Health Tip: Avoid Eye Infections from Cosmetics

Every day there are ads on television and in magazines for the newest mascara, eye cream or lip gloss. But as pretty as these products may make you look and feel, they can also be magnets for infection-causing germs. 

“Eye makeup that is not well removed can be a breeding ground for bacteria,” says Sharp Rees-Stealy optometrist Dr. Stanley Mestman, OD. “I see many patients with chronic infections of the glands in their eyelids as well as infections on the surface of the eye caused by a common bacteria that thrives on many cosmetics.” 

There’s no need to toss all of your eye cosmetics if you follow some simple guidelines:

  • Don’t add water to dried-out mascara or liquid eyeliner
  • Don’t share makeup to protect yourself against other people’s germs
  • Remove your makeup completely before going to bed because cosmetics can creep into your eyes during sleep and cause an infection
  • Toss makeup if it smells funny or changes color
  • Use clean applicators
  • Wash your hands before applying cosmetics

In addition, Dr. Mestman also urges contact lens wearers to take extra precautions to avoid eye infections.

“Water-based cosmetics tend to be safer for patients who wear contact lenses,” Dr. Mestman said. “Always apply the contact lenses prior to applying your makeup and be sure to wash your hands prior to handling the contacts.”

If at any time you feel that you may have an eye infection, contact your optometrist, ophthalmologist or primary care physician.  

How to Choose Sharp Rees-Stealy
Sharp accepts almost all health insurance. For help choosing the Sharp Rees-Stealy physician who is right for you, search for a San Diego physician or call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm, to speak to a physician referral nurse.