It’s no secret that mascara is an essential piece of any makeup routine. It helps to enhance the beauty of lashes and make eyes pop. However, wearing mascara for an extended period can cause eye irritation.

This irritation can lead to redness, dryness, itching, and even styes. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent eye irritation caused by mascara. In this article, we’ll go over 10 strategies to help you keep your eyes irritation-free.

1. Wash your hands before applying mascara

Before you start applying mascara, make sure to wash your hands. The bacteria on your hands can transfer to the mascara wand and cause eye infections.

Washing your hands with soap and warm water can help to eliminate bacteria and other germs that can cause irritation or infection.

2. Cleanse and moisturize your face

Before applying mascara, make sure to cleanse your face carefully. Cleansing your face helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup residue. After cleansing, moisturize your face to prevent dry skin around the eyes.

Use a lightweight moisturizer specifically designed for the eye area, as heavy creams can cause irritation.

3. Remove makeup before going to bed

Leaving mascara on overnight can lead to irritation, dark circles, and even breakouts. Be sure to remove all traces of makeup before going to bed.

Use a gentle makeup remover and a cotton pad to remove mascara without rubbing the delicate skin around your eyes.

4. Choose the right mascara

The type of mascara you choose can contribute to eye irritation. Waterproof mascaras tend to contain harsher chemicals that can cause dryness and redness around the eyes. Try to choose a softer non-waterproof mascara that won’t cause irritation.

5. Check the expiration date of your mascara

Mascara can expire within a few months when opened. Expired mascara can cause eye irritation, infections, and even loss of lashes.

Take a close look at your mascara before using it, and if you notice any changes in its consistency, scent, or color, throw it away and buy a new one.

6. Use a clean mascara wand

Regularly clean and replace your mascara wand to prevent bacteria and germs from irritating your eyes. Use a wand cleaner or a sterile brush to clean your mascara wand.

Also, avoid sharing your mascara with anyone else, as it can lead to bacteria transfer and infection.

7. Apply mascara correctly

Apply mascara carefully without touching the base of your eyelashes. Start from the root to the tip of your lashes in a gentle and smooth motion. Avoid applying too much mascara, as it can clump, trap in bacteria, and make your eyes look heavy.

8. Avoid rubbing your eyes

Don’t rub your eyes, even if they’re itchy or irritated. Rubbing your eyes can lead to further irritation, inflammation, and even infections. Instead, use a cold compress to soothe your eyes and relieve itchiness or dryness.

9. Avoid using eye-drying products

Avoid using eye-drying products that contain alcohol, such as makeup removers, toners, or astringents. Alcohol can strip the natural moisture from your skin, leading to dryness, flaking, and irritation.

Instead, use gentle, oil-based products that won’t over-dry your skin.

10. Visit an ophthalmologist regularly

Regularly visiting an ophthalmologist can help you identify eye problems before they become severe. They can provide you with professional advice on how to protect your eyes from irritation, injury, and infections.

Additionally, a regular eye exam can help diagnose any underlying medical conditions that can cause eye irritation, such as allergies or dry eye syndrome.

Conclusion

Taking good care of your eyes is crucial to preventing eye irritation caused by mascara. By following the tips mentioned above, you can keep your eyes irritation-free and maintain healthy and beautiful lashes.

Remember to wash your hands before applying mascara, choose the right mascara, clean and replace your mascara wand, and avoid rubbing your eyes. And don’t forget to regularly visit an ophthalmologist for advice and a check-up.