Sensitive eyes can be a real challenge, especially when it comes to eye makeup. If you have an allergy-prone or ultra-sensitive eye area, makeup application can be painful and uncomfortable.

We have put together 30 tips for sensitive eye makeup to help you get the look you want without any discomfort. Read on to learn more.

Clean and Sanitize Your Brushes Thoroughly

Before applying any makeup, be sure to wash and sanitize your brushes thoroughly. Makeup brushes can harbor bacteria, which can irritate and infect the sensitive eye area.

Wash your brushes with gentle soap or shampoo and warm water and store them in a clean, dry place. Discard any brushes that are old, frayed, or shedding to avoid irritation.

Avoid Oily Products Around the Eye Area

Oily eye creams and lotions can cause makeup to smear and crease, which can lead to irritation and discomfort. Choose oil-free moisturizers and eye creams and avoid using them close to the lash line.

If you need extra hydration, use a lightweight gel instead of a heavy cream.

Choose Unscented Products

Perfumes and fragrances in eye makeup can cause irritation and redness for those with sensitive eyes. Opt for unscented or hypoallergenic products to avoid any discomfort.

Look for products that are labeled as “sensitive” or “fragrance-free” to ensure they are safe for your eyes.

Use a Primer for Long-Lasting Makeup

A primer can help ensure that your eye makeup stays in place all day without smudging or creasing. Look for a primer that is formulated for sensitive skin and apply it all over your eyelids before applying eyeshadow or eyeliner.

This will help your makeup last longer and prevent any irritation from smudged or runny products.

Stick to Neutral Colors

Bright and bold eyeshadows may be tempting, but they can also irritate sensitive eyes. Stick to neutral colors like taupe, beige, and brown that are less likely to cause any irritation or redness.

You can still create a beautiful look with neutral shades that won’t hurt your eyes.

Avoid Glitter and Shimmer

Glitter and shimmer eyeshadows may be fun for a night out, but they can be irritating and abrasive for sensitive eyes. Stick to matte or satin finishes that are soft and gentle on your skin.

If you really want to add some sparkle, look for products that contain finely-milled shimmer particles instead of chunky glitter.

Use Cream Shadows Sparingly

Cream eyeshadows can be more moisturizing than powder formulas, but they can also be heavy and greasy. If you have sensitive eyes, use cream shadows sparingly and blend them well to avoid any clumps or creasing.

Avoid using cream eyeshadows on hot or humid days since they are more likely to smear and smudge.

Stay Away from Waterproof Mascara

Waterproof mascara can be tough to remove and can cause irritation if left on for too long. Stick to regular mascara formulas that are easy to wash off with gentle soap and water.

If you really need a waterproof formula, make sure to remove it carefully each night before going to bed.

Choose Gentle Mascara Formulas

Mascara formulas can vary greatly, so it’s important to choose a formula that is gentle on your sensitive eyes.

Look for mascara that is labeled as “hypoallergenic” or “sensitive” and avoid formulas that include harsh ingredients like alcohol or fragrance. These can irritate your eyes and cause discomfort.

Be Careful with Eyelash Extensions

Eyelash extensions can give you a dramatic, fluttery look, but they can also irritate your eyes if not applied correctly. Make sure to select a reputable salon with experienced technicians who use high-quality products.

Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes while wearing extensions and have them removed professionally when it’s time for a touch-up.

Apply Products in the Right Order

Applying eye makeup in the right order can help ensure that your products last longer and look better. Start with a primer, then apply eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara. This will help prevent any smudging or creasing, which can irritate sensitive eyes.

Be sure to wait for each product to dry before moving on to the next one.

Keep Your Tools Clean

Just like your brushes, your tweezers, eyelash curler, and other tools should be kept clean and sanitized. Wipe them down with alcohol or a disinfectant spray before using them on your eyes.

This will help prevent any bacteria or germs from infecting your sensitive eye area.

Avoid Pencil Eyeliners

Pencil eyeliners can be too harsh for sensitive eyes and can cause pain and discomfort. Instead, opt for a gel liner that is soft and gentle on the skin. Apply the liner carefully and smoothly, avoiding any tugging or pulling on the eyelid.

Keep Your Makeup Removal Routine Simple

Removing your makeup at the end of the day is important for keeping your sensitive eyes healthy and comfortable. Keep your makeup removal routine as simple as possible to avoid any irritation or redness.

Use a gentle cleanser or micellar water to remove your makeup and avoid rubbing or pulling at your eyelashes.

Sharing eye makeup products can be tempting, but it can also expose you to bacteria and germs from other people. Avoid sharing your eyeliner, mascara, or eyeshadow with anyone else to reduce the risk of infection or irritation.

If you must share, make sure to sanitize the products completely before and after use.

