Eye makeup – why is it worth following hygiene rules?

Makeup is an integral part of the daily styling routine for most women. It not only conceals imperfections and enhances appearance, but it is also a form of art that fosters self-expression. What can be done to ensure that makeup is not only aesthetically pleasing but also safe for health?

Hygiene above all!

Whether it is professional makeup or one done at home, it is important to follow hygiene rules and disinfect cosmetics as well as the tools used for applying makeup.

Loose and pressed products – this includes pressed face powders, blushes, or eyeshadows, the application of which requires multiple touches of the brush to the surface of the product. Each time the brush alternately touches the face and the powder, bacteria are transferred, which can then multiply on the surface of the product and subsequently be transferred to the skin.

Mascara – there is a reason why, in professional makeup studios, mascara is applied using disposable applicators that do not come into contact with the packaging after touching the lashes. While this may not be necessary if we are the only users of the mascara, it’s still a good idea to shorten the recommended usage time. Each time the mascara wand touches the eye, various bacteria and microorganisms are introduced into the packaging, and the influx of air promotes their growth.

Brushes and sponges – a frequently overlooked element when it comes to regular cleaning or disinfection. Since brushes are most often used for applying loose products, the quickest solution may seem to be simply tapping them. However, nothing could be further from the truth – the bristles of a brush are the perfect environment for bacteria.

The most effective disinfectant for cosmetics and makeup tools is one based on isopropyl alcohol. This substance evaporates quickly, so it does not affect the consistency of the product in any way. In the case of brushes or sponges, it is necessary to wash them first in lukewarm water with a mild detergent (such as shampoo) and then dry them.

Expiration date of cosmetics vs. period of use after opening – is the difference between them important?

The expiration date of a cosmetic product is a completely different issue from the period of use after opening. Cosmetics should never be used after their expiration date has passed, nor should they be used longer than recommended after opening. Why?

Expiration date – usually labelled as "Exp." It indicates a specific date, such as 01/2027. This means that the manufacturer guarantees that the product will retain its properties until the end of the month specified in the year. However, this applies to a cosmetic that remains unopened and unused.

Product's shelf life after opening – represented by the icon of an open jar, with something like 3M (3 months) on it. This refers to how long the product can be safely used after opening. Importantly, once the packaging is opened, we should rely solely on this symbol, counting the corresponding number of months.

Consequences of poor hygiene practices

The consequence of not following hygiene rules will primarily be a deterioration in skin condition, and in the case of eyes – symptoms of allergies or eyelid inflammation. Ignored or untreated issues can lead to more serious problems, such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid margins) or conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva).

It is worth mentioning the popular practice of wearing eyelash extensions. This is a makeup element that can be applied for a longer period, eliminating the need for mascara. Undoubtedly, it shortens the time spent on makeup application, but if not properly cared for, it can cause more harm than good. This includes neglecting the daily cleaning of the lashes and prolonging the period of use before the next refill. Besides infections, this can lead to excessive loss of natural lashes.

What is also important is that if any infection occurs, such as a chalazion or conjunctivitis (especially bacterial), any cosmetics used beforehand should be immediately discarded. Disinfection will not be effective in this case, as bacteria will continue to multiply and be transferred back to the eye.

Makeup vs. ophthalmological appointment

You should not wear any makeup for an eye examination or preliminary examination qualifying for the laser vision correction surgery or other ophthalmic procedures. Why? Firstly, it may smear during the examination, and secondly, it could interfere with the evaluation of the condition of the skin and eyelid margins as well as the eyelashes.

Makeup allows for shaping the face or eyes, while artificial or heavily painted eyelashes can visually lift the eyelid. During an examination qualifying for blepharoplasty, makeup can distort the proportions visually. The ophthalmic surgeon will not be able to accurately show the patient the expected result of the procedure.

Makeup vs. ophthalmological procedures

It is absolutely not allowed to arrive for any ophthalmological procedure or treatment wearing makeup, and this rule applies not only to the eyes but the entire face. After refractive or blepharoplasty surgery, washing the face on the same day is not recommended.

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