed to waterproof versions. In addition, it is recommended to use a makeup remover that is not only gentle and safe for the tear film, but one that also hydrates and soothes the delicate skin around the eyes.
How to choose the best eye makeup remover if you have dry and sensitive eyes:
Say “NO” to toxic ingredients, irritants, and harsh chemicals!
Harsh chemicals lurk in the ingredients list of many cosmetic products, from makeup to skin care products. It’s important to read the ingredients list carefully and be on the lookout for formulations that could cause further harm and irritation to your eyes. Look for an eye makeup remover that is free of fragrances and potential irritants, such as parabens and phthalates. [4] Many products suggest conducting a patch test by applying a small portion of the product to your skin (on your hand or arm) before applying to your face to see how you will react. Keep in mind that although this test may prove useful in some instances, the reaction around your eyes may be different than the one on your hand or arm given how delicate the skin is around your eyes.
Say “NO” to alcohol-based eye makeup removers!
It’s best to avoid alcohol-based makeup removers, as alcohol can strip away the natural oils from the skin and cause dryness.[5] When it comes to the delicate skin around your eyes, choosing the right products with the right formulations is imperative. Alcohol-based eye makeup removers can make dry eye disease even worse, by increasing irritation, inflammation, and soreness around the eye. This lack of natural oils on the lids and lashes can also lead to a destabilization of the tear film. [6] Opting for an oil-based eye makeup remover is recommended.
Say “YES” to oil-based eye makeup removers!
Oil-based removers are gentle on the skin and can help lock in hydration. Oil can also help remove oil-free, oil-based, and waterproof makeup off your lashes and off the delicate skin around your eyes. [7] Coconut oil, as an ingredient, is safe and gentle on the eyes, and has antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.[8] Coconut oil also helps prevent water loss, which helps lock in hydration. Additionally, it can help reduce itchiness and help soothe irritated areas. [9]
Say “YES” to hyaluronic acid!
Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body and binds water molecules together. Hyaluronic acid increases the water content of the skin, making it have an unbelievable ability to retain moisture.[10] In skin care products, hyaluronic acid is used as a humectant – a substance that helps the skin hold onto water. [11] Beyond its great moisturizing and hydrating properties, hyaluronic acid also assists with wound healing and helps repair damaged skin. Wounds heal faster by regulating inflammation levels and signaling the body to build more blood vessels in the damaged area. Hyaluronic acid also has antibacterial properties, which helps reduce risks of infection. [12] This makes it a great ingredient to look for when choosing a makeup remover, as it can not only help lock in hydration, but it can also help soothe and calm irritated eyes.
Tips & Tricks
While safe and effective ingredients are key in choosing the right eye makeup remover for dry eyes, it’s also important to develop good ocular hygiene habits if you suffer from dry eyes. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when applying and removing your eye makeup to ensure an optimal ocular hygiene regimen:
- Always wash your hands before applying makeup.
- Opt for water-based eye makeup formulations as opposed to waterproof formulations.
- When applying makeup, be sure to keep makeup brushes and applicators clean. Using a brush cover and washing these tools regulary can help reduce bacteria and avoid cross-contamination from other brushes
- If using eye makeup pencils, sharpen the pencil before use to remove the topcoat of bacteria.
- Avoid using saliva as a way to touch up your makeup. Some people can be tempted to do so, however this can lead to eye infections.
- Avoid sharing makeup with others and be aware of your makeup’s expiration date. A rule of thumb is to dispose of your makeup every three to six months. You can keep a marker in your makeup kit to note the date the makeup was opened.
- It’s imperative to remove makeup before bed. Sleeping with eye makeup on can lead to the clogging of the meibomian glands and eye infections.
- When removing your makeup, be sure to use a clean cotton pad (and one cotton pad per eye) to avoid any bacterial cross-contamination. [13]
I-LID ’N LASH® EYE MAKEUP REMOVER for Dry and Sensitive Eyes
I-MED Pharma offers an eye makeup remover specifically formulated for dry eyes that leaves skin feeling smooth and hydrated. It is clinically proven to remove makeup, safe for the tear film, and ophthalmologist and dermatologist tested. It contains hyaluronic acid and coconut oil to hydrate the skin and does not contain parabens, fragrances, alcohol or harsh surfactants. Its gentle formulation removes makeup effectively without breaking up your tear film and further irritating your dry eyes. You can go to sleep knowing your eyes will stay hydrated throughout the night.
It’s important to be conscientious when choosing your eye makeup and your eye makeup remover, especially if you are suffering from dry eye disease. Be mindful of the ingredients in these products by avoiding formulations containing alcohol, harsh chemicals and irritants, and opt for naturally hydrating and gentle ingredients like coconut oil and hyaluronic acid. Makeup is a big part of many peoples’ daily routine and it’s important to be mindful of how eye makeup and eye makeup removers can affect and exacerbate symptoms of dry eye.
To learn more about I-LID ’N LASH® MAKEUP REMOVER, watch this video.
Eye health is our priority. Find an eye care professional near you that carries I-MED Pharma dry eye products and keep your eyes looking and feeling their very best.
[1] Hollimon, N. (2022, November 8). Makeup tips for Dry Eye. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/makeup-tips-dry-eye
[2] Hollimon, N. (2022, November 8). Makeup tips for Dry Eye. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/makeup-tips-dry-eye
[3] Petrosyan, T. (2018, October 2). Impact of makeup on the ocular surface and dry eye disease. Women in Optometry. https://www.womeninoptometry.com/editorial/article/impact-of-makeup-on-the-ocular-surface-and-dry-eye-disease/
[4] Look Optical. (2022, February 11). Sensitive Eyes & Cosmetics Guide. Look Optical. https://www.lookoptical.com/sensitive-eyes-cosmetics-guide/
[5] Plowman, L. (2020, July 30). Cosmetic toxicity: Making up with Dry Eye. Mivision: The Ophthalmic Journal. https://mivision.com.au/2020/07/cosmetic-toxicity-making-up-with-dry-eye/
[6] Plowman, L. (2020, July 30). Cosmetic toxicity: Making up with Dry Eye. Mivision: The Ophthalmic Journal. https://mivision.com.au/2020/07/cosmetic-toxicity-making-up-with-dry-eye/
[7] Ferreira, M. (2019, September 7). Everything you need to know about the oil cleansing method. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/oil-cleansing-method#choosing-an-oil
[8] Southern Eyecare Associates. (2020, April 5). Home remedies for Dry Eye. Southern Eyecare Associates. https://www.southerneyecare2020.com/2020/04/05/home-remedies-for-dry-eye/
[9] Leiva, C. (2021, December 10). Coconut oil moisturizer do’s and don’ts. Healthline. Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://www.healthline.com/health/coconut-oil-moisturizer#benefits
[10] Lawler, M. (2021, November 18). What is hyaluronic acid? benefits, side effects, and best serums. EverydayHealth.com. https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-beauty/hyaluronic-acid-definition-benefits-and-the-best-serums/
[11] Sharkey, L. (2021, November 12). How to use hyaluronic acid – and why you should. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-to-use-hyaluronic-acid#benefits
[12] Julson, E. (2022, November 28). 7 surprising benefits of hyaluronic acid. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hyaluronic-acid-benefits#relieves-dry-eye
[13] Petrosyan, D. T. (2016, January 11). Impact of makeup on dry eye disease. EyeCareorg. https://eyecare.org/site/impact-of-makeup-on-dry-eye-disease/