Don’t Apply Makeup on the Waterline

The waterline, or the inner rim of your eye, is a sensitive area that should be left alone when applying makeup. Applying eyeliner or mascara directly on the waterline can cause pain, itching, and even infection.

Stick to applying products to the lash line instead.

Use a Soft Touch

When applying eye makeup, use a gentle, soft touch to avoid any tugging or pulling on your delicate eye area. This can cause irritation, redness, and discomfort.

Use small, light strokes to apply eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara, and avoid pressing too hard on your eyelids or lashes.

Choose a Good Eyelash Curler

The wrong eyelash curler can pinch and pull at your lashes, causing pain and discomfort. Choose a high-quality eyelash curler that fits your eye shape and size and that is gentle on your lashes.

Use it carefully and gently to create a beautiful, natural-looking curl.

Choose a Mascara with a Lash-Boosting Formula

Some mascaras contain ingredients that can actually help strengthen and nourish your lashes, making them less prone to bending or breaking.

Look for mascaras that contain nourishing ingredients like vitamin E, keratin, or panthenol to help keep your lashes healthy and strong.

Avoid Rubbing or Scratching Your Eyes

Scratching or rubbing your eyes can cause irritation and discomfort, especially if you have sensitive eyes. Try to avoid touching your eyes as much as possible and resist the urge to rub them if they feel itchy or dry.

Instead, use a cool compress or eye drops to soothe any discomfort.

Seek Medical Advice if You Have Chronic Eye Problems

If you have chronic eye problems like redness, itching, or dryness, it’s important to seek medical advice from an eye doctor. They can help diagnose any underlying conditions and recommend treatments or products that are safe for your sensitive eyes.

Avoid Using Expired Products

Using expired makeup products can expose you to bacteria and germs, which can irritate and infect your sensitive eye area. Always check the expiration date on your eye makeup products and throw away any that are old or expired.

This will help keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.

Choose the Right Eyelash Glue

If you wear false eyelashes, be sure to choose a glue that is gentle and non-toxic. Some eyelash adhesives can be harsh and contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your sensitive eyes.

Look for a gentle, non-toxic adhesive that is labeled as safe for sensitive eyes.

Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals

Harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, phthalates, and parabens can irritate and inflame sensitive eyes. Avoid using products that contain these chemicals and opt for more natural, non-toxic options.

You can even make your own eye makeup at home using simple, natural ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil.

Choose Lash Extensions that are Safe for Sensitive Eyes

If you still want to get eyelash extensions, be sure to choose extensions that are safe for sensitive eyes. Look for extensions made from mink or synthetics and avoid lash extensions that are too heavy or thick.

You can also have your technician apply fewer extensions and avoid applying them too close to your lash line to reduce any irritation.

Avoid Using Powder Near the Eye Area

Powder products like translucent powder or setting powder can be irritating for sensitive eyes. Avoid using them too close to the lash line or avoid them altogether. If you must use powder, apply it gently and avoid allowing it to get into your eyes.

Use a Gentle Eye Makeup Remover

Removing your eye makeup at the end of the day is important for keeping your eyes healthy and comfortable. Use a gentle, non-toxic eye makeup remover that is safe for sensitive eyes.

Avoid using harsh soaps or alcohol-based products, which can dry out your skin and cause irritation.

Avoid Using Products with Strong Fragrances

Products with strong fragrances can irritate and inflame sensitive eyes, leading to pain and discomfort. Avoid using products with strong fragrances or perfumes and opt for unscented or hypoallergenic options instead.

This will help reduce your risk of eye irritation and redness.

Be Careful with False Eyelash Adhesives

If you wear false eyelashes, be sure to apply the adhesive carefully and avoid getting it too close to your eyes. You can also opt for adhesives that are labeled as “safe for sensitive eyes” to reduce any discomfort or irritation.

Always remove your false eyelashes before going to bed to avoid any eye infections.

Take Care of Your Skin

Protecting and nourishing your skin is one of the best ways to keep your sensitive eyes healthy and comfortable. Use a gentle, non-toxic cleanser and moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

Protect your skin from UV rays with a non-toxic, fragrance-free sunscreen that is safe for sensitive eyes.

Avoid Applying Products Too Close to Your Eyes

Applying products too close to your eyes can cause irritation and redness. Be careful when applying products like eyeliner, eyeshadow, or mascara and avoid getting them too close to your lash line or waterline.

You can still create a beautiful, dramatic look without causing any discomfort or irritation.

Be Patient and Experiment to Find What Works Best for You

Everyone’s eyes are different, so it may take some time to find the right products and techniques that work best for your sensitive eyes. Be patient and don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands, formulas, and techniques.

Once you find what works for you, stick with it and enjoy beautiful, comfortable eye makeup every day.