Eyelashes, eyeliner, and lenses…a trinity that exhausts the eye

The eyes are not just an aesthetic element, but rather a highly sensitive area, and some common daily cosmetic habits may lead to health and aesthetic damage in the medium and long term, according to warnings from ophthalmologists.

One of the most prominent of these habits is applying eyeliner inside the waterline, as this practice clogs the meibomian glands responsible for moisturizing the eye, causing dryness, redness, and the appearance of hairs. Medical studies indicate that kohl inside the eyelid increases tear film contamination compared to applying it outside the lash line.

Sharing eye makeup is also considered one of the most dangerous behaviors, as it transmits bacteria and viruses, and increases the risk of infection of the conjunctiva, eyelids, and cornea, which explains why doctors warn against sharing mascara or eyeliner, even among close friends.

As for eyelash growth serums, some of them contain substances that may cause thinning of the skin around the eyes, shrinkage of fat and the appearance of dark circles, and experts advise using them for limited periods only.

Regarding retinol around the eyes, although it is effective in fighting wrinkles, its leakage into the eyes may lead to chronic dryness and irritation of the sebaceous glands, which makes it not suitable for this sensitive area.

Permanent makeup (eyeliner, eyelashes, or eyebrows) carries the risk of infection, allergy, and eyelid deformities in the event of poor sterilization or the body’s reaction to the dyes.

Doctors also warn against using an eyelash curler after mascara, because it leads to the eyelashes breaking and sticking, and it is preferable to use it on clean and dry eyelashes only.

As for artificial eyelashes, they may cause skin irritation or corneal scratches if they are not attached well, and it is recommended to use them on special occasions only.

The American Ophthalmological Association stresses the necessity of disposing of eye makeup 4 months after opening it, because bacteria multiply as the effectiveness of preservatives decreases.

Regarding contact lenses, poor care of them, exposing them to water, or sleeping with them may lead to serious infections that may lead to loss of vision, according to recent studies. It is recommended to clean them daily, and not to swim or shower while wearing them.

Finally, sleeping with makeup is one of the most harmful habits, as it leads to eye irritation, clogged pores and the appearance of circles, due to the chemicals remaining on the skin for long hours.