Makeup or Mistake-Up? 12 Rules Every Contact Lens Wearer Needs to Know

The 6 Essential Dos for Contact Lenses and Makeup

1. Do Insert Lenses Before Applying Makeup

Always put your contact lenses in before you start your makeup routine. Clean, product-free fingers are essential for safe lens insertion. Once your lenses are in, you can apply makeup without worrying about transferring cosmetics to your lenses or eyes. This simple step significantly reduces the risk of contamination and irritation.

2. Do Choose Hypoallergenic and Ophthalmologist-Tested Products

Opt for makeup products specifically labeled as hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and ophthalmologist-tested. These formulations are designed to be gentler on sensitive eyes and less likely to cause irritation when you're wearing contact lenses. Water-based products are generally safer than oil-based ones, as oils can create a film on your lenses.

3. Do Use Fresh Mascara and Replace It Regularly

Mascara should be replaced every three months, even if it's not finished. Old mascara becomes a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause serious eye infections. When applying mascara, focus on the tips and outer portions of your lashes rather than coating them from the base, which reduces the risk of product getting into your eyes.

4. Do Apply Eyeliner Outside the Lash Line

When wearing contact lenses, always apply eyeliner on the outer edge of your lash line, never on the inner rim (waterline). Applying liner to the waterline can block oil glands, cause irritation, and transfer product directly onto your contact lenses, affecting both vision and lens integrity.

5. Do Remove Lenses Before Removing Makeup

At the end of the day, take your contact lenses out first, then remove your makeup. This prevents makeup remover, oils, and cosmetic particles from getting trapped between your lens and eye, which could cause irritation or infection. Use a gentle, oil-free makeup remover to avoid leaving residue that could affect future lens wear.

6. Do Wash Your Hands Thoroughly

Before touching your eyes or contact lenses, wash your hands with unscented, oil-free soap and dry them with a lint-free towel. This is your first line of defense against introducing bacteria, dirt, or makeup residue to your eyes. Make this a non-negotiable habit every single time you handle your lenses.

The 6 Critical Don'ts for Contact Lenses and Makeup

1. Don't Use Glittery or Shimmery Products Near Your Eyes

Glitter, shimmer, and metallic particles can flake off and get trapped under your contact lens, causing severe discomfort, scratching your cornea, or damaging the lens itself. If you love sparkle, keep it away from your eye area or use it sparingly on areas far from your eyes. The risk simply isn't worth the temporary glamour.

2. Don't Share Your Eye Makeup

Never share mascara, eyeliner, or any eye makeup products with others, even close friends or family. Sharing cosmetics can transfer bacteria and viruses between users, leading to infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye). When you wear contact lenses, your eyes are even more vulnerable to these infections.

3. Don't Sleep in Your Lenses While Wearing Makeup

Sleeping in contact lenses is already risky, but doing so with makeup on compounds the danger significantly. Makeup particles can become trapped between the lens and your eye overnight, causing irritation, infections, or corneal damage. Always remove both makeup and lenses before bed, no exceptions.

4. Don't Use Waterproof Makeup Daily

While waterproof makeup might seem ideal for long-lasting wear, it requires oil-based removers that can leave a film on your contact lenses. These products are harder to remove and more likely to cause buildup. Reserve waterproof formulas for special occasions, and stick to water-based products for everyday wear with contact lenses.

5. Don't Apply Makeup in a Moving Vehicle

Never attempt to apply makeup while in a car, train, or any moving vehicle when wearing contact lenses. A sudden bump or stop could cause you to poke your eye with a makeup applicator, potentially dislodging or damaging your lens, scratching your cornea, or causing the applicator to penetrate your eye—a genuine medical emergency.

6. Don't Ignore Signs of Irritation

If you experience redness, pain, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, or blurred vision while wearing contact lenses with makeup, don't push through the discomfort. Remove your lenses immediately and give your eyes a break. If symptoms persist for more than a few hours, contact your eye care professional. Ignoring warning signs can lead to serious complications, as Jasmine Bhasin's experience demonstrated.

Understanding the Risks

The combination of contact lenses and makeup creates several potential hazards. Makeup particles can transfer to your lenses, reducing oxygen permeability and visual clarity. Bacteria from cosmetics can cause infections that are more serious in contact lens wearers because the lens can trap bacteria against your cornea. Additionally, makeup ingredients like oils, waxes, and preservatives can degrade lens materials, making them uncomfortable and less effective.

Contact lens wearers are already at higher risk for certain eye conditions, including corneal ulcers, which can develop rapidly and cause permanent vision damage if not treated promptly. When makeup enters the equation, the risk multiplies.

A Cautionary Tale: Jasmine Bhasin's Eye Injury

In July 2024, popular television actress Jasmine Bhasin, known for her roles in shows like "Dil Se Dil Tak" and her appearance on "Bigg Boss 14," suffered a corneal injury that temporarily affected her vision. The actress revealed that she had worn contact lenses that caused damage to her corneas, leaving her in excruciating pain and unable to see properly for several days. She was spotted at the airport wearing dark sunglasses, unable to see clearly, and later shared her ordeal on social media to warn others about the importance of proper contact lens care.

Bhasin's experience serves as a stark reminder that contact lenses, when not used correctly—especially in combination with makeup—can lead to serious eye complications. Her temporary vision loss highlights why it's crucial to follow proper protocols when wearing contacts with cosmetics.

The Bottom Line

Wearing contact lenses with makeup doesn't have to be dangerous if you follow proper guidelines. The key is maintaining impeccable hygiene, choosing the right products, and never compromising on safety for the sake of beauty. Jasmine Bhasin's temporary vision loss serves as a powerful reminder that our eyes are precious and irreplaceable.

Remember: your vision is worth more than any makeup look. If you ever have to choose between a cosmetic effect and eye safety, always choose safety. When in doubt, consult with your optometrist or ophthalmologist about the best practices for combining contact lenses with your makeup routine. Your eyes will thank you for years to come.

By following these 6 dos and 6 don'ts, you can safely enjoy the benefits of both contact lenses and makeup without putting your vision at risk. Make these practices habits, and you'll be able to look your best while keeping your eyes healthy and safe.