Makeup can easily travel the short distance from your eyelashes or eyelids to your eyes, triggering sensitivity and dryness. The problem can be particularly painful if you wear contacts because the lenses trap the particles and prevent them from being washed away.
Some ingredients in beauty products, like retinol, may sting your skin. But, this may not mean that you are allergic to them. Allergies may cause swelling. Irritation often involves stinging or a rash.
The basic ingredients of all cosmetics are waxes, oils, detergents, dyes, perfumes, lanolin, and preservatives. Any of these can cause an allergic reaction in the delicate skin around your eyes.
With sensitive, irritated eyes, you want to be gentle and avoid touching them as much as possible—which isn't easy when they're itchy or painful. Cold compresses are great for reducing swelling and sensitivity, and Clear Eyes eye drops for itchy eyes, dry eyes or sensitive eyes can help bring relief.
It could be irritation or allergy to skin care products that you apply to your eye area or that migrate and melt there. It is always important to read the labels of each product to determine if it is safe for application around the eyes, because in most cases, it is not.
Choose fragrance-free and dye-free products. Fragrances and dyes are common causes of skin reactions. Also, prefer mineral-based or natural makeup products as they often contain fewer irritants. Lastly, always perform a patch test with new products.
Dr. Kelley suggests the Neutrogena Healthy Lengths Mascara, which won't set you back more than $8. “This mascara has a dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested formula designed to be gentle on sensitive eyes and safe for individuals who wear contact lenses,” she says.
Choose Cream-Based Products: Cream eyeshadows and eyeliners are less likely to flake than powder-based products. Check the Ingredients: Avoid products with alcohol, fragrance, or other irritants. Always do a patch test when trying new products.
If your eyes get irritated when you wear eyeliner, it could be due to ingredient sensitivity, application method, or removal process.
Surfactants, solubilizers, and emulsifiers are the most common active ingredients in makeup wipes. These ingredients play a role in dissolving makeup and getting rid of oil and dead skin. Another common ingredient in wipes is sodium lauryl sulfate, which can irritate your skin and eyes.
Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer With Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid - Formulated Without Common Irritants for Those with Sensitive Skin, 3 fl oz (Pack of 1)
The best moisturizers for eyelids are lightweight gels or creams that are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends petroleum jelly (Vaseline®) for dry eyelids.
Don't use glitter, metallic, or sparkle makeup. Flakes can fall into the eye and cause irritation or infection. If you wear eyelash extensions, have a professional in a sanitary setting apply them. That means an experienced aesthetician who uses chemicals that are safe for your skin.
Skincare ingredients, preservatives, and fragrances may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. And this could happen without the product getting into the eye, by just applying it around the sensitive eye area. So you may end up with symptoms like redness, itching, and swelling around the eyes.
Any bright light source, such as sunlight or artificial light, may cause discomfort. Light sensitivity may be a symptom of certain eye conditions or due to a migraine or a bacterial infection such as meningitis. Sensitivity to light can also be a temporary response following an eye procedure or surgery.
Cucumber. Cucumber is a popular ingredient used in natural home remedies and skin care products to not only help sore eyes but also irritated skin and puffy eyes. Cucumber is used for its cooling effects, hydration and anti-inflammatory properties due to the vitamin C.
Even when there's nothing in your eyes, they can feel scratchy and as if there is sand or grit on the surface. This can be caused by dry eye syndrome, which is caused by a faulty tear film on the surface of the eye. Your eyes need a consistent layer of tears to remain moist and healthy.