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One of the worst habits is sleeping with makeup on. Many do it out of fatigue or laziness, unaware of the risk. When you sleep, you unconsciously rub your eyes.
Removing makeup correctly is as important as applying it safely. Always use a gentle cleanser or cleansing oil, never soap or water alone (Image: Canva)
Eye makeup can enhance your look, but it’s also one of the quickest ways to irritate or damage your eyes if used carelessly. Ophthalmologists say makeup itself isn’t harmful, what matters is how and when you use it. Here’s how to strike a balance between beauty and eye health.
It’s perfectly fine to use kajal, eyeliner, mascara, or eyeshadow. However, people with existing eye conditions such as infections, dryness, or allergies should pause all makeup use until recovery. Dr Indumathi, Opthalmologist from Chennai, Tamilnadu shares a detailed eye care routine in this regard.
Even for others, any discomfort like itching or redness after using a product is a clear signal to stop immediately. Always check expiry dates before applying anything near your eyes — expired makeup can harbour bacteria.
The Common Mistake Everyone Makes
One of the worst habits is sleeping with makeup on. Many do it out of fatigue or laziness, unaware of the risk. When you sleep, you unconsciously rub your eyes.
If makeup particles or chemicals enter the eye, they can cause irritation, redness, or even infections like conjunctivitis. Products like mascara or eyeliner can clog oil glands along the eyelid, leading to swelling or styes.
Removing makeup correctly is as important as applying it safely. Always use a gentle cleanser or cleansing oil, never soap or water alone to wipe off kajal, eyeliner, and mascara. Ensure no residue remains near the lash line.
The same rule applies to contact lens wearers: never sleep with lenses on. Contacts block oxygen to the eye and, combined with leftover makeup, create a perfect environment for bacterial growth.
When Irritation Persists
If your eyes still burn, water, or itch even after maintaining hygiene, don’t ignore it. Persistent irritation could indicate an allergy or infection that needs medical attention.
Visit an ophthalmologist rather than relying on over-the-counter drops. For those above 40, an annual eye check-up is a must, since conditions like glaucoma or dry-eye syndrome become more common with age.
Rubbing your eyes might feel satisfying but can cause lasting harm, especially with makeup on. It spreads pigment, forces chemicals deeper, and weakens the thin corneal tissue.
If dust or debris enters your eyes while wearing makeup, don’t rub – wash with clean, cold water and blink repeatedly to flush it out.
The Real Secret to Beautiful Eyes
Healthy eyes don’t come from mascara or kajal, they come from rest. Adequate sleep and hydration help your eyes stay clear and bright. Makeup can highlight beauty, but rest preserves it.
So, next time you reach for that eyeliner, remember: apply safely, clean gently, and give your eyes the downtime they deserve. Beauty fades fast when eyes are tired, but care keeps them shining.
Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, relationshi…Read More
Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, relationshi… Read More
Tamil Nadu, India, India
October 30, 2025, 13:16 IST
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