If you choose to wear contact lenses, chances are you’re probably someone who takes pride in their appearance and thankfully, wearing contact lenses doesn’t necessarily have to mean compromising your makeup routine. With the right steps and products, you can enjoy flawless makeup without irritating your eyes or damaging your lenses.
Here are five simple but effective tips to help you wear contact lenses comfortably while keeping your makeup on point.
1. Insert Contact Lenses Before Applying Makeup
Whether you wear daily disposables, monthly lenses, or even multifocal contact lenses, the first and most important step is always to insert them before applying any makeup. Doing so helps avoid makeup residue getting on your lenses, which can cause irritation or blurred vision. Inserting lenses first also reduces the risk of touching your makeup and transferring bacteria into your eye. Starting with clean, dry hands is key. Indeed, your lenses should go in before your brush even touches your skin.
2. Choose Gentle, Oil-Free Makeup Products
Not all makeup is kind to your contact lenses. Choose oil-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic products, which are less likely to cause discomfort or smudging. Avoid products with loose glitter, fibres, or shimmer particles that can easily flake into your eyes. Waterproof and long-lasting formulations can also help prevent smudging and reduce the need for reapplication throughout the day. During allergy season or if you have sensitive eyes, switching to hypoallergenic makeup can make a noticeable difference in comfort and eye health.
3. Be Strategic with Eye Makeup Application
Applying eye makeup when wearing contact lenses calls for a bit more care. Avoid applying eyeliner directly on the waterline, as this can block tear glands and increase the risk of particles reaching your lens. Use cream or gel eyeshadows instead of powders to limit fallout and apply mascara carefully, starting at the tips of your lashes rather than the base. Let it dry fully before blinking to prevent smudges or flakes landing in your eyes.
4. Remove Makeup Gently After Taking Out Your Lenses
At the end of the day, always remove your contact lenses before taking off your makeup. This helps prevent lens contamination and avoids the risk of makeup remover seeping into your eyes. Use a gentle, oil-free cleanser designed for the eye area and avoid excessive rubbing. Micellar water or eye-specific makeup wipes can work well, especially for sensitive skin.
5. Stick to a Strict Lens Hygiene Routine
Lastly, make sure your contact lens routine is spotless. Clean, rinse, and store your lenses exactly as directed by your optician. Follow the recommended wearing schedule and never sleep in lenses unless prescribed. Regular eye check-ups are also important to ensure your eyes remain healthy and comfortable so ensure you book an appointment with your local opticians at least once a year.
