For many, makeup is a daily ritual that enhances confidence and creativity. However, when used improperly or without proper hygiene, makeup can pose risks to our eye health.
One common concern linked to makeup use is the development of styes. But how exactly does makeup contribute to these unsightly and often painful bumps, and what can you do to protect your eye health?
Makeup can contribute to the development of styes, especially if it’s not applied or removed properly. Using old or contaminated makeup, not cleaning brushes, or applying makeup too close to the lash line can increase the risk.
Proper hygiene and careful product selection can help prevent styes. Doctors EyeCare Grande Prairie is here to help educate you and provide you with personalized eye exams and care plans.
What Is a Stye?
A stye is a red, painful lump that forms near the edge of your eyelid. It often resembles a pimple and is caused when an oil gland or hair follicle in your eyelid becomes clogged and infected, usually with bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus. Styes can cause swelling, tenderness, and discomfort, making daily tasks like blinking or wearing contact lenses challenging.
While styes often resolve on their own within a week or so, understanding their causes and how to prevent them will help you maintain healthy eyes.
Can Makeup Cause Styes?
Yes, makeup can be a contributing factor to styes. Here’s how it happens:
Bacterial Transfer
Makeup, especially if shared or not properly maintained, can harbor bacteria. Products like mascara wands, eyeliners, and eyeshadow brushes often come into close contact with the delicate lash line. If bacteria build up on these tools and products, they can transfer to your eyelid and clog glands or hair follicles, potentially leading to an infection.
Clogging of Oil Glands
Heavy or oil-based makeup products can block the meibomian glands along the eyelid. These glands produce an oily substance necessary for healthy tears. When clogged, however, they create the ideal environment for bacteria to grow, increasing the risk of a stye.
Expired Makeup
Using expired cosmetics can also contribute to styes. Over time, makeup products lose their consistency and can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Applying such products to your eyes only heightens the risk of irritation and infection.
Improper Removal
Failing to remove makeup at the end of the day can aggravate the skin around your eyes. Leftover mascara, eyeliner, or foundation can block glands and follicles overnight, leading to inflammation and eventual stye formation.
Tips to Prevent Styes When Using Makeup
The good news is that you don’t need to give up makeup to protect your eyes from styes. By adopting a few simple hygiene and product tips, you can significantly lower your risk of developing one.
- Practice Proper Hygiene
Good hygiene is the foundation of eye health. Always wash your hands before applying or removing makeup, as dirty hands can introduce bacteria to your products or directly onto your eyelids. - Replace Old Makeup Regularly
Keep track of your makeup’s expiration dates. Replace mascara every three months, eyeliner every six months, and eyeshadows at least once a year. If a product changes in texture, smell, or consistency, toss it out, as these can be signs of contamination. - Avoid Sharing Makeup
It’s tempting to borrow a friend’s mascara or test an in-store sample, but sharing makeup is a proven way to spread bacteria. Keep your makeup personal and avoid cross-contamination at all costs. - Invest in High-Quality Products
Cheaper or poorly made products may contain harsh ingredients that irritate your skin and eyes. Look for hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free makeup whenever possible to reduce the risk of irritation or infection. - Clean Your Tools Regularly
Brushes, sponges, and other tools can collect bacteria, oil, and old makeup residue. Wash them with gentle soap and warm water at least once a week, and allow them to dry completely before use. - Be Gentle During Application
Avoid lining the inner rim of your eyelid (also called the waterline) with eyeliner, as this can block glands more easily. Additionally, ensure that you’re not tugging on your eyelids or applying excessive pressure when using tools or products. - Remove Makeup Thoroughly
At the end of each day, take the time to remove your makeup entirely using an oil-free makeup remover or micellar water. Follow up with a gentle face wash to cleanse your skin and eyelids. Avoid sleeping in makeup, no matter how convenient it may seem! - Monitor for Allergic Reactions
If a product causes stinging, redness, or itching, discontinue use immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction, which can inflame the delicate skin around your eyes and create conditions for styes to form.
Eye-Safe Makeup Solutions at Doctors EyeCare Grande Prairie
For those who love makeup but want to keep their eyes healthy, we offer a range of in-office eye-safe cosmetics. Products like the Twenty/Twenty Beauty Clean Sweep Mascara and Visionary Eye Shadow Stick are perfect for creating stunning looks while supporting eye health. Made with gentle, ophthalmologist-tested ingredients, these products are free of irritants and safe for sensitive eyes.
You’ll also find tools like the We Love Eyes Focused Eye Roller, which can improve the absorption of eye creams, reduce puffiness, and help clear clogged oil glands. As well as the We Love Eyes A.M. Eyelid Gel, enriched with botanical actives to nourish the delicate eyelid area while treating fine lines. All of these products are available in-office and can be conveniently purchased during your next eye exam!
When to See an Eye Care Professional
While many styes resolve on their own within a few days to a week, some may persist or become more severe. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s time to consult an eye care professional, like those at Doctors EyeCare Grande Prairie, for proper treatment and advice:
- A stye that lasts more than a week or keeps coming back
- Severe pain, swelling, or redness spreading beyond the eyelid
- Vision changes or blurring
- Discharge, bleeding, or fever accompanying the stye
Your eye health is crucial, and professional advice can ensure you address underlying issues, prevent further infections, and restore comfort.
Protect Your Eyes & Enjoy Makeup Safely
Makeup can indeed contribute to styes, especially when hygiene practices or product quality are compromised. But with mindful habits, such as keeping your tools clean, discarding old products, and removing makeup nightly, you can reduce your chances of developing one.
Your eyes aren’t just a window to the soul—they’re also delicate organs requiring care and attention. If you notice persistent styes or other issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to your optometrist. Investing in your eye health now will ensure you can continue exploring the world—and your favorite makeup looks—with confidence and clarity. At Doctors EyeCare Grande Prairie, our experienced team is here to provide personalized eye care tailored to your needs. Don’t wait—schedule a comprehensive eye exam and ensure your vision stays clear and your eyes stay protected.
