Can your eye make-up cause infections? 4 best practices to avoid pink eye, styes and other issues

Getting the winged eyeliner right – a win.
Forgetting to wash off the winged eyeliner before bed – not a win.

The truth is, eye makeup, eyeliner, mascara, eyeshadow, can transform your look and give you all the glam you want. However, as much as it beautifies your appearance, it can also pose significant risks if not properly removed at the end of the day. Here’s a horror story for you: In 2018, a new study from the American Academy of Ophthalmology narrated the story of a 50-year-old Australian woman who went to the eye doctor after experiencing pain and irritation in her eyes. When the doctors flipped up her top eyelids to take a look underneath, they discovered solid masses called concretions that were comprised of 25 years worth of mascara buildup that hadn’t been properly removed. According to the study, the doctors told her that if the masses had gotten infected, they could have caused her to go blind. In her case, they were able to safely remove the concretions in a 90-minute procedure, which unfortunately resulted in permanent scarring.

Need more convincing? Here’s what doctors say.

How eye makeup can cause severe infections

The area around your eyes is particularly delicate, which is what makes it the prime breeding grounds for bacteria. Klara Hale, a Dubai-based ophthalmologist explains, “Every time you apply mascara, eyeliner, or eyeshadow, these products come into contact with your skin, eyelashes, and even the delicate mucous membranes of the eyelids. If you’re not careful with your application or removal routine, bacteria can easily make its way into your eyes, resulting in infections.”

What’s lurking in your eye make-up?

They may give you that stunning, glamorous look, but don’t let your eye makeup turn into a cautionary tale. What’s lurking in your favorite products? According to Hale, preservatives like parabens and phenoxyethanol, often found in mascara and eyeliner, can irritate your skin and weaken its natural barrier, creating an open invitation for bacteria to cause infections like pink eye or styes. That’s not all—silicones in mascara can clog pores, trapping dirt and bacteria right where it shouldn’t be.

And it gets worse. Hale points out that some makeup may contain heavy metals like lead and cadmium, which can trigger long-term irritation and infections when left on your skin. Colourants such as carmine and coal tar dyes can irritate your eyes, while glycerin, though hydrating, tends to attract dirt and bacteria.

Harish Gopinath, a Dubai-based eye specialist, breaks down the common eye infections that could result from this toxic mix.

Conjunctivitis

This highly contagious infection affects the eye’s conjunctiva—the thin membrane that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eyeball. Pink eye can be caused by bacteria from makeup products, particularly when mascara or eyeliner is applied with dirty hands or tools. So, you’ll find yourself dealing with redness, irritation and watery eyes. Furthermore, if gets more, your vision might even get blurred, requiring medical treatment to clear up.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelid, often caused by bacterial overgrowth. When makeup residue builds up along the eyelid margins and eyelashes, it irritates the hair follicles and oil glands, leading to infection. Blepharitis is usually accompanied by symptoms like swollen eyelids, a gritty feeling in the eyes, and red, inflamed skin around the eyes.

Styes

You might have experienced that particularly painful bump on the eyelid, that forms due to infected oil glands. So, some products, when applied improperly can lead to bacteria in the glands, resulting in pimple-like infections. It causes discomfort, swelling and redness.

Corneal ulcers

Though less common, corneal ulcers can occur when bacteria from makeup gets into the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. However, if you just leave it as it is, these ulcers can cause loss of vision.

If left untreated, these ulcers can cause vision loss and require urgent medical attention. Symptoms include pain, excessive tearing, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. And warning, try to steer clear expired or contaminated products.

If you’re wondering how these eye infections, develop, here are some common ways, explain both the dermatologists.

Sharing isn’t caring sometimes

Sharing mascara, eyeliners, or eyeshadows can easily transfer bacteria from one person to another, increasing the risk of eye infections. Even using makeup testers in stores exposes your eyes to harmful bacteria. It’s best to avoid sharing eye makeup and only use your personal products to minimize contamination.

Using expired or contaminated products

Just like food, eye makeup has a shelf life—and it’s one you shouldn’t ignore. Using expired makeup or products that have been contaminated with bacteria can introduce harmful pathogens into your eyes. Mascara, for example, should be replaced every three months to avoid bacterial buildup. Additionally, the wand or brush should never be shared with others, as this spreads germs. Keep your makeup fresh and your eyes safe by regularly checking the expiration dates and replacing products that are past their prime.

Rubbing your eyes during makeup removal

It’s tempting to rush through makeup removal, but rubbing or tugging at your eyes can cause more harm than you think. The skin around your eyes is delicate, and harsh rubbing can cause micro-tears, which create openings for bacteria to enter. This increases the risk of infections and irritation. Instead, use gentle techniques when removing your eye makeup, opting for a soft makeup remover and applying light, circular motions to ensure a thorough, yet gentle cleanse. Your eyes will thank you for the care and attention!

Not fully removing makeup before sleeping

Leaving makeup on overnight is a recipe for disaster. Mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow can smudge or settle into the eyes, blocking pores and irritating the skin. This can lead to bacterial buildup, which is a common cause of eye infections. Always ensure you fully cleanse the eye area before bed to remove all traces of makeup and prevent any residual products from causing harm.

Preventing eye infections from makeup: Best practices

To keep your eyes safe from infections while still enjoying your favourite eye makeup looks, follow these essential steps:

Use clean tools

Always apply makeup with clean brushes and applicators. Wash your brushes regularly with a gentle cleanser to remove any makeup buildup and bacteria.

Avoid sharing makeup

Resist the temptation to borrow or share eye makeup products, as this can easily transfer bacteria. Stick to your personal products and avoid using testers at beauty stores.

Choose high-quality, hypoallergenic products

Invest in makeup products that are specifically designed for sensitive eyes and are free from harsh chemicals.