Can I Wear Makeup with My Contact Lenses?

Millions of people wear both makeup and contact lenses every day without any problems. It’s a normal part of their daily routine helping them see clearly and feel confident. Whether you’re getting ready for work or a special event, you can enjoy wearing makeup while still taking good care of your eyes.

• Can you wear makeup with lenses?
• Why makeup with lenses need extra care?
• 5 makeup tips for contact lens wearers
• Lenses with fake eyelashes: Is it safe?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wear makeup with lenses?

Yes, you can wear makeup with contact lenses. You just need to follow some precautions to wear your lenses safely. The right order for putting in and removing your lenses, what products you should be choosing and how you handle your lenses is important for hygiene and comfort.

Why makeup with lenses need extra care?

Contacts sit directly on the surface of your eyes. When you apply makeup, tiny particles like powders, glitters and makeup debris can easily get trapped between your lens and eye. This can cause:

• Redness
• Itching
• Blurry vision
• Eye infections like conjunctivitis

That’s why it’s important to ensure you’re handling your contact lenses safely, especially when using makeup. A little extra care can help you avoid discomfort and keep your eyes healthy and happy.

5 makeup tips for contact lens wearers

Here are five makeup tips for contact lens wearers to keep their eyes safe and comfortable.

1. Always wash your hands first

Washing your hands at first may sound basic, but it’s the foundation of safe contact lens and makeup use. Your hands come into contact with countless microbes every day. Therefore, before touching your eyes, lenses or makeup, wash your hands with soap and water. Dry them thoroughly with a lint-free towel. This keeps any unwanted debris, bacteria or makeup residue away from your eyes, reducing the risk of an eye infection or any discomfort.

2. Put lenses in before makeup

Put your lenses in before doing your makeup. This will prevent makeup from getting onto your lenses or into your eyes, reducing the risk of irritation, dryness or an infection. Putting lenses first also gives you a clear, unobstructed view, making it easier to apply your makeup precisely, especially with eyeliner or mascara.

It’s a good idea to wear daily disposable lenses, like 1 Day Acuvue Moist, as you can simply use them once and throw them away. Daily lenses are designed for single use, which means you start each day with a fresh, sterile pair. This reduces the risk of product build-up or bacteria transfer that can occur with reusable lenses, especially when makeup particles are involved. They're also more convenient, in case you experience any irritation, you can simply remove and replace them with a new pair, without the need for cleaning or storing.

However, if you use two weeklies, monthlies, or extended wear lenses, you need to be more careful, as these lenses are reused and can accumulate makeup residue or bacteria over time, increasing the risk of eye irritation or infection. To keep your eyes safe and your lenses clean, always disinfect them thoroughly. You should use the solution recommended to you by your optician. comfi All-in-One multi-purpose solution is an easy to use solution that cleans and hydrates soft contact lenses.

In addition, after use do not forget to correctly store your lenses. Make sure to use a clean, good quality lens case suitable for the solution you use.

3. Use eye-friendly makeup products

Always use makeup products that state safe for sensitive eyes or specially for lens wearers. This is because not every makeup product is created to suit all. You should be more mindful if you have sensitive eyes. Look for products labeled as hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-tested or suitable for lens wearers. They are less likely to cause any issues.

Try to avoid using glitter or loose powders, as they can fall into your eyes. Instead, using makeup products, such as water-based mascara and cream eyeshadow are easier to remove and less likely to flake than waterproof ones.

4. Avoid lining your inner eyelids

Putting eyeliner on your inner eyelids might look nice, but it’s not safe if you wear contacts. Makeup used in this area can easily get into your eyes and stick to your lenses, which can make your vision blurry and your eyes feel irritated.

Tina Patel, Contact Lens Optician at Feel Good Contacts, says “Makeup should never be applied to the oil glands or the inner part of the eyelids, as this can increase the risk of serious eye infections.”

Alternatively, you can put eyeliner along the outside of your lashes. It still looks great and is less damaging for your eyes. If you experience dryness or irritation, using soothing eye drops, like Blink Contacts Eye Drops can provide quick relief. These drops are specially formulated for lens wearers and help to hydrate and refresh the eyes. Compact and travel-friendly, they’re ideal to keep in your bag when you’re on the go.

5. Take out your lenses before removing makeup

Always remove your contact lenses before you take off your makeup. If you take off makeup first, tiny bits makeup debris can get into your eyes or stick to your lenses. This can make your eyes feel uncomfortable and cause irritation.

Use a gentle, oil-free makeup remover that won’t leave anything behind. Any oil or leftover makeup that stays on your lenses can cloud your vision and make it harder for you to see clearly.

Don’t forget to thoroughly wash and dry your hands before touching your lenses.

Lenses with fake eyelashes: Is it safe?

Wearing makeup and fake eyelashes with lenses is possible and can be safe if you follow the right steps. By using clean products, gentle techniques and good hygiene, you can look your best without risking your eye health.

Many people love the look of fake or false eyelashes. If you wear contacts, you might worry about using fake eyelashes with lenses. Here are some facts and tips when wearing contacts with fake eyelashes.

• It is generally safe to wear false eyelashes with lenses if you use them carefully
• Use glue that is safe for sensitive eyes
• Apply lashes after putting in your contacts and finishing your eye makeup
• Avoid touching your lenses with glue or lashes
• Remove fake eyelashes gently before taking out your lenses

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do my makeup with contacts in?

Yes, you can do your makeup while wearing contacts. Just make sure your hands are clean, and you put your lenses in before applying any makeup.

Should I take my contacts out before I take off my makeup?

Yes, it’s best to take your contacts out first. This helps prevent makeup debris and tiny bits from getting trapped in your eyes.

What is the best mascara to use for contact lens wearers?

Look for mascaras that are labelled as ophthalmologist-tested or safe for sensitive eyes. A gentle, smudge-free formula works best to avoid flakes getting into your eyes.

Disclaimer: The advice in this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical care or an in-person check-up. Please check with an eye care professional before purchasing any products. For information on our article review process, please refer to our Editorial Policy.