Six One Six Vision Center

Applying eye makeup, such as mascara, eye liner and eye shadow, helps make your eyes stand out. However, cosmetics can also be dangerous when used improperly, especially since the skin around your eyes and your eyes themselves are sensitive. To reduce the risk of infection or irritation when using eye cosmetics, here are five tips from your eye care specialist:

1. Wash Your Hands

Make it a habit to wash your hands before applying eye makeup or touching the area around your eyes. Doing so helps remove germs and microorganisms from your hands, reducing your risk of developing eye infections.

2. Always Keep Your Makeup Clean

Wash your eye makeup applicators or brushes regularly. Your eye doctor explains this can prevent dirt and microorganism buildup. Remember to close your makeup container so the product won’t be exposed to bacteria and germs.

3. Replace Your Cosmetics Every Six Months

Like any other cosmetic product, eye makeup also has a shelf life, which is generally six months. We suggest writing the purchase date with a marker on the lid, so you can easily remember to dispose of the product at the appropriate time.

4. Stop Using Saliva or Water on Your Makeup

If your eye makeup has dried up or its texture has changed, do not use water or saliva to thin it out. The water or your saliva could have bacteria that may cause infection. It’s best to just throw the old makeup away.

5. Never Use Sharp Objects to Apply Eye Makeup

Lastly, your optometrist reminds to never use sharp objects to apply eye makeup, which often happens when one tries to separate their eyelashes. One wrong move could lead to sight-threatening injuries.

For more eye makeup safety tips, call us at (208) 514-1858 or complete our form. We serve Boise, Eagle and nearby Idaho areas.